EC-Certification - CE mark
The EC Gas Appliances Directive
In its capacity as notified body in Brussels, the DVGW Certification Body carries out gas appliance conformity assessments in accordance with the EC Gas Appliances Directive. This Directive defines the most important requirements as to the safety of gas appliances and specifies the conditions for assigning the CE mark of conformity. Since January 1, 1996, only gas appliances displaying the CE mark of conformity have been officially recognised as safe for use on the European Single Market.
There are various ways to assess product conformity on the basis of the EC Gas Appliances Directive. While national and European standards may be applied, meeting the basic requirements stipulated in the Directive may also suffice for product certification, with DVGW certification (EC design test certificate) finally confirming product conformity with the Directive. Manufacturers who want to affix the CE label to their products must meet this prerequisite, along with quality control during the production process.
The CE mark of conformity has now substituted the former DVGW and/or DIN-DVGW test mark throughout the entire gas appliances industry.
EC Efficiency Directive
Since 01 January 1998, it has been mandatory to apply the EC Efficiency Directive, which regulates the energy efficiency of gas and oil-fuelled hot water boilers and distinguishes three boiler types, i.e. standard boilers, low-temperature boilers, and condensing burners. Different efficiency requirements apply to these burner types under both partial and full load conditions.
Gas appliances that fall within the scope of the EC Efficiency Directive invariably require certification in accordance with the EC Gas Appliances Directive, so it appears logical for both procedures to be performed jointly by one and the same certification and testing body. Boiler certification in conformance with both Directives at the same time may save approximately 50% of the cost of certification in conformance with the Efficiency Directive alone.
EC Pressure Vessel Directive
This Directive regulates the design, the manufacture and the conformity assessment of pressure components such as valves, pressure governors, etc. It was released for application in Germany on 01 June 1999.
Application for DVGW Certification