material certificates classified as 3.1 or 3.2 according to EN 10204

EN 10204 is a European standard that specifies different types of inspection documents that can accompany products, particularly in the metallurgical and construction industries. The classification system is used to identify the level of assurance regarding the material's properties and its compliance with specified requirements. ### EN 10204 Certificate Classes: 1. **3.1 Certification:** - This is also known as a "3.1 Inspection Certificate." - It is issued by the manufacturer and confirms that the products supplied meet the specified requirements of the order. - It involves testing of samples and providing results, which include chemical composition and mechanical properties. - The certificate is signed by the manufacturer's authorized personnel and is based on documented evidence. 2. **3.2 Certification:** - This is referred to as a "3.2 Inspection Certificate." - It is more rigorous than 3.1, as it includes verification by an independent third party. - The certificate confirms that the products meet the requirements of the order and is also based on results from inspection and testing. - This type of certificate is suited for critical applications where higher assurance levels are required. ### Key Differences: - **Level of Assurance:** 3.2 provides a higher level of confidence due to third-party verification, while 3.1 relies solely on the manufacturer's declaration. - **Testing and Inspection:** Both involve testing, but 3.2 typically requires additional scrutiny and oversight. ### Applications: - 3.1 and 3.2 certificates are commonly used in industries such as construction, aerospace, shipbuilding, and other sectors where material properties are critical. When specifying materials, it's important to choose the appropriate certificate class based on the required assurance level for your application.