## Conclusion: The core of PED compliance is to first classify, then select the procedure, and finally determine whether an NB is needed. The compliance path of the EU Pressure Equipment Directive (PED, 2014/68/EU) is not "find a notified body first," but rather "first classify according to the charts, then select the conformity assessment procedure based on the category, and finally determine whether a notified body (NB) needs to be involved." Incorrect classification or improper procedure selection is the main reason for technical files being returned or even products being detained by customs. When handling PED projects, Shuwang Testing and Certification Platform recommends that enterprises complete the classification assessment at the design stage to avoid increased costs caused by later rectification. ## Step 1: Classify according to the charts and determine the equipment category. The classification basis of PED is the equipment type (pressure vessels, piping, safety accessories, etc.), medium state (gas or liquid), medium group (Group 1 hazardous media, Group 2 non-hazardous media), and pressure-volume parameters (PS×V). The classification results range from Article 4(3) (not subject to the Directive) to Category I to IV. | Equipment Type | Medium Group | Classification Basis | Typical Category Range | | --- | --- | --- | --- | | Pressure vessels | Group 1 gas | PS×V value | I–IV | | Pressure vessels | Group 2 liquid | PS×V value | I–IV | | Piping | Group 1 | Relationship between DN and PS | I–III | | Safety accessories | Regardless of medium | By type | IV | For classification, refer to the conformity assessment charts in Annex II of the PED Directive. Enterprises should note that classification is based on design parameters (maximum allowable pressure PS, volume V, or nominal diameter DN), not operating parameters. ## Step 2: Select the conformity assessment procedure. Different categories correspond to different assessment procedures. Category I can usually be self-declared by the manufacturer (internal production control), while Category II and above generally require the involvement of a notified body. Specific modes include: - **Category I**: Internal production control (Module A) - **Category II**: Internal production control + final assessment supervision (Module A2) or EC type-examination (Module B) + type conformity (Module C1), etc. - **Category III**: EC type-examination (Module B) + production quality assurance (Module D) or product verification (Module F), etc. - **Category IV**: EC type-examination (Module B) + full quality assurance (Module H1) or production verification (Module G), etc. If the equipment is series-produced, EC type-examination (Module B) is usually required as the basis, combined with a quality assurance module for the production stage. When selecting a notified body, it is necessary to confirm that its scope of authorization covers the equipment category and assessment module. ## Step 3: Technical files and docking with the notified body. Technical files should include design calculations, material certificates, manufacturing drawings, test reports (such as pressure tests and non-destructive testing), risk assessments, operating instructions, etc. For projects requiring NB involvement, the NB will review the technical files and carry out type-examination or production supervision. Shuwang Testing and Certification Platform can assist enterprises in completing classification assessment, technical file preparation guidance, NB matching, and docking follow-up, but does not engage in testing activities or issue certificates. The PED certification cycle is usually 15–40 working days (reference range), and the fee range is RMB 15,000–80,000 (reference range), depending on the equipment category, complexity, and NB scheduling. ## Common reasons for return and rectification. Common reasons for technical file return include: incorrect classification basis (such as using operating pressure instead of design pressure), missing material certificates or non-compliance with EN standards, design calculations not prepared according to harmonized standards, and mismatch of NB authorization scope. The rectification path is: re-check the classification charts, supplement material certificates, revise calculations according to harmonized standards, and replace the NB with the corresponding authorization scope. The rectification cycle is usually 5–15 working days (reference range), and the fee depends on the rectification content. ## One-sentence conclusion. The key to PED compliance is to first accurately classify according to the charts, then select the corresponding conformity assessment procedure, and finally confirm whether the notified body's authorization scope covers it. The three steps cannot be reversed. > **Service
Boundary Statement**: Shuwang Testing & Certification Platform is an export certification solution service provider. It does not engage in testing activities and is not a certification issuing body. The tests described on this page are completed by partner laboratories with CNAS/CMA or equivalent qualifications, and certificates are issued by EU Notified Bodies (NB) or institutions authorized by the standards bureau of the destination country. The lead times and fees on this page are public industry reference ranges; actual values are subject to engineer assessment and institution scheduling.