Tryckkärlsdirektivet

The Pressure Equipment Directive (PED), known in Swedish as tryckkärlsdirektivet, is a European Union directive that sets out the essential safety requirements for pressure equipment manufactured and placed on the EU market. Its primary objective is to ensure a high level of safety for users and third parties by minimizing the risks associated with the design, manufacture, and installation of pressure equipment.

The scope of the PED covers a wide range of equipment, including vessels, piping, safety accessories, and pressure accessories. It applies to equipment with a maximum allowable pressure greater than 0.5 bar. The directive does not cover certain types of equipment, such as nuclear equipment, pipelines for public supply systems, and specific equipment for ships or aircraft, which are often subject to other regulations.

Manufacturers must comply with the PED by demonstrating that their pressure equipment meets the essential safety requirements. This typically involves a conformity assessment procedure, which may include design review, manufacturing control, and testing, depending on the risk category of the equipment. Once conformity is established, manufacturers affix the CE marking to the equipment, signifying its compliance with the directive and allowing it to be freely traded within the European Economic Area. The PED aims to harmonize standards across member states, simplifying trade and promoting a consistent approach to pressure equipment safety.