En 10204 Link

A steel mill produces 50 tonnes of S355J2 plates. The QC lab cuts samples from each plate, tests them, and issues a 3.1 certificate stating: "Heat No. H45678 – Yield 365 MPa, Tensile 510 MPa, Impact 47J at -20°C. Complies with EN 10025-2." 4. Type 3.2 – Inspection Certificate Formal Name: Inspection certificate 3.2 Issued by: An independent third party (not the manufacturer’s own inspection department) Third-party verification: Yes – by an entity recognized by the competent authority (e.g., a notified body, classification society, or independent inspection agency)

This is the most commonly specified document in heavy industry. Type 3.1 requires that the manufacturer provide a certificate confirming compliance with the order, and that the test results come from specific inspection – meaning tests performed on the actual products or the specific casting/heat/lot to be delivered.

Crucially, the testing must be witnessed or evaluated by a (e.g., a quality control lab that reports to a different management chain). This ensures internal independence. en 10204

For engineers, procurement specialists, and quality managers, understanding EN 10204 is not optional – it is essential to avoid costly liability, ensure regulatory compliance, and build products that are truly fit for purpose. The next time you see “EN 10204 Type 3.1” on a purchase order, you will know exactly what level of trust and traceability is being demanded. Disclaimer: This write-up is for informational purposes. Always consult the official EN 10204:2004 standard and relevant product specifications for legal and contractual compliance.

The test results are representative but not traceable to the exact delivery. A steel mill produces 50 tonnes of S355J2 plates

It is crucial to understand that EN 10204 does not mandate which document type to use. That decision lies with the product standard (e.g., EN 10025 for structural steel) or the customer’s specification. However, the standard provides the format and content rules once a type is chosen. 1. Type 2.1 – Declaration of Compliance with the Order Formal Name: Declaration of compliance with the order Issued by: Manufacturer Third-party verification: None

Type 2.2 is a step up. The manufacturer provides a document stating that the products comply with the order, and additionally supplies test results. However, these test results come from non-specific inspections – meaning they are based on the manufacturer’s own internal testing regime, not necessarily on tests performed on the specific delivered lot. The tests could be from previous similar production, from internal quality assurance batches, or from type tests. Complies with EN 10025-2

Type 2.1 is the most basic declaration. The manufacturer simply states, on a document they produce, that the products supplied comply with the requirements of the order. No test results are provided, and no reference is made to specific inspections. It is essentially a commercial statement of good faith.