When sourcing stainless steel pipes for critical industrial applications—such as oil and gas, chemical processing, or power generation—ensuring material traceability and compliance with international standards is non-negotiable. One of the most frequently encountered certification requirements in procurement specifications is EN 10204, a European standard that defines the types of inspection documents supplied with metallic products. Among its various declarations, EN 10204 3.1 and EN 10204 3.2 are the most relevant for stainless steel pipe orders. Understanding the differences between these two certificates is essential for engineers, procurement specialists, and quality assurance teams to make informed decisions that align with project safety, regulatory compliance, and supply chain integrity.
The EN 10204 standard outlines four main types of inspection documents, ranging from basic manufacturer declarations (Type 2.1) to fully witnessed and verified third-party reports (Type 3.2). Type 3.1 and Type 3.2 represent higher levels of verification, but they differ significantly in terms of independence, validation process, and legal standing.
An EN 10204 3.1 certificate is issued by the manufacturer’s authorized representative and confirms that the supplied stainless steel pipes have been produced under a quality system that complies with the specified standards. It verifies that the material test results (such as chemical composition, mechanical properties, and dimensional checks) are accurate and were conducted in accordance with the order requirements. However, the declaration is made solely by the producer—there is no independent verification. This makes 3.1 suitable for many commercial and non-critical applications where full traceability is desired but third-party oversight is not mandated.
In contrast, an EN 10204 3.2 certificate involves an independent inspector—typically a third-party organization or a customer-appointed representative—who witnesses the testing process at the manufacturer’s facility. The inspector verifies the test procedures, reviews the results, and co-signs the certificate alongside the manufacturer. This dual-signature mechanism provides an additional layer of credibility and is often required in high-risk industries such as nuclear, offshore drilling, or aerospace, where material failure could lead to catastrophic consequences.
For stainless steel pipes used in environments exposed to corrosive media, high pressure, or extreme temperatures, the choice between 3.1 and 3.2 can directly impact project risk and compliance. While a 3.1 certificate may suffice for general industrial use, projects governed by strict codes like ASME B31.3 (Process Piping) or PED (Pressure Equipment Directive) often mandate 3.2 certification to meet regulatory obligations.
It’s also important to note that not all manufacturers offer 3.2 certification as standard. The process requires additional coordination, scheduling of inspections, and often incurs extra costs. Therefore, buyers should specify their certification needs early in the procurement process to avoid delays.
At Baobin Steel, we understand the critical role certification plays in global supply chains. As a leading stainless steel pipe supplier based in Shanghai, China, we provide both EN 10204 3.1 and 3.2 certificates upon request, backed by our ISO 9001-certified quality management system and over three decades of metallurgical expertise. Our state-of-the-art production facilities enable full material traceability from raw material input to final delivery, ensuring that every batch of stainless steel pipe meets or exceeds international standards.
For customers in highly regulated sectors, our team coordinates seamlessly with third-party inspectors to facilitate 3.2 certification without disrupting production timelines. Whether you're sourcing seamless or welded stainless steel pipes in grades like 304L, 316L, or duplex alloys, Baobin Steel delivers not just products—but peace of mind through verified compliance.
Ultimately, the decision between EN 10204 3.1 and 3.2 hinges on your project’s risk profile, regulatory environment, and quality assurance protocols. For routine applications, 3.1 offers reliable documentation at a lower cost. However, for mission-critical infrastructure, investing in 3.2 certification is a prudent step toward ensuring long-term reliability and safety.
To learn more about material certification standards, you can refer to the official documentation on EN 10204 published by the European Committee for Standardization. And when it comes to sourcing certified stainless steel pipes with global reach and local support, Baobin Steel stands ready to meet your most demanding specifications.