First let us understand what is a 3.1 material certificate. Then we will understand what is the difference between 3.1 and 3.2 material certificates.
A 3.1 Material Certificate is an official document that confirms a metal product meets specific quality and test requirements. It is issued under the European Standard EN 10204:2004. This certificate is signed by the manufacturer’s authorized inspection representative, who is independent of the production process.
The 3.1 certificate provides important details such as:
🔊Material composition
🔊Mechanical properties
🔊Test results
🔊Traceability information
Manufacturers do not release materials for production until they receive a satisfactory 3.1 certificate.
What is a Mill Test Certificate (MTC)?
A Mill Test Certificate (MTC) is a document provided by steel manufacturers to buyers. It includes essential details about the metal product, such as:
🔊Weight and dimensions
🔊Chemical composition
🔊Mechanical strength
🔊Heat treatment status
🔊Test results
🔊Traceability records
The MTC ensures that the steel product meets required quality standards and specifications.
Evolution of Material Certification Standards
Originally, material testing and certification were defined under the German standard DIN 50049. Over time, these definitions were incorporated into the European Standard EN 10204. The first version of EN 10204 was published in 1991 and included several certification types: 2.1, 2.2, 2.3, 3.1A, 3.1B, 3.1C, and 3.2.
In 2004, the standard was revised and renamed BS EN 10204:2004. The certificate types were simplified, leaving only:
🔊Type 2.1
🔊Type 2.2
🔊Type 3.1 (replacing 3.1B)
🔊Type 3.2 (replacing 3.1A, 3.1C, and 3.2)
Ensuring Material Traceability
Material traceability is crucial to identify potential issues if a problem arises. Here is how companies ensure proper traceability:
🔊Assign a unique material number when materials are received.
🔊Cross-reference this number with a job number.
🔊Verify the material certificate against the received material.
🔊Store the certificate in a digital format (PDF) for easy access.
🔊Maintain records that allow tracking from the end-user back to the original supplier.
By following these steps, manufacturers ensure compliance with ISO 9001 and maintain high-quality standards.
Difference Between 3.1 and 3.2 Material Certificates
3.1 Material Certificate
🔊Issued by the manufacturer’s authorized representative.
🔊Confirms that the material meets order specifications.
🔊The representative is independent of the manufacturing process.
🔊Includes actual test results for the specific batch of material.
3.2 Material Certificate
🔊Includes all information from a 3.1 certificate.
🔊Additionally verified by an independent inspection authority or the buyer’s authorized inspector.
🔊Provides an extra layer of assurance through third-party validation.
🔊More expensive due to additional verification costs.
Practical Application of 3.2 Certificates
For example, if a company orders a pump with a 3.2 certificate, the certification applies to individual components (e.g., casing, impeller, shaft), not the entire pump.
Customers should specify which components require 3.2 certification to avoid unexpected costs.
Key Takeaways for 3.1 and 3.2 material certificates
🔊A 3.1 certificate is signed by the manufacturer’s inspection representative.
🔊A 3.2 certificate is verified by an independent third party for added assurance.
🔊Material traceability ensures quality and compliance with standards.
🔊Customers should clearly specify their certification requirements to avoid additional costs.
🔊Proper documentation helps in quality assurance and troubleshooting issues if they arise.
Understanding the difference between 3.1 and 3.2 material certificates helps manufacturers and buyers ensure product quality, maintain compliance, and reduce risks in industrial applications.
I hope you like above blog. There is no cost associated in sharing the article in your social media. Thanks for reading!! Happy Learning!!
1 Comment