In brief
The inspection certificate 3.1 to DIN EN 10204 confirms test results on the delivered product, signed by an inspector independent of production.
Contents
What is Inspection certificate 3.1?
DIN EN 10204 defines types of inspection documents for metallic products; in practice it is also agreed for other components. It distinguishes between non-specific documents, which are based on tests on similar products, and specific documents, which relate to the lot actually delivered.
The inspection certificate 3.1 is a specific document. In it, the manufacturer confirms that the products supplied meet the requirements of the order and states the test results, such as chemical composition, mechanical properties or dimensions. It is signed by the manufacturer's authorised inspection representative, who is independent of the manufacturing department. With the inspection certificate 3.2, a representative of the purchaser or an inspector designated by official regulations additionally confirms the results.
By way of distinction: the declaration of compliance with the order 2.1 contains no test results, and the test report 2.2 contains non-specific results. A 3.1 certificate can only be clearly assigned to the component via its marking, such as the heat or batch number.
In practice: maintenance and procurement
The required type of inspection document must be stated in the purchase order; a 3.1 certificate requested afterwards is often no longer obtainable. At goods receipt, the batch number on the certificate should be checked against the marking on the part.
Synonyms and abbreviations: 3.1 certificate · EN 10204 3.1 · mill test certificate (MTC) · material certificate 3.1
Frequently asked questions
Who may issue an inspection certificate 3.1?
It is issued by the manufacturer of the product and signed by its authorised inspection representative, who is independent of manufacturing. Distributors and intermediaries do not issue their own 3.1 certificate but pass on the manufacturer's certificate unchanged. If material is processed further, for example cut to size, it is important that the marking is transferred so that the link to the original certificate is retained.
When is an inspection certificate 3.2 required instead of 3.1?
A 3.2 certificate is required above all when regulations or the purchaser demand additional, independent confirmation, for example for safety-relevant components or certain pressure equipment. Because a representative of the purchaser or an independent expert takes part in the inspection, this must be agreed and scheduled in advance. As a rule, this costs time and additional money.
Are 3.1 certificates also required for spare parts?
Often yes, especially in industries with high requirements for material traceability, for example in chemicals, pressure equipment, power plants or food processing. A spare part is usually subject to the same documentation requirements as the original part. Since certificates can hardly be obtained afterwards, it should be clarified before ordering goods from a distributor whether the manufacturer's certificate is available.