Article
Many export orders, especially for oil and gas, power and government projects, require an independent inspector to verify the material before it ships. This is called third-party inspection (TPI), and it often leads to an EN 10204 3.2 certificate.
EN 10204 certificate types
| Type | Issued by | Content |
|---|---|---|
| 2.1 | Manufacturer | Declaration of compliance, no test results |
| 2.2 | Manufacturer | Non-specific test results |
| 3.1 | Manufacturer's authorised inspection representative, independent of production | Specific test results for the delivered material |
| 3.2 | Manufacturer's representative and purchaser's or official inspector | Specific results, validated by both parties |
What a TPI inspector typically checks
- Review of mill certificates and heat traceability
- Visual and dimensional inspection (OD, wall, length, bevels, flange dimensions)
- Marking against the order and the MTC
- Witnessing of mechanical tests, hydrotests or NDT if required
- Positive material identification (PMI) of alloy content
- Packing and marking for shipment
Who performs TPI?
Buyers usually nominate an inspection agency such as Bureau Veritas, SGS, TÜV, Lloyd's Register, DNV, Intertek or a company's own inspector. The agency is paid by whoever the contract specifies, usually the buyer.
Planning so TPI does not delay shipment
- Agree the inspection and test plan (ITP) and witness points at order stage.
- Give the inspector at least a few working days' notice.
- Have MTCs, drawings and the purchase order ready before the visit.
- Arrange material for easy access to markings and measurement.
- Confirm who issues and signs the 3.2 certificate.
Cost and time
A 3.2 certificate adds inspection fees and some lead time, but for critical projects it gives the buyer independent confirmation before the goods leave the supplier, which can save far more in rejected shipments.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between EN 10204 3.1 and 3.2?
A 3.1 certificate is validated by the manufacturer's independent inspection representative; a 3.2 certificate is also validated by the purchaser's or an official third-party inspector.
Who pays for third-party inspection?
It depends on the contract, but usually the buyer pays the inspection agency.
What is an ITP?
An inspection and test plan listing the checks, tests and witness or hold points agreed for the order.
Key takeaways
- TPI gives independent verification before shipment.
- 3.2 = 3.1 plus validation by the buyer's or official inspector.
- Agree the ITP and give notice early to avoid delays.
Need these products?
Sawariya Metal Industries supplies stainless steel pipes, flanges and buttweld pipe fittings from Mumbai to buyers in India and overseas. Send your size, grade, standard and quantity through our enquiry form and we will reply with a clear quotation and the test documents you need. You can also browse our stainless steel pipes, flanges and buttweld fittings.