Quality comes first
We check certification and quality documentation before any order is placed. Below: what each standard means and why it matters.
CE / EN 1090 / EXC
For load-bearing steel and aluminium structures, we check that the scope of the selected manufacturer's EN 1090 certification covers the Execution Class (EXC) the project requires.
CE marking is required for load-bearing steel and aluminium structural components placed on the market within the scope of EN 1090-1. The Execution Class (EXC1 to EXC4) determines how stringent the requirements on production and quality assurance are.
ISO 9001
Where required, we select manufacturers with a certified quality management system under ISO 9001. Certificates and their validity are checked before the order is placed.
ISO 9001 is the international standard for quality management systems. Certification demonstrates that the manufacturer operates a documented quality management system and controls its processes accordingly.
ISO 3834
For projects involving welding, we check that the manufacturer meets the required welding quality under ISO 3834 and that the certification matches the order in question.
ISO 3834 sets the quality requirements for fusion welding of metallic materials, from personnel qualifications to welding procedures and inspection. The standard has several levels, depending on the complexity of the welding involved.
WPS/WPQR
For welded structures, we check that the required welding procedure specifications (WPS) are backed by valid procedure qualification records (WPQR) for the material and welding process used.
A Welding Procedure Specification (WPS) describes how a weld is to be made. A Welding Procedure Qualification Record (WPQR) demonstrates that the procedure delivers the required result.
Material traceability
We check material traceability against the relevant material certificates and project specifications. Where required, we monitor that traceability through production and handover.
Traceability means every component can be traced back to its material certificate. That is essential in the event of a defect or an audit, and often a contractual requirement.
FPC
For products within the scope of EN 1090-1, we check that the manufacturer operates the required Factory Production Control (FPC) system and that its certification covers the product and the relevant Execution Class.
Factory Production Control (FPC) is the documented production control system a manufacturer operates under EN 1090, from incoming material checks through the production process to final inspection.
Requirements differ from project to project. N-Essential selects manufacturers on the certificates, production processes and quality documentation each project calls for, and checks these before the order is placed.