In the welding industry, quality and safety are of utmost importance. European welding standards and certifications, such as en 1090 and iso 3834, ensure that welding processes (svetsning) meet strict regulatory and safety requirements. For companies operating in europe, obtaining these certifications is not only a sign of technical competence but often a legal necessity.
Companies that specialize in welding must adhere to rigorous standards to provide customers with reliable and safe welded structures. This article explores the key welding standards, their significance for the industry, and the advantages of certification.
En 1090 certification – structural steel and aluminum welding
What is en 1090?
En 1090 is a european standard that sets requirements for manufacturing structural steel and aluminum components. It consists of several parts, with en 1090-1 addressing conformity assessment and en 1090-2 specifying technical requirements for steel structures.
This standard is part of the eu construction products regulation (cpr), meaning that manufacturers of steel structures must be en 1090 certified to legally apply the ce marking and sell their products in the european market.
Why is en 1090 important?
En 1090 certification is mandatory for companies involved in the production and assembly of structural steel components. Without this certification, products cannot be legally used in construction projects across Europe. Having the certification ensures that:
- Production processes are closely monitored and comply with european quality and safety requirements.
- Welding techniques meet industry standards to guarantee the strength and durability of structures.
- Employees are qualified, and welding operations are supervised according to strict quality control protocols.
For customers, this certification guarantees that welded structures meet the highest safety and durability standards.
Iso 3834 – quality management in welding
What is iso 3834?
Iso 3834 is an international standard that sets out quality requirements for the welding of metallic materials. It includes different levels of certification:
- Iso 3834-2 – comprehensive quality requirements for demanding applications.
- Iso 3834-3 – standard quality requirements.
- Iso 3834-4 – basic quality requirements for simpler welding processes.
This standard ensures that companies follow strict guidelines for process control, personnel qualifications, and production supervision, leading to consistent and high-quality welds.
Why iso 3834 is essential for welding companies
Certification under iso 3834 demonstrates a company’s commitment to maintaining high welding standards. It is especially critical in industries where welding quality directly impacts safety and durability, such as construction, energy, and shipbuilding.
Companies with iso 3834 certification have a competitive advantage in securing contracts for international projects and are recognized as trustworthy suppliers in the european market.
Benefits of en 1090 and iso 3834 certification
Enhanced quality and safety
Implementing welding standards significantly improves the quality of services and increases the safety of welded structures. Strict process control reduces errors, ensuring that steel structures and welded components are durable and resistant to external factors.
Access to more business opportunities
Many clients and investors require welding companies to have en 1090 and iso 3834 certifications as proof of their adherence to the highest standards. These certifications allow companies to participate in european construction and engineering projects without legal or technical barriers.
Competitive advantage
Certified companies distinguish themselves in the market by offering customers the assurance of high-quality welding services. In industries where safety and durability are non-negotiable, having these certifications can be a decisive factor when choosing a supplier.
How to obtain welding certifications?
The certification process
To achieve en 1090 or iso 3834 certification, a company must undergo a compliance assessment conducted by an independent certification body. This process includes:
- An audit of the company’s welding quality management system.
- An evaluation of welder qualifications and training programs.
- A review of technical documentation and welding procedures.
- Quality control testing of welded components.
Once the company successfully passes the audit, it receives a certificate that is valid for a specified period and requires regular inspections to maintain compliance.
Why certification matters for clients
For customers, working with en 1090 and iso 3834-certified companies guarantees a commitment to quality, safety, and compliance with european regulations. Choosing a certified welding partner ensures that all structural and industrial welding projects are executed according to the highest standards.
Welding standards in the swedish and scandinavian markets
Sweden and other nordic countries place a strong emphasis on welding quality and environmental sustainability. Welding companies operating in these markets must comply with strict regulatory requirements, including:
- En 1090 and iso 3834 certifications for construction and industrial welding.
- Non-destructive testing (ndt), including ultrasonic and radiographic inspections, to verify weld integrity.
- Sustainable welding techniques, such as friction stir welding and laser welding, to reduce emissions and improve energy efficiency.
With sweden being a leader in renewable energy and sustainable construction, welding companies that meet high environmental and technical standards have a significant advantage in securing contracts for wind farms, power plants, and infrastructure projects.
The future of welding certifications in Europe
Technological advancements in certified welding
The welding industry is continuously evolving, with new technologies improving precision, efficiency, and sustainability. Robotics and automation are becoming increasingly important in certified welding processes, reducing human error and ensuring high-quality welds.
Environmental impact and sustainable welding
Future welding certifications will place greater emphasis on sustainability and carbon footprint reduction. Companies that adopt green welding techniques and energy-efficient practices will have a competitive edge in meeting the european union’s strict environmental regulations.
European welding certifications, such as en 1090 and iso 3834, are essential for companies involved in steel structure fabrication and industrial welding. These certifications ensure compliance with strict quality and safety regulations while giving certified businesses a competitive advantage in the european market.
For companies adhering to these standards is not just a legal requirement but a way to build trust with clients and differentiate themselves from competitors. By maintaining high welding quality, companies can secure new business opportunities, ensure compliance with industry regulations, and contribute to the development of safer and more sustainable infrastructure across europe.
Certification is not just a formal requirement—it is a sign of quality and reliability that helps welding companies expand their business and strengthen their market position