By Eamonn Ryan
The AENOR certification process – with its emphasis on rigorous testing, continuous monitoring, and adherence to industry standards – are highly relevant to the HVAC&R sector, particularly when it comes to the use of plastic piping systems. This is Part 2 of a three-part series.
“You can’t ignore sustainability in Europe today,” Pascual remarked. © RACA Journal
AENOR CEO Ricardo Pascual emphasised the growing importance of sustainability in the European plastic piping industry. He highlighted that plastic piping systems are increasingly incorporating recycled materials, specifically noting that pipes meeting the European standard EN 1401 now feature up to 60% recycled PVC. This development not only promotes environmental sustainability but also provides a competitive edge in tenders, where products demonstrating higher sustainability can score additional points.
“You can’t ignore sustainability in Europe today,” Pascual remarked. “If you don’t speak about sustainability, you are not part of the industry anymore. It’s no longer optional but essential.”
Pascual’s presentation also introduced the Operation Clean Sweep (OCS) initiative, aimed at preventing plastic pellet loss into the environment. Currently, 50 companies in Spain are OCS certified, adhering to strict standards to keep plastic pellets from polluting natural habitats. With new European regulations on microplastics on the horizon, companies that use over 1 000 tons of plastic pellets annually will soon be required to conduct risk assessments and take corrective action to minimise environmental impact.
As Pascual pointed out, this trend toward sustainability is not just a regulatory measure but a market-driven necessity. “When you submit a tender and the points are even across the board, it’s those additional sustainability points that can make the difference between winning or losing,” he said.
Additionally, Pascual emphasised the growing demand for certification of recycled material content in a variety of products. He pointed out that, while recycled materials may not be suitable for all products—such as gas pipes—innovative solutions are being found.
AENOR certification process: Rigorous testing and market accountability
The AENOR certification process has a robust framework in place, ensuring that certified companies uphold the highest standards in plastic piping systems. One key element of this process is the ‘extraordinary visits’ carried out to verify that companies are adhering to corrective actions when necessary. These visits are not just assumptions, but checks conducted to ensure compliance in the marketplace. If any failures or issues are identified, corrective actions are promptly enforced. This responsibility lies with the Certification Committee, which oversees both the certification and the promotion of the AENOR mark.
The AENOR certification process is comprehensive and transparent. The Certification Committee plays a central role in driving the demand for the AENOR mark by promoting the certification to engineers, prescribers and HVAC professionals. Through strategic marketing efforts, such as trade fair exhibitions and industry events, the AENOR certification continues to gain recognition, offering certified companies a distinct competitive advantage.
The committee also works to improve the visibility of the AENOR certification by attending major trade fairs, such as the ISH in March and the IR4 in Milan, while also expanding outreach efforts in regions like South Africa. This direct engagement helps inform potential clients and partners about the value of the AENOR certification.
The certification procedure itself is rigorous. Initially, when a company applies for certification, a comprehensive inspection is conducted, with product testing and sampling carried out in certified laboratories. However, unlike some certification schemes that require exhaustive testing only at the outset, AENOR divides testing across the entire duration of the certificate (usually five years). This approach allows for a more balanced and comprehensive evaluation of a company’s ongoing product quality and compliance.
Notably, the AENOR certification process is marked by frequent follow-up testing, ensuring consistency and quality over time. This differs significantly from many other certification schemes, which might reduce testing after the initial application. By spreading out testing throughout the certification period, AENOR ensures that products remain compliant and continue to meet rigorous standards.
