BRITISH STANDARD BS EN

3-8:2006

Portable fire
extinguishers —
Part 8: Additional requirements to
EN 3-7 for the construction, resistance
to pressure and mechanical tests for
extinguishers with a maximum
allowable pressure equal to or lower
than 30 bar

The European Standard EN 3-8:2006 has the status of a

British Standard

ICS 13.220.10

12&23<,1*:,7+287%6,3(50,66,21(;&(37$63(50,77('%<&23<5,*+7/$:
BS EN 3-8:2006

National foreword

This British Standard was published by BSI. It is the UK implementation of

EN 3-8:2006. It partially supersedes BS EN 3-3:1996. BS EN 3-8:2006,
together with BS EN 3-9:2006, updates and amends the requirements that
were previously contained in BS EN 3-3:1996, which is now withdrawn.
The UK participation in its preparation was entrusted to Technical Committee
FSH/2, Fire extinguishers.
A list of organizations represented on FSH/2 can be obtained on request to its
secretary.
This publication does not purport to include all the necessary provisions of a
contract. Users are responsible for its correct application.
Compliance with a British Standard cannot confer immunity from
legal obligations.

This British Standard was Amendments issued since publication

published under the authority
of the Standards Policy and
Strategy Committee Amd. No. Date Comments
on 31 January 2007

© BSI 2007

ISBN 978 0 580 49992 0

EUROPEAN STANDARD EN 3-8
NORME EUROPÉENNE
EUROPÄISCHE NORM December 2006

ICS 13.220.10

English Version

Portable fire extinguishers - Part 8: Additional requirements to

EN 3-7 for the construction, resistance to pressure and
mechanical tests for extinguishers with a maximum allowable
pressure equal to or lower than 30 bar

Extincteurs d'incendie portatifs - Partie 8: Exigences
additionnelles à l'EN 3-7 pour la construction, la résistance
à la pression et les essais mécaniques pour extincteurs
dont la pression maximale admissible est inférieure ou
égale à 30 bar
Tragbare Feuerlöscher - Teil 8: Zusätzliche Anforderungen
zu EN 3-7 an die konstruktive Ausführung, Druckfestigkeit,
mechanische Prüfungen für tragbare Feuerlöscher mit
einem maximal zulässigen Druck kleiner gleich 30 bar

This European Standard was approved by CEN on 2 November 2006.

CEN members are bound to comply with the CEN/CENELEC Internal Regulations which stipulate the conditions for giving this European
Standard the status of a national standard without any alteration. Up-to-date lists and bibliographical references concerning such national
standards may be obtained on application to the Central Secretariat or to any CEN member.

This European Standard exists in three official versions (English, French, German). A version in any other language made by translation
under the responsibility of a CEN member into its own language and notified to the Central Secretariat has the same status as the official
versions.

CEN members are the national standards bodies of Austria, Belgium, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France,
Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania,
Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland and United Kingdom.

EUROPEAN COMMITTEE FOR STANDARDIZATION

COMITÉ EUROPÉEN DE NORMALISATION
EUROPÄISCHES KOMITEE FÜR NORMUNG

Management Centre: rue de Stassart, 36 B-1050 Brussels

© 2006 CEN All rights of exploitation in any form and by any means reserved Ref. No. EN 3-8:2006: E
worldwide for CEN national Members.
EN 3-8:2006 (E)

Contents

Page
Foreword......................................................................................................................................................................4
1 Scope ..............................................................................................................................................................5
2 Normative references ....................................................................................................................................5
3 Terms and definitions ...................................................................................................................................6
4 Symbols and abbreviations ..........................................................................................................................6
5 Materials .........................................................................................................................................................7
5.1 Materials for bodies .......................................................................................................................................7
5.2 Materials for the bodies of operating devices and filling caps.................................................................7
5.3 Materials for other components ...................................................................................................................7
6 Experimental design method and prototype testing..................................................................................7
6.1 General............................................................................................................................................................7
6.2 Experimental design......................................................................................................................................8
6.3 Prototype testing ...........................................................................................................................................9
6.4 Overfill pressure test (for water based media cartridge operated extinguishers only) .......................13
6.5 Resistance to impact ...................................................................................................................................13
7 Manufacturing ..............................................................................................................................................13
7.1 General requirements..................................................................................................................................13
7.2 Welded and brazed parts ............................................................................................................................13
7.3 Traceability ...................................................................................................................................................14
8 Inspection and testing during production ................................................................................................14
8.1 Final examination.........................................................................................................................................14
8.2 Burst test ......................................................................................................................................................15
9 Marking .........................................................................................................................................................16
9.1 General..........................................................................................................................................................16
9.2 Body ..............................................................................................................................................................16
9.3 Extinguisher .................................................................................................................................................16
Annex A (informative) Classification of the different parts of an extinguisher subject to internal
pressure........................................................................................................................................................17
Annex B (normative) Pressures...............................................................................................................................18
Annex C (normative) Impact test .............................................................................................................................19
)
C.1 Resistance to impact by falling weight .....................................................................................................19
Annex D (normative) Specification for plastics components (except hoses, pistols and nozzles) ................20
D.1 General..........................................................................................................................................................20
D.2 Requirements for plastics components subject to pressure..................................................................20
Annex E (normative) Propellant gas cartridges volume less than 0,12 l ............................................................24
E.1 Refillable cartridge.......................................................................................................................................24
E.2 Non-refillable cartridges .............................................................................................................................25
E.3 Marking .........................................................................................................................................................25
Annex F (informative) Propellant gas cartridges volume equal to or greater than 0,12 l but less than 0,5
l ......................................................................................................................................................................26
F.1 Construction.................................................................................................................................................26
F.2 Pressure test ................................................................................................................................................26
F.3 Marking .........................................................................................................................................................26

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 EN 3-8:2006 (E)

Annex G (normative) Overfill pressure test............................................................................................................ 28

Annex ZA (informative) Relationship between this European Standard and the Essential Requirements
of EU Directive 97/23/EC ............................................................................................................................. 29

Figure 1 — Crushing test for long bodies.............................................................................................................. 10

Figure 2 — Crushing test for short bodies ............................................................................................................ 11
Table 1 — Number of bodies to be sampled.......................................................................................................... 15
Table 2 — Batch sampling plan following failure.................................................................................................. 16
Table A.1 — Classification....................................................................................................................................... 17
Figure B.1 — Scheme of pressure .......................................................................................................................... 18
Table D.1 — Drop height for hammer test.............................................................................................................. 22
Figure D.1 — Example of thread profile ................................................................................................................. 23
Table ZA.1 — Correspondence between this European Standard and Directive 97/23/EC .............................. 29

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3
EN 3-8:2006 (E)

Foreword
This document (EN 3-8:2006) has been prepared by Technical Committee CEN/TC 70 "Manual means of fire
fighting equipment", the secretariat of which is held by AFNOR.

This European Standard shall be given the status of a national standard, either by publication of an identical text or
by endorsement, at the latest by June 2007, and conflicting national standards shall be withdrawn at the latest by
June 2007.

This document has been prepared under a mandate given to CEN by the European Commission and the European
Free Trade Association, and supports essential requirements of EU Directive 97/23/EC.

For relationship with EU Directive 97/23/EC, see informative Annex ZA, which is an integral part of this document.

This document is included in a series of European Standards planned to cover:

a) classification of fires (EN 2)

b) mobile fire extinguishers (EN 1866)

EN 3 consists of the following parts, under the general title "Portable fire extinguishers"
)
 Part 11 : Description, duration of operation, class A and B fire test
1)

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 Part 2 : Tightness, dielectric test, tamping test, special provisions

 Part 3: Construction, resistance to pressure, mechanical tests

1)
 Part 4 : Charges, minimum required fire
1)
 Part 5 : Specification and supplementary tests

 Part 6: Provisions for the attestation of conformity of portable fire extinguishers in accordance with EN 3 part 1
to part 5

 Part 7: Characteristics, performance requirements and test methods

 Part 82): Additional requirements to EN 3-7 for the construction, resistance to pressure and mechanical tests
for extinguishers with a maximum allowable pressure equal to or lower than 30 bar

 Part 92): Additional requirements to EN 3-7 for pressure resistance of CO2 extinguishers

 Part 103): Provisions for evaluating the conformity of a portable fire extinguisher to EN 3 part 7

According to the CEN/CENELEC Internal Regulations, the national standards organizations of the following
countries are bound to implement this European Standard: Austria, Belgium, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark,
Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta,
Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland and United
Kingdom.

1) Withdrawn and replaced by EN 3-7.

2) EN 3-8 and 3-9 update and amend EN 3-3. On publication of these EN 3-3 will be withdrawn.

3) In preparation. EN 3-10 updates and amends EN 3-6. On publication of EN 3-10 EN 3-6 will be withdrawn.

4
 EN 3-8:2006 (E)

1 Scope
This European Standard specifies the rules of design, type testing, fabrication and inspection control of portable fire
extinguishers manufactured with metallic bodies as far as pressure risk is concerned.

This part applies to portable fire extinguishers of which the maximum allowable pressure PS is lower than or equal
to 30 bar and containing non-explosive, non-flammable, non-toxic and non-oxidising fluids.

This European Standard also applies to the metallic gas cartridge of a volume less than 0,12 l (see Annex E) and
gives guidance for sound engineering practice for metallic gas cartridges equal to or greater than 0,12 l and less
than 0,5 l, see Annex F.

This European Standard does not apply to carbon dioxide fire extinguishers.

NOTE Annex A gives the classification of the different parts forming the portable fire extinguisher.

2 Normative references
The following referenced documents are indispensable for the application of this document. For dated references,
only the edition cited applies. For undated references, the latest edition of the referenced document (including any
amendments) applies.

EN 3-7:2004, Portable fire extinguishers — Part 7: Characteristics, performance requirements and test methods

EN 287-1:2004, Qualification test of welders — Fusion welding — Part 1: Steels

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EN 1320:1996, Destructive tests on welds in metallic materials — Fracture test

EN 1418:1997, Welding personnel — Approval testing of welding operators for fusion welding and resistance weld
setters for fully mechanized and automatic welding of metallic materials
)
EN 10204:20044 , Metallic products — Types of inspection documents

EN 13133:2000, Brazing — Brazer approval

EN 13134:2000, Brazing — Procedure approval

EN ISO 4892-2:1999, Plastics — Methods of exposure to laboratory light sources — Part 2: Xenon-arc lamps (ISO
4892-2:2006)

EN ISO 9606-2:2004, Qualification test of welders — Fusion welding — Part 2: Aluminium and aluminium alloys
(ISO 9606-2:2004)

EN ISO 15614-1:2004, Specification and qualification of welding procedures for metallic materials — Welding
procedure test — Part 1: Arc and gas welding of steels and arc welding of nickel and nickel alloys (ISO 15614-
1:2004)

EN ISO 15614-2:2005, Specification and qualification of welding procedures for metallic materials — Welding
procedure test - Part 2: Arc welding of aluminium and its alloys (ISO 15614-2:2005)

EN ISO 15614-12:2004, Specification and qualification of welding procedures for metallic materials — Welding
procedure test — Part 12: Spot, seam and projection welding (ISO 15614-12:2004)

4) This standard is also applicable to non-metallic products (see EN 10204:2004, 1.2).

5
EN 3-8:2006 (E)

3 Terms and definitions

For the purposes of this document, the terms and definitions given in EN 3-7:2004 and the following apply.

NOTE A scheme illustrating the different pressures is given in Annex B.

3.1
maximum pressure at maximum operating temperature, P (Tmax) (pressure experimentally measured)
pressure measured in the extinguisher after stabilisation during at least 24 h at maximum operating temperature (Tmax) and for
cartridge operated extinguishers, the maximum pressure is the maximum pressure recorded for 0,5 s during a period of three
minutes, excluding the first second after release of the propellant gas

3.2
maximum allowable pressure, PS (maximum declared pressure)
maximum pressure for which the equipment is designed, as specified by the manufacturer and which is in any case
greater than or equal to P (Tmax)

NOTE The value of PS for components should be equal to or greater than the value of PS for the extinguisher assembly.

3.3
bursting pressure Pr
maximum pressure measured during a bursting test

3.4
portable fire extinguisher assembly
assembly of parts to comprise the pressure retaining part of a fire extinguisher which can include a body, operating
device, filling cap, closure and may include a propellant gas cartridge, hose and other components under pressure,

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if fitted.

3.5
maximum operating temperature
Tmax
maximum operating temperature declared by the manufacturer equal to or less than TSmax

3.6
minimum operating temperature
Tmin
minimum operating temperature declared by the manufacturer equal to or higher than TSmin

3.7
propellant gas cartridge
refillable or non-refillable pressure receptacle made of metal containing a propellant gas with a capacity less than
0,5 l

NOTE In the ADR these are classified as cylinders (definition 1.2).

3.8
fittings
pressure accessories which include operating devices, filling caps and hose assemblies

4 Symbols and abbreviations

For the purposes of this document, the following symbols and abbreviations apply.

PS Maximum allowable pressure in bar

PT Test pressure in bar

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 EN 3-8:2006 (E)

Pr Bursting pressure in bar

D Nominal external diameter of the body, or the largest external value of the perpendicular section to
the axis, in mm

DN Diameter in mm for circular products submitted to pressure or the diameter in mm of the equivalent
flow section for non circular parts

DB Diameter of the mandrel used during the crushing test in mm

P (Tmax) Pressure at maximum operating temperature, in bar

Tmax Maximum operating temperature declared by the manufacturer, in ºC

Tmin Minimum operating temperature declared by the manufacturer, in ºC

S Minimum wall thickness in mm

TSmin Minimum allowable temperature in ºC

TSmax Maximum allowable temperature in ºC

5 Materials

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5.1 Materials for bodies

An inspection certificate based on specific inspection in accordance with EN 10204 is required.

5.2 Materials for the bodies of operating devices and filling caps

The body material (metallic or plastics) of any operating device and filling cap shall be compatible with other
products and shall have an appropriate certificate such as EN 10204:2004 test report 2.2.

5.3 Materials for other components

The materials used for other parts of extinguishers shall be suitable for the intended use and be compatible with
the materials used for the pressure parts.

In the case of plastic materials, components shall comply with the requirements of Annex D.

6 Experimental design method and prototype testing

6.1 General

The minimum allowable temperature range declared of the body TSmin to TSmax shall be – 30 ºC to + 60 ºC. A
wider temperature range may be declared by the manufacturer. Where this is the case, the temperatures and
pressures used in this European Standard shall be amended to reflect this new temperature range.

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EN 3-8:2006 (E)

6.2 Experimental design

6.2.1 Bodies – Minimum wall thickness

6.2.1.1 General

In no case shall the value of the wall thickness be below that given by the equations below.

6.2.1.2 Metallic bodies except austenitic steel bodies

The body shall have a measured wall thickness greater than the minimum wall thickness calculated using the
following equation:

D
S= +K
300

where

K is a coefficient with a value of:

0,45 for D ≤ 80 mm;

0,50 for D > 80 mm and ≤ 100 mm;

0,70 for D > 100 mm.

6.2.1.3 Austenitic steel bodies

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For austenitic steel bodies, the wall thickness measured shall be greater than the minimum wall thickness
calculated using the following equation:

D
S= + 0,3
600

This is subject to an absolute minimum thickness of 0,64 mm, including all tolerances.

6.2.2 Bodies – Requirements for the base

The portable extinguisher shall be constructed so that it may be:

 free-standing on a horizontal surface;

 and/or fixed to a vertical surface.

The shape of the base of the body is optional.

Bodies for extinguishers that may be free-standing shall either be fitted with a means to raise the pressure retaining
part of the body at least 5 mm above the horizontal surface or the thickness of metal in the pressure retaining part
of the body in contact with the horizontal surface shall be at least 1,5 times the minimum wall thickness(es) (see
6.2.1).

All parts less than 5 mm from the horizontal surface which are under pressure, shall be at 1,5 times the minimum
wall thickness(es) (see 6.2.1).

6.2.3 Bodies – Requirements for use with plastics components

The threads shall be of the form as specified in D.2.6.

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 EN 3-8:2006 (E)

6.3 Prototype testing

6.3.1 General

Tests shall be carried out at (20 ± 5) °C) in accordance with 6.3.2 and 6.3.3.

The number of specimens tested shall be at least:

 for 6.3.2: 5 specimens;

 for 6.3.3: 5 specimens.

The tests described in 6.3.2 and 6.3.3 shall be carried out on a minimum of 10 bodies and fittings.

All the bodies used for the tests shall bear all normal markings indicated in Clause 9 and shall be in their finished
state (e.g. painted).

Fittings include operating devices, filling caps and hose assemblies. The fittings need not be tested as part of the
complete extinguisher but the test equipment connection and blanking features shall replicate the adjacent
components.

6.3.2 Burst test under pressure

6.3.2.1 Test conditions

The burst test under hydraulic pressure shall be carried out using an installation which permits a regular increase of
pressure at not more than 2 bar/s until the body bursts and also permits the variation of pressure to be recorded as
a function of time.

6.3.2.2 Requirements – Bodies

The bursting pressure Pr shall not be less than 2,7 times the maximum allowable pressure PS subject to a minimum
of 55 bar.

The burst test shall not cause the body to fragment.

The main break shall show no signs of brittleness, for example the edges of the break shall not be radial, but shall
be inclined relative to a diametral plane and shall have a reduction in area over their entire thickness.

The break shall not show any obvious defects in the material.

The break shall not originate in the body marking area or weld.

6.3.2.3 Requirements – Fittings

The bursting pressure Pr shall not be less than 2,7 times the maximum allowable pressure PS.

The burst test shall not cause the fitting to fragment.

The break shall not show any obvious defects in the material.

The break shall not originate in the marking area.

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EN 3-8:2006 (E)

6.3.3 Mechanical strength test (crushing test)

6.3.3.1 General

The mechanical strength test shall be carried out in the form of a crushing test used to confirm the ductility of the
body.

In carrying out the test the mandrel shall be positioned as stated, but such as to minimise the risk of damage to
connection points which allow pressurisation of the body. Damage to these points does not constitute failure and
alternative means of pressurising the body may be established. A closure shall be fitted prior to the test. Any
connection shall not add to the strength of the body during the test.

The length of the body is the maximum distance between the ends of the pressure envelope, excluding any skirt or
connection.

6.3.3.2 Long bodies

The method following shall be used when the length of the body is greater than 1,5 D.

The body shall be crushed perpendicularly to its longitudinal axis and approximately in the middle of the body by
means of a non-deformable cylindrical mandrel of diameter DB = (D ± 20) mm and of a length sufficient for each
end to overlap the crushed body (see Figure 1).

Key
D nominal external diameter of the body
DB diameter of the mandrel

Figure 1 — Crushing test for long bodies

The body shall be crushed to (10 ± 1) % of its external diameter. The duration of the movement of the mandrel shall
be within a period of 30 s to 60 s.

For bodies with a longitudinal weld, the weld seam shall be at 90° to the support line.

For bodies with a transverse weld, the crushing shall be carried out at an angle of 45° to the weld.

Following the crushing test, the body shall be subjected to the test pressure PT. The body shall not have any
cracks or leaks.

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 EN 3-8:2006 (E)

6.3.3.3 Short bodies

The following method shall be used when the body length is equal to or less than 1,5 D.

The body is crushed perpendicularly to its longitudinal axis and its mid-point using two 25 mm thick mandrels. The
mandrels shall be radiused for a half cylinder R = 12,5 mm and be of sufficient length to extend beyond the sides of
the crushed body.

Crushing shall be made to the dimensions shown in Figure 2. The duration of the movement of the mandrel shall
be within a period of 30 s to 60 s.

For bodies having a longitudinal weld, the weld seam shall be at 90° to the mandrels.

For bodies having a transverse weld or welds within the zone of deformation, the mandrels shall be at an angle
least likely to result in test failure and within 45° to 90° of the longitudinal axis of the body.

Following the crushing test, the body shall be subjected to the test pressure PT. The body shall not have any cracks
or leaks.

Dimensions in millimetres

Key
R (12,5 ± 1) mm
D/3 ± 1 % D = distance between mandrels at completion of crushing
D actual outside diameter of cylinder

Figure 2 — Crushing test for short bodies

6.3.4 Pressure test (test pressure PT) – Bodies, fittings and assemblies

6.3.4.1 Test conditions

Bodies, fittings and assemblies shall be submitted to the pressure test which shall be carried out using apparatus
that permits a regular increase of pressure at a maximum of 2 bar/s up to the moment the test pressure is reached.

Five samples of bodies and fittings and one assembly shall be tested.
11
EN 3-8:2006 (E)

6.3.4.2 Requirements – Bodies

The test pressure PT shall not be less than 1,43 times the maximum allowable pressure PS with a minimum of
20 bar.

The test pressure shall be maintained for a minimum of 30 s and the body shall remain tight.

After the test, the volume of the body shall not increase by more than 1 %.

6.3.4.3 Requirements – Fittings

The test pressure PT shall not be less than 1,43 times the maximum allowable pressure PS with a minimum of
20 bar.

The test pressure shall be maintained for a minimum of 30 s and the fittings shall remain tight and show no
dangerous defect.

6.3.4.4 Requirements – Assembly

The test pressure PT shall not be less than 1,43 times the maximum allowable pressure PS with a minimum of
20 bar.

The test pressure shall be maintained for a minimum of 30 s and the assembly shall remain tight and show no
dangerous defect.

6.3.5 Pressure test – Pressure gauges and pressure indicators

6.3.5.1 Test conditions

Five samples shall be submitted to the pressure test which shall be carried out using apparatus that permits a
regular increase of pressure at a maximum of 2 bar/s until 2,5 times P (Tmax) is reached. Maintain this pressure for
30 s.

6.3.5.2 Requirements

When tested at a temperature of (20 ± 5) °C, the sample shall not leak at a pressure less than 2,5 times P (Tmax).

Failure shall occur at a pressure greater than 2,5 times P (Tmax) and when the gauge fails there shall be no ejection
of any components.

NOTE This test should be considered to be a destructive test.

6.3.6 Macroscopic examination of the body

On five bodies each weld subject to pressure shall be examined, the macroscopic examination of a transverse
section of the weld, in accordance with EN 1320, shall show complete fusion over the area treated with a
preparation acid and any defects shall be revealed.

If there is any doubt, a microscopic examination of the suspect area shall be carried out.

6.3.7 Plastics components

Plastics components shall comply with the requirements of Annex D.

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 EN 3-8:2006 (E)

6.4 Overfill pressure test (for water based media cartridge operated extinguishers only)

To make sure the extinguishers will remain safe even in case of overfilling, the extinguishers shall be tested in
accordance with Annex G and shall not eject any components in a dangerous manner. This test shall be
performed on two samples.

6.5 Resistance to impact

6.5.1 Test conditions

TSmax and TSmin claimed by the manufacturer shall be used for the tests in 6.5.2 and Annex C.

6.5.2 Requirements

When tested in accordance with Annex C, extinguishers shall not show evidence of bursting, breakage or ejection
of components. Non-dangerous leaks are acceptable.

7 Manufacturing

7.1 General requirements

The manufacturer shall ensure that he has available the manufacturing means and processes suitable for
fabricating the bodies in accordance with this European Standard.

The manufacturer shall ensure that the materials and components used in the fabrication of the body are free from
any defect likely to impair the safe use of the extinguisher.

7.2 Welded and brazed parts

7.2.1 General

Pressure bearing welds shall be formed using an automatic welding procedure.

Welds and brazed joints shall be free from defects which may impair the safe use of the body.

7.2.2 Welding procedures

The welding procedures shall be based on a welding procedure specification in accordance with EN ISO 15614-1
or EN ISO 15614-12 and shall be qualified in accordance with EN ISO 15614-1 or EN ISO 15614-12 or
EN ISO 15614-2.

Other recognised welding EN standards are acceptable.

7.2.3 Welding personnel

The welders shall be qualified in accordance with EN 287-1 or EN ISO 9606-2 and the operators in accordance
with EN 1418.

7.2.4 Brazing procedures

The brazing design and brazing procedure shall be described in a brazing procedure specification in accordance
with EN 13134.

7.2.5 Brazing personnel

The brazer shall be qualified in accordance with EN 13133.

13
EN 3-8:2006 (E)

7.3 Traceability

7.3.1 Pressure retaining parts

The identification and the control of the materials for all pressure retaining parts shall be such as to ensure that the
materials used in manufacture meets the specification of the design.

This is realised by application of adequate procedures internal to the manufacturer such as batch control.

7.3.2 Operating devices, filling caps and hose assemblies

The operating devices, filling caps and hose assemblies which are or may be subjected to pressure during normal
use shall be indelibly marked to permit subsequent identification and traceability.

8 Inspection and testing during production

8.1 Final examination

8.1.1 Final examination personnel

The examination personnel shall be competent to carry out the processes involved.

8.1.2 Proof testing

8.1.2.1 General

All extinguisher bodies shall be tested for resistance to test pressure and shall meet the requirements of 8.1.2.2.

Fittings shall be tested for resistance to test pressure and shall meet the requirements of 8.1.2.3.

All fittings in Category II or higher of the New Approach Directive 97/23/EC Pressure Equipment, shall be subjected
to a pressure test, other fittings shall be pressure tested using an adequate sampling plan.

8.1.2.2 Requirements for bodies

The test pressure PT shall not be less than 1,43 times the maximum allowable pressure PS with a minimum of
20 bar.

The test pressure shall be maintained for a minimum of 30 s and the body shall not leak.

After the test, the body shall not show any visible signs of permanent deformation.

8.1.2.3 Requirements for fittings (excluding pressure relief devices and fittings to be ruptured on over
pressure)

The test pressure PT shall not be less than 1,43 times the maximum allowable pressure PS with a minimum of
20 bar.

The test pressure shall be maintained for a minimum of 30 s and the fittings shall remain tight and show no
dangerous defect.

8.1.2.3 Requirements for assemblies

Compliance of assemblies (bodies + fittings) to the requirements of 8.1.2.2 and 8.1.2.3 shall be demonstrated using
an adequate sampling plan.

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 EN 3-8:2006 (E)

Checks shall include an internal and an external examination of the assembly.

8.2 Burst test

8.2.1 Bodies

8.2.1.1 Number of bodies for tests

Table 1 — Number of bodies to be sampled

Number of Total (see note) Crushing test (as Bursting test (as
extinguishers per defined in 6.3.3) defined in 8.2.1.3 and
batch 6.3.2.2)

N ≤ 500 3 (2) 1 2

500< N ≤ 1 500 5 (3) 2 3

1 500< N ≤ 3 000 7 (4) 3 4

Every additional 1 000 2 (1) 1 1
or part of 1 000

A body that has successfully passed the crushing test may be utilised for one of the bursting tests. If this body fails
the burst test it shall not be considered a failure but the full number of bodies shown in the table for the bursting
test shall be tested.

8.2.1.2 Test conditions

The test equipment shall permit a regular increase in pressure. The increase in pressure shall not exceed an
average of 2 bar/s and the burst pressure shall be recorded.

8.2.1.3 Requirements

The bursting pressure Pr shall not be less than 2,7 times the maximum allowable pressure PS subject to a minimum
of 55 bar.

The burst test shall not cause the body to fragment.

The main break shall show no signs of brittleness, for example the edges of the break shall not be radial, but shall
be inclined relative to a diametral plane and shall have a reduction in area over their entire thickness.

The break shall not show any obvious defects in the material.

The break shall not originate in the body marking area or weld.

8.2.2 Fittings

One of each fitting subject to pressure excluding pressure relief devices and fittings designed to be ruptured by
pressure on operation, from each production batch of not more than 500 pieces, or one in each 500 from each
production batch of more than 500 pieces, shall be tested for minimum burst pressure and shall comply with the
requirements of 8.2.1.3.

8.2.3 Failure

If any item fails to meet the minimum requirements, further samples shall be taken in accordance with the Table 2
and the test against which failure was recorded shall be repeated.

If one or more of the samples fails to meet the minimum requirements, the whole batch shall be rejected.

15
EN 3-8:2006 (E)

Table 2 — Batch sampling plan following failure

Batch size sample size

N
N ≤ 500 13

500 < N ≤ 1 500 20

1 500 < N ≤ 3000 30

Every additional 1 000 or part of 1 000 10

9 Marking

9.1 General

The marking of the extinguisher shall comprise at least the following in addition to the markings of EN 3-7:2004,
16.2:

9.2 Body

 Mark of the body manufacturer as registered, for identification;

 serial or batch number;

 year of manufacture, which can be represented by using four digits, e.g. 2002;

 test pressure in bar, with the letters PT before and followed by "BAR" or "bar".

The marks specified above shall be applied to the metal of the body by hard stamping or engraving.

9.3 Extinguisher

 Mark of manufacturer as registered, for identification;

 serial or batch number;

 year of manufacture, using four digits, e.g. 2003;

 working pressure at 20 °C (stored pressure extinguishers only);

 capacity/size of gas cartridge, e.g. 55 g (gas cartridge extinguishers only);

 identification of the propellant gas;

 operating temperature range of the extinguisher assembly (Tmin/Tmax);

 maximum allowable pressure of the extinguisher assembly, with the letters PS before and followed by "BAR" or
"bar".

The marks specified above shall be permanently marked on the extinguisher.

16
 EN 3-8:2006 (E)

Annex A
(informative)

Classification of the different parts of an extinguisher subject to internal

pressure

In the framework of the New Approach Directive 97/23/EC Pressure Equipment, the different parts under pressure
forming the assembly of an extinguisher can be classified as indicated in Table A.1.

Table A.1 — Classification

EN 3 Pressure Equipment Directive

Part Type of equipment Category Table from Annex II
Body Vessel Category III Table 2
Operating device Pressure accessory Art. 3 § 3 or category I in Table 7
function of DN or category
III when fitted with a safety
accessory
Hose Piping Art. 3 § 3 Table 7
Pressure gauge or indicator Pressure accessory Art. 3 § 3 or category I in Table 7
function of DN
Filling cap Pressure accessory Art. 3 § 3 or category I in Table 7
function of DN or category
III when fitted with a safety
accessory
Pressure limiting device Safety accessory In at least category III -

17
EN 3-8:2006 (E)

Annex B
(normative)

Pressures

The scheme given in Figure B.1 illustrate the definitions of pressure given in Clause 3.

Name Symbol Requirement

Increasing
pressure
Bursting pressure Pr Pr ≥ 2,7 PS minimum 55 bar

Test pressure PT PT ≥ 1,43 PS minimum 20 bar

Maximum allowable pressure PS PS ≥ P (Tmax) and PS ≤ 30 bar

Pressure at maximum operating temperature P (Tmax)

Figure B.1 — Scheme of pressure

18
 EN 3-8:2006 (E)

Annex C
(normative)

Impact test

C.1 Resistance to impact by falling weight5)

C.1.1 General

The test shall be carried out on four charged extinguishers fitted with all accessories that are subject to pressure
during normal operation.

NOTE A low freeze depressant may be added to prevent the freezing of water based extinguishing agents.

Two extinguishers shall be conditioned for a period of 24 h at (TSmin ± 2) °C and the other two at (TSmax ± 2) °C.
Within 1 min of the removal of the extinguisher from the conditioning chamber it shall be subjected to the impact
test.

One extinguisher at each temperature shall be tested horizontally and the other vertically.

For cartridge operated extinguishers, the extinguishers at TSmin shall be tested un-pressurized and with the safety
device in position and the extinguishers at TSmax tested after pressurization, with the control device closed and the
safety device removed. A charged cartridge shall be used in each extinguisher.

For stored pressure extinguishers, all four extinguishers shall be tested with the safety device in position.

C.1.2 Apparatus

A cylindrical steel weight, with flat surfaces, measuring 75 mm in diameter and weighing 4 kg, placed in a structure
which will allow it to free-fall vertically from a height h (in metres) calculated by the following equation, with a
minimum of 150 mm:

h = M/20

where M is the numerical value of the total mass, in kilograms, of the filled fire extinguisher ready for operation.

C.1.3 Procedure

Place the extinguishers on a flat and rigid surface, one in each of the following positions:

vertically, in its normal position;

horizontally, in such a position that the device which seals the unit is pressing against the surface.

For each extinguisher, allow the weight to fall freely from height h, onto the device which seals the unit, the point of
impact being determined by the authority carrying out the test.

5) See 6.5.

19
EN 3-8:2006 (E)

Annex D
(normative)

Specification for plastics components

(except hoses, pistols and nozzles)

D.1 General
All tests and verifications shall be carried out on components conforming at every point to mass produced
components with regard to the material used, the shape and the manufacturing process. The plastic material used
shall always be identifiable. Any modification of the material, shape or manufacturing process shall necessitate a
new test.

The components shall be verified in the as-delivered condition with regard to their conformity with the
manufacturing plan, their appearance, dimensions and weight.

The manufacturer shall prove by means of regular inspection of the manufacturing process that the requirements of
this European Standard are met in mass production.

D.2 Requirements for plastics components subject to pressure

D.2.1 General

For components subject to pressure, the specifications of D.2.2 to D.2.6 are applicable. The manufacturer of
components subjected to pressure shall make available data sheets relating to the product and to its processing.

D.2.2 Burst under pressure

Three components shall be subjected to the burst pressure by means of suitable liquid at temperatures of
(20 ± 3) °C ; (TSmax ± 3) °C and (TSmin ± 3) °C The rate of increase of pressure shall not exceed 2 bar/s.

The burst pressure shall be at least equal to 3,4 times the maximum allowable pressure PS and shall not be less
than 55 bar.

D.2.3 Temperature conditioning at TSmax

Three plastics components normally subject to pressure in operating condition shall be conditioned at a
temperature of (TSmax ± 3) °C for 500 h.

Then they shall be conditioned in an atmosphere of 50 % relative humidity and at a temperature of (20 ± 3) °C until
their weight stabilises.

Then they shall be checked to see that they comply with the manufacturing plans, appearances, dimensions and
weight.

The plastics components shall then be subjected to the burst pressure by means of suitable liquid at a temperature
of (20 ± 3) °C. The rate of increase of pressure shall not exceed 2 bar/s.

The burst pressure shall be at least equal to 3,4 times PS but not less than 55 bar.

20
 EN 3-8:2006 (E)

D.2.4 Ageing test – Xenon arc

Six components shall be subjected to an artificial ageing test as described in EN ISO 4892-2, Method A, for a
period of 500 h under the following conditions:

a) (65 ± 3) °C black panel temperature;

b) (50 ± 5) % relative humidity;

c) spray cycle (102 ± 0,5) min dry interval; (18 ± 0,5) min water spraying;

3
d) total dose of exposure 1 GJ/m (500 h at 550 W/m²).

Then they shall be conditioned in an atmosphere with a relative humidity of 50 % and at a temperature of
(20 ± 3) °C until their weight stabilises.

Then they shall be checked to see that they comply with the manufacturing plans, appearances, dimensions and
weight. A change in colour is permitted.

Three of these plastics components shall then be subjected to a burst pressure test using a suitable liquid at a
temperature of (20 ± 3) °C. The rate of increase of pressure shall not exceed 2 bar/s.

Three components shall be subjected to the burst pressure using a suitable liquid at a temperature of
(TSmin ± 3) °C. The rate of increase of pressure shall not exceed 2 bar/s.

The burst pressure shall be at least equal to 3,4 times PS but not less than 55 bar.

D.2.5 Impact test after ageing at 20 °C

Five components shall be subjected to an artificial ageing test as described in EN ISO 4892-2, Method A, for a
period of 500 h under the following conditions:

a) (65 ± 3) °C black panel temperature;

b) (50 ± 5) % relative humidity;

c) spray cycle (102 ± 0,5) min dry interval; (18 ± 0,5) min water spraying;

3
d) total dose of exposure 1 GJ/m (500 h at 550 W/m²).

They shall then be stored in an atmosphere with a relative humidity of 50 % and a temperature of (20 ± 3) °C until
their weight stabilises.

Then the plastics components shall be fitted to the extinguishers which are 95 % filled with water and pressurised
with nitrogen up to the maximum allowable pressure PS. The extinguishers shall then be subjected to the impact
test with an impact on the top and the four sides of the apparatus.

In the impact test, the hammer shall be made of steel, be cylindrical with a diameter of 75 mm and have a total
mass of 4 kg, its bottom surface flat and it shall be capable of falling free.

The drop height is given in Table D.1.

21
EN 3-8:2006 (E)

Table D.1 — Drop height for hammer test

Extinguisher charge Drop height

kg or l mm
<6 300
≥6 500

One new plastics component may be used for each test.

During the test, no change which is capable of affecting safety shall appear in the component e.g. (scaling,
fracture, crack).

Non-dangerous leaks are acceptable.

D.2.6 Plastic/metal thread design

Plastic/metal threaded connections between the cylinder and the operating device and/or filling cap shall be
designed so as to avoid the possibility of the plastic thread becoming damaged when coming into contact with the
metal thread.

When the operating device or filling cap is retained by a screw thread or threads produced in a non-metallic
material, all threads not having the characteristics defined below shall be prohibited:

 the thread pitch shall be 2,9 mm minimum and the width of the thread crest of both components, when
measured normal to the helix angle shall be ≥ 0,6 mm;

 the included angle of the thread form when measured normal to the helix angle shall be ≥ 18° (see Figure D.1);

 the length of incomplete thread at the start of the non-metallic thread shall be no greater than the actual depth
of the thread.

The start of the thread is that part which is first engaged with the mating component as the two are assembled.

Prior to carrying out the tests in accordance with D.2.2; D.2.3 and D.2.4, each sample shall be prepared in the
following manner:

 screw and unscrew the closure 100 times with its mating part, tightening each time in accordance with the
manufacturer's maintenance instructions;

 test samples in accordance with the requirements of D.2.2; D.2.3 and D.2.4.

If the closure seals are of the replaceable type, then new seals shall be fitted immediately, prior to carrying out the
burst tests and at any time during the screwing/unscrewing cycle when deterioration is evident.

22
 EN 3-8:2006 (E)

→ screw direction

Key
a crest width
b thread pitch
c thread included angle

Figure D.1 — Example of thread profile

23
EN 3-8:2006 (E)

Annex E
(normative)

Propellant gas cartridges volume less than 0,12 l

E.1 Refillable cartridge

E.1.1 Construction

The cartridge body shall be made of a steel or aluminium or aluminium alloy intended for the construction of
pressure vessels.

The mechanical properties of the steel, aluminium or aluminium alloy used shall ensure that the minimum burst
pressure requirement is met.

For all refillable cartridges the connection between the adapter and the body shall be designed to withstand at least
the minimum bursting pressure of the cartridge body.

The carbon dioxide cartridge body shall have a filling density ≤ 0,750 kg/l.

The filling tolerance shall be for cartridges ≤ 30 g (+ 0 - 15) % and > 30 g (+ 0 - 10) %.

E.1.2 Pressure test

Gas (compressed and liquefied) cartridge bodies shall be designed for a test pressure greater than or equal to 1,3
times the service pressure at the temperature of Tmax. Carbon dioxide propellant gas cartridges shall have a
minimum test pressure of 250 bar.

The minimum burst pressure shall be 1,5 times the test pressure.

Each cartridge body shall be subjected to the pressure test. This pressure shall be applied for an adequate
duration to ensure that it is leak tight.

No deformation visible to the naked eye shall occur.

One gas cartridge in every 1 000 or one in each batch, whichever is the smaller number, shall be tested for
minimum burst pressure and shall comply with the requirements according to 6.3.2.

If any item fails to meet the minimum requirements, further samples shall be taken in accordance with the Table 2
and the test against which failure was recorded shall be repeated. If one or more of the samples fails to meet the
minimum requirements, the whole batch shall be rejected.

The cartridge body shall remain leak tight up to the burst pressure.

Any burst shall only occur in the cylindrical part of the cartridge body as a ductile burst.

If the cartridge body does not meet the requirements, 5 more cartridge bodies from the same batch shall be
subjected to the same burst pressure. If one of the cartridge bodies is defective, the remainder of the batch shall be
rejected.

24
 EN 3-8:2006 (E)

E.2 Non-refillable cartridges

E.2.1 Construction

Non-refillable cartridges > 0,05 l shall meet the requirement of E.1.

Non-refillable cartridges ≤ 0,05 l shall be made of steel, aluminium or aluminium alloy.

Carbon dioxide cartridges shall have a filling density ≤ 0,750 kg/l.

E.2.2 Pressure test

This clause applies to cartridges with an internal volume ≤ 0,05 l.

Carbon dioxide propellant gas cartridges shall have a test pressure of 250 bar.

Those containing other gases shall have a test pressure of at least 1,3 times the service pressure at the
temperature of Tmax.

The minimum burst pressure shall be 450 bar.

One cartridge per 1 000 shall be subjected to the burst pressure test. If the manufacturer’s batch is < 1 000 pieces,
one cartridge per batch shall be subjected to the test.

Any burst shall only occur in the cylindrical part of the cartridge as a ductile burst.

E.3 Marking
All cartridges shall have at least the following markings:

 actual empty mass, in g or kg (to three decimal places);

 theoretical full mass, in g or kg (to three decimal places);

 nature of content, e.g. CO2, N2;

 mass of CO2 or content, in g or kg (to three decimal places), and/or charging pressure of the compressed gas,
in bar;

 year of manufacture;

 mark or name of the manufacturer.

The marking shall not become damaged during normal handling in manufacture and use and shall remain clearly
legible.

25
EN 3-8:2006 (E)

Annex F
(informative)

Propellant gas cartridges volume equal to or greater than 0,12 l but less
than 0,5 l

F.1 Construction
The cartridge body shall be made of a steel or aluminium or aluminium alloy intended for the construction of
pressure vessels.

The mechanical properties of the steel, aluminium or aluminium alloy used shall ensure that the minimum burst
pressure requirement is met.

For all refillable cartridges the connection between the adapter and the body shall be designed to withstand at least
the minimum bursting pressure of the cartridge body.

The carbon dioxide cartridge body shall have a filling density ≤ 0,750 kg/l.

The filling tolerance shall be for cartridges ≤ 30 g (+ 0 - 15) % and > 30g (+ 0 - 10) %.

F.2 Pressure test

Gas (compressed and liquefied) cartridge bodies shall be designed for a test pressure greater than or equal to
1,3 times the service pressure at the temperature of Tmax. Carbon dioxide propellant gas cartridges shall have a
minimum test pressure of 250 bar.

The minimum burst pressure shall be 1,5 times the test pressure.

Each cartridge body shall be subjected to the pressure test. This pressure shall be applied for an adequate
duration to ensure that it is leak tight.

No deformation visible to the naked eye shall occur.

One gas cartridge in every 1 000 or one in each batch, whichever is the smaller number, shall be tested for
minimum burst pressure and shall comply with the requirements according to 6.3.2.

If any item fails to meet the minimum requirements, further samples shall be taken in accordance with the Table 2
and the test against which failure was recorded shall be repeated. If one or more of the samples fails to meet the
minimum requirements, the whole batch shall be rejected.

The cartridge body shall remain leak tight up to the burst pressure.

Any burst shall only occur in the cylindrical part of the cartridge body as a ductile burst.

If the cartridge body does not meet the requirements, 5 more cartridge bodies from the same batch shall be
subjected to the same burst pressure. If one of the cartridge bodies is defective, the remainder of the batch shall be
rejected.

F.3 Marking
All cartridges shall have at least the following markings:
26
 EN 3-8:2006 (E)

 actual empty mass, in g or kg (to three decimal places);

 theoretical full mass, in g or kg (to three decimal places);

 nature of content, e.g., CO2, N2;

 mass of CO2 or content, in g or kg (to three decimal places) and or charging pressure of the compressed gas,
in bar;

 year of manufacture;

 mark or name of the manufacturer.

The marking shall not become damaged during normal handling in manufacture and use and shall remain clearly
legible.

27
EN 3-8:2006 (E)

Annex G
(normative)

Overfill pressure test

NOTE See 6.4.

A cartridge operated water based media extinguisher with all its associated fittings shall be filled to 95 % of brimful
capacity and fitted with the correct cartridge. The extinguisher shall be conditioned at Tmax for 24 h. The
extinguisher shall then be operated in the correct manner and the results recorded. Where there is a jet control
device fitted at the end of the hose it shall remain closed during the test.

28
 EN 3-8:2006 (E)

Annex ZA
(informative)

Relationship between this European Standard and the Essential

Requirements of EU Directive 97/23/EC

This European Standard has been prepared under a mandate given to CEN by the European Commission to
provide a means of conforming to Essential Requirements of the New Approach Directive.

Once this standard is cited in the Official Journal of the European Communities under that Directive and has been
implemented as a national standard in at least one Member State, compliance with the clauses of this standard
given in Table ZA.1 confers, within the limits of the scope of this standard, a presumption of conformity with the
corresponding Essential Requirements of that Directive and associated EFTA regulations.

Table ZA.1 — Correspondence between this European Standard and Directive 97/23/EC
Clause(s) in EN 3-8 Essential Requirements of Qualifying Remarks/Notes
Directive 97/23/EC

6, Annex G 2.2.4 Experimental design method

6.3.4.4 2.8 Assembly

7.2 3.1.2 Permanent joining

7.3 3.1.5 Traceability

8.1 3.2.1 Final inspection

8.1.1, 8.1.2, 8.1.2.3, 8.2 3.2.2 Proof test

9 3.3 a,b,c Marking and labelling

6.3.4, 8.1.2 7.4 Hydrostatic test pressure

WARNING — Other requirements and other EU Directives may be applicable to the product(s) falling within the
scope of this standard.

29
BS EN
3-8:2006
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