Overview of Container Certifications and Standards

Containers used in offshore oil and gas operations, as well as other extreme environments, must meet specific certifications and standards to ensure structural safety, electrical safety, and explosion-proof performance. These certifications vary depending on the region and project requirements. This article provides a brief overview of several common container certifications and their applicable standards.

1. Structural Certification

Structural certification ensures the strength and stability of containers in extreme environments. Common structural certification standards include:

• DNV 2.7-1: Developed by the Norwegian classification society (DNV), this is the primary structural certification standard for offshore containers. It specifies the design, manufacturing, testing, and inspection requirements for containers, primarily used in offshore oil and gas platforms, FPSOs, etc.
• EN 12079: A European standard widely applied in the European and international markets. Similar to DNV 2.7-1, it focuses on the strength, lifting capacity, and corrosion resistance of containers.

These structural certifications ensure the reliability of containers during lifting, transport, and operation in extreme environments.

2. Explosion-Proof Certification

Offshore environments are often hazardous due to the presence of flammable and explosive gases, so containers need to have explosion-proof capabilities. Explosion-proof certifications ensure that containers do not produce sparks or explosions when used in hazardous areas. Common explosion-proof certification standards include:

• ATEX (Europe): Applicable to the European market, especially for environments with potential explosion risks. The ATEX certification ensures that equipment can operate safely in explosive gas or dust environments.
• IECEx (International Certification): IECEx is a global certification system based on the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) standards, widely applied worldwide. IECEx certification ensures that containers meet electrical explosion-proof requirements and can be safely used in hazardous areas.
• IEC 60079-13 is a related standard, specifically regulating equipment with positive pressure protection, such as positive pressure containers. This design keeps the internal air pressure of the container higher than the external environment, preventing combustible gases from entering and ensuring the safety of the equipment.

3. Regional Certifications

Different regions and countries have different certification requirements for containers:

• China: For domestic use, containers may be certified according to CCS (China Classification Society). While similar to international standards, CCS certification is not as widely recognized globally as DNV or other international certifications.
• Europe: The European market typically requires containers to comply with EN 12079 and ATEX certifications. ATEX specifies explosion-proof requirements, while EN 12079 focuses on structural design.
• United States: The U.S. market often uses API (American Petroleum Institute) standards, especially for containers used in offshore oil and gas exploration.

While some regional standards overlap, there are differences in certification requirements. Customers should select the appropriate certification based on the specific needs of the project and regional regulations.

4. Other Common Standards
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• ISO 9001: This is a quality management system standard. While not directly related to structural or explosion-proof requirements, it ensures quality control during the manufacturing process.
• A60 Fire Rating: The A60 fire rating standard applies to containers designed to protect personnel and equipment in high-temperature environments. Such containers are typically used in high-risk areas like oil platforms and FPSOs.

Conclusion

​Container certification standards include structural, explosion-proof, and regional certifications. The specific choice should be based on project requirements, local regulations, and environmental conditions. Common certification standards include DNV 2.7-1 (structural), ATEX and IECEx (explosion-proof), and regional certifications like CCS (China) and EN 12079 (Europe).

​TLS Offshore Containers / TLS Energy is a global supplier of standard and customised containerised solutions. 
Wherever you are in the world, TLS can help you. Please contact us.

Keywords:#Container Certification,#Structural Safety,#Explosion-Proof,#DNV 2.7-1,#IECEx,#EN 12079,#A60 Fire Rating,#Offshore Containers,#ISO 9001

Written by Snowy

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