Independent Certificates – An Overview
Independent product approvals have become indispensable in modern industry. They are tests and certifications conducted by external and neutral bodies such as DNV, TÜV, DVGW or other recognized organizations.
These certificates provide both manufacturers and users with the assurance that the products meet strict quality and safety standards – often without the need for a signature. Thanks to digital testing processes, certificates can be verified online in real time. This is, for example, common with a DNV Type Approval Certificate, where a reference to an appropriate online platform can be found.
Why External Testing is Important
In a world where safety and reliability play an increasingly important role, independent certificates offer many advantages:
Quality Assurance: Independent testing procedures ensure that the products comply with current safety standards – a crucial factor, especially in safety-critical applications.
Competitive Advantage: Companies that rely on external approvals stand out positively in the market and can market their products more easily and effectively as “trustworthy.”
At STAUFF, it is a given that our products are approved by recognized testing institutes. This gives customers the opportunity to download certificates such as those from the American Bureau of Shipping, Bureau Veritas, Det Norske Veritas, Lloyd's Register and others, and to assess the quality for themselves.
Case Study: STAUFF Test Couplings and DVGW Approval
Metal protective cap attached to the clutch body by a chain, which protects the clutch against soiling or dirt entering the system
Coupling body optionally made of steel with STAUFF zinc/nickel coating or stainless steel
Screw-in thread, e.g. M8x1 and M10 (with O-ring) or 1/4 NPT or 1/8 NPT (metal-to-metal sealing)
External O-ring as vibration protection against the cap coming loose on its own
M16x2 adaptation thread for secure connection of measuring hoses and adapters
Innovative valve design with integrated cone and supporting soft seal
A current example that demonstrates how important and useful independent product approvals are concerns our SKK Type Test Couplings.
These products were originally developed for hydraulic applications. However, selected product variants are also used as test couplings in gas pressure regulating systems, as well as in measurement, mixing, compressor and storage systems – areas where the highest safety standards are indispensable due to the fuels used.
They are used to conduct pressure measurements in gas-carrying pipelines and are primarily employed in maintenance and safety technology to check the operating pressure or the leak-tightness of gas supply systems, without gas escaping uncontrollably when connecting or disconnecting measuring devices.
A selection of test couplings have now been re-tested and approved in accordance with the DVGW testing standard VP 604 – valid until 31.07.2027. This independent approval is an important signal for our customers: They can be confident that the products will continue to meet high safety requirements in operation. In addition to testing the mechanical properties, particular attention is paid to the innovative valve design, which features an integrated cone and a supporting O-ring seal for reliable protection.
Benefits for Manufacturers and Users
Independent certifications provide clear advantages for all parties involved:
Safety: Products that have undergone external testing offer a higher level of safety – a crucial factor in areas such as gas and water management.
Trust: Users can be confident that tested products comply with standards and regulations.
Promotion of Innovation: Continuous testing ensures that innovations in product development always align with the latest safety and quality standards.
Our customers and partners value this transparency and the additional safety factor provided by an independent approval. This means that not only machine and plant manufacturers, but also service companies in safety-critical applications can rely on STAUFF’s tested products.
Additional Certificates and Approvals for STAUFF Products
Many products in our range have been certified by reliable and recognized testing institutes. This ensures that our products meet and exceed common standards. It also guarantees their suitability for specialized applications. In this context, the issued certificates inspire great confidence.
In many of our product categories, you will find products that have been independently tested and approved. For an overview, please visit our page on Product Certificates.
FAQs on Independent Product Approvals
What Advantages Do Independent Approvals Offer?
What Makes the DVGW Approval for STAUFF Test Couplings So Special?
The DVGW approval confirms that the test couplings are suitable for use in safety-critical applications such as gas pressure regulating systems. This is especially true for operation up to a pressure range of 100 bar and provides additional safety for the measurement and monitoring of gas pipelines.
Will These Certificates Remain Relevant in the Future?
Yes, regular testing and the possibility of digital validation ensure that future developments and requirements are addressed promptly.
How is the Validity of a Certificate Verified?
Many certificates include a reference to an online platform (e.g., DNV Approval Finder) through which authenticity and validity can be verified in real time.
Why Are Certificates Often Issued Without a Signature Today?
Modern testing procedures allow certificates to be digitally validated. Online verification saves time and increases transparency, as users can view the current status of the certification at any time.
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