Certification in High-Specification Industrial Projects

As part of the wider JACOB Group, JACOB UK supplies modular steel pipework systems engineered for dust extraction, low-pressure pneumatic conveying and process ventilation - all applications where mechanical integrity, conductivity, pressure containment and hygienic performance are critical.

1. Quality Management and Product Traceability

High-specification projects typically require formal quality assurance frameworks aligned with:

• BS EN ISO 9001:2015 – Quality Management Systems

• Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 - General duty to ensure supplied equipment is safe

• Supply of Machinery (Safety) Regulations 2008 – Where pipework interfaces with machinery assemblies

For contractors and OEMs, traceability of materials (e.g. mild steel, galvanised steel, stainless steel grades such as 1.4301 / 304 and 1.4404 / 316L) is often required. This may include:

• Material certification to EN 10204 (e.g. 2.1 / 3.1 inspection certificates)

• Weld integrity verification

• Dimensional tolerancing to ensure airtight sealing performance

• Documented manufacturing controls

• Surface finish certification where hygienic or low-friction performance is critical

In regulated sectors such as food processing and pharmaceutical manufacturing, internal surface characteristics are particularly important. JACOB UK’s Fine Surface Finish Standard provides a controlled, low-roughness internal surface designed to:

• Reduce product adhesion and build-up

• Improve flow characteristics in powder conveying

• Support cleanability and hygiene requirements

• Minimise contamination risk in sensitive processes

This is especially relevant in applications involving powder transfer, additive dosing and controlled ingredient handling, where surface roughness can influence both process efficiency and validation outcomes.

In pneumatic conveying systems, air leakage rates directly influence energy consumption and system performance. Certified clamping systems with defined gasket materials (EPDM, silicone, NBR), controlled surface finishes and defined compression tolerances are essential for predictable sealing characteristics and long-term operational stability.

2. Regulatory Conformity and CE & UKCA Compliance

Products sold in the UK and EU markets must meet applicable statutory instruments and, where required, carry CE or UKCA marking under:

• Product Safety and Metrology Regulations 2019

• Supply of Machinery (Safety) Regulations 2008

• Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015 (CDM 2015)

Under CDM 2015, designers must eliminate, reduce or control foreseeable risks. In pipework systems this includes:

• Mitigation of dust accumulation zones

• Prevention of static build-up

• Structural support calculations

• Access provisions for inspection and maintenance

JACOB UK’s modular design has standardised diameters, rolled ends and quick-connect pull ring joints, supporting documented conformity, repeatability and reduced installation error - which is a significant risk factor in compliance audits.

3. Explosion Protection: DSEAR and UK ATEX

Applications such as flour milling, biomass handling, additive manufacturing, chemical processing and pharmaceutical powder processing frequently operate within classified hazardous zones.

Relevant UK legislation includes:

• Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations 2002 (DSEAR)

• Equipment and Protective Systems Intended for Use in Potentially Explosive Atmospheres Regulations 2016 (UK ATEX)

Under DSEAR, employers must classify zones (20, 21, 22 for dust) and ensure equipment is suitable for use within those zones.

From a pipework perspective, technical considerations include:

• Electrical continuity and bonding across joints

• Surface resistivity of seals and coatings

• Avoidance of insulating discontinuities

• Compatibility with explosion isolation devices

• Mechanical strength to withstand pressure transients from deflagration events

Certified conductive seals and mechanically bonded clamp systems help ensure continuity across the installation. Where explosion protection strategies include suppression or isolation, duct sections must also demonstrate sufficient structural integrity to prevent catastrophic failure.

4. Electrical Safety Integration

Where pipework integrates with motorised dampers, rotary valves, level sensors or extraction units, compliance may fall under:

• Electrical Equipment (Safety) Regulations 2016

• BS 7671 (IET Wiring Regulations)

In hazardous areas, equipment protection concepts such as Ex e (increased safety), Ex d (flameproof) or Ex i (intrinsic safety) may apply. Metallic ducting systems must not compromise earthing arrangements or introduce ignition sources through poor bonding or frictional sparking.

For dust extraction systems, correct grounding of conductive pipework is essential to dissipate static charge generated by particulate flow, particularly in high-velocity pneumatic conveying applications.

5. Pressure Equipment and System Integrity

Although many dust extraction systems operate at relatively low pressures, certain conveying and processing systems fall within the scope of:

• Pressure Equipment (Safety) Regulations 2016 (PER)

• Pressure Systems Safety Regulations 2000 (PSSR)

Where systems exceed defined pressure–volume thresholds, formal conformity assessment may be required. Technical performance factors to consider when specifying ductwork may include airtightness classification and repeatable mechanical coupling performance – both are particularly important in pharmaceutical and food environments, where process validation depends on stable airflow and contamination control.

Confidence Built-In: the JACOB Advantage

Certification isn’t an add-on at JACOB UK - it’s embedded in our engineering philosophy. From precision laser-welded components held in Europe’s largest modular pipework warehouse to pressure-certified joints and ATEX-ready options, our products are developed to meet the compliance needs of regulated industrial projects while delivering performance, reliability and safety.

Industry Fit: Across Regulated Sectors

JACOB UK’s certified systems have proven value across diverse high-spec industries:

• Food & Beverage – hygiene-friendly surfaces, cleanable paths and compliance with food safety practices.

• Pharmaceutical Manufacturing – tight seals, rapid dismantling and ATEX-ready components to support validated processes.

• Bulk Materials & Milling – robust conveying systems that withstand abrasive applications.

With over 100 years of engineering excellence, a strong family culture, and a commitment to innovation, find out how JACOB UK can support you with compliance.

Get in touch with the team to find out more on 01694 722841