The Electromagnetic Compatibility Directive’s purpose is to protect the electromagnetic spectrum so that 21st-century life can function normally. The Directive requires all products to comply with its Essential Requirements. In principle, equipment must not emit harmful levels of electromagnetic interference (EMI) and must be immune to a minimum level of received EMI.
Since interconnected electric devices can cause interference with other electric devices nearby, the purpose of the Directive is to keep this potential interference under control. The EMC Directive designates existing and future technologies for reducing disturbance and increasing immunity.
According to the European Union, the main objectives of the EMC Directive are to regulate the compatibility of equipment regarding EMC:
- Equipment (apparatus and fixed installations) needs to comply with EMC requirements when it is placed on the market and/or taken into service
- The application of good engineering practice is required for fixed installations, with the possibility that competent authorities of EU countries may impose measures in instances of non-compliance.
Who Needs to Comply with the EMC Directive?
The EMC Directive applies to all electronic or electrical products liable to cause or be disturbed by EMI. Most manufacturers in the electronics and electrical industries need to ensure their products comply with the Directive and affix a valid CE Marking. Compliance is mandatory for nearly all electrical and electronic equipment imported into the European Union.
Benefits of Working With TI
- Save Time
- Save Money
- We’re a Notified Body with the highest accreditation there is
- Guidance and support with the technicalities of importing to Europe
- Peace of mind knowing you have real experts to guide you through every step of the process
Typical Steps/Process
- Perform and document an EMC assessment of the gear
- Demonstrate the gear satisfies the Essential Requirements
- If desired, get a Notified Body to perform an EU Type Examination
- Draw up the required technical documentation
- Draw up the Declaration of Conformity and affix the CE marking
Industries & Equipment Expertise
Technology International works with a wide range of companies in the below industries. We’ll help your product comply with the EMC Directive while saving you time and money.
Industrial Equipment Manufacturers
Machine tools, robots, cleaning equipment, cranes, specialist trucks, earthmovers, and finishing machines are just a few of the many pieces of industrial equipment that must get in compliance with the EMC Directive.
Electrical Equipment
Ensure the safety of your electrical equipment while gaining peace of mind knowing that you’re getting expert help to guide you through the EMC process.
Packaging Equipment
From sealing machines to box building equipment and everything in between, packaging equipment must meet EMC requirements to enter the EU market.
Warehouse Automation
Forklifts, AGVs, labeling machines, conveyors, and control panels are just a few of the many warehouse automation pieces of equipment that need to meet EMC requirements.
Canning and Food Processing Equipment
Mixers, ovens, and canning equipment are just some of the many food processing machines that need to obtain EMC compliance before they reach the EU market.
Aerospace, Defense & Military
Aerospace, defense, and military equipment such as communication systems, flight simulators, ruggedized power supplies, test units, ground support equipment, and everything in between require EMC compliance to enter into service in the EU.
Agricultural Equipment
Agricultural equipment such as harvesters, forestry machines, log splitters, irrigation machines, and woodworking equipment use a wide range of electrical and mechanical components. You must first obtain EMC compliance to bring your product to the EU market.
Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Equipment
Mixers, agitators, and packaging equipment are just a few of the many pharmaceutical manufacturing machines that require EMC compliance before they’re allowed to enter into the EU market. Likewise, production machines and lines making medical equipment, from disposable pipette makers to covid-test devices.
Frequently Asked Questions About the EMC Directive
If your product is liable to be disturbed by or cause electromagnetic interference, you will need to comply with the EMC directive and affix a valid CE Marking.
You can demonstrate conformity by internal production control, or by EU Type Examination. An EU Type Examination can only be done by a Notified Body.
In both cases, you must perform and document an electromagnetic compatibility assessment of the apparatus. This must demonstrate the equipment satisfies the ERs either by satisfying all the relevant harmonized standards or by analyzing all normal intended operating conditions and configurations and confirming that in every case the apparatus meets the ERs. You must then draw up the necessary technical documentation. If you are opting for EU type Examination, you must then submit it all to a Notified Body.
Technology International is a Notified Body for the EMC Directive. We can help you with both procedures.
Technology International gets you fast, efficient, and cost-effective EMC certification. We can simplify the process and minimize your costs. Our consultant engineers have detailed knowledge and understanding of the law and the supporting harmonized standards, and we’re here to help.
Latest News & Articles
- What You Need to Know About the New Machinery Regu…November 29, 2023The Machinery Directive has regulated the health and safety requirements of machinery sold in the European Union since 2006. However, the Machinery Read More
What is UKCA Marking?June 7, 2023As of January 1st, 2021, the UK has a new compliance scheme for products and marking requirements. This is important for manufacturers placing Read More
What Is EMC Testing?June 7, 2023Electromagnetic Compatibility testing, also known as EMC testing, has become important to design engineers all over the world. It relates to the Read More
