When a product is accompanied with a certification, it means that the content in the certification is confirmed through the use of documentary evidence. In other words, it gives one assurance that the specific product delivered that is linked to a certificate is what the certificate purports it to be. Testing or verification, either internally or by an outside organization, has been performed and details have been checked. Certification from a reliable source removes a degree of uncertainty.
According to online Etymology, the origin of the word certify comes from the mid- 14th century and means "to vouch for or confirm".The word "certified" is often used across various industries including the automotive, professions like a certified accountant or food industries like (think “certified Angus Beef”). A certified public accountant (CPA) in the United States, for example, has to pass the Uniform Certified Public Accountant Examination and meet additional state-specific education and experience requirements.
So what does certification mean when it comes to pipe, tubing, fittings & flanges? First and foremost these types of steel products are manufactured in accordance with a standard like ASTM (American Society for Testing and Materials), ANSI (American National Standards Institute), ASME (American Society of Mechanical Engineers) or other criterion. Manufacturers produce finished products to these standards and provide a Material Test Report (also known as a Certified Mill Test Report, Certified Material Test Report, Mill Test Certificate (MTC), Inspection Certificate, Certificate of Test and other nomenclature). This document shows the material’s physical and chemical properties and how it complies with a quality standard.
When a customer requirement is different than the standard, additional testing and certification may be necessary. An example can be that for Carbon Steel Seamless Pipe under the ASTM standard A106B- 1991 the maximum carbon content is 0.30%. A customer requirement for that product may be to have a 0.20% maximum carbon content. To comply with the Customer requirement, the material must either be made and certified to the standard with a 0.20% max requirement or be re-tested for carbon content post manufacturer and if it does meet the 0.20% max requirement a different certificate may be produced under appropriate quality programs to show that result.
For Tioga’s customers, certifications are required and the certification offer the assurance that a particular material is manufactured to the specification. We maintain a range of in-house lab testing services (including a variety of Non-Destructive and Destructive Testing- for more information go to Laboratory Testing Services) and a close network of trusted testing contractors to provide the measurements and assurance you need. It’s just one way we help ensure the highest level of precision in all of our products—and all without slowing your projects down.
These issues and others can be discussed with Tioga’s Sales Force. They are ready to discuss your requirements and offer suggestions on how to meet your pipe, tubing, fittings, flanges or other product needs. Call or send an email today.
Phone: 800-523-3678 (toll free US only)
Email: Sales@tiogapipe.com
