GRP tanks and vessels for use above ground - Part 1: Raw materials - Specification conditions and acceptance criteria; German version EN 13121-1:2021
1Key Takeaways
This European Standard gives requirements for acceptance and usage conditions of raw materials for GRP tanks and vessels with or without lining for storage or processing of fluids, factory made or site built, non pressurised or pressurised, for use above ground.
2Expert Interpretation
This article provides an in-depth analysis of the DIN EN 13121-1:2021 standard's technical requirements for raw materials for above-ground glass fiber reinforced plastic (GRP) tanks, covering the performance indicators and acceptance criteria for key materials such as reaction resins, reinforcements, and thermoplastic linings, as well as EU Pressure Equipment Directive (PED) compliance requirements. It also provides a comparison table of classified resin systems, thermoplastic material performance parameters, and the latest standard updates.
Analysis of the Standard's Core Content
DIN EN 13121-1:2021 replaces the 2003 edition and specifies the acceptance conditions and technical specifications for raw materials used in above-ground GRP tanks. This standard applies to both pressure and non-pressure vessels. The standard emphasizes that raw material properties directly impact the chemical resistance (EN 13121-2) and mechanical properties (EN 13121-3) of the final product.
Major Technical Updates
| Changes | 2003 Edition | 2021 Edition |
|---|---|---|
| Normative References | ISO 9073 Series | Updated to DIN EN 29073 Series |
| Resin Classification | 7 Resin Systems | Added Vinylesterurethane (VEU) Resin |
| Thermoplastic Lining | 4 Materials | Expanded to 6 (PVDF/E-CTFE Added) |
Key Material Performance Requirements
Reaction Resin System
Chapter 4 of the standard specifies the technical parameters of 8 types of resins in detail. Taking Unsaturated Polyester Resin (UP) as an example:
- HDT: 60-110°C (depending on type)
- Tensile Strength: ≥50-75MPa
- Styrene Content: ≤45-55%
Reinforcement Materials
Chapter 6 clarifies the type requirements of glass fiber reinforcements:
- Surface Mat: 20-50g/m²
- Chopped Strand Mat: 225-600g/m² (in line with ISO 2559:2011)
- Unidirectional fabric: 240-1200g/m²
Compliance Document Requirements
Chapter 9 stipulates that raw material suppliers must provide:
- EN 10204 Type 3.1 Material Certificate (Resin/Liner)
- Material Data Sheet (including storage conditions and expiration date)
- Proof of compatibility between resin system and reinforcement material
PED Directive Conformity
Annex ZA explains that this standard supports the essential requirements of the EU Pressure Equipment Directive 2014/68/EU:
- Article 2.2.1: Material Pressure Capacity Design
- Article 4.1b: Chemical Resistance Verification
- Article 4.3: Specific Product Control Certificate