The PED (Pressure Equipment Directive) is the regulation that governs European pressure vessels. The PED is not a design code but some technical requirements are contained in the document. Generally, the PED accepts vessels manufactured to the ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code providing certain additional requirements are met. These include material properties requirements, hydrostatic test pressure, additional inspection and documentation.

Calculations made for an ASME Section VIII, Division 1 vessel using COMPRESS will be in compliance with the design requirements of the PED provided the user defines the hydrostatic test pressure in accordance with PED Annex I, Article 7.4. This test pressure is typically higher than the test pressure required by ASME Section VIII-1, Paragraph UG-99.

Compliance with the PED involves more than just the design calculations. Materials, manufacturing, inspection, testing and operation of the vessel are all considered. Since COMPRESS is a design tool, it is involved in only one portion of the PED compliance process.

The ASME publishes a guide to assist ASME stamp holders that wish to meet the additional requirements of the PED. It can be purchased here:

http://catalog.asme.org/Codes/PrintBook/BOI_2001_Guide_Stamp_Holders.cfm