Product Series

Handling CE Certification for Handheld Power Tools

Power tools fall under the Machinery Directive (MD) and Electromagnetic Compatibility Directive (EMC) for CE certification. The Machinery Directive classifies power tools into two major categories: hazardous machinery and non-hazardous machinery, with significant differences in their CE certification processes. Therefore, it is essential for exporters to determine whether their power tool products belong to hazardous or non-hazardous machinery.

How to Distinguish Between Hazardous Machinery and Non-Hazardous Machinery?

Handheld power tools classified as hazardous machinery in CE certification include:

1.Handheld tools: Handheld circular saws, handheld chain saws.

2.Portable tools: Circular saws, surface planers and thickness planers, band saws, tenoners, single-spindle vertical wood milling machines.

For the above tools, after manufacturers or their authorized agents in the EU complete self-conformity assessment, they must also submit technical documents to a notified body for filing, verification of standard application correctness, or EC type testing to further confirm product compliance with the directive requirements.

Power tools outside the scope of hazardous machinery are classified as non-hazardous machinery. Additionally, CE certification for power tools within the hazardous machinery category may also apply to EU directives such as the Noise Directive and Low Voltage Directive. Power tools must not exceed the specified permissible sound power level limits for noise, with specific requirements varying by tool type.

Reference Standards for CE Certification of Handheld Power Tools

The specific product standards for CE certification of handheld power tools include:

●EN 60745-1 Handheld power tools - Safety
●EN 60745-2-1 Drills and impact drills
●EN 60745-2-2 Screwdrivers and impact wrenches
●EN 60745-2-3 Grinders, polishers and disc sanders (PDF)
●EN 60745-2-4 Sanders and polishers other than disc types
●EN 60745-2-5 Circular saws
●EN 60745-2-6 Hammers
●EN 60745-2-7 Spray guns for non-flammable liquids
●EN 60745-2-8 Shears and impact tools
●EN 60745-2-9 Tapping machines
●EN 60745-2-11 Reciprocating saws (clamps and sabre saws)
●EN 60745-2-12 Concrete vibrators
●EN 60745-2-13 Chain saws (PDF)
●EN 60745-2-14 Planers
●EN 60745-2-15 Hedge trimmers (PDF)
●EN 60745-2-16 Tackers (PDF)
●EN 60745-2-17 Routers and trimmers (PDF)
●EN 60745-2-18 Strapping tools
●EN 60745-2-19 Connectors (PDF)
●EN 60745-2-20 Band saws (PDF)
●EN 60745-2-21 Drain cleaners (PDF)
●EN 60745-2-22 Cutting machines (PDF)
●EN 60745-2-23 Die grinders and small rotating tools
●EN 61000-3-2 Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) – Part 3-2: Limits – Limits for harmonic current emissions (equipment input current per phase ≤16 A)
●EN 61000-3-3 Limits of voltage fluctuations and flicker
●EN 55014-1 Electromagnetic compatibility – Requirements for 骚扰 (disturbance) emitted by household appliances, electric tools and similar apparatus
●EN 55014-2 Electromagnetic compatibility standards for household appliances and electric tools

Note: The specific standards for machinery CE certification shall be confirmed by engineers during review.

What Tests Are Included in CE Certification for Handheld Power Tools?

1.Nameplate and instructions

2.Electric shock protection

3.Start-up

4.Input power and current

5.Temperature rise test

6.Leakage current

7.Moisture resistance

8.Electrical strength

9.Overload protection for transformers and related circuits

10.Durability test

11.Improper operation testing

12.Mechanical hazards

13.Mechanical strength

14.Structure

15.Internal wiring

16.Components

17.Power connections and external flexible cables/wires

18.Terminal blocks for external conductors

19.Ground protection

20.Threads and connections

21.Creepage distances, electrical clearances, and insulation penetration distances

22.Heat resistance, fire resistance, and anti-tracking

23.Rust prevention

24.Radiation and toxicity-related tests

Application Process for CE Certification of Handheld Power Tools

Step 1: Determine the applicable directives

The first step is to confirm whether your product requires CE marking. Not all products need a CE mark – only those falling under at least one CE marking directive. There are over 20 product directives and regulations covering a wide range of products, including (but not limited to) electrical equipment, machinery, medical devices, toys, pressure equipment, PPE, wireless devices, and construction products.

Step 2: Identify the applicable requirements of the directive

Each directive has slightly different methods for demonstrating compliance, typically depending on the product’s classification and intended use. Every directive includes "essential requirements" that products must meet. The best way to demonstrate compliance with these essential requirements is to meet the applicable "harmonized European standards" (hENs). Compliance with standards creates a presumption of conformity with the essential requirements of the legislation. However, note that using standards is generally voluntary. hENs can be identified by searching the "Official Journal" on the European Commission’s website.

Step 3: Determine the appropriate conformity assessment path

The CE marking process is always a self-declaration process, but you may need to involve a third party. This is specified in the "conformity assessment procedures" and varies by directive. Certain products (e.g., invasive medical devices or fire alarm systems) may require mandatory participation of an authorized third party to some extent.

Step 4: Evaluate product conformity

Once all requirements are identified, you need to provide evidence that the product meets the essential requirements of the directive. This typically involves assessments and/or testing, ensuring compliance with the applicable harmonized standards identified in Step 2.

Step 5: Prepare technical documentation

Technical documentation related to the product or product line must be prepared. This documentation should cover all aspects of conformity, including details of product design, development, and manufacturing. Technical documentation may also be referred to as a technical file or technical construction file. It can be provided in any format (paper or electronic) and must be retained for up to 10 years after the last unit is manufactured, and in most cases, stored within the European Economic Area (EEA).

Step 6: Issue a declaration and affix the CE mark

When the manufacturer, importer, or authorized representative is satisfied that the product complies with the applicable CE marking directives, they must complete a declaration. In most directives, this is called a Declaration of Conformity (DoC).