The civil use of nuclear power is a significant market. In order to better position itself globally as a solution partner in this segment, WIKA has therefore had itself certified in accordance with the new quality management standard, ISO 19443:2018, for civil nuclear projects – the first company in Germany to do so and the fourth worldwide.
WIKA supplies this sector with instruments and customer-specific solutions for the measurands of pressure, temperature and level. For this reason, TÜV SÜD certified the three production locations involved – WIKA Klingenberg, KSR Kuebler and WIKA Poland SGF – simultaneously in a matrix procedure.
Effort for ISO 19443 higher than for KTA 1401
During the preparatory phase of the project ISO 19443, WIKA was able to build on previous procedures associated with orders in the civil nuclear applications sector. These were based on the stipulations for certification according to KTA 1401, although these are aimed primarily at the German nuclear energy production sector. Compared to KTA 1401, the resource required for ISO 19443 is much greater. Above all, this relates to safety requirements, the classification of products and components and to corresponding training courses for the staff involved in these processes.
Certification on the first attempt
Following an active project that lasted only six months – including an external training course on the new standard – certification audits began at the three locations. These meticulous preparations proved to be very worthwhile. During a three-week inspection period, the team of TÜV SÜD auditors from France found that all required measures had been implemented without critical deviations. WIKA was therefore awarded the certificate on this first attempt.
Good position for international project business
With this certification, WIKA has placed itself in a good position for international project business involving the civil use of nuclear power. This almost eliminates the need for customer audits for qualification as a supplier. In addition, the group of companies now has a more broadly based range of expertise. This is key to having safe and robust processes now and into the future.
TÜV SÜD has certified WIKA in accordance with ISO 19443. The photo was taken after the presentation of the certificate.
Note
Further information on measurement solutions in the field of power generation is available on the WIKA website. In addition, the brochure “Nuclear power generation” can also be found there. Should you have any further questions, our specialists will gladly help you.
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