Processing of EU RoHS test reports for 304 stainless steel screws
Date：2025-12-05 09:49:26 Classification
：【question】 Visits：
The RoHS testing process for 304 stainless steel screws definitely needs clear guidance, as it involves export compliance and market access. Obtaining an EU RoHS test report can follow a standardized 5-step process, while paying attention to the specific testing requirements for metal materials.
I. Standardized Process: 5 Steps to Certification
1. Clarify the Scope and Items of Testing
- Core Items: As metal parts, only the first 6 heavy metals (lead, mercury, cadmium, hexavalent chromium, polybrominated biphenyls, polybrominated diphenyl ethers) need to be tested. Four phthalates (DEHP, BBP, DBP, DIBP) are exempt, unless the screw surface has a plastic/rubber coating;
- Limit Requirements: Cadmium (Cd) ≤ 100 ppm, the other five ≤ 1000 ppm (according to IEC 62321 standard).
2. Choosing a Compliant Testing Organization
- Qualification Requirements: Must possess CNAS/CMA dual certification (e.g., Dezeway Testing CNAS registration number: L8083). For international reports, IEC 62321 standard methods are preferred.
- Cost Reference: Domestic organizations charge approximately 500-800 RMB per batch for testing, with a processing time of 5-7 working days.
3. Sample and Document Preparation
- Sample Requirements:
- ≥50 screws per batch (covering different production batches). If the surface has a plating, a description of the plating thickness is required.
- Special processes (such as chrome plating, painting) must be separately noted for targeted testing of hexavalent chromium.
- Required Documents:
- Copy of company business license, product model and specification sheet;
- Raw material material certificate (304 stainless steel composition report provided by the steel mill, containing ≥8% nickel and ≥18% chromium);
- Brief description of the production process (focusing on the chemical reagents used in the cleaning and plating stages).
4. Laboratory Testing and Report Issuance
- Testing Steps:
① Sample Disassembly (if it is an assembly) → ② XRF Scanning for Initial Screening → ③ Chemical Analysis (Heavy Metal Dissolution Test) → ④ Data Review and Report Generation;
- Report Validity: Assuming the raw materials and processes remain unchanged, it is recommended to update the report annually. EU customs typically requires reports to be issued no more than one year ago.
5. Report Application and Subsequent Management
- Usage Scenarios: Used for EU customer factory audits, customs clearance, and e-commerce platform onboarding (such as Amazon Europe);
- Risk Warning: If the stainless steel wire supplier is changed or the production process is adjusted (e.g., changing the cleaning agent), retesting is required.
II. Special Considerations for Metal Materials
1. Hidden Risks of Hexavalent Chromium Testing
- Misconception about Electroplating: Some companies mistakenly believe that 304 stainless steel does not require hexavalent chromium testing. In fact, if it has undergone chrome plating (such as decorative bright chrome), it must be tested according to EPA 3060A standards (limit 0.1%).
- Solution: Prioritize natural-colored stainless steel screws, or require the electroplating plant to provide a hexavalent chromium compliance declaration.
2. Pollution Control in the Production Process
- Key Aspects: The use of lead-containing cleaning agents in the cleaning process and mold lubricants containing heavy metals may lead to excessive levels of pollutants in the finished product.
- Control Recommendations: Use pure water for cleaning, require auxiliary material suppliers to provide RoHS compliance reports, and retain traceability records for at least 3 years.
III. Common Problems and Solutions
| Problem Scenarios | Coping Strategies
| Report not recognized by EU clients | For first-time exports, it is recommended to choose an international agency; subsequent exports can negotiate domestic dual-certification reports.
| Significant discrepancies in test results between batches | Establish a raw material incoming inspection mechanism; sample and test each batch of steel.
| Incorrect selection of testing items | Clearly label "natural metal color, no organic coating" when submitting samples.
IV. Corporate Compliance Tips
- Cost Optimization: Screws of different models within the same batch can be tested together (ensuring material consistency) to reduce testing costs per product;
- Standard Tracking: Pay attention to EU RoHS revisions (such as the proposed addition of medium-chain chlorinated paraffin control in 2025) and adjust material formulations in advance;
- Report Storage: Electronic reports should be encrypted and backed up; paper reports must be retained for at least 5 years (EU market surveillance retroactive period).
By following the above procedures, you can ensure that 304 stainless steel screws comply with EU environmental requirements and effectively avoid customs clearance delays or market recalls due to non-compliance testing.
Shen Gongwang Security: 44030602006947