An ISO standard initiated by the Elastomeric & Polymeric Seals Division, ISO 5119:2023, “Low Temperature Sealing Capability of Elastomeric Seals — Test Methods,” on low temperature testing of elastomers was published last year.

The ESA is an associate member of ISO TC 153 WG5 and involved in the creation of ISO 12101, “Industrial valves – Measurement, test and qualification procedures for fugitive emissions – Classification system and qualification procedures for type testing of stem seals for valves.” Comments for the latest draft have been submitted by the Packings and Elastomeric & Polymeric Seals Division.

We are also an associate member of CEN TC 197 Pumps. Working Group 3 has been reactivated to work on a new EN standard based on the Packing Standard document created by the Packings Division. Ralf Vogel is the convenor of this working group.

Besides the PFAS legislation developments (see PFAS Update), the ESA is also following the Drinking Water Regulations in the EU as an associate member of the European Drinking Water Association. On January 23, the EU Parliament decided on laying down rules for the application of Directive (EU) 2020/2184 of the European Parliament and of the Council as regards methodologies for testing and accepting starting substances, compositions, and constituents to be included in the European positive lists.