CEN/TR 15339-5:2014

Overview

CEN/TR 15339-5:2014 is a technical report published by the European Committee for Standardization (CEN) that specifies safety requirements for thermal spraying equipment, focusing specifically on powder and wire feed units. As part 5 of the larger CEN/TR 15339 series on thermal spraying safety, this document provides detailed guidance to ensure safe design, manufacture, operation, and maintenance of these feed units-critical components in thermal spray processes.

This report complements CEN/TR 15339-1, which covers general requirements for thermal spraying equipment. The standard aids manufacturers, integrators, and users in mitigating risks associated with thermal spraying systems, improving operational safety, and complying with EU directives.

Key Topics

• Scope of Application
  Establishes safety protocols for powder and wire feed units used in thermal spraying, applicable in flame, HVOF (High Velocity Oxygen Fuel), plasma, and arc spraying processes.

• Functionality of Feed Units

  • Powder feed units: Can operate standalone or integrated into torch systems; must ensure uniform powder flow with controlled feed rates, often regulated through carrier gas pressure (typically argon or nitrogen).
  • Wire feed units: Used primarily in flame and arc spraying; feed rate controlled via electric or air motors, providing consistent wire delivery vital for spray quality.

• Potential Hazards
  Identifies risks such as:

  • Gas leaks and high-pressure gas escapes in powder feed units.
  • Static electricity buildup causing sparks.
  • Exposure to harmful dust during handling.
  • Electric shock hazards when handling wire feed units due to live wire parts and transient voltages.

• Safety and Protection Measures

  • Use only inert carrier gases (Ar, N₂) to minimize combustion risks.
  • Ensure gas-tight connections with regular leak testing.
  • Provide safe, dust-controlled filling and emptying procedures for powder units, with appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).
  • In wire units, implement electrical insulation and mechanical safeguards to prevent operator contact with live parts and protect against mechanical injuries.

• Responsibilities for Safe Use

  • Manufacturers must design and produce equipment complying with EU directives and provide user manuals, service plans, and operator training programs.
  • Integrators are responsible for correct installation and commissioning.
  • Users need to operate equipment per instructions, maintain service schedules, and train personnel adequately.

• Compliance and National Rules
  The standard emphasizes adherence to European Union regulations and acknowledges incorporation of relevant national laws where applicable.

Applications

CEN/TR 15339-5:2014 serves a vital role in industries utilizing thermal spraying technologies for surface treatment, including automotive, aerospace, manufacturing, and metal fabrication sectors. Its guidance helps:

• Enhance safety in the operation of powder and wire feed systems used in coating processes.
• Reduce risks related to harmful dust exposure, explosion, and electric hazards.
• Standardize equipment design to facilitate interoperability and regulatory compliance across EU member states.
• Support the production of high-quality thermally sprayed coatings through controlled material feed and consistent process parameters.

Operators, safety engineers, and equipment manufacturers rely on this standard to develop safer and more reliable thermal spray installations tailored to diverse industrial environments.

Related Standards

• CEN/TR 15339-1: General safety requirements for thermal spraying equipment-foundation for all subsequent parts.
• CEN/TR 15339-2: Gas control units specific to thermal spraying applications.
• CEN/TR 15339-3: Safety requirements focusing on thermal spray torches and connection units.
• CEN/TR 15339-4: Gas and liquid fuel supply systems safety for thermal spraying.
• CEN/TR 15339-6: Spray booth, handling, dust collection, exhaust, and filtration systems.
• EN 657: Classification and terminology for thermal spraying processes.
• EN 1395-7: Acceptance inspection requirements for powder feed systems.
• EN 60974-5 & EN 60974-10: Standards related to wire feeders and electromagnetic compatibility in arc welding, relevant for wire feed units.

By aligning operations with CEN/TR 15339-5 and its companion standards, stakeholders ensure comprehensive safety management in thermal spraying technologies while sustaining process consistency and quality assurance.