BS EN 200:1992 Faucet Quality Standards – Key Requirements & Testing Methods
Illustration of faucet components under BS EN 200:1992 standards.
Introduction to BS EN 200:1992
BS EN 200:1992 is a European technical standard governing the design, performance, and testing of single and mixer taps (faucets) for sanitary appliances. Published by the British Standards Institution (BSI), it ensures faucets meet strict durability, safety, and efficiency criteria. This standard applies to faucets with a nominal diameter of ½ inch (DN15) and a minimum water pressure of 0.05 MPa.
Key Features:
Covers dimensions, water tightness, pressure resistance, and acoustic performance.
Specifies testing protocols for mechanical durability and hydraulic properties.
Aligns with European norms for plumbing systems.
Scope of BS EN 200:1992
This standard applies to faucets installed in bathrooms, kitchens, and other sanitary spaces. It excludes specialized taps (e.g., thermostatic mixers, shower fittings) and focuses on:
PN10rated faucets (rated for 10 bar pressure).
Operating conditions:
Pressure range: 0.05–1.0 MPa (0.5–10 bar).
Temperature range: Up to 90°C (recommended max: 65°C).
Key Requirements
1. Dimensional Specifications
Faucets must comply with precise measurements for installation compatibility. Examples include:
Deck-mounted mixer taps: Minimum spout height of 90 mm (fixed) or 100 mm (movable).
Wall-mounted taps: Minimum projection of 80 mm from the wall.
Table 1: Critical Dimensions
Component | Requirement (mm) |
Spout Height (Fixed) | ≥90 |
Spout Height (Movable) | ≥100 |
Base Diameter | ≤50 |
2. Water Tightness Testing
Faucets undergo rigorous leakage tests under static and dynamic pressures:
Upstream Test: 1.6 MPa (16 bar) for 60 seconds (no leakage allowed).
Downstream Test: 0.4 MPa (4 bar) for 60 seconds.
Air Pressure Test: 0.6 MPa (6 bar) submerged in water (no bubbles allowed).
[Water Tightness Test](https://example.com/watertightnesstest.jpg)
Testing faucet seals under high pressure.
3. Pressure Resistance
Faucets must withstand extreme pressures without deformation:
Upstream: 2.5 MPa (25 bar) static pressure for 60 seconds.
Downstream: 0.4 MPa (4 bar) dynamic pressure for 60 seconds.
4. Hydraulic Performance
Flow rates are measured at 0.3 MPa (3 bar):
Basins/Sinks: ≥12 liters/minute.
Bathtubs: ≥20 liters/minute.
5. Mechanical Durability
Handle Cycles: 200,000 open/close cycles at 30 rpm.
Diverter Valves: 30,000 hot/cold water cycles.
Swivel Spouts: 80,000 rotation cycles with a 1–2 kg load.
6. Acoustic Performance
Faucets are classified by noise levels:
| Class | Noise Level (dB(A)) |
|||
| I | ≤20 |
| II | ≤30 |
Marking & Material Requirements
Identification: Manufacturer’s name, noise/flow class.
Color Coding: Blue for cold water, red for hot water.
Materials: Nontoxic, corrosion-resistant, and compliant with EN 248 for nickel chrome plating.
Compliance & Testing
Faucets must pass type testing (not routine QC checks) to certify compliance. Key referenced standards include:
EN 246: Flow regulators.
ISO 3822: Noise measurement.
ISO 5167: Flow rate testing.
Why BS EN 200:1992 Matters
Ensures compatibility with European plumbing systems.
Reduces water waste through standardized flow rates.
Enhances product longevity and user safety.
Meta Description:
"Explore BS EN 200:1992 standards for faucets: key requirements, testing methods, and compliance tips. Learn about water tightness, pressure resistance, and hydraulic performance."
Keywords:
BS EN 200:1992, faucet quality standards, European tap specifications, water tightness testing, hydraulic performance, faucet durability
For detailed diagrams and tables, refer to the original BS EN 200:1992 documentation.