What is CODAP?
The CODAP, an acronym for Code des Appareils Sous Pression, is the French regulation that governs the entire life cycle of industrial equipment subject to internal pressure. From the design phase through to operation, this legislation, resulting from the transposition of the European Pressure Equipment Directive (PED), sets strict technical and organizational requirements. The main objective is to prevent the risks associated with explosions, leaks and ruptures, in order to protect people, installations and the environment. For Boyer, a recognized player in the manufacture of tank doors and industrial hatches, compliance with CODAP is a guarantee of reliability and peace of mind for its customers.
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History and evolution of CODAP
The first version of CODAP dates back to the 1980s, following several major accidents that revealed the vulnerability of pressure vessels. For a long time, controls and standards remained scattered, with no real overall coherence. The 2015 overhaul marked a turning point, with regulations structured around a classification system based on the maximum allowable pressure (PS) and internal volume (V) of the device. By classifying equipment into four hazard categories, from I to IV, CODAP makes it possible to precisely tailor the level of requirements - calculations, tests and inspections - to the scale of the risk involved.
Scope of CODAP
CODAP covers all devices subject to internal pressure, whether storage vessels, process vessels, piping vessels or heat exchangers. The tank doors and access hatches, although smaller in size, also fall within its scope, since they constitute potential points of weakness if they are not designed and manufactured in accordance with regulatory criteria. Classification as Category I, II, III or IV determines both calculation and design methods, and the frequency of periodic inspections once the installation is in service.
Design studies and mechanical calculations
CODAP compliance begins well upstream of manufacturing, with an in-depth study of the equipment's operating conditions. This involves analyzing operating pressure, temperature, the nature of the fluid conveyed and duty cycles. At Boyer, our engineers carry out these analyses in order to adjust flange geometry, wall thickness and choice of materials - 316L stainless steel, carbon steel or specific alloys - to guarantee optimum mechanical resistance. Sizing calculations incorporate rigorous safety coefficients, ensuring that each tank door can flawlessly withstand the maximum pressure to which it will be exposed.
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Welding mastery and quality to ISO 3834
The welding point is often the most critical link in a pressure vessel. That's why CODAP requires welding processes to be qualified and operating parameters to be traceable. The ISO 3834 standard, which Boyer applies systematically, defines the requirements for each phase: from initial process qualification to final verification of welds by non-destructive testing. Dye penetrant testing, ultrasound and radiography are used to detect the slightest crack or internal discontinuity. This rigor guarantees total integrity of welded assemblies, and is a guarantee of durability and safety for the user.
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Final testing and TÜV certification
Before delivery, equipment must undergo leakage and strength tests. CODAP requires the equipment to be tested at a pressure of at least 1.5 times the nominal working pressure. At Boyer, each tank door is thus subjected to a hydraulic or pneumatic test, depending on the fluid involved, to check that there are no leaks and that the locking systems are working properly. These tests are carried out under the supervision of an accredited third-party organization, such as TÜV, whose certification attests to compliance with European directives PED, ATEX or ACS.
Commissioning and periodic monitoring
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The issue of the certificate of conformity is subject to regular monitoring. CODAP provides for regular inspections, carried out by an approved body, and sometimes even by the operator's internal quality departments. An internal examination (every two to five years, depending on the category) and an external examination complete the monitoring file, with detailed reports on the condition of the equipment, sealing and corrosion. For manufacturers, this periodic monitoring is important for anticipating maintenance, extending equipment life and avoiding unplanned production stoppages.
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Challenges and benefits for industry
Beyond the simple regulatory framework, CODAP represents a genuine performance lever for manufacturers. By adopting these best practices, they benefit from guaranteed safety, enhanced reliability and better control of maintenance costs. In demanding sectors such as the agroalimentaire, the chimie fine, the pharmacie or the cosmétique, where the slightest failure can lead to line stoppage or contamination, CODAP compliance becomes a competitive factor. For Boyer, integrating these requirements into every stage of tank door and hatch manufacturing enables us to offer our customers high-performance, robust and durable solutions.