Overview
EN ISO 21012:2024 (ISO 21012:2024) is the international/CEN standard for cryogenic hoses used to transfer cryogenic fluids. It covers both non‑insulated flexible hoses and insulated vacuum‑jacketed hoses within a working temperature range of −270 °C to +65 °C and nominal sizes DN 10 to 100. The standard specifies requirements for design, materials, construction, type and production testing, marking, cleaning and documentation. End fittings for couplings are included, while the couplings themselves are addressed by other standards.
Key topics and technical requirements
- Scope and hose types: Non‑insulated flexible hoses and vacuum‑jacketed (insulated) hoses for cryogenic service.
- Operating limits: Temperature range −270 °C to +65 °C; nominal sizes DN 10–100.
- Design & construction: General requirements for hose assemblies, including end fittings and material selection.
- Materials & cleanliness: Material suitability for cryogenic temperatures and requirements for internal cleanliness for safe transfer of cryogens.
- Mechanical properties & tests:
- Burst pressure and hydraulic bursting tests.
- Pressure cycling and fatigue/resistance to repeated pressure changes.
- Bending and rolling‑bend cycling tests for flexural durability (separate procedures for common and non‑common materials).
- Leak tightness and crushing resistance checks.
- Low temperature resistance and resistance to abuse.
- Sampling, production and non‑destructive tests: Requirements for sample testing, dimensional checks, leak tests and production testing.
- Marking, cleaning and documentation: Mandatory marking elements, cleaning procedures for cryogenic service, periodic examination guidance and test certificates.
- Regulatory linkage: Annex ZA relates the standard to the EU Pressure Equipment Directive (2014/68/EU), providing a route to presumption of conformity when applicable.
Applications and users
EN ISO 21012:2024 is intended for:
- Manufacturers and designers of cryogenic hose assemblies (flexible and vacuum‑jacketed).
- Quality assurance and testing laboratories performing type and production tests.
- Plant operators and maintenance teams in industries handling cryogens (industrial gases, LNG, hydrogen applications, laboratories and medical gas supply).
- Specifiers and procurement teams seeking compliant hoses for transfer lines, loading/unloading, and interconnects between cryogenic vessels.
By following EN ISO 21012:2024, stakeholders ensure safer, more reliable cryogenic fluid transfer and clearer conformity with applicable pressure equipment regulations.
Related standards
Keywords: EN ISO 21012:2024, cryogenic hoses standard, vacuum jacketed hoses, cryogenic flexible hoses, hose testing, burst pressure, bending test, pressure cycles, hose marking.
