what is the difference between ISO, ISA, DIN and EN standards

babyyoda · Dec 13, 2001

I have been asked to determine which set of standards would be the best to utilitize for properly identifying equipment, instrumentation and valves on a process flow diagram.

In North America it is common to follow ISA. However ISA is 90% of the technical committee for ISO. Also I read that DIN codes are being modified to EN or ISO codes.

My application crosses automotive, power generation and industrial processes. My client base is global.

Any suggestions? Any opinions on which code to follow?

Thank you.

wyatteng · Dec 14, 2001

The most appropriate codes and standards is usually a function of what you are specifying. Ultimately you, or your customer, have to decide on the governing standard.

I am on boards for ASME and ISO with respect to flow measurement. ASME (like the rest of the world) is leaning toward standards reconcilliation with ISO, however valid differences still occur.

A lot of good research is coming out of Europe, hence I am biased toward ISO. ANSI, DIN, and BS (British Standards) have formed the basis of many ISO standards.

There are also AGA (American Gas Association) and API (American Petroleum Institute) standards that tend to steer their own path, largely independent of ISO and others.

ISA, of which I am a member, is, in my opinion, becoming either dated or superfluous with respect to codes and standards. I don't mean to unfairly knock the organization, and some of the work coming out of ISA is timely and of high quality. Generally, I see ISA as a declining factor.

Sorry if that offends anybody.

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what is the difference between ISO, ISA, DIN and EN standards

babyyoda

Chemical

wyatteng

Mechanical

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