EN 12693:2026

Overview

EN 12693:2026 - "Refrigerating systems and heat pumps - Safety and environmental requirements - Positive displacement refrigerant compressors" is a European Standard developed by CEN. This standard specifies the critical safety and environmental requirements for positive displacement refrigerant compressors intended for use in both stationary and mobile refrigerating systems and heat pumps. It covers applications in commercial and industrial appliances powered by electrical supplies up to 1,000 VAC or 1,500 VDC and addresses compressors including open drive, semi-hermetic, and hermetic types.

Importantly, EN 12693:2026 clarifies requirements related to hazards, safe practices, and testing, supporting compliance with key European directives, including the Machinery Directive (2006/42/EC). The standard is intended to promote high safety, reliability, and environmental performance, ensuring compressors meet the necessary requirements for integration into modern refrigerating and heat pump systems.

Key Topics

• Scope and Applicability

  • Applies to positive displacement compressors for stationary/mobile systems.
  • Intended for commercial and industrial use, not household appliances.
  • Covers compressors with integral motors up to specified voltages.

• Safety Requirements

  • Identification of significant hazards associated with compressor operation.
  • Specifies protective measures, including guarding moving parts, preventing ruptures, and ensuring stability.
  • Requirements for preventing electrical hazards and ensuring safe earthing, wiring, and insulation.

• Environmental Considerations

  • Outlines methods to reduce emissions of substances harmful to the environment.
  • Sets testing and documentation requirements to demonstrate environmental compliance.

• Testing and Verification

  • Details procedures for type and individual testing of compressors for mechanical strength, tightness, and electrical safety.
  • Includes requirements for routine manufacturer checks and verification of compliance.

• Documentation and Marking

  • Mandatory information to be provided: marking, warnings, instructions, and documentation for users and integrators.
  • Graphical symbols and safety instructions to support safe installation and operation.

Applications

The requirements of EN 12693:2026 apply to a wide range of industrial and commercial cooling and heat pump systems using positive displacement compressors, such as:

• Commercial refrigeration units and cold stores
• Industrial process cooling systems
• Heat pumps for space heating or industrial applications
• Stationary and mobile systems (excluding household and specific vehicle air-conditioning equipment)

The standard contributes to the safe design, construction, installation, and maintenance of refrigerating equipment by ensuring the core component - the refrigerant compressor - meets uniform European safety and environmental benchmarks. It benefits manufacturers, system integrators, facility operators, and maintenance professionals aiming to fulfill regulatory obligations and minimize operational risks.

Limitations:

• Not applicable to household appliances (see EN 60335-2-34).
• Excludes compressors using water or air as refrigerants.
• Does not apply to vehicle air conditioning systems (see ISO 13043).
• Does not address noise or vibration requirements.
• Not intended for compressors used in explosive atmospheres (see related standards).

Related Standards

When implementing EN 12693:2026, consider integration with related standards to ensure comprehensive compliance:

• EN 378 (all parts) - Refrigerating systems and heat pumps: safety and environmental requirements.
• EN 14276-1, EN 13445-6, EN 13445-8 - Pressure equipment and components.
• EN ISO 12100 - Safety of machinery: general principles for design, risk assessment, and risk reduction.
• EN 60335-2-34 - Household and similar electrical appliances: safety requirements for compressors.
• EN ISO 9606/15607/15614 series - Welding and material testing requirements.
• ISO 13043, SAE J639 - Standards relevant for vehicle air conditioning compressors.
• EN 60999, EN 60529, EN 60204-1 - Electrical safety and performance standards.

By following EN 12693:2026 along with these related standards, organizations ensure their refrigerant compressors are safe, reliable, environmentally responsible, and fit for current and emerging regulatory frameworks across the European market.