European Technical Assessments (ETA) and EN 1337 — Comprehensive Guide

This article explains what a European Technical Assessment (ETA) is, how it relates to the Construction Products Regulation (CPR) and CE marking, and how ETA interacts with the harmonised European standard EN 1337 (Structural bearings). The main body focuses on structural bearings - types, EN 1337 structure and key technical requirements - and then compares EN 1337 with major world standards and practices (notably AASHTO/ASTM in the United States, relevant Chinese standards, and common international practice). Practical notes on conformity routes, product innovation, testing and manufacturer responsibilities are included.

A European Technical Assessment (ETA) is a voluntary, independent documented assessment of performance when a product is not covered by a harmonised European standard (hEN). It enables manufacturers to draw up a Declaration of Performance (DoP) and affix the CE mark. ETA is essential for innovative or non-standard products.

1) Manufacturer identifies coverage gaps.
2) An appropriate European Assessment Document (EAD) is used.
3) Testing and assessment by TABs.
4) ETA issuance enables CE marking.

EN 1337 is a modular family of standards covering all main bearing types: general design, elastomeric, pot, spherical, roller, rocker, sliding, guide/restraint, protection and inspection. It ensures harmonised design, testing and maintenance rules.

Covers elastomeric bearings (EN 1337-3), pot bearings (EN 1337-5), PTFE/sliding (EN 1337-2), roller/rocker/spherical bearings (EN 1337-4,6,7), and guide/restraint and protection (EN 1337-8,9,10). Each has material specs, tests, load capacities and durability requirements.

Where EN 1337 applies, manufacturers use it directly. Where products fall outside, ETA with EAD provides conformity. Both require rigorous testing and factory production control.

US: AASHTO LRFD with ASTM tests;
China: GB/T and JTG codes;
Japan: JIS and seismic-focused codes.
International projects require equivalence demonstration.

EN 1337 and ETA require static, sliding, endurance and durability tests. FPC is mandatory for traceability. Maintenance and inspection guidance is embedded (EN 1337-10).

EN 1337 conformity is the simplest procurement route in EU. ETA adds flexibility for innovation. Outside EU, equivalence to local standards is essential.

Manufacturers: decide if EN 1337 applies or request ETA; invest in accredited testing and FPC. Specifiers: clearly state accepted routes and equivalence requirements.

EN 1337 harmonises structural bearing requirements in Europe; ETA complements it for innovative products. International equivalence is key for global acceptance.