39172200
PLASTICS AND ARTICLES THEREOF›Tubes, pipes and hoses, and fittings therefor (for example, joints, elbows, flanges), of plastics
Of polymers of propylene
Subcodes (2)
Product characteristics and tariff classification
CN code 391722 covers rigid tubes and pipes of polypropylene (PP). Polypropylene pipes are used primarily in internal water and sewerage installations, underfloor heating systems, industrial chemical media transport installations and sewerage systems. PP-R (polypropylene random copolymer) is the preferred material for hot and cold water installations due to thermal resistance up to 90 degrees Celsius and chemical resistance. PP pipes are manufactured by extrusion in diameters from 16 mm to over 500 mm. Classification under CN 391722 covers rigid pipes of polypropylene without fittings or valves.
Technical standards and certification
PP pipes imported into the EU must comply with the relevant European standards: EN ISO 15874 for hot and cold water installations, EN 1852 for non-pressure sewerage. PP-R pipes for drinking water must comply with Directive (EU) 2020/2184 and national drinking water contact material approvals. PP pipes used in central heating systems are subject to standards for pressure resistance at elevated temperatures. Import of PP pipes is subject to REACH regarding monomers and stabilisers. PP pipes for food and beverage transport must comply with Regulation (EU) No 10/2011 on food contact materials.
International trade and customs practice
Customs declarations for PP pipes under CN 391722 should specify the PP type (PP-R, PP-H, PP-B), diameter, wall thickness, pressure class and intended use. Major exporters of PP pipes to the EU include Turkey, China and India. PP pipes may be subject to anti-dumping duties depending on the country of origin and product type. Verification of rates in TARIC is essential before finalising transactions. Preferential duty rates may be available under FTA agreements. Transport of PP pipes is not subject to ADR regulations.
Properties of Tubes and pipes of polypropylene and trade applications
Products classified under CN code 3917 22 as construction products fall under the Construction Products Regulation CPR (EU) 305/2011. Import requires CE marking, Declaration of Performance (DoP) and compliance with relevant harmonised EN standards. Customs clearance requires certification documents, installation instructions and technical data sheets. Products must meet fire reaction class and mechanical resistance requirements.
Frequently asked questions
Are PP-R pipes for drinking water installations classified under CN 391722?
Yes. PP-R (random copolymer) polypropylene pipes for drinking water installations constitute rigid pipes of polypropylene and are classified under CN 391722. Additionally, these pipes must comply with EN ISO 15874 and drinking water contact requirements.
What is the difference between PP-R, PP-H and PP-B pipes?
PP-R (random copolymer) offers the best resistance to elevated temperatures and pressure, used for hot and cold water. PP-H (homopolymer) has the highest rigidity, used in sewerage. PP-B (block copolymer) combines rigidity with impact resistance, used in sewerage and drainage. All are classified under CN 391722.
Are PP pipes with aluminium insert classified under this code?
PP pipes with aluminium insert (multilayer PP-AL-PP pipes) may require individual classification analysis. If the essential character is given by the polypropylene, classification under CN 391722 is justified. Binding Tariff Information ruling is recommended where doubts exist.
Do products CN 3917 22 require CE marking for EU import?
Yes, products CN 3917 22 as construction products require CE marking under CPR (EU) 305/2011. A Declaration of Performance (DoP) and compliance with the relevant harmonised EN standard are mandatory.
Useful tools & resources
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