EMC Directive 2014/30/EU

The EMC Directive (2014/30/EU) regulates electromagnetic interference of electrical and electronic equipment. Have you ever heard a buzzing noise on your audio speakers when you hold a phone or electronic device next to it? What you hear is electromagnetic interference.

‘Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) is the ability of electrical equipment and systems to function acceptably in their electromagnetic environment, by limiting the unintentional generation, propagation, and reception of electromagnetic energy which may cause unwanted effects such as electromagnetic interference (EMI) or even physical damage in operational equipment. The goal of EMC is the correct operation of different equipment in a common electromagnetic environment. It is also the name given to the associated branch of electrical engineering'.

The EMC Directive (2014/30/EU) aims to ensure that any electrical and electronic equipment minimizes the emission of electromagnetic interference that may influence other equipment. The directive also requires equipment to be able to resist the disturbance of other equipment.

In order to comply with the EMC Directive manufacturers must:

• Design the equipment to comply with the electromagnetic emission and immunity requirements;
• Document test results and calculations that provide evidence for EMC compliance;
• Apply the labeling and marking requirements.

What does ‘EMC' mean?

‘EMC' stands for ‘electromagnetic compatibility. This refers to the ability of an electrical or electronic device to function with limited emission of electromagnetic interference and with limited susceptibility to these disturbances.

Which products need to comply with the EMC Directive?

Products need to comply with Directive 2014/30/EU if they are EMC relevant, and if they are intended to be made available in one of the countries requiring the CE marking. The directive states that it applies to ‘products liable to generate electromagnetic disturbance, or the performance of which is liable to be affected by such disturbance, and to fixed installations'. This description means that the directive typically applies to products that contain electronics or active electrical components, whether mains-powered or battery-powered.

Which products are exempted from the EMC Directive?

Exempted from the scope of Directive 2014/30/EU are products that are physically incapable of emitting or being disturbed by electromagnetic interference because they do not include any active (electronic) parts. Examples of such products (provided they contain no active electronic parts) include cables, equipment containing only resistive loads (e.g., fans, domestic heaters without controls), batteries without an active circuit, and non-amplified loudspeakers.

The following products are also exempt from the scope of the EMC Directive because they are covered by other EU CE marking directives:

• Electrical equipment using radio frequency technologies (covered by the Radio Equipment Directive);
• Medical Devices (covered by the Medical Device Regulation (EU) 2017/745);
• Motor vehicles (covered by specific automotive regulations);
• Agricultural and forestry tractors (covered by Regulation (EU) No 167/2013).

How to comply with the EMC Directive?

Follow the steps below to ensure compliance with the EMC Directive:

1. Design applying the EMC requirements

The key to EMC compliance is in the product design. EMC problems can be prevented by applying design principles such as shielding and filters.

Manufacturers must ensure that the product design:

• Does not generate electromagnetic interference that affects other equipment;
• Is immune to electromagnetic emissions from other products.

2. Conduct laboratory testing

EMC testing is required to ensure compliance. The EMC Directive allows for self-testing for most equipment, but in many cases, it is advisable to subcontract the testing to a qualified EMC test laboratory.

Typical EMC tests include:

• Testing of radiated emissions;
• Testing of immunity to electromagnetic interference;
• Conducted emissions and immunity testing over connected cables;
• Electrostatic discharge tests and surge tests.

3. Compile the technical documentation or ‘Technical File’

Manufacturers must compile technical documentation that demonstrates product compliance. This documentation should be available for inspection by market surveillance authorities.

4. Draw up and sign the EU Declaration of Conformity

Once the product has been tested and documented, the manufacturer should draw up an EU Declaration of Conformity, confirming compliance with the relevant EU directives.

5. Affix the CE marking

Once compliance is confirmed, manufacturers must affix the CE marking to the product. This marking ensures the product complies with all relevant EU directives.

6. Appoint an authorized representative

Manufacturers outside the EU must appoint an authorized representative within the EU to act on their behalf in ensuring compliance.

7. Ensure continuous compliance

Product compliance must be maintained even after product modifications or changes to regulations. Ongoing testing and documentation updates may be necessary.

Download the EMC Directive 2014/30/EU

You can read and download the EMC Directive 2014/30/EU from this page.

• Low Voltage Directive (2014/35/EU)
• RoHS - Restriction of Hazardous Substances Directive (2011/65/EU)
• Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment Directive (2012/19/EU)
• Machinery Directive (2006/42/EU)
• Medical Device Regulation (EU) 2017/745
• Marine Equipment Directive (96/98/EC)
• Agricultural and Forestry Tractors Directive (75/322/EEC)
• Automotive EMC Directive (95/54/EC)

Need help with CE marking according to the EMC Directive?

If you're making available electrical equipment in the EU market, it may need to comply with the EMC Directive. We are happy to help with the compliance process, including CE marking and related services.

Contact us at dymer.global@gmail.com or +91 9518903685 for assistance.