Tech Sheet #S 505
CRN Numbers and Solenoid Valves
Canadian Registration Numbers, or CRN's, are required by Canadian provincial authorities for
all pressure vessels and fittings in pressure retaining systems installed in Canada. The standards
used to determine the suitability of a product to obtain a CRN are ASME Section VIII, Division
1 and the CSA B51, Boiler, Pressure Vessel, and Pressure Piping Code.
The process of obtaining a CRN is quite complex and depends on the product to be registered
and the final application in which the product will be used. For example, the requirements for a
valve in a natural gas system will be different than for a valve used in a compressed air system
application.
The complexity of the process is exacerbated by different application requirements in each of the
13 provinces in Canada and by different interpretations among the provinces. In fact, local
inspectors enforce the codes, and differences in interpretation and uneven application of the
requirements can arise even within a specific province.
Many industries and manufacturers have attempted to bring order to the CRN process, but these
attempts to attain uniformity and consistency have been unsuccessful. There is little incentive on
the part of local inspection bodies to move to a uniform, consistent process. A cadre of
consultants has arisen to help guide manufacturers through the CRN maze, but this assistance
comes at a steep price, and that price is passed along to Canadian consumers, and to consumers
of Canadian goods.
The effect of the CRN system is greater costs for Canadian purchasers of components that are
installed in pressure retaining systems. The increased cost does not result in enhanced safety and
merely makes goods produced by Canadian manufacturers less competitive in the international
marketplace.
This Tech Sheet was developed by the members of the Fluid Controls Institute (FCI) Solenoid Valve Section. FCI is a trade association comprising
the leading manufacturers of fluid control and conditioning equipment. FCI Tech Sheets are information tools and should not be used as substitutes
for instructions from individual manufacturers. Always consult with individual manufacturers for specific instructions regarding their equipment.
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This sheet is reviewed periodically and may be updated. Visit www.fluidcontrolsinstitute.org for the latest version.