Overview
EN ISO 12617:2017 (ISO 12617:2015, corrected 2016‑01‑15) defines requirements for liquefied natural gas (LNG) refuelling connectors used on road vehicles. The document covers LNG nozzles and receptacles - including protective caps - constructed from new materials and designed for standardized mating components. The standard is published by CEN as the European adoption of the international ISO text and applies to devices designated as a 3,1 MPa connector (title) while the scope text references devices designed for a maximum working pressure of 3,4 MPa (34 bar); all pressure values in the standard are gauge pressures.
Key topics and technical requirements
The standard lays out practical, testable requirements across design, materials and performance. Major topics include:
- General construction requirements: design, pressure ratings, working and hydrostatic pressure, and allowable temperatures.
- Materials and corrosion protection: material selection and corrosion resistance for nozzle and receptacle bodies.
- Nozzle and receptacle design: standardized dimensions, protective cap design and mounting details.
- Sealing and serviceability: requirements for sealing exchange and maintenance.
- User interface and ergonomics: hand operation, positive locking, safe disconnection, and manual force limits in warm/cold conditions.
- Marking and instructions: manufacturer ID, standard reference, and date-of-manufacture coding plus clear user instructions and tool lists.
- Performance and safety tests: leakage at room temperature, impact resistance, electrical conductivity, hydrostatic strength, corrosion resistance, non‑igniting evaluation, abnormal load tests, and detailed cycle‑life (durability) testing for repeated use.
Applications and practical value
EN ISO 12617:2017 is essential for ensuring safe, interoperable LNG refuelling connectors in the road transport sector. Typical applications:
- Specification and selection of LNG nozzles and receptacles for vehicles and refuelling stations.
- Design verification and type‑approval testing by manufacturers and conformity assessment bodies.
- Procurement and installation guidance for fleet operators, refuelling station designers and fuel system integrators.
- Basis for maintenance procedures and replacement part specifications (seals, caps, etc.).
Who should use this standard
- Vehicle OEMs and fuel system designers developing LNG-powered road vehicles.
- Refuelling station equipment manufacturers and suppliers.
- Test laboratories, certification bodies and regulatory authorities.
- Fleet operators and maintenance teams responsible for LNG fueling safety and interoperability.
Related information
EN ISO 12617:2017 is the European adoption of ISO 12617:2015 (corrected 2016‑01‑15) and falls under fuel systems classification (ICS 43.060.40). For complete compliance and implementation, consult the full standard text and national adoption documents.
Keywords: LNG refuelling connector, EN ISO 12617:2017, ISO 12617, 3.1 MPa connector, LNG vehicle refuelling, LNG nozzle and receptacle, LNG fueling safety.