CRN registration for pressure equipment in Canada
Before a pressure vessel can be installed and operated in Canada, its design must be registered in every province or territory where it will be used. TherMQ prepares the technical package, files it with the authorities and answers reviewer comments until the CRN is issued.
What is a CRN?
A CRN (Canadian Registration Number) is issued by a provincial or territorial authority once it has reviewed and accepted the design of a piece of pressure equipment. Registration is required by CSA B51, Boiler, pressure vessel, and pressure piping code, together with each jurisdiction's own regulations.
The CRN covers the design: calculations, materials, drawings and service conditions. It does not replace the manufacturer's quality control program or inspection during fabrication. The number is then stamped on the nameplate and recorded on the data report.
Which equipment needs a CRN?
As a general rule, the design of the following equipment must be registered before it is fabricated or installed:
- Pressure vessels: ASME Section VIII, Division 1, 2 or 3
- Shell-and-tube heat exchangers, condensers and evaporators: ASME Section VIII, with TEMA where applicable
- Boilers and their pressure-retaining parts: ASME Section I or Section IV
- Pressure piping systems: ASME B31.1, B31.3 and other B31 codes
- Fittings: valves, flanges, expansion joints, strainers and instruments, grouped in categories A to H under CSA B51
Each jurisdiction sets its own exemptions, based on pressure, volume, fluid or fitting category for example. We check these thresholds case by case before starting a package.
How to read a CRN
The number combines an equipment designation, a registration number and, after the decimal point, digits or letters showing the jurisdictions where the design is registered. Equipment sold in several provinces therefore carries a longer list after the point.
Our registration process
- 01
Scope review
Equipment, design code, service conditions, target provinces and applicable exemptions.
- 02
Calculations and drawings
Calculations to the applicable code (ASME VIII Div. 1 or 2, Section I, B31.3…), material checks and preparation or review of fabrication drawings.
- 03
Package assembly
Forms, quality program evidence, declarations and each jurisdiction's specific documents.
- 04
Filing and follow-up
Filing with the authority (RBQ, TSSA, ABSA, Technical Safety BC, TSASK…) and answers to reviewer comments.
- 05
Other provinces
Extending the registration to the other jurisdictions where the equipment will be installed.
- 06
Nameplate and report
CRN carried onto the nameplate and data report, coordination with the authorized inspector.
Documents usually required
- Dimensioned fabrication drawings with materials, thicknesses, welds and design conditions
- Calculations to the applicable code, for example ASME Section VIII (Division 1 or 2), Section I or B31.3 (COMPRESS, PV Elite), with FEA when required
- The jurisdiction's application forms and, where needed, a manufacturer's authorization letter
- Evidence of the manufacturer's quality control program (ASME certification or provincial certificate)
- For fittings: the manufacturer's statutory declaration and test data (burst tests, for example) where the standard requires them
We set out the exact list at the start of each mandate, based on the equipment and the target provinces.
Timelines and costs
Timelines depend on the jurisdiction, reviewer workload, equipment complexity and above all the quality of the submitted package. A complete package with clear calculations and consistent drawings limits back-and-forth with the reviewer, which is the main source of delay.
Review fees are set by each authority and come in addition to our engineering fees. We provide a detailed estimate, by jurisdiction, before starting.
Since 2020, several provinces and territories have recognized each other's design reviews under a CRN reconciliation agreement. Alberta applies its own requirements. Because these arrangements evolve, we confirm the current approach for every project.
Manufacturers outside Canada and OEMs
Do you manufacture in the United States, Europe or Asia and sell into Canada? Without a CRN, the equipment cannot be put into service. TherMQ acts as your Canadian engineering partner: review of your design against Canadian requirements, calculation adjustments, package preparation and follow-up, and a compliant nameplate.
Your drawings and calculations stay confidential. A non-disclosure agreement can be signed before any exchange.
Frequently asked questions
Does a CRN replace the ASME stamp?
No. The CRN registers the design with Canadian authorities. The manufacturer must also hold a recognized quality control program, often an ASME certification, and fabrication is inspected by an authorized inspector.
Do I need a CRN in every province?
Yes, the design must be registered in each province or territory where the equipment will be installed. Agreements between jurisdictions can simplify subsequent registrations, but Alberta remains separate.
Can equipment that is already built get a CRN?
Sometimes, but it takes longer and costs more: calculations, material traceability and inspection evidence must be rebuilt. We assess feasibility before you commit.
How long should I plan for?
It varies with the jurisdiction and the quality of the package. Plan registration at the design stage, before fabrication starts, so it does not delay delivery.
Who can prepare the package?
The package is prepared by engineers specialized in pressure equipment. Where the jurisdiction requires it, documents are sealed by an engineer licensed in that province.
Do my drawings stay confidential?
Yes. Your documents are used only for the registration package, and a non-disclosure agreement can be signed from the first exchange.
Equipment to register?
Send us your drawings, calculations or a short description: we will tell you which jurisdictions apply, which documents to plan for, and give you an estimate.
or info@thermq.ca · +1 514 250-1670