Abandonment of Piping 1

[KevinBezanson]

A pipe designed to ASME B31.3 has been abandoned in place. This is a process water line that has a crack due to a failure from heat tracing. The line is currently empty. Are there any code requirements or industry best practice documents on what to do with the piping in order to leave it as is - specifically what can be done with the crack without demolishing and welding a new section of pipe to mitigate water/gas ingress and nesting.

 

[mk3223]

I don't think there is a Code requirement to remove the existing damaged pipe in the plant, unless the request from the business management. But, the business Owner needs to ensure there is no any safety or environmental issues of the damaged pipe to be left in place.
To reuse it, the damaged pipe should be inspected and repaired per the Code requirement, and pressure tested after repaired.

 

[LittleInch]

If its cracked ( cast or ductile iron?) then your choices are much more limited as you might find it difficult to flush / inert or fill with solid material.

If removal is difficult you can either spray or fill the inside with foamed concrete or similar using an internal hose or perhaps insert a liner and do the same thing.

So much depends on location, access, other process, consequences of structural failure of the pipe / use of the pipe by animals / vermin etc. Removal is clearly the best option, but cut and plug can be just as effective if only some sections can be removed.

Remember - More details = better answers
Also: If you get a response it's polite to respond to it.

 

[KevinBezanson]

Thanks for the prompt response all.

Just wanted to get some second opinions. Yes, clearly the obvious solution is to cut and cap, and in doing so ensure the line is still able to support itself and not over stressed.

This should close out this topic.

 

[11echo]

I've worked at afew refineries that had abandoned in place pipe for over 3 decades in their pipeways, they never had a problem with it ...other then taking up space.

 

[matschka]

This abandoned pipe can be cut up and used by a local school to practice pipe welding.This pipe could also be used by your client or employer for the welders at the plant to practice on or to set their welding parameters before starting to weld on 'good' pipe.