ASME 31.3B clarification regarding lack of penetration on fillet welds

[road2joy]

I am currently inspecting some large quantity of fire hydrants. While carrying out inspection I found that there is lack of penetration along the fillet welds where the branches go in. The drawing states that the weld should be in accordance with ASME31.3B.

To be honest, I am not familiar with this code. I have photographs of these welds and I would like an opinion from someone wo is familiar with this spec. (I will be attaching the pics soon).

I would like to know what does ASME 31.3B states about lack of penetration on fillet welds? Is there any allowance?

I have taken a stand that these welds are not acceptable as the hydrants will be subjected to mains water pressure and the lack of penetration can lead to subsequent corrosion and failure of te weld - over a period of time. But I would like to be inline with the standard at the same time.

 

[CodeRef]

I won't believe it until I see it! Pics Please!

 

[road2joy]

Please find the pics attached!

 

[road2joy]

Another one!

 

[CodeRef]

Pics do not help me.

Here is what 328.5.4(d) of B31.1 07 Edition states:

328.5.4 Welded Branch Connections
(d) Branch connections, including branch connection
fittings (see paras. 300.2 and 304.3.2), which abut the
outside of the run or which are inserted in an opening
in the run shall be attached by fully penetrated groove
welds. The welds shall be finished with cover fillet welds
having a throat dimension not less than tc. See
Fig. 328.5.4D sketches (1) and (2).

When a drawing states that the weld should be in accordance with ASME B31.3, that is a pretty general statement, therefore, you can pull out the most restrictive requirement within that Code and go with it, lacking any real direction or specific paragraph reference or scope definition etc..... Also, you should obtain the Code instead of relying on my opinion. you are the one tasked with a responsibility, not me.

 

[PVinspector]

There is no specific requirement for any penetration with fillet welds in ASME B31.1. If a designer actually took credit for some amount of penetration in their strength calculations or just put it in the contract, it would need to be done. Not a good idea with fillet welds, very hard to prove unless you section the joint.

Like CodeJackal said, meet the size (throat) requirements and forget about penetration.