Asme 32.1

[gravitate]

I have a question please. When installing stainless not category M pipe work that is Asme B31.3 is there anything in the standard about the flushing of pipe work? We have an engineer who thinks that all valves etc muct be removed and then the flushing of the pipe work takes place then you install the instruments and valves again. They are all welded joints apart from to equipment. The way I see it as happening is this

1 Installation with instruments local but not attached and blanked off
2. RT
4 Hydraulic *(localized hydraulic not whole system)
5. flushing
6. connect instruments
7. commissioning

Is this right of have I missed something? Is it down to the preference of installation contractor to remove the valves before flushing (seams a lot of work to do this and spool it up then create more mess with welding) Thank a lot!

 

[bimr]

While there are requirements in ASME for leak testing cleaning requirements do not exist. In ASTM A 380 & 967 you will find Standards on cleaning, descaling and passivation, but nothing in ASTM on simply flushing and general cleaning. Defining the requirements for the internal cleaning of piping systems falls within the responsibilities of the Owner.

http://www.wmhuittco.com/images/CE_Article_3b.pdf

The piping should be flushed prior to the hydrostatic pressure test. All equipment and piping to be pressure tested shall be thoroughly cleaned of all dirt, welding slag, construction debris, or other foreign matter.

http://www.wermac.org/others/ndt_pressure_testing_practice.html