AWS vs ASME IX welding procedures. 2

[Lithone]

I'm looking to update our welding procedures. We are a chemical plant with both product and power piping.The reason I'm replacing them is because they were all proven in 1981 or 1998. All of our work is covered in ASME B31.1 and B31.3 or an API.

This part is all new to me, I'm reitired US Navy NDT Inspector (VT, PT, MT, UT, RT)and if we needed a procedure we used a Mil-Std or a Navy Ship Yard welding procedure.

Section IX, now allows us to use AWS procedures and I was wanting some advise on how to procede? Should I leave them alone or purchase updated ones?

From a cost stand point I can purchase them form AWS cheaper than we can qualify our own. I have no onsite NDT, we contract all of our inspections.

A back ground note: Our welders are all excellent, I have yet to see one fail an RT.

 

[gtaw]

You need to check Section IX, Article V to see which Standard WPSs are permitted by Section IX. Then you have to demonstrate you can implement the SWPS you purchase.

Before you put cash on the table, check the applicable construction code to verify you can use SWPSs for the work you are doing. I didn't check, but I suspect B31.3 for high pressure piping may insist on you qualifying your procedures and keep in mind the SWPSs are not qualified for notch toughness.



Best regards - Al

 

[Lithone]

Al,

Ok, I did check and see which ones that applied to our work in the sec IX. But I guess I need to go back and read some more about the demonstration requirements. Thanks for the input, it's great to have another point a view, since I'm the only one here that has any sort of welding knowledge other than striking an arch. Your input has made me need to go back and read some more.

Dale

 

[Duwe6]

http://www.sperkoengineering.com/html/articles/Sage Advice on SWPSs.pdf

Go to the this link. Sperko is an accredited expert, with a seat on at least one ASME Code committee.

BTW: B31.3 = 'Process [chemical] Pipe'
B31.1 = 'Power Piping' both Code-stamped "Boiler External Piping", and non-stamped steam piping.
For simplicity, almost all chemical plants run their non-Code stamped / non"Boiler External" piping under B31.3.