B31.3 In-Process Examination 2

[dt984]

I am working a project where the client inspector is asking for 100% in-process inspection inless it can be proved that under normal fluid service it is not required when piping is fabricated to B31.3. So My question is:

Is in-process examination per B31.3 para 344.7 required under normal fluid service in addition to visual examinations under 341.4.1(a) when the 5% radiography requirements have been met and in-service examination is not specified by the engineering design?

 

[metengr]

Is in-process examination per B31.3 para 344.7 required under normal fluid service in addition to visual examinations under 341.4.1(a) when the 5% radiography requirements have been met and in-service examination is not specified by the engineering design?

After reviewing B31.3, yes because in 344.7.1 Definition, the in-process examination has more to do with all aspects of pipe fabrication to assure quality and adherence to B31.3 requirements.

 

[ndeguy]

I think there is no requirement for In-process examination if the 5% RT/UT requirement has been met.

Para 341.4.1.cb)(1) "In-process examination in accordance with para. 344.7 may be substituted for all or part of the radiographic or ultrasonic examination on a weld-for-weld basis if specified in the engineering design or specifically authorized by the Inspector." Also read Interpretation 3-14.

Question: 336.5.l(b) of ANSI/ASME B3 1.3 states: “In-process examination as provided in 336.4.7
may be substituted for all or part of the radiographic or ultrasonic examination on a weld-for-weld basis
if specified in the engineering design, regardless of temperature or pressure.” Does this mean each weld
must be in-process examined or is the percentage (5%) applicable?

Reply: The percentage is applicable

Nigel Armstrong
Lloyds Register
Independent Verification Body Surveyor

 

[metengr]

ndeguy;
There are two separate issues here using the 2006 Edition of B31.3, (1) performing code required NDT on required welds or (2) using the in-process examination itself supplemented by appropriate NDT on these same welds in lieu of the original specified NDT. If the client specifies 100% in-process examination this is a different requirement in B31.3 as having to be done unless it is substituted for by the client specification. To me this means, if the client has in their specification 100% in-process examination this must be done.

 

[ndeguy]

metengr

i agree 100% if its contractually specified as an extra then it should be performed, but dt984 says in-process examination has NOT been specified by the engineering design. As long as the rules for 5% NFS service examination by radiography have been met then there is NO requirement for in-process examination. In my opinion Interpretation 3-14 is unequivocal.

On the other hand, in-process examination is good practice, especially for critical structures.

Nigel Armstrong
Lloyds Register
Independent Verification Body Surveyor

 

[metengr]

ndeguy;
I see your point. After re-reading section 344 Types of Examination read paragraph 344.1.. Except as provided in paragraph 344.1.2 Special Methods, any examination required by this Code, by the engineering design or by the Inspector shall be performed in accordance with one of the methods specified herein. Key words to dwell on "or be the Inspector".

Also, the in-process examination is considered a Visual Examination (see paragraph 344.7.2).