Do we need new code books? 1

[JamesBarlow]

My QC manager told me that we need to purchase new code books soom. We build and stamp vessels to Section 8 Div 3.

Our current books are for 1998 with addenda for 2000. We use Sections, 2, 5, and 8 books.

Do we need to purchase new books or the next addenda. If we doo need to purchase books do we need all 3 sections, or just the books for Section 8.

 

[Rich2001]

Every three (3) years new code books are issued. You need to purchase all sections of the code you use.

 

Hello James,

As Rich says, the ASME B&PV Code is issued every 3 years. Actually, you "subscribe" to the Code when you purchase the latest issue - you will receive all the Addenda that are issued up to the next revised eddition (that edition will "pull in" all the changes, additions and corrections from the addenda). AND, yes, if you are manufacturing pressure vessels your QA program should call for you to have in your possession all the Code Sections that apply to your products.

The high pressure Division (Division 3) of Section VIII is relatively new and it should be fairly dynamic for the next 10 years or so - fundamental changes may be made. So, it would be prudent to review all the addenda and subsequent editions closely.

Regards, John.

 

[kstaylor]

You will have difficulty sucsessfully passing your next National Board review to renew your Code stamp without possessing the most current copies of the Code books applicable to your Certificate of Authorization. They may be expensive but they are a key element to remaining in the Code fabrication business.

 

[Amsterdam]

It all depends on your contract date or the applicable edition that you agreed about with your client. But never the less a Stamp holder must have the latest applicable code books as descipted in NB-57. And because your renewal is every three years, the people from ASME are that clever that a prescription is for the period of three years.

 

[arto]

Find out about the online codebooks from

http://www.ihserc.com

They keep them updated for you. The BEST thing is that they also have all the ASME/ANSI reference documents that get refered to in the B&PVC too. [like b16.5 flanges, etc.]
They have other subscriptions too [we get MILSPEC's & the B&PVC].

This is definitely "the best thing since sliced bread!"

 

[ExAI]

I hesitate to enter an opinion regarding this issue. If your QC Manager says he needs books, he should have them. That being said, Arto's response is one way to go. Keep in mind that many National Board Reps and consultants want the real thing in front of them during reviews.
Here comes the opinion part. I am told that the National Board Bylaws were modified relatively recently to state that a stampholder need only to "have Access" to the Codes he uses. This have been interpreted in many ways and to date, none have neen proven wrong or unacceptable. No document is provided to review teams showing your account standing regarding purchases of books. Any copy, yours or someone elses, is OK. I hear that some shops are pooling there interests and buying a set to share. I have also heard of some consultants that "rent" the books.
I noticed you did not reference section 9. You probably need that also. Lane Baker
Baker Quality Services
LaneBQS@att.net

 

[loomisusa]

QC Manager, are you sure he is not the production manager?