Fire Test Certificate

[uaepiping]

Dear All,
One of the valve vendor quoted a 24" Ball valve for HC gas service. We asked for the fire test certificate. We required the valve (as normally happens ) urgently. The vendor (judging our urgency) has come up with the "Solution" - arranging a fire test certificate will take 8 to 10 weeks, in parallel we can start the valve production if order is placed - (of course) to save time.
My questions:
1) What parameters/features are affected if fire test fails and the modification is needed in the valve?
2) Is it acceptable to carry out the both (arranging fire test - as they would do this test on other size valve) and valve fabrication in parallel?
3) Any other pros and cons that we need to take into consideration?
Thanks and I am available for any clarification on my queries.

 

[PeterIgg]

UAEPiping,
You fail to mention the specification to which you are testing. API 607, size 8" (DN200) covers all sizes above. API 6FA a 12" API 6D valve covers 24". Does the vendor not have existing fire safe certs on these size valves? If it is just your configuration that needs to be covered, and other (similar) configurations have successfully passed and it so happens that your selection is not covered then I would feel reasonably confident in doing it in parallel. If the vendor has no existing certification for this style of valve then I would be more skeptical and considering another vendor. Do you want to be their guinea pig?

Secondly I have fire tested a few valves in my time, admittedly nothing bigger than 8" (API 607!). Things rarely go to plan and fire testing has many variables. Be prepared for more than one test!

 

[uaepiping]

PeterIgg,
The standard is API 607.
Being their guinea pig - definitely NOT. I have already raised this concern with procurement as finally passing the test MAY take time and our requirement as stated above is URGENT.

 

[gerhardl]

Please also note that worldwide there are some other firesafe tests (EN and I believe JIS(?)at least). In addition some end users will require 'firesafe design' in stead of full tests. You, supplier and end-user (if you are not end-user yourself) have to clarify and agree on:

1. Exact firesafe specifications, to be proved by which exact firesafe construction and tests. Note: full valid updated text and issue to be given for the specification of test and valid paragraphs.

2. Commercial aspect: I suspect your question (one of the valve vendors) stems from the fact that the cheapest, and/or fastest supplier cannot exactly supply as expected or specified. (Perhaps by not detailed enough or abbreviated text in inquiry or bid?)

3. Caution: If you take responsibility for any shortcut here, you will be juridical responsible for any future damage caused (or presumed to be caused) by this.

4. All aspects: commercial, delivery, production, certification and possible delay's and multiple tests and extra costs to be agreed and part of all contracts between all parties involved.

If you are not able to comply with this, it is better to loose the order.