How does B31 Committee Work?

[reichertc]

Hey folks,

If there are any committee members out there, I'd like some insights into the workings of the B31.3 committee.

I sent an inquiry into the B31.3 committee in November of 2002. Actually, it was a request for either a code case (which I know is very rare) or a reconsideration of a previous interpretation.

The item was discussed at the May 2003 meeting, and was assigned to a task group as a request for revision. I guess I'd like to know what the length of time typically is from when a request for revision is assigned to a task group to when the revision is actually implemented, and the steps involved in getting a revision approved. (How many committees and meetings does this thing need to go through?)

Any insights appreciated...

 

[Rich2001]

I am not a member of the B31.3 committee, but I am a member of several ASTM committees. The time line for a standard revision can range from as quick as 6 months to several years.

 

[hacksaw]

there are so many legal issues in issuing responses to queries about the asme codes, that you are not likely to get one.

typically the answer to anyone question is so bound up in what you are designing and how, that experience is the key. your best recourse is to hire the best resouces you can afford; it won't be free but it is knowledge that takes 30-40 years to acquire.

 

[bvi]

Well, if you ask for an interpretation, is should be answered at the next meeting, which is twice a year for ASME B31.3 (fall and spring)

If you are requesting a code change, it goes on the agenda for the responsible task group. When they get to it depends on their priorities, their work load, the person assigned to it, etc. If you want to push the action, attend the next B31.3 meeting.

The Task Group may simply decide that no action is required, and drop it from their agenda, in which case a change will not be made to the code.

If they make a change, it would appear in the next edition (2004, 2006, etc.) if it the change is approved in time for the publication.