Induction bends ASME B16.49 : Qualification bend tests and their significance 1

[nipra03]

I have a problem regarding induction bends.
A contractor ordered and installed 20" induction bends without going through the the process of making and testing the qualification bends as required per B16.49 and our specs.
The actual bends were put into service without any NDE and the final pipe spool was hydrotested and put into service - until our QA/QC noticed it.

The party mow clims the hydrotest itself is a good inidcation of the quality of the bends since no destrictive tets can be performed at best they offer to do a DP or MPT on the in service bends.

B16.49 mandates the fabricating and destructive testing of the qualification bends I am not convinced that the contractor's proposal should be accepted.
I am not sure what else can be done in this cae.

Appreciate any help here.

 

[metengr]

Well, what you have is a nonconformance, and it was partially dispositioned by hydrostatic testing with no leaks from gross defects. However, you still have the issue of performance in service and most important was the material after bending suitable for service.

In these types of situations, I would go back and attempt to qualify after the fact using the same bending method and material. If the results show acceptable bends this would be your final disposition. On the other hand, if the bends are unacceptable because of thickness or microstructure using the same method and material above, I would replace the bends.

 

[metengr]

I forgot to mention, you can do in-situ nondestructive testing of the installed bends (if accessible) - surface NDT and volumetric to check for indications and thickness, respectively. The concern regarding microstructure of the material in the bend region is still not resolved and this is where qualification after the fact would help.

 

[weldstan]

Ask the Manufacturer if he has performed appropriate qualification bend testing in the past.

 

[nipra03]

thaks metengr ............. thats what we ended up doing !!