Lifting Levers 1

[TangoCleveland]

We're having a discussion about requirements for lift levers on RVs. ASME BPVC Sec VIII Div 1 para UG-136(a)(3) states "Each pressure relief valve on air, water over 140°F (60”C), or steam service shall have a substantial lifting device . . .". We interpret the "air" fluid as being ambient air with potential high humidity, and condensate in an air receiver tank. Our service is research air, filtered and dried to a -90F dewpoint. We have never lifted lift levers in our system; we remove RVs and bench test periodically either in-house, or at a VR shop for Code valves. Lift levers make valves expensive. I noted in an API RP520 task force meeting (4/20/2005) that "Nobody in room understands the technical justification for the lifting levers. " Since we are testing valves on the unit or on the bench (per NBIC 23, RB3550), should we require lifting levers?

Larry

 

[Ashereng]

I guess the simple answer is, if you need to meet ASME requirement, you need a lift lever for air service (and hot water and steam).

"Do not worry about your problems with mathematics, I assure you mine are far greater."
Albert Einstein
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[EGT01]

TangoCleveland,

You may want to review ASME Code Case 2203, there are instances when lifting levers can be omitted for Section VIII but not for Section I equipment. Here's a couple of links that will give you some insight...

http://www.prdtechnologies.com/id19.htm

http://www.nationalboard.org/NationalBoard/Nbic/Interpretation/1998/Interpretation_1998.aspx

 

[TangoCleveland]

EGT01,
Thanks. That's exactly what I'm looking for. Much appreciation!

Larry