Number/ Use of Golden welds

[Pongsagon]

Gentleman,

There is the existing pipeline 8", class600, design pressure 43 barg, design temp -95 C, follow code ASME B31.3. The static mixer will be added to this existing pipeline.

The hydrostatic test seem impraciable due to operation point of view (to avoid freezing of left moisture)

Can I treat those TWO modified joints as golden weld/closure weld?

Does code limit quantity of golden weld joints in one pipeline?

Does code limit number of time for golden weld on one line if there is the modification again?

Thanks for any advise.

 

[stanweld]

Per B31.3 300 (c) (2) "This Code is not intended to apply to operation...maintenance, or repair of piping that has been placed in service. The provisions...may optionally be applied for those purposes..." You need to contact the Owner, who may well accept radiography in lieu of hydrotesting. You may also wish to review API 570 as to its inspection/test requirements. We most often radiograph in lieu of hydrotesting in our maintenance operations.

 

[dcasto]

You could replace a 100 mile pipeline under the repair and maintenance and only do 100% xray. However, the intent would not be met. 1 to 10 tie ins for repairs would be acceptable in most circles as the number of "Golden Welds".

 

[ndeguy]

Designating a weld as a "Golden Weld" SHOULD mean more than just replacing the hydrostatic test with radiography (or other NDE). The Owner or Fabricator should produce a "Golden Weld" procedure which, apart from stipulating under which conditions a weld may be designated as being a "Golden Weld", should also detail the full weld inspection process, i.e. all welding and NDE to be witnessed by Owner's/Fabricator's suitably-qualified QC personnel.

Nigel Armstrong
Karachaganak Petroleum
Kazakhstan

 

[PAN]

Pongsagon,

You should refer to API 570. The phrase "principles of ASME B31.3" has been employed in API 570, rather than "in accordance with ASME B31.3".