Plate and frame exchanger size increase , NBIC R stamp requirement 1

[thermmech]

We are revamping an LNG train and some plate and frame amine exchangers need to have some 10% extra plates added to handle additional heat duty.

Question has been asked whether this constitutes alteration and requires R stamp. We are in Middle East and there is no change to the size of the pressure retaining compartment (channels between plates), no welding, additional plates can fit within provided frame of exchanger, OEM supports the capacity increase, compression studs are adequate to handle increased bolt load. I do not think R stamp is required, although this is an alteration.

I would appreciate your comments.

 

[metengr]

The current edition (2015) of the NBIC does not address repair or alterations of plate heat exchangers, so NO R-Stamp is required. I would discuss with the OEM and document the work performed. You could use either the repair or alteration form in the NBIC to track the information.

The 2017 edition of the NBIC also does not address repair or alteration to plate heat exchangers. The 2019 code edition looks like it will address repair/alterations to PHE.