PP stamp and National Pipe Bureau WPS

[PVinspector]

Can you use a Nat'l Pipe Bureau WPS for ASME PP welding? Normally every ASME certificate holder must qualify their own WPS or purchase AWS Standard Welding Procedure referenced in Section IX App. E. Today I heard of a shop that uses pipe bureau procedures only with a PP stamp.

 

[metengr]

B31 Piping Codes do not prohibit use of WPS's qualified by a technically competent group provided they are qualified to the test requirements of Section IX (see 127.5.3 of ASME B31.1) and it is described in their Quality manual for accepting WPS's qualified by a technically competent group or agency.


Technical requirements for a PP stamp fall under ASME B31.1, where Jurisdictional authority falls under ASME Section I for a PP stamp.

 

[PVinspector]

Thank you Metengr, for the specific reference and the nice explanation. So the normal welding qualification rules of Section I do not apply, even though the Section I is usually invoked on jobs as why PP is used? Tricky stuff. The technical part makes sense (eventually!) but the administrative stuff is tricky. I appreciate the quick response and help.

 

[metengr]

PVinspector;
This is one of those areas where ASME Section I SC had control for many years on PP until enough resistance from B31.1 came along and a compromise resulted in ASME B31.1 having technical responsibility for piping under Section I, and Section I having authority responsibility in terms of Inspector involvement, stamping requirements and data reports.