Required NDE for Ellipsoidal Head

[Sean Jones]

We have a vessel made of 316L, RT3, where the process has begun to erode the bottom head seam. Sections of the seam are below flush with corrosion and pitting. We are planning to grind out (using a tiger paw) the corroded areas of the bottom head seam and replace with filler metal. API 510 states that no volumetric NDE is required as long as the repaired weld did not require it from construction so our plan is to PT the prep and the final. My question is, does PT'ing the prep and the final satisfy the code requirements or, because of the nature and location of the repair, would we still need to do PAUT, RT, or a hydrotest?

 

[Dhurjati Sen]

Dear Sean Jones,

You are doing more than enough. I wouldn't have done PT of the prep. Be sure to use chloride free cleaner, penetrant and developer.

Regards.

DHURJATI SEN

https://www.nace.org/people/dhurjatisen

 

[r6155]

You should investigate the cause of the defect.

Regards