Rerated and altered pressure vessel - Hydrostatic test 1

[fedefer85]

Hello everyone,

I have a Rerated and Altered pressure vessel (i.e. MAWP increased and replacement of reinforcement pads in nozzles were done). The Rerating point of API 510 (8.2.1 (d)) says that the pressure test could be avoid if "the vessel integrity is confirmed by special nondestructive evaluation inspection techniques in lieu of testing". BUT, that is for those equipment Rerated without any Alterations needed, so I think that in this case the vessel should be hydrostatic tested.

Someone thinks that in my case I could avoid the Hydrostatic Test?

Many thanks.

 

[mk3223]

IMO, the hydro test is required for the vessel rerated to the higher MAWP and altered the reinforcements. Also, you should contact the AI for the required testing.

 

[Soft2008]

Thanks fedefer85, for raising this topic. Me too Looking forward for the replies as I run in the similar case. Rerated for increased design pressure as per measured thickness (but no physical modification)

By the way, is your equipment is code stamped ?

 

[fedefer85]

Hello Soft2008. My equipment is ASME stamped.
Your case is easier, because no alteration were done in order to reach pressure. Based on API 510 (8.2.1 (d)) you can perform special NDT in lieu of testing (adequate techniques to ensure the integrity of the whole vessel: welds, shell, heads, etc.).

[sub]API 510 (8.2.1)
d) The vessel shall be pressure tested using the applicable testing formula from the code used to perform the rerating calculations unless either of the following is true:
1) the pressure vessel has at some time been pressure tested to a test pressure equal to or higher than the test pressure required by the construction code and
2) the vessel integrity is confirmed by special nondestructive evaluation inspection techniques in lieu of testing[/sub]

 

[r6155]

You can avoid hydrostatic pressure test.
Acoustic Emission Examination (AEE) shall be used during comissioning.
Consult an AEE company.

Regards