Test Pressure 1

[dungun]

G'Day all

My Question, the system piping was designed as per ASME B31.3 and normally we hydrotested with 1.5xDesign Pressure as per clause 345.4.2. However the consultant interpret that the Hydrotest must follow ASME 16.5 Clause 8.2.2 which is 1.5xFlange Rating.

My argument that ASME16.5 mean for manufacture not for piping design B31.3. Any argument can help me to solve the problem.

Regards/Dungun

 

[jte]

Time to get a new consultant.

The only thing I can imagine is that your consultant is used to pipe classes being designed for the max pressure allowed by the flange rating. This is a sensible approach for low and medium pressure lines and is commonly done - but not mandatory. If this is done, then the B31.3 test pressure would coincidentally match that required for B16.5 fittings. Fittings (but not plain flanges) are required to be hydrotested by the manufacturer per B16.5 8.2.2. If your flanged fittings comply with B16.5, including having passed the testing as required in 8.2.2 if apprpriate, then the manufacturer may apply the B16 stamp as specified in 4.2.4.

So... If your flanges and flanged fittings conform to B16.5 as indicated by a B16 or B16.5 stamp, then they are finished with B16.5. Any further testing is solely dependent on the code governing their integration into a piping system, in your case, B31.3. This includes testing to B31.3.

jt