U stamp on pressure vessels

[AarnoudO]

We make small pressure vessels in stainless steel. We think we are excluded from U-stamps according to U-1(c)(2)(i), because all our vessels are smaller than the dimensions called here.
ABSA Canada disagree on this and said they we do need U- stamps on out vessels.
Has anyone experience with this problem?

 

[ASMEBPVII]

Based on committee's consideration, vessels you manufacture are out side the scope of standard, however if customer wants the coded vessel, then code allows stamping (U)on such small vessel provided all the applicable requirements are meeting.

 

[doct9960]

AarnoudO,

What type of pressure vessels do you make? What fluid will be contained in them and what are the dimensions of the vessel?

Have a look at this ABSA PESR User Guide and see if your vessel is really exempted...

http://www.absa.ca/Forms/AB-516 PESRUserGuide.pdf

Also take note of U-1(c)(1).

...Laws or regulations issued by municipality, state, provincial, federal, or other enforcement or regulatory bodies having jurisdiction at the location of an installation establish the mandatory applicability of the Code rules, in whole or in part, within their jurisdiction. Those laws or regulations may require the use of this Division of the Code for vessels or components not considered to be within its Scope. These laws or regulations should be reviewed to determine size or service limitations of the coverage which may be different or more restrictive than those given here.

 

[eliebl]

You may have a clause in ASME VIII div 1 which states that it may be exempted from the requirements of the code book but have you considered the requirements of CSA B51 of the Alberta Safety Codes Act? Pretty much every jurisdiction would have a law which states that you need to use some code or standard. ASME BPVC has no force at all until it is legislated.

my 2 cents

EJL

 

[curtis2004]

AarnoudO,

What do you call a "small pressure vessel"?
If diameter of you shell is more than 6", in Canada you need "U" stamp. Moreover, you have to register your design with authorities, in case of Alberta with ABSA. In order to do that you need to mail out two copies of drawings with bill of material, and one copy of code calcs with your application to the attn. of design survey.
You might be able to register your small vessel as a "H" fitting according CSA B51, which is easier than "U" stamp.

Regards,

Curtis