Validity of code cases

[MotorMan12]

A potential supplier wants to use a specific material that is not listed in ASME II, part D, but he refers to a code case. The code case was approved 10 years ago, but the material has not been included in the later ASME revisions.

My 2007 listing of code cases says" ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Standards Committee took action to eliminate Code Case expiration dates effective March 11, 2005.
This means that all Code Cases listed in Supplement 3 and beyond will remain available for use until annulled by the ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Standards Committee."


I have never before been involved with code cases. The way I understand code cases, is that a code case that has been approved and not yet annuled allows you to use a material and state that it is according to (in my case) ASME VIII-1. Some regulatory bodies may, however, still refuse to accept it.

I will submit my design for review to a large overseas certifying agency that are experts on ASME VIII. My arguement is that since the material is covered by a valid code case, it is acceptable to use it (I, of course, have to get hold of the latest code case listing to see that it is still valid).

Is this a correct interpretaion of how this should work?

 

[stanweld]

The Code Case must also reference ASME VIII in order for you to use it in vessels made to ASME VIII.

 

[MotorMan12]

It states that "(it may) be used in welded construction under the rules of Section VIII, Division 1" It further talks of "Forgings, Plate, Sheet, Strip, Bar, Seamless and Welded Pipe and Tube, and Fittings".

We intend to use this material for bolting. I interpret the above to mean that this material may be used for bolting when designing to ASME VIII-1.

Do you agree?

 

[metengr]

For bolting, this may be an issue regarding material because use of a particular material is limited by requirements of the Code Case. If you intended to use this material for bolting per ASME Section VIII, Div 1 you may need to develop a specific code case for use as bolting.

Code Cases were developed by the ASME B&PV Code Committees to enable use of rule exemptions or use of new materials or revisions to rules that otherwise would take longer to be included in the main code book.

Code Cases are on a case-by-case basis and may not necessarily be approved for use by a regulatory body or agency.

 

[vpl]

We intend to use this material for bolting. I interpret the above to mean that this material may be used for bolting when designing to ASME VIII-1.

Do you agree?

I'd be reluctant to agree as nowhere in your post do you mention what material you're planning on using or what Code Case you believe applies.

Patricia Lougheed

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[stanweld]

Agree with metengr and vpl. Check with your AIA.