Pneumatic Transfer System and ASME B31.3

hankroach · Jul 5, 2004

I'm looking at the design of a pneumatic transfer system. This system will transfer small samples in plastic carriers. The carriers are transferred via an induced vacuum on the downstream side of 3" PVC or CPVC plastic pipe lines to its desired location. The customer for this system requires all piping systems be designed per ASME B31.3. I wanted to know if there are problems or concerns I need to be aware of applying B31.3 guidelines to the design of this transfer system?

I have not had the chance to research this problem but I do see under section 300.1.3(a):

(a) Piping systems designed for internal gage pressures at or above zero but less than 105 kPa (15 psi), provided the fluid handled is nonflammable, nontoxic, and not damaging to human tissue as defined in 300.2, and its design temperature is from -29°C (-20°F) through 186°C (366°F);

This section appears to say that this system, as I've described it, would not be required to meet B31.3 guidelines. I assume that applicable sections of B31.3 for non-metallic piping can still be applied?

I appreciate any guidelines or help anyone can give me on this application of B31.3 code.

Thanks

metengr · Jul 6, 2004

hankroach;
The piping system that you described above would not technically or administratively fall under B31.3 Process Piping, per the section you referenced. However, the customer has the prerogative of specifying applicable parts of B31.3.

It looks as though you would only use the guidelines specified in Chapter 7, which would apply to design and fabrication of nonmetalic piping systems.

hankroach · Jul 7, 2004

Thanks for the reply. You're right the section I quoted is not applicable. I believe that the system would be designed to B31.3 for systems under external pressure since I will be operating at a negative pressure.

I appreciate all the information members to this forum can give me in relation to designing this pnuematic transfer system per B31.3.

engaggie · Jul 13, 2004

hankroach,

The system you describe is the same type used to do your drive-in banking from your car.

Sometimes individuals place requirements on equipment without fully understanding the actual requirements. This type of transfer system would normally not be designed to B31.3 unless the motive gas involved is toxic or lethal or the material being transferred is toxic or lethal.

I would speculate that B31.3 is specified because the rest of the pipe specs in the plant require B31.3.

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Pneumatic Transfer System and ASME B31.3

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