asme b31.3 interpretations imposed displ

ASME 831.3 INTERPRETATIONS

ASME 831.3INTERPRETATIONS VOLUME 20

Replies to Technical InquiriesNovember 1, 2003 through October 31, 2005

GENERAL INFORMATIONIt has been agreed to publish interpretations issued by the B31 Committee concerning B31.3

as part of the update service to the Code. The interpretations have been assigned numbers inchronological order. Each interpretation applies to the Edition stated in the interpretation, or ifnone is stated, to the Edition in effect on the date of issuance of the interpretation. Subsequentrevisions to the Code may have superseded the reply.

These replies are taken verbatim from the original letters, except for a few typographical andeditorial corrections made for the purpose of improved clarity. In some instances, a review ofthe interpretation revealed a need for corrections of a technical nature. In these cases, a revisedreply bearing the original interpretation number with the suffix R is presented. In the case wherean interpretation is corrected by errata, the original interpretation number with the suffix E is used.

ASME procedures provide for reconsideration of these interpretations when or if additionalinformation is available which the inquirer believes might affect the interpretation. Further,persons aggrieved by an interpretation may appeal to the cognizant ASME committee or subcommittee. As stated in the Statement of Policy in the Code documents, ASME does not "approve,""certify," "rate," or "endorse" any item, construction, proprietary device, or activity.

For detailed instructions on preparation of technical inquiries to the B31 Committee, refer toAppendix Z.

NUMERICAL AND SUBJECT INDEXES

Numerical and Subject Indexes have been prepared to assist the user in locating interpretationsby location or by subject matter in the Code. They cover interpretations issued from Volume 1up to and including the present volume, and will be updated with each volume.

Copyright © 2007 by the American Society of Mechanical Enginee~s. c!i?:lNo reproduction may be made of this material without written consent ofASME. ~


831.3

Allowances With Owner's Approval .Appendix A, Note (76) .Appendix A, Table A-I, 321 Stainless Steel Stresses .Applicability of Ultrasound Testing for Heavy Thick Piping .Chapter VIII, Piping for Category M Fluid Service .Chapter IX, Thickness Umitations .Clarification of Seamless Pipe .Combining Displacements .Coverage of Ozone Gas .Design Stress for Bolts. . . . .Duration of Occasional Loads .Examination and Quality Factor for Longitudinal Welds .Fig. 323.2.2B .Figs. 328.5.2B and 328.5.2C, Slip-On and Socket Welds .Hydrostatic Testing .Interpretation 17-10 .Minimum Thickness for Test Blanks .Para. 3OO(c)(3) .Paras. 3OO.1.1(b), 300(c)(4), 3OO(c)(5), 345.1, and 345.8, Vacuum Box

Testing of Piping Field Welds .Para. 301.1(c) and (d) .Para. 302.2.4, Allowances for Pressure and Temperature Variations .Para. 302.2.4 .Para. 302.3 .Para. 302.3.5, Umits on Calculated Stresses Due to Sustained Loads and

Displacement Strains .Para. 304.7.2 .Para. 304.7.2 .Para. 314, Threaded Joints .Para. 323.2.2, Lower Temperature Limits, Listed Materials .Para. 323.2.2 .Paras. 328.2.1 and 328.2.2 .Para. 328.5.3, Seal Welds .Para. 328.5.4, Welded Branch Connections .Para. 331 .Para. 340.4 .Para. 345.2.2, Visual Examination of Fillet Weld .Para. 345.2.2(a), Examination for Leaks .Para. 345.2.3, Piping Subassemblies .Para. 345.2.3, Piping Subassemblies .

Para. 345.2.3, Piping Subassemblies .Para. 345.2.3(c), Testing of Closure Welds .Paras. 345.2.6 and 345.9.1(b), Leak Testing and Examination of Welds .Para. 345.3.1, Hydrostatic Testing of Pipe .Para. K303, Use of B16.9 Buttwelding Fittings .Paras. M314.2.2 and M335.3.3, and Fig. 335.3.3(a) .Performing Digital Radiography .PWHT Requirements .Qualifying the Heat Input for Impact Testing . . . . . . .Table 323.3.1, Welding Procedure Qualified Thickness Range and HAZ Impact

Location .Table 341.3.2, Radiography Acceptance Criteria .Table 341.3.2, Radiography Acceptance Criteria .Table A326.1, Applicability of ASTM F 1281, F 1282, and F 1974 .Use of Sh for Occasional Stress Evaluation .

Interpretation File No.

20-22 B31-05-4520-29 B31-05-38820-32 B31-05-40520-09 B31-04-0049720-23 B31-05-10720-41 B31-05-120920-04 B31-04-0041420-45 B31-05-121320-08 B31-04-0049620-12 B31-04-0112920-50 B31-05-130720-34 B31-05-45520-13 B31-04-0113O20-01 B31-03-0191220-47 B31-05-122320-43 B31-05-121120-17 B31-04-0129320-38 B31-05-1142

20-18 B31-04-0129420-40 B31-05-120820-03 B31-04-0041220-51 B31-05-130820-25 B31-05-179

20-02 B31-03-0191520-26 B31-05-18O20-37 B31-05-114120-48 B31-05-130520-15 B31-04-0120720-31 B31-05-40420-19 B31-03-191320-05 B31-04-0041613-11E B31-94-03720-39 B31-05-114720-33 B31-05-45420-35 B31-05-47720-46 B31-05-122220-11 B31-04-0049920-24 B31-05-157,

B31-05-31920-27 B31-05-32820-07 B31-04-0043820-06 B31-04-0041720-28 B31-05-32920-21 B31-05-3420-36 B31-05-78620-42 B31-05-121020-44 B31-05-121220-14 831-04-01131

20-10 831-04-0049820-16 B31-04-0125O20-20 B31-04-125020-30 B31-05-39120-49 B31-05-1306

Copyright © 2007 by the American Society of Mechanical Engineers. ~

No reproduction may be made of this material without written consent ofASME. ~

ASME B31.3 INTERPRETATIONS

Interpretation: n-l1E

Subject: ASME B31.3-1993 Edition, Para. 328.5.4, Welded Branch Connections

Date Issued: November 21, 1994

File: B31-94-037

Question: In accordance with ASME B31.3-1993 Edition, Addenda a, what is the effective weldthroat thickness required for a proprietary integrally reinforced branch connection fitting?

Reply: The thickness is as required by the manufacturer's design qualified in accordance withpara. 304.7.2 or MSS SP-97 and para. 328.5.4(d)

Note: In the Reply, the cross-reference to MSS SP-97 has been corrected by errata.

Interpretation: 20-01

Subject: ASME B31.3-2002 Edition, Figs. 328.5.2B and 328.5.2C, Slip-On and Socket Welds

Date Issued: October 20, 2004

File: B31-03-01912

Question (1): In accordance with ASME B31.3-2oo2 Edition, is the Yt6 in. approximate gapshown in Fig. 328.5.2B and Fig. 328.5.2C required to be present before any welding, includingtack welding?

Reply (1): Yes; also see interpretations 6-02, question (1); 10-19; and 16-06.

Question (2): In accordance with ASME B31.3-2002 Edition, can radiography be used to ascertainthe "Yt6 in. approximate gap before welding" shown in Fig. 328.5.2B and Fig. 328.5.2C?

Reply (2): The Code does not specify or restrict the methodology to determine this dimension.


Subject: ASME B31.3-2oo2 Edition, Para. 302.3.5, Limits on Calculated Stresses Due to SustainedLoads and Displacement Strains


File: B31-o3-01915

Question (1): In accordance with ASME B31.3-2oo2 Edition, para. 302.3.5(c), shall sustainedload stresses be evaluated separately from the displacement stress ranges of para. 302.3.5(d)?

Reply (1): Yes.

Question (2): In accordance with ASME B31.3-2002 Edition, para. 302.3.6(a), shall sustainedplus occasional load stresses be evaluated separately from the displacement stress ranges of para.302.3.5(d)?

Reply (2): Yes.

CCopyright © 2007 by the American Society of ~echanicalEngineers diQ

No reproduction may be made of this material without written consent of ASME. ~



Subject: ASME 831.3-2002 Edition, Para. 302.2.4, Allowances for Pressure and Temperature Variations


File: 831-04-00412

Question (1): In accordance with ASME 831.3-2002 Edition, does para. 302.2.4 apply to pressuretransients caused by water hammer?

Reply (1): Yes.

Question (2): In a fluid transient due to water hammer, there can be many pressure cycles inthe piping response. In accordance with ASME 831.3-2002 Edition, must all cycles in which thepressure exceeds the pressure rating or the calculated pressure stress exceeds the allowable stressbe considered with respect to the 1,000 cycle limit in para. 302.2.4(d)?

Reply (2): Yes.

Question (3): In accordance with ASME 831.3-2002 Edition, may the number of cycles of thevariation exceed 1,000 if justified by a more rigorous analysis in accordance with para. 3OO(c)(3)?

Reply (3): Yes.


Subject: ASME 831.3-2002 Edition, Clarification of Seamless Pipe


File: 831-04-00414

Question: In accordance with ASME 831.3-2002 Edition, can a seamless pipe that has been cutlongitudinally and reassembled by welding be considered as seamless pipe for the purpose ofdetermining the weld joint quality factor?

Reply: No.


Subject: ASME 831.3-2002 Edition, Para. 328.5.3, Seal Welds


File: 831-04-00416

Question: Does ASME 831.3-2002 Edition, para. 328.5.3, address sealing a threaded connectionby brazing?

Reply: No.

Copyright © 2007 by the American Society of Mechanical Engineers. r.!i),;,No reproduction may be made of this material without written consent ofASME. ~



Subject: ASME B31.3-1999 Edition, Paras. 345.2.6 and 345.9.1(b), Leak Testing and Examinationof Welds

Date Issued: October 20,2004

File: B31-04-00417

Question: Does ASME B31.3-1999 Edition require 100% liquid penetrant or magnetic particleexamination of the seal welds applied at hydrostatic test vents and drains after the acceptanceof hydrostatic test results?

Reply: No.


Subject: ASME B31.3-2002 Edition, Para. 345.2.3(c), Testing of Closure Welds


File: B31-04-00438

Question (1): In accordance with ASME B31.3-2002 Edition, if piping subassemblies meetthe requirements specified in para. 345.2.3(c), are there any fluid service limitations to pipingsubassemblies for which closure welds are performed?

Reply (1): No.

Question (2): Does ASME B31.3-2002 Edition permit a completed piping system, consisting ofpiping subassemblies, to have more than one closure weld if all subassemblies have been testedin accordance with para. 345.2.3 and all closure welds are examined in accordance with para.345.2.3(c)?

Reply (2): Yes.


Subject: ASME B31.3-2oo2 Edition, Coverage of Ozone Gas


File: B31-04-00496

Question: Does ASME B31.3-2002 Edition provide coverage for ozone gas piping?

Reply: Yes; see the Introduction of ASME 831.3.


Subject: ASME B31.3-2002 Edition, Applicability of Ultrasound Testing for Heavy Thick Piping


File: B31-04-00497

Question (1): In accordance with ASME B31.3-2oo2 Edition, is ultrasonic examination an acceptable substitute for radiography for a piping system utilizing Class 2500 components that hasbeen classified as high pressure piping in accordance with para. K300?

Reply (1): No; see para. K341.4.2(b).

Question (2): In accordance with ASME B31.3-2oo2 Edition, is ultrasonic examination an acceptable substitute for radiography for a piping system utilizing Class 2500 components if the systemhas not been classified as high pressure piping in accordance with para. K300?

Reply (2): Yes; see paras. 341.4.1(b)(1), 341.4.3(b), and M341.4(b)(1).

Copyright © 2007 by the American Society of Mechanical Engineers r.li).;,No reproduction may be made of this material without written consent of ASME. ~



Subject: ASME 831.3-2002 Edition, Table 323.3.1, Welding Procedure Qualified Thickness Rangeand HAZ Impact Location


File: 831-04-00498

Question (1): In accordance with ASME 831.3-2002 Edition, when a material with a pipe wallthickness of ~ in. requires impact testing per the requirements of para. 323.3, is the qualifiedbase metal thickness range for production welding, per A-5(a) of Table 323.3.1, ~ to %in.?

Reply (1): Yes.

Question (2): In accordance with ASME B31.3-2002 Edition, may the one required set of threeHAZ (CVN) impact specimens, per the requirements of A-4, A-5, and 6 of Table 323.3.1, be takenat any depth location of the pipe wall thickness?

Reply (2): Yes.


Subject: ASME 831.3-2002 Edition, Para. 345.2.3, Piping Subassemblies


File: B31-04-00499

Question: In accordance with ASME 831.3-2002 Edition, para. 345.2.3, maya component beconsidered a piping subassembly?

Reply: Yes.


Subject: ASME 831.3-2002 Edition, Design Stress for Bolts


File: B31-04-01129

Question: Does ASME B31.3-2oo2 Edition specify what loads to consider when calculating abolt stress to compare to the design stress values for bolting materials?

Reply: No, except for flanges; see para. 304.5.1.

CCopyright © 2007 by the Amcrican Societ; of Mcchanical Engincers, di>.:.

No reproduction may be made o[this material without written consent ofASME. C(G



Subject: ASME B31.3-2002 Edition, Fig. 323.2.2B


File: B31-04-01130

Question (1): Does ASME B31.3, Fig. 323.2.2B, provide a basis for the use of impact-testedcarbon steels at a Minimum Design Metal Temperature (MDMT) colder than the impact testtemperature, provided the stress ratio defined in Fig. 323.2.2B is less than 1 and the MDMT isnot colder than -104°C (-155°F)?

Reply (1): Yes.

Question (2): Does ASME B31.3 permit Fig. 323.2.2B to be used to provide a basis for the useof impact-tested duplex stainless steels, UN5 531803, impact tested at -46°C (-50°F), in the samemanner as described in question (1)?

Reply (2): No.


Subject: ASME B31.3-2oo2 Edition, Qualifying the Heat Input for Impact Testing


File: B31-04-01131

Question: Does ASME B31.3-2002 Edition require that all the requirements of ASME BPV Code,Section IX, be complied with for a WPS requiring impact testing?

Reply: Yes.


Subject: ASME B31.3-2002 Edition, Para. 323.2.2, Lower Temperature Limits, Listed Materials


File: B31-04-01207

Question: Does ASME B31.3 permit a temperature reduction calculated in accordance with Fig.323.2.2B to be applied for carbon steels covered in 323.2.2(a) that have a minimum temperaturelisted in Table A-1?

Reply: Yes.


Subject: ASME B31.3-2oo2 Edition, Table 341.3.2, Radiography Acceptance Criteria


File: B31-04-01250

Question: In accordance with ASME B31.3-2002 Edition, when 100% radiographic examinationand no further acceptance criteria are specified for Normal Fluid Service, is it required thatthe acceptance criteria for severe cyclic conditions as noted in Table 341.3.2 be applied to theexamination?

Reply: No, the requirements of Normal Fluid Service apply.

(Copyright © 2007 by the American Society of Mechanical Engineers. ~




Subject: ASME B31.3-2002 Edition, Minimum Thickness for Test Blanks


File: B31-04-01293

Question (1): Does ASME B31.3-2002 Edition address required thickness for blanks or closuresinstalled only for a pneumatic or hydrostatic leak test?

Reply (1): No.

Question (2): Does ASME B31.3-2002 Edition address required thickness for permanent blanksand closures?

Reply (2): Yes.


Subject: ASME B31.3-1996 Edition, Paras. 300.1.1(b), 300(c)(4), 300(c)(5), 345.1, and 345.8, VacuumBox Testing of Piping Field Welds


File: B31-04-01294

Question (1): Does ASME B31.3-1996 Edition permit performing the Alternative Leak Testmethod in accordance with para. 345.9 in lieu of hydrostatic or pneumatic testing for NormalFluid Service piping that does not satisfy the conditions of para. 345.1(c)?

Reply (1): No.

Question (2): In accordance with ASME B31.3-1996 Edition, para. 345.8, is it acceptable toperform a leak test in accordance with BPV Code, Section V, Article 10, Appendix II, BubbleTest - Vacuum Box Technique?

Reply (2): Yes, provided it has a demonstrated sensitivity of not less than 10-3 atm-ml/sec.

Question (3): In accordance with ASME B31.3-1996 Edition, para. 345.8, if leak testing inaccordance with BPV Code, Section V, Article 10, Appendix II, Bubble Test - Vacuum BoxTechnique, is it acceptable to test piping with a 60 psig or greater design pressure at less than15 psi differential pressure?

Reply (3): No.

(Copyright © 2007 by the American Society of Mechanical Engmcers r:<ib

_No reproduction may bc made of this material without written consent of ASME ~



Subject: ASME 831.3-2002 Edition, Paras. 328.2.1 and 328.2.2

Date Issued: May 20, 2005

File: 831-03-1913

Question (1): Does ASME B31.3-2002 Edition, para. 328.2.1, by referencing BPV Code SectionIX, permit the use of Standard Welding Procedure Specifications, compliant with the requirementsof BPV Code, Section IX, Article V, in ASME B31.3 applications?

Reply (1): Yes, if they satisfy all the requirements of ASME B31.3, including the qualificationrequirements in para. 328.2.

Question (2): Does ASME B31.3-2oo2 Edition, para. 328.2.2 apply to Standard Welding ProcedureSpecifications compliant with the requirements of 8PV Code, Section IX, Article V?

Reply (2): No.

Question (3): In accordance with ASME 831.3-2002 Edition, do the rules of "discreet demonstration" of 8PV Code, Section IX, Article V comply with the requirements of para. 328.2.2(i)?

Reply (3): No.

Interpretation: 20·20

Subject: ASME 831.3-2002 Edition, Table 341.3.2, Radiography Acceptance Criteria


File: B31-04-1250

Question: Does ASME B31.3-2oo2 Edition require more stringent examination acceptance criteriafor sour and hydrogen service designated as Normal Fluid Service than for other services designated as Normal Fluid Service?

Reply: No. See paras. 300(c)(5) and F323.


Subject: ASME B31.3-2oo2 Edition, Para. K303, Use of B16.9 8uttwelding Fittings


File: 831-05-34

Question: In accordance with ASME 831.3-2002 Edition, mayan ASME 816.9 fitting for whichthe design pressure has been established by proof testing in accordance with ASME 816.9 beused in Chapter IX service?

Reply: Yes, provided the requirements of Table K326.1, Note (2) are met.

Copyright © :!007 by the American Society of Mechanical Englfleers ~




Subject: Allowances With Owner's Approval


File: B31-0S-4S

Question (1): With the owner's approval, as described in ASME B31.3-1999 Edition, para.302.2.4(f)(1), is it permissible to exceed the pressure rating or the allowable stress for pressuredesign at temperature as described in para. 302.2.4(f)(1)(a) when the variation is self-limiting(e.g., due to a pressure relieving event)?

Reply (1): Yes.

Question (2): Does ASME B31.3-1999 Edition, para. 302.2.4(f)(2), permit exceeding the pressurerating or the allowable stress for pressure design at the temperature at the increased conditionwithout owner's approval?

Reply (2): Yes.


Subject: ASME B31.3-2002 Edition, Chapter VIII, Piping for Category M Fluid Service


File: B31-0S-107

Question (1): If an ASME BPV Code Section VIII vessel has been determined to be in "lethalsubstance" service, must the attached B31.3 piping system be classified as Category M FluidService?

Reply (1): No; see para. 300(b)(1).

Question (2): Is Appendix M of B31.3 mandatory?

Reply (2): No; see Table 300.4. However, see the definition of fluid service in para. 300.2.

Question (3): Is the Code user responsible for considering applicable items in Appendix M?

Reply (3): Yes; see Note (2) of Table 300.4.


Subject: ASME B31.3-1998 Addenda to 1996 Edition, and B31.3-2002 Edition, Para. 345.2.3, PipingSubassemblies


File: B31-oS-1S7 and B31-oS-319

Question (1): Does ASME B31.3-2002 Edition define "subassemblies" the same way as it defines"piping components"?

Reply (1): No.

Question (2): In accordance with ASME B31.3c-1998 Addenda and ASME B31.3-2002 Edition,does para. 34S.2.3(a) allow piping components to be independently tested as required by para.345.1, and then assembled and placed into service with no additional leak testing?

Reply (2): No, unless the system is assembled with flanged joints or closure welds as describedin paras. 34S.2.3(b) and (c).

Copyright © 2007 by the American Society of Mechanical Engineers ~




Subject: ASME 831.3-2002 Edition, Para. 302.3


File: 831-05-179

Question: Does ASME 831.3-2002 Edition establish a preference in the selection of listed versusunlisted components?

Reply: No.


Subject: ASME 831.3-2002 Edition, Para. 304.7.2


File: 831-05-180

Question: Does ASME 831.3-2002 Edition, para. 304.7.2, require calculations consistent withthe design criteria of the Code be performed and that these calculations be substantiated bymeans of (a), (b), (c), or (d)?

Reply: Yes.


Subject: ASME 831.3-2002 Edition, Para. 345.2.3, Piping Subassemblies


File: 831-05-328

Question: Does the ASME 831.3-2002 Edition definition of a piping subassembly require thatit be in the installed position?

Reply: No.


Subject: ASME 831.3-2002 Edition, Para. 345.3.1, Hydrostatic Testing of Pipe


File: 831-05-329

Question: In accordance with ASME 831.3-2002 Edition, can buried pipe be leak tested withoutvisual examination of joints?

Reply: No, unless the joints have been previously tested. See para. 345.3.1.


Subject: ASME 831.3-2002 Edition, Appendix A, Note (76)


File: 831-05-388

Question: Does Note (76) apply only to the materials for which Note (76) is specified inTable A-I?

Reply: Yes.

Copyright © 2007 by the Amcrican Society of Mcchanical Engincers ~

No reproduction may be made of this matcrial without written consent of ASME ~



Subject: ASME B31.3-2002 Edition, Table A326.1, Applicability of ASTM F 1281, F 1282, and F 1974


File: 831-05-391

Question: Does ASME B31.3-2002 Edition allow the use of products meeting ASTM F 1281, F1282, and F 1974 in compressed gas service?

Reply: Yes. See para. A302.2.3 and Appendix F, para. FA323.4(b).


Subject: ASME 831.3-2002 Edition, Para. 323.2.2


File: B31..Q5-404

Question (1): For welded (with filler metal added) austenitic stainless steel pipe or fittingmaterial intended for service with a minimum design metal temperature that is warmer thanthe minimum temperature allowed by Table A-I but colder than -20°F, do the requirements ofblock A-4(b) of Table 323.2.2 apply?

Reply (1): Yes.

Question (2): If it is required that the stainless steel pipe or fitting manufacturer conduct impacttests of the weld metal deposits, may the provisions of Note (2) of Table 323.2.2, allowing impacttests performed as part of the weld procedure qualification, be used to fully satisfy all the impacttest requirements of para. 323.2.2?

Reply (2): Yes.

Question (3): If the stainless steel pipe or fitting manufacturer uses the impact tests performedas part of the weld procedure qualification to satisfy all the provisions of para. 323.2.2, do theprovisions of block A-I of Table 323.3.1 apply?

Reply (3): No.

Question (4): For austenitic stainless steel applications in ASME 831.3, are manufacturer'swelding procedure specifications and procedure qualifications necessary for any specificationswelded with filler metal?

Reply (4): No.

Question (5): When welding procedure specifications and procedure qualifications that includequalification of the welding procedure by impact testing are produced by the manufacturer whenproducing austenitic stainless steel weld pipe or fittings, may those procedure specifications andqualifications be used to satisfy the requirements of Table 323.2.2?

Reply (5): Yes.


No reproduction may be made of this material without written consent of ASME. C(IS2



Subject: ASME 831.3-2002 Edition, Appendix A, Table A-I, 321 Stainless Steel Stresses


File: 831-05-405

Question (1): Should the allowable stress for A 403 WP321 fittings conforming to ASME 816.9,such as elbows and tees, be per A 312 TP321 pipe?

Reply (1): No.

Question (2): Should the wall thickness for seamless fittings conforming to ASME 816.9, manufactured to A 403 WP321, be calculated based on the allowable stress value for A 403 WP321material?

Reply (2): Yes.


Subject: ASME 831.3-2002 Edition, Para. 340.4


File: 831-05-454

Question (1): In accordance with ASME 831.3-2002 Edition, para. 340.4, do the qualificationrequirements of the owner's inspector apply to the individual designated as the owner's inspector?

Reply (1): Yes.

Question (2): In accordance with ASME 831.3-2002 Edition, para. 340.4(b), do the qualificationrequirements of the owner's inspector apply to the organization employing the inspector?

Reply (2): No.


Subject: ASME 831.3-2002 Edition, Examination and Quality Factor for Longitudinal Welds


File: 831-05-455

Question (1): In accordance with ASME 831.3-2002 Edition, if single butt longitudinal weldsmade as part of pipe fabrication are visually examined per para. 341.4.1(a)(3) and examined perpara. 341.4.1(b), does a joint factor, Ej , of 0.80 apply?

Reply (1): Yes; see Table 302.3.4.

Question (2): In accordance with ASME 831.3-2002 Edition, if single butt longitudinal weldsmade as part of pipe fabrication are visually examined per para. 341.4.1(a)(3), examined per para.341.4.1(b), and radiographed per para 341.5.1(a), does a joint factor, Ej, of 0.90 apply?


Question (3): In accordance with ASME 831.3-2002 Edition, if single butt longitudinal weldsmade as part of pipe fabrication are visually examined per para. 341.4.1(a)(3) and 100% radiographed per para. 344.5.1 and Table 341.3.2, does a joint factor, Ej , of 1.00 apply?



No reproduction may be made of this material without written consent ofASME. ~



Subject: ASME B31.3-2002 Edition, Para. 345.2.2, Visual Examination of Fillet Weld


File: B31-05-477

Question: Does ASME B31.3-2oo2 Edition require, when a structural attachment is fillet weldedon one side, that the opposite side of the structural attachment be left exposed for examinationduring leak testing?

Reply: No. See also interpretation 19-23.


Subject: ASME B31.3-2004 Edition, Paras. M314.2.2 and M335.3.3, and Fig. 335.3.3(a)


File: B31-05-786

Question (1): In accordance with ASME B31-3-2004 Edition, may straight thread, O-ring styleconnection fittings be used in Category M fluid service?

Reply (1): Yes, provided that they meet the requirements of the Code, including para. M314.2.2and para. M335.3.3.

Question (2): In accordance with ASME B31.3-2004 Edition, is demonstrating leak tightnesssufficient to qualify use of fittings such as those shown in Fig. 335.3.3(a) for use in Category MFluid Service?

Reply (2): No.


Subject: ASME B31.3-2004 Edition, Para. 304.7.2


File: B31-05-1141

Question (1): When qualifying unlisted components for pressure design using ASME B31.3-2004Edition, para. 304.7.2(d), using the rules of BPVC Section VIII-I, UG-101, may the designer makeanalogies among related materials in accordance with para. 304.7.2(e)?

Reply (1): Yes.

Question (2): Does ASME B31.3-2004 Edition define related materials as used in para. 304.7.2(e)?

Reply (2): No.


Subject: ASME B31.3-2004 Edition, Para. 300(c)(3)


File: B31-05-1142

Question: In accordance with ASME B31.3-2oo4 Edition, maya designer apply a more rigorousanalysis to qualify a design that deviates from specific requirements of the Code?

Reply: Yes. See para. 300(c)(3).

CCopyright © 2007 by the American Socie~ of Mechanical Engineers. 6i>-,




Subject: ASME B31.3-2oo4 Edition, Para. 331


File: 831-05-1147

Question (1): In accordance with ASME 831.3-2004 Edition, are the longitudinal seams ofwelded seam pipe and seams in welded seam fittings subject to the postweld heat treatmentrequirements of para. 331?

Reply (1): Yes, provided the welds are made in accordance with para. 328.

Question (2): In accordance with ASME B31.3-2004 Edition, do the postweld heat treatmentrequirements of para. 331 apply to listed components?

Reply (2): No, unless otherwise required by the notes for Appendix A or specified in theengineering design.


Subject: ASME B31.3-2002 Edition, Paras. 301.1(c) and (d)


File: B31-05-1208

Question (1): In accordance with ASME B31.3-2oo2 Edition, does the successful completion ofan engineering program that is equivalent to 2 years of full-time study meet the engineeringassociate's degree requirement of para. 301.1(c)?

Reply (1): Yes.

Question (2): Does the "experience in the design of related pressure piping" requirement inpara. 301.1(d) differ from the requirements in paras. 301.1(a), (b), and (c)?

Reply (2): No.

Question (3): Does ASME 831.3-2002 Edition address the initiation of experience in para. 301.1?

Reply (3): No.


Subject: ASME B31.3-2002 Edition, Chapter IX, Thickness Limitations


File: 831-05-1209

Question: In accordance with ASME B31.3-2oo2 Edition, when qualifying a welding procedurefor High Pressure Fluid Service, does the range of material thicknesses specified in Table K323.3.1apply to determine the number of impact test pieces required?

Reply: Yes.

Copyright © :!007 by the American Society of Mechanical Engineers. r.!i?:INo reproduction may be made of this material without written consent of ASME. I'lilZ



Subject: ASME B31.3-2004 Edition, Performing Digital Radiography


File: 831-05-1210

Question: In accordance with ASME 831.3-2004 Edition, para. 344, is the use of digital radiography permitted?

Reply: Yes, provided the methodology meets the requirements of para. 344.5.1.


Subject: ASME 831.3, Interpretation 17-10


File: 831-05-1211

Question: In accordance with ASME 831.3-2002 Edition, has the Code been changed to supersedethe response to inquiry 17-107

Reply: Interpretation 17-10 applies to ASME 831.3-1997 Edition, Addendum b. Subsequently,the Code was revised to reflect the present wording.


Subject: ASME 831.3-2004 Edition, PWHT Requirements


File: 831-05-1212

Question: In accordance with ASME 831.3-2004 Edition, Table 331.1.1, for P-No. 1 material,can a weld procedure qualified to ASME Section IX that has a weld joint thickness range from0.0625 in. to 2.00 in. be used without postweld heat treatment for a butt groove weld joint witha thickness greater than 74 in.?

Reply: No; see para. 328.2.1(c).


Subject: ASME 831.3-2004 Edition, Combining Displacements


File: 831-05-1213

Question (1): In accordance with ASME B31.3-2004 Edition, are strains caused by cyclic supportdisplacements during seismic events considered to be externally imposed displacements in accordance with para. 319.2.1(c)?

Reply (1): Yes.

Question (2): In accordance with ASME B31.3-2004 Edition, shall externally imposed displacement strains, excluding single cycle events, be considered in conjunction with thermal displacement strains?

Reply (2): Yes; see para. 319.2.1(d).

(- Copyright © 2007 by the American Socie; of Mechanical Engineers ~~'oductionmay be made of this material without written consent of ASME. ~



Subject: ASME 631.3-2002 Edition, Para. 345.2.2(a), Examination for Leaks


File: 631-05-1222

Question: In accordance with ASME 631.3-2002 Edition, does the 10 min minimum hold timereferenced in para. 345.2.2 apply to both hydrostatic leak test in accordance with para. 345.4.2and pneumatic leak test in accordance with para. 345.5.4?

Reply: Yes.


Subject: ASME 631.3-2004 Edition, Hydrostatic Testing


File: 631-05-1223

Question: In accordance with ASME 631.3-2004 Edition, are both a sensitive leak test and ahydrostatic, pneumatic, or hydrostatic-pneumatic leak test required for Category M piping?

Reply: Yes; see para. M345.


Subject: ASME 631.3-2004 Edition, Para. 314, Threaded Joints


File: 631-05-1305

Question (1): Does ASME 631.3-2004 Edition advise against using the relative motion of threadedconnections (i.e., to screw and unscrew some fraction of a tum) to provide flexibility for thermalexpansion?

Reply (1): Yes. See para. 314.1(c).

Question (2): Does ASME 631.3-2004 Edition prohibit the practice of using the relative motionof threaded connections to provide flexibility for thermal expansion?

Reply (2): No, provided the relative motion does not cause leakage at the joint, as required bypara. 319.1.1.


Subject: ASME 631.3-2004 Edition, Use of Sh for Occasional Stress Evaluation


File: 631-05-1306

Question: In accordance with ASME 631.3-2004 Edition, when a piping system operates atmultiple sets of coincident operating temperatures and pressures, and the system may at anyrandom moment be loaded with an occasional load such as earthquake, wind, or pressure relief,should all coincident operating pressures and temperatures expected during operation be considered and shall the basic allowable stress used in para. 302.3.6 be based on the applicable temperature for each condition?

Reply: Yes.

Copyright © 2007 by the American Society of Mechanical Engineers r.!il:tNo reproduction may be made of this material without written consent of ASME. ~



Subject: ASME B31.3-2002 Edition, Duration of Occasional Loads


File: B31-05-1307

Question: Does ASME B31.3-2002 Edition address the duration of a load in qualifying the loadas being occasional in para. 302.3.6?

Reply: No.


Subject: ASME B31.3-2004 Edition, Para. 302.2.4


File: B31-05-1308

Question: In accordance with ASME B31.3-2oo4 Edition, para. 302.2.4(f)(1)(a), is the 33% overpressure allowance for no more than 10 hr at anyone time and no more than 100 hr/yr applicableto pressure relieving events?

Reply: Yes, provided all other applicable requirements of para. 302.2.4 are met.

- _ _.._--.Id..8.-_.__ __.._ _ _Copyright © 2007 by the American Society of Mechanical Engineers ~


asme b31.3 interpretations imposed displ

Documents