Periodic Functional Test of Anhydrous Ammonia PRV?
Periodic Functional Test of Anhydrous Ammonia PRV?
(OP)
Are there any codes that dictate periodic functional testing of anhydrous ammonia pressure relief valves? I have checked ANSI K61.1 and the only requirement is for visual inspection. The vendor (Anderson Greenwood) also does not have a recommendation. The valves will be replaced every 5 years. Thanks





RE: Periodic Functional Test of Anhydrous Ammonia PRV?
I recommend a risked based inspection (functional test and inspection for problems) every 1/2 to 5 years depending on criteria similar that in API risk based inspection of piping and vessels. If the PSV is on a storage tank, then every five years, if its on a pump or compressor about every 1 year.
RE: Periodic Functional Test of Anhydrous Ammonia PRV?
Well the ANSI K61.1 requires you to replace PRVs at the manufacturers specified date, if none is given then that equals five years. If I read it to the letter it only applies to "containers," so in certain cases it would not apply. I have multiple PRVs, some on piping system and some on storage tank. We do have a visual inspection based mechanical initegrity check monthly. The question was raised during an OSHA PSM hazard review, so I have to take a look at it and determine if it is necessary and if so how frequently.
RE: Periodic Functional Test of Anhydrous Ammonia PRV?
RE: Periodic Functional Test of Anhydrous Ammonia PRV?
A NH3 refrigeration system does not require 5 year certification of pressure relief devices. These are governed by ANSI/IIAR (Institute of Ammonia Refrigeration) ANSI/IIAR 2.
For bulk storage of NH3, ANSI/CGA K61.3 governs and it requires evaluation of the pressure relief devices.
NFPA 58 remains silent. Appendix E of NFPA 58 makes reference to the API standard but the Appendix is nonmandatory. The NFPA 58 committee believes (while I served on it) that internal pressure relief devices were adequately lubricated by the LPG that relief valve maintenance is not required.
RE: Periodic Functional Test of Anhydrous Ammonia PRV?
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Good luck,
Latexman
RE: Periodic Functional Test of Anhydrous Ammonia PRV?
RE: Periodic Functional Test of Anhydrous Ammonia PRV?
When all else fails, ask the PSV supplyer or REGO who makes specialized ammonia valves.
RE: Periodic Functional Test of Anhydrous Ammonia PRV?
K61.3 is incorrect.
The OSHA reg incorporates by reference the American National Standard for the Storage and Handling of Anhydrous Ammonia, K61.1, and the Fertilizer Institute Standards for the Storage and Handling of Agricultural Anhydrous Ammonia, M-1.
Good luck,
Latexman
RE: Periodic Functional Test of Anhydrous Ammonia PRV?
RE: Periodic Functional Test of Anhydrous Ammonia PRV?
Does any one know if there is any written regulaions for installing pullaway devices on bulk transfer of NH3, Ahydrous Ammonia. we have the manufactures installation and operation manual, just hoping to find more info. Wisconsin codes only go to '04.
RE: Periodic Functional Test of Anhydrous Ammonia PRV?
RE: Periodic Functional Test of Anhydrous Ammonia PRV?
Once a year everyone of these valves was pulled, shopped to be dismantled, inspected, reassembled, and tested all on site.
There was never any question about using this approach on the Ammonia relief valves.