code requirement for leak testing of steam heat trace pipe
code requirement for leak testing of steam heat trace pipe
(OP)
Does anyone know of the code requirement (if any) for leak testing of steam heat trace piping?
I have a 6" #6oil pipeline (800ft) that I am heat tracing with 1" sch80 steel pipe. Normal operating pressure in the winter would be around 20psig. If the regulator fails the steam pipe could see 80psig. ASME B31.1 seems to imply it does but not sure if this is the applicable code. Thank-you
I have a 6" #6oil pipeline (800ft) that I am heat tracing with 1" sch80 steel pipe. Normal operating pressure in the winter would be around 20psig. If the regulator fails the steam pipe could see 80psig. ASME B31.1 seems to imply it does but not sure if this is the applicable code. Thank-you





RE: code requirement for leak testing of steam heat trace pipe
Remember - More details = better answers
Also: If you get a response it's polite to respond to it.
RE: code requirement for leak testing of steam heat trace pipe
RE: code requirement for leak testing of steam heat trace pipe
137.3.2 Nonboiler External Piping. All nonboiler external piping shall be hydrostatically tested in accordance with para. 137.4. As an alternative, when specified by the owner, the piping may be leak tested in accordance with para. 137.5, 137.6, or 137.7. Lines open to the atmosphere, such as vents or drains downstream of the last shutoff valve, need not be tested
137.7.1 When specified by the owner, an initial service test and examination is acceptable when other types of tests are not practical or when leak tightness is demonstrable due to the nature of the service. One example is piping where shut-offvalves are not available for isolating a line and where temporary closures are impractical. Others may be systems where during the course of checking out of pumps, compressors, or other equipment, ample opportunity is afforded for examination for leakage prior to full scale operation. An initial service test is not applicable to boiler external piping
**Based on usage I would say this is "Equipment" and subject to controls of nonboiler external piping per B31.1
Jeff
Pipe Stress/Structural Engineer
www.xceed-eng.com
RE: code requirement for leak testing of steam heat trace pipe
RE: code requirement for leak testing of steam heat trace pipe
The steam tracing could possibly be outside the scope of B31.3, but Id have to check my copy to see if that's possible. Design pressure and temperature would be known to determine so.
Nevertheless, I'd want to test this system for safety reasons, even if there are no Code requirements. Think of the personnel working around that system in case of any failure.
RE: code requirement for leak testing of steam heat trace pipe
RE: code requirement for leak testing of steam heat trace pipe
Steam pipe with pressure this low may qualify Cat D service to do initial service leak test in lieu of hydro with customer approval.