API 6A - Impact Testing Non-Wetted 316
API 6A - Impact Testing Non-Wetted 316
(OP)
All,
I have a design where items that are non-wetted, but under high stress, are made from 316/316L stainless steel.
In a lot of pressure codes this material is generally exempt from impact testing to quite low temperatures (though not in every code) and as such it is difficult to source material already impact tested at the required temperature and we are having to conduct additional tests.
I cannot find anywhere in API 6A that provides exemption from impact testing for such materials, it appears that Table 7 governs the decision to test or not based on the PSL and temperature rating of the finished assembly.
Does anyone have any information that may help in determining an exemption?
I have a design where items that are non-wetted, but under high stress, are made from 316/316L stainless steel.
In a lot of pressure codes this material is generally exempt from impact testing to quite low temperatures (though not in every code) and as such it is difficult to source material already impact tested at the required temperature and we are having to conduct additional tests.
I cannot find anywhere in API 6A that provides exemption from impact testing for such materials, it appears that Table 7 governs the decision to test or not based on the PSL and temperature rating of the finished assembly.
Does anyone have any information that may help in determining an exemption?





RE: API 6A - Impact Testing Non-Wetted 316
There is API 6A does not give impact testing exemptions for 316/316L or non-wetted components.
However, depending on what the component is, impact testing might not be required. Table 7 is in section 5.4, which is for bodies, bonnets, and end & outlet connections. Therefore, meeting the Table 7 requirements is only required for the component if it is a body, bonnet, or end/outlet connection, or if another section of 6A that applies to the component references section 5.4 and/or Table 7. Note that the requirements for other components may be in section 5 (such as 5.12 for clamp hub-end connectors) or section 7 (such as 7.4.3 for stems) or section 10 (such as 10.16.4 for actuators).
In order to determine whether charpy testing is required, we need to know what your 316/316L components are.
RE: API 6A - Impact Testing Non-Wetted 316
Thanks for the quick reply.
Unfortunately the parts fall under the "Bodies, bonnets, end & outlet connections" section so it looks like impact testing will be required.
Regards,
Guy Lowndes
RE: API 6A - Impact Testing Non-Wetted 316
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