Code Compliance in Packaged Air Compressors

[kalimech]

Bids of standard air compressor models received from reputable manufacturers take exception to a purchase specification requirement that interconnecting piping / tubing be in accordance with ASME B31.3. What are others thoughts / experiences concerning the issue of code compliance versus manufacturer standard? Paragraph 300.1.2 appears to indicate that B31.3 would apply to these packaged units. Is there a section that would exclude these units from B31.3?

 

[daviwy]

Doubt I really understand your question but...

why would the same document contradict itself?

Offshore Mechanical Shift Engineer (Trainee)
Oil, Gas & Power

 

[dcasto]

Yes, look up fluid catagory.

 

[ARenko]

We specify design and fabrication per B31.3 for our air compressors and have not had any issues. Our compressors are 350 to 500 psi units though.

Where is the exclusion? I can see if the gage pressure is <150 psi it can be Category D service, but there are still requirements for this service.

 

[ARenko]

The second part of my above response was directed at dcasto.

 

[dcasto]

But, as owner operator, it's your choice still according to flow chart M300. You can hit the box in the lower right hand side and it states that B31.3 "MAY BE USED".

 

[ARenko]

I don't see any exception to air compressor piping, which is what I understood the OP was asking. Even if you work your way down M300 and specify Cat D service there are requirements in the code for this service. Of course you can specify it as normal service if you want.

A lot of air compressors are used in the construction industry or general industrial applications where B31.3 is not prevalent - that's probably why the mfrs the OP is dealing with are taking exception to B31.3 - it's not their standard. The mfrs we deal with will meet B31.3 on request for the models we purchase.

 

[crjones]

The question comes down to are you willing to pay for compliance to a specification. Many people want compliance to ANSI/ASME, ISO or API but want standard pricing of an industrial machine. Manufacturers will comply with government body regulations or insurance regulations in the markets they have selected to participate in. Everything else is a price adder or an exception.

 

[ARenko]

True crjones. Our suppliers' main industries are construction and general industry, where they don't need to meet B31.3. They design to it, they just don't do the level of testing/ inspection required, so we pay extra for full compliance.