Inspection/ Replacement Frequency for PSV's? 1

[polyroly]

Can someone point me in the direction of which section of the ASME code indicates how often PSV's need to be tested/replaced?

 

[toomuchespresso]

That would probably be in NBIC or API-510. I've always considered the ASME codes to be for brand new and API/NBIC for in use.

 

[polyroly]

Thanks. What I have found so far from the API and NB is the onus is on the owner for developing their own plan based on the results from their own inspections.

 

[stanier]

You local authority regulatons or insurance compay may also have a view.

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[Duwe6]

Try 'running this up the flagpole':

Use an Initial Interval to start off with, then based on the results of the following inspections and testing/repair data; decrease interval by half for a Stuck-type failure [hard failure], decrease interval by 1/4 for 'soft' failures like chatter-requiring-lapping, failure-to-reseat, etc. Increase the interval by 1/4 to 1/2 the previous interval for each 'Test Only-no repairs required' result.

Clean process 3-years initial, 10-years max
Dirty process 1-year initial, 10-years max [includes steam]
Very Clean service* 5-year initial, 10-year max.
PRV protected by rupture disk 5-years initial, 10-years max
Rupture disks-Clean service 5-year interval, 5-year max
R/D's - Dirty service, 1-year initial, 5-year max

*nitrogen, dryed compressed air, hydrogen, chillers, methane/nat. gas, propane, etc.

Excellent & dilligent recordkeeping is a MUST for this program to actually work.

 

[polyroly]

Thanks Duwe6. I have started working at a facility where no such excellent & dilligent record keeping has existed

 

[chicopee]

You may want to check with local utility companies operating electrical power plant as I remember that our region utility power co. was contracting hyraulic lift tests of their utility boiler safety valves on a periodic schedule, back in the 70's. I don't remember if the in-situ hydraulic test was annual, however their relieving capacity test was annual and shook up the entire region.

 

[metengr]

SRV's on Power boilers are tested based on State boiler laws within the US. It varies from 1 year to 3 years, depending on the local Jurisdiction requirements for operating certificates. Typically, valves are tested during internal boiler inspections. For pressure vessels, the frequency is every 3 years or longer to coincide with internal inspections for operating certificates. Some Jurisdictions do not regulate pressure vessels, In this case, the equipment insurer may have requirements.