NDE in lieu of hydrostatic testing for boiler external piping

[Trebormech]

Is there ever a case where sufficient NDE of boiler external piping can be done in lieu of a hydrostatic test?

Case in point: Installing a new steam header in a multiple boiler facility where isolation for hydrostatic test would be difficult, if not impossible, due to the number of isolation points involved.

I believe the administrative jurisdiction and technical responsibility for the piping in this case would be ASME B31.1, instead of BPVC section I, because it is a multiple installation common header, according to Fig. PG-58.3.1(a) "Code Jurisdictional Limits for Piping - Drum Type Boilers"

Thank you.

 

[bpv66]

If these are new boilers being installed then the piping must be hydrostatic tested in accordance with PG-99 of ASME Section I.

If you are replacing existing steam header then NDE may be acceptable in lieu of pressure test as described in the NBIC Part 3. You would need concurrence of the Authorized Inspector and Jurisdiction, if required.

 

[metengr]

I concurr with bvp66. If this is for an existing installation and you are replacing with a new steam header, the NBIC would be used with NDT in lieu of a hydrostatic test.