R-Stamp Required for Adding Pipe Support to Vessel Skirt?

[Fellanti]

Hi all,

I am curious if anyone can quickly point me to language in Section VIII or PCC-2 (or other applicable standard) that clarifies whether or not welding a new pipe support to a vessel skirt requires an R-stamp?

Thanks,
Fellanti

 

[metengr]

The above ASME Section VIII is a code of construction, not in-service repair code. ASME PCC-2 is not really a standard, it is more in line of a guideline.

Most likely an R-Stamp would not be required for welding a pipe attachment to a vessel skirt. However, one can always use an organization that has a National Board R-Certificate of authorization for this type of activity.

 

[jamesl]

I don't have the latest NBIC code. However old editions always talk about repairs of pressure containing items, not structural items. Welding a attachment to skirt shall not need a R-stamp.

 

[Fellanti]

Thanks for the insight. I will dig through NBIC to see what I can find.

 

[Duwe6]

No need to dig, it is not addressed. If there is an Authorized Inspector 'AI' [jurisdiction 'boiler' inspector] involved with this vessel, ask him. If not, involve an API-510 Inspector. The 'proper' answer is that an R-stamp is not required, but is recommended. Your requirements are to;
document the addition to the skirt in the vessel records,
insure that a valid, qualified Weld Procedure that matches the items to be welded is used;
insure that the Welder is appropriatly qualified
appropriate materials are being used
proper preheat and all other Weld Procedure variables are correct during all the welding.

You get a *lot* when you hire an R-stamp contractor and have him work "in the manner of Code, but excepting the Stamp & AI". Unless you have an API-510 and/or a Welding Inspector, I would hire an R-stamp contractor.

 

[GenB]

you may get away w/o certification as welding to the skirt does not need a code stamp.
but depending of the size of the load: 'loadings' can trigger an AI to require Alteration by a certified R stamp holder.

 

[Eddycurrentguy]

In general, ASME code terminates after the first weld, flange, threaded connection, etc. In your case, AWS D1.1 [Structural Welding of Steel] might be more appropriate...

 

[Fellanti]

Thank you everyone for the advice. This was my first post to this forum, and it has been very helpful.