Radiography Required for Longitudinal Seam on B16.9 Fittings to Achieve 100% Weld Quality Factor

[UW1981]

B31.3 has radiography requirements stated in Table A1-b as well as table 302.3.4 in order to increase the weld quality factor for seamed pipe. Do seamed fitting constructed to B16.9 also have to meet the radiography requirement of the longitudinal seam in order to achieve the weld quality factor of 1.0 for that seam? It appears from B16.9 that the design (calculated) or proof testing required by this standard eliminates the need to radiograph the longitudinal seam in order achieve the 1.0 joint factor (100% Weld Quality Factor), but is that in conflict with B31.3?

 

[UW1981]

I think I answered my own question......A234 Section 6.3 states “All welds including welds in tubular products from which fittings are made shall be…(3) radiographically examined throughout the entire length of each weld in accordance with Article 2, ASME Section V with acceptance limits in accordance with Paragraph UW-51 of ASME Section VIII, Division I of the ASME Boiler & Pressure Vessel Code.”

So.....a fitting manufactured to the B16.9 specification (for dimensions) would likely be also manufactured to A234.....and therefore would have 100% x-ray on the longitudinal weld, which results in a weld quality factor of 1.0.

 

[XL83NL]

Well, yes and no. If you need say a 316/316L eblow, you may order acc. A403 to WP316-316L-WX. You will get a welded construction with 100% ray. But if you order to WP316-316L-W, you may end up with a welded fitting construction which did not receive any NDE. Refer to A403 para 5.4.