12 Major Difference b/w ASME B31.1 & ASME B31.3: Piping Quiz

FAQs on ASME B31.1 & ASME B31.3

1. What are ASME B31.1 and ASME B31.3?

ASME B31.1: Also known as the “Power Piping Code,” it provides requirements for piping systems typically found in electric power generating stations, industrial institutional plants, geothermal heating systems, and central and district heating and cooling systems.

ASME B31.3: Known as the “Process Piping Code,” it covers the design, materials, fabrication, assembly, erection, examination, inspection, and testing of piping used in chemical, petroleum, pharmaceutical, textile, paper, semiconductor, and cryogenic plants.

2. What are the primary differences in scope between ASME B31.1 and ASME B31.3?

ASME B31.1: Focuses on high-pressure, high-temperature piping systems typically associated with power generation and industrial heating.

ASME B31.3: Addresses a wider range of piping applications, including process fluids, hydrocarbons, and chemical products, emphasizing flexibility, dynamic behavior, and corrosion control.

3. How do the design pressures and temperatures differ between ASME B31.1 and ASME B31.3?

ASME B31.1: Typically deals with higher pressures and temperatures, suitable for power and industrial applications.

ASME B31.3: Covers a broader range of pressures and temperatures but usually handles lower pressures compared to B31.1.

4. What are the material selection criteria for ASME B31.1 and ASME B31.3?

ASME B31.1: Material selection focuses on high-pressure and high-temperature capabilities, with an emphasis on metals suitable for power generation environments.

ASME B31.3: Material selection includes a wide variety of metals and non-metals to handle different chemicals, fluids, and process conditions.

5. How do the fabrication and welding requirements differ between ASME B31.1 and ASME B31.3?

ASME B31.1: Emphasizes stringent requirements for welding procedures, welders’ qualifications, and post-weld heat treatment to ensure high reliability under high-pressure, high-temperature conditions.

ASME B31.3: Provides detailed guidelines for welding procedures and qualifications but is more flexible due to the diverse range of applications and materials it covers.

6. What are the differences in inspection and testing requirements for ASME B31.1 and ASME B31.3?

ASME B31.1: Typically requires more rigorous testing and inspection protocols, including hydrostatic testing and radiographic examination, due to the critical nature of power piping systems.

ASME B31.3: Requires inspection and testing suitable for process piping, including hydrostatic and pneumatic tests, with specific requirements based on the service conditions and potential hazards.

7. How do the safety factors and allowable stresses compare between ASME B31.1 and ASME B31.3?

ASME B31.1: Uses higher safety factors and lower allowable stresses, reflecting the higher risk and potential consequences of failure in power piping systems.

ASME B31.3: Uses different safety factors and allowable stresses based on the fluid service category, allowing for more tailored and efficient designs for various process applications.

8. What are the seismic design considerations in ASME B31.1 and ASME B31.3?

ASME B31.1: Provides guidelines for seismic design, focusing on the structural integrity of piping systems in power plants and industrial facilities during seismic events.

ASME B31.3: Offers detailed seismic design considerations for process piping, ensuring the safety and functionality of systems handling hazardous or critical fluids during earthquakes.

9. How do the codes address corrosion allowances and material degradation?

ASME B31.1: Includes provisions for corrosion allowances and material degradation, particularly for high-temperature steam and water systems.

ASME B31.3: Provides comprehensive guidelines for corrosion allowances, material selection, and protective measures to address a wide range of corrosive environments in process industries.

10. Are there any differences in documentation and record-keeping requirements?

ASME B31.1: Requires extensive documentation and record-keeping for design, fabrication, testing, and inspection to ensure compliance and traceability in power piping systems.

ASME B31.3: Also requires detailed documentation and records but is tailored to the diverse and often complex nature of process piping, emphasizing flexibility and adaptability in record-keeping practices.