2014 10 14 Pipework Specification
2014 10 14 Pipework Specification
2014 10 14 Pipework Specification
PIPEWORK
WELDING, INSPECTION,
SUPPORTING AND
TESTING
GENERAL
CERTIFICATION
GENERAL
Purpose
Related Documents
Application of Standards
Definitions
Drawings
Materials
FABRICATION
General
Tolerances
Preparation
Fit-Up
Alignment of Bores
Threading
Bends
WELDING
HEAT TREATMENT
Preheating
Post Heat Treatment
INSPECTION
General
Non-Destructive Testing
Classification of Piping
Examination of Welds
Pressure
Testing
MARKING
REFERENCES
Table 1 – Extent of Weld Inspection by Class
Figure 1 – Flange Alignment
Figure 2 – Dimensional Tolerances
GENERAL
Purpose
Related Documents
Application Standards
Definitions
Drawings
Materials
FABRICATION
General
Tolerances
Preparation
Fit-Up
Alignment of Bores
Threading
Bends
WELDING
HEAT TREATMENT
Preheating
INSPECTION
General
Non-Destructive Testing
Classification of Piping
Examination of Welds
Pressure
Testing
Extent of Weld Inspection
MARKING
REFERENCES
Figure 1 – Flange Alignment
Figure 2 – Dimensional Tolerances
SCOPE
DEFINITIONS
MATERIAL SPECIFICATIONS
Carbon Steel
Stainless Steel
Hastelloy
WELDING
PROCESSES
Shielded Metal-Arc Welding (SMAW) Process
Gas Tungsten-Arc Welding (GTAW) Process
PREPARATION OF PARENT
METAL
Edge Formation
Cleaning
Weld Preparation
Branch Connections
WORKMANSHIP
Striking the Arc
Slag Removal and Inter Run Inspection
Continuity
Current Control
Earthing
WEATHER
Climatic Conditions
Temperature
SUPERVISION
PURPOSE
PROVISION OF TEST
EQUIPMENT
HYDROSTATIC TESTING
PNEUMATIC TESTING
INSTRUMENT PIPING.
SERVICE TESTING
RECORDS
OBJECTIVE
DEFINITIONS
SCOPE
APPLICATION OF STANDARDS
PIPING
MATERIALS
GENERAL
ASSEMBLY OF PIPEWORK
Flange Joints
Screwed Pipework
PIPE SUPPORTS
General
Types of Support
TEMPORARY SPOOLS
DOCUMENTATION
Piping General Arrangement Drawings
Isometric Drawings
Piping Model
Protective Heating System Drawing
Piping Material Specifications and Materials Summaries
Identification and Selection of Pipe Supports
Documentation Discussions
Schedule of Documents
REVISION
b) Where piping is intended for pressure temperature rating of Class 300 and 600
b) Where the design pressure does not exceed 150 psig (10.3 barg) and
c) Where the process conditions of the fluid are considered safe (i.e. non-flammable,
non- toxic, and not damaging to human tissue). Examination of welds will comply with
Table 1 requirements listed in the following specifications.
Specification for Fabrication Testing and Inspection of Stainless Steel Pipework - F552 B/6064
Specification for Fabrication Testing and Inspection of Carbon Steel Pipework - F554 B/6064
Specification for Fabrication Testing and Inspection of Hastelloy Pipework - F558 B/6064
Welding Qualifications
All above specifications for welding require welders to be qualified in accordance with ASME
Section IX of the ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code.
Approval Test of Welders for fusion welding of pipework all welders shall comply with BS EN 287-
1:2011Qualification test of welders. Fusion welding. Steels
Approved Welding Procedures shall comply with BSEN 288
City University Specification for Pipework Welding Sub Sections PE11 PE11
Approval of testing of welders for fusion welding of all comply with BS EN 287.
Approval of welding procedures shall comply with Appendix A BS 2633 1987, see Table 10 of the
appendix.
Examination of welds.
On completion of pipework fabrication the following weld listing documentation must be offered in
duplicate to City University London as follows:
a) 3D CAD drawings of the pipework systems showing location of all welds with each weld having
a unique number. The drawings shall be derived from a post completion 3D scan. This may be
carried out in a number of phases where pipework is to be concealed, such as above or below
false ceilings or floors.
b) Weld history log shall be supplied listing all welds denoting type of weld and which welder
performed the weld.
g) Validation documentation where required which may entail boroscope readings for internal
surfaces of welds.
h) Flanges in PTFE lined piping systems using star washers: TRED 000-006-008- 000-00107
i) Proposed static linkage of flanges in S and CS piping systems using start washers: TRED 000-
006-008-000-00108
j) Proposed static linkage for loose flanges in PTFE piping systems: TRED 000- 006-008-000-
00109
The purpose of this specification is to define an acceptable standard for the fabrication, testing
and inspection of carbon steel pipework.
Related Documents
This specification, together with the Contract Conditions of Order, Requisition Sheets, Data
Sheets and Drawings, covers the requirements for the fabrication, testing and inspection of
carbon steel pipework.
Application of Standards
The fabrication, testing and inspection of pipework shall be in accordance with ASME code for
pressure piping, B31.3 1993 Edition plus Addenda B31.3a 1993, the requirements of this
specification any applicable governmental rules or regulations.
Where differences exist between the Codes and City University requirements, the latter shall
govern. Where governmental rules apply, City University shall be informed in writing at the
earliest possible time.
Definitions
The term ‘City University’ shall be deemed to mean City University London or those acting on
behalf of City University London.
The term ‘Fabricator’ shall be deemed to mean the Contractor, Sub-Contractor or Site Fabricator
who undertakes the fabrication of pipework.
The term ‘Code’ as used in this document, shall be deemed to mean the American National
Standard Code for Pressure Piping – Chemical Plant and Petroleum Refinery Piping, ASME
B31.3.
Where possible City University will furnish piping detail drawing or orthographic or isometric type.
Other drawings or standards showing typical details will also be included where applicable.
General arrangement drawings will show the routing of lines, controlling dimensions, component
parts and attachments for fabrication and erection. The dimensions shown on the isometric or
details drawings will be true, with no allowance for weld gaps.
Generally, gaskets 1/16 in (1.5mm) or less in thickness are ignored in dimensional computations
while gaskets or greater thickness will be included.
Materials
This specification covers the fabrication of carbon steel pipe designated ‘P-1’ in appendix C of the
Code. For mixed metals fabrication, refer to the respective standards.
City University will furnish piping and valve specifications defining material requirements and
method of fabrication for the specific service and pressure classes.
It will be the Fabricator’s responsibility to correctly interpret the detail drawings and specifications.
Unless contract instructions dictate otherwise, all materials will be supplied by the Fabricator. The
material shall conform to the requirements of the piping specification and shall be supplied with
the relevant certification as specified in Section 9 of this standard. Any substitution of materials by
the Fabricator must be approved by City University in writing before commencement of
fabrication.
It is the Fabricator’s responsibility to produce and maintain correct records of materials used. The
Fabricator shall also be responsible for any loss or damage to materials supplied.
Special piping items not included in the piping specification but requiring fabrication or installation
will be listed and separately specified.
Cuttings should be accurate, smooth and true to template. Slag and cutting dross shall be
removed before fitting or welding.
o
Longitudinal weld seams in adjoining lengths shall be 180 apart where possible, but minimum
distance between seams of 6 in, (150mm) measured around the pipe, is acceptable. Longitudinal
seams in seam welded pipe shall be located so as to clear openings and external attachments.
The Fabricator shall not make longitudinal joints without prior approval of City University.
Installation and protection of proprietary items shall be in accordance with the manufacturer’s
installation instructions and good engineering practice.
Flanges, when indicated on the drawings as ‘supplied loose’ for site welding, shall be lightly tack
welded to the pipe by the Fabricator. Unless specified as a “site fitted weld”, the corresponding
pipe end shall be prepared for welding to the flange. For “site fitted welds” (unprepared pipe end),
the flanges shall be securely wired on.
Unless otherwise stated on the drawings, all flange bolt holes shall straddle the vertical centerline
of the pipe where the flange is installed vertically, and the northsouth center lines where the
flange is installed horizontally.
Where City University drawings indicate a site-fitted weld in the pipe assembly, the Fabricator
shall supply relevant pipe 6 in. (150mm) longer than indicated by the drawing, with the
unconnected end left unprepared.
Branch connections shall be in accordance with the piping and valve specifications or as detailed
on fabrication drawings.
Materials which have been damaged or found to have defects shall not be used in Classification I
fabrication. For classification II and III fabrication, minor surface marks may be cleaned providing
that the minimum wall thickness is maintained after considering manufacturing tolerances defined
in the appropriate material specifications.
Sections of pipe shall not be welded together to form a random length shorter than 10 ft.
(3000mm).
Bending of fabricated pipework after welding is not permitted without the approval of City
University. If bends are necessary and agreed to meet the dimensional requirements, the bending
shall be carried out with the work piece in cold condition.
Tolerances
In addition to tolerances contained within the specified codes or standards, the following shall
also apply:-
ii. All angular dimensions of bends and branches shall be maintained within ¼ degree. (See
Figure 2 for details).
iii. Misalignment of flanges from the indicated position, marked ‘A’ in Figure 1, shall not exceed
1/16 in (1.5mm).
iv. Alignment of flanges and branch welding ends, measured as dimensions ‘B’ in Figure 1
(across any diameter), shall not deviate from the indicated position more than 1/32 in/ft
(2.5mm/m) of diameter
v. Flange faces shall not be concave. Convexity of flange contact faces shall not exceed 0.015
in/in (1.6mm/100mm) width of the flange face. On flanges with smooth finish or grooved for
RTJ, the convexity shall not exceed 0.015 in (0.4mm) across the entire width of the raised face.
vi. In general, tolerances for fabricated pipework shall not exceed those shown in Figure 2.
vii. Lines should not deviate by more than 1 mm per meter to a maximum of 10mm from its
specified plane.
Preparation
The ends of pipe shall preferably be shaped by machine but other methods may be employed
providing a smooth and true surface is obtained free from tears, slag or scale and suitable for
welding. Flame cut material (the cut end) shall be ground back a minimum of 3 mm before
preparation for welding.
Unless specified otherwise, fabricated branch intersections shall be of the “set-on” type with the
branch pipe prepared to suit a full penetration weld of quality equal to the girth welds. Preparation
and cutting shall be in accordance with the Code.
Where reinforced pads are fitted, either for branches or structural attachments, they shall be
accurately shaped so that no gap larger than 1/16 in (1.5 mm), measured before welding, shall
exist between the periphery of the pad and the pipe.
For pressure reinforcement, each segment of each reinforcement pad shall be provided with a
hole drilled and tapped ¼ in. (6 mm) BS21 (taper) for testing and venting.
Forged branch attachments shall be of the type specified on City University drawings and fitted
accurately to the contours of the run pipe.
Couplings and half couplings shall be accurately shaped and ‘set-on’ to suit the contour of the run
pipe.
Reinforcement pads for structural attachments shall be provided with an untapped hole of ¼ in (6
mm) diameter.
Pipework Welding, Inspection, Supporting
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And Testing - Rev D
Fit-Up
Pipes shall be properly supported and aligned by jigs or clamps as required in order to preclude
extraneous loads and minimise strains during tacking.
Small tack welds, i.e. between ½ in (12.5 mm) and ¾ in (18mm) in length, penetrating to the
bottom of the groove may be used in fitting up (see Clause Welding).
Weld “bridge pieces” may be used only with prior approval of City University.
Alignment of Bores
Pipes with wall thickness ¼ in. (6 mm) and greater shall not have internal misalignment of pipe
wall exceeding 1/16 in (1.5mm).
Pipes with wall thickness less than ¼ in (6mm) shall not have internal misalignment of pipe wall
exceeding 25 percent of the pipe wall thickness.
When misalignment is greater than the above, the components shall be aligned by drifting, rolling
or machining in accordance with the Code, ensuring that the minimum wall thickness is
maintained after considering the manufacturing tolerances defined in the appropriate material
specifications.
Threading
Threads shall be to BS 21 (taper), or ANSI B1.20.1 NPT (taper) where required to match
connections on equipment etc. All threading shall be carried out after bending, forging or heat
treatment, but where possible, suitable thread protection must be provided.
When threaded flanges are specified, the pipe shall terminate 1/16 in (1.5 mm) short of the face
of the flange.
Threaded joints which are to ‘seal welded’ shall be made up dry (without thread compound or
tape).
Pulled bends, when specified, shall be fabricated in accordance with the relevant piping
specification using formers or shoes which fit the desired contour of the pipe.
Tolerances on diameter and thickness after bending shall not exceed those defined in the Code.
Unless stated otherwise on City University drawings, pulled bends shall be made in accordance
with the piping specifications.
For hot bending or forming, the temperature ranges and heat treatment requirements specified in
Code ASTM A234 shall be adhered to.
WELDING
No welding processes or procedures which have not been approved in writing by City University
will be used in welding pipework or attachments to pipework. Fabrication shall not commence
until City University has approved the weld procedural tests.
Unless otherwise noted on City University drawings, welding shall be in accordance with the
Code.
Small tack welds used for ‘fit-up’, if free from breaks, may be included in the first pass provided
they are crack-free and have been made up by a qualified welder to the same procedures as that
required for the first pass. Larger or defective tack welds shall be chipped out before laying the
first pass.
During welding, section of pipe shall be adequately supported so that joints are relieved of
unnecessary strain.
Welders shall be properly qualified in accordance with the requirements of Section IX of ASME
Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code.
Competency test certificates shall be current and shall be approved by City University before
welding is commenced.
All welding shall be supervised and records maintained to ensure that each weld can be
subsequently identified with the individual welder concerned, the weld procedure, and electrodes
used.
The Fabricator shall provide all electrodes, filler wires and gases. Electrodes shall be kept clean
and dry and stored in a heated place in accordance with the maker’s instructions. The issue of
electrodes shall be supervised to ensure the use of correct electrodes and the rotational
consumption of stocks. Electrodes shall be dried according the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Minor defects in welds may be repaired provided complete records are kept and passed to the
City University responsible person when he inspects the finished work. Major defects which might
indicate incorrect choice of materials or unsuitable welding procedures shall be reported to City
University in writing for a decision regarding acceptance. Defects in welds requiring repair shall
be removed by flame or arc gouging followed by grinding and dressing. As an alternative,
grinding, chipping or machining may be used.
After welding, all flange faces shall be cleaned of weld spatter, arc strike or any other defects or
damage.
Where preheat treatment is required prior to welding, it shall be in accordance with the Code and
the approved Weld Procedure.
o
In ambient conditions where metal temperatures are below 0 C, the work piece shall be
preheated in accordance with the Code, and the approved Weld Procedure.
Where post heat treatment is required, it shall be in accordance with the Code, and the approved
Weld Procedure and shall precede any non-destructive testing.
The requirements for surface preparation for painting shall be in accordance with the City
University Painting Specification.
Internal Cleaning
No special cleaning of pipe is required, however, the Fabricator shall ensure that bores of pipes
are kept clean at all times, free from rust, swarf, sand, scale and other matter.
City University’s representative shall have the right to inspect any aspect of the work at the
Fabricator’s works at any reasonable time during fabrication, testing or on completion. Pipework
received from the Fabricator which does not conform to the requirements of this standard may be
returned to the Fabricator for repair. Alternatively, after prior agreement, City University may
perform repairs as required and bill the charges to the Fabricator.
Pipework shall be checked against drawings and other related documents to verify that it is
fabricated in compliance with requirements.
Fabrications shall have dimensions falling within the tolerances defined in this standard.
Non-Destructive Testing
The extent of radiographic or other non-destructive examination shall be in accordance with the
classifications given on the drawings and as defined in Table 1.
The standard acceptance for non-destructive tests shall be as specified in the Code.
Where pressure testing is to be carried out, it will be in accordance with City University Standard
and as specified in Section Pressure Testing.
Classification of Piping
Classification I piping is defined as piping where the process fluid, in combination with operating
temperatures, pressures and such other conditions, which in the judgment of City University,
make weld failure especially hazardous. (Hazards shall include flammability, toxicity, explosion,
etc).
i. Where piping is intended for service at temperatures above 186oC or pressures above 150 psig
(10.3 barg); or
ii. Where piping is intended for pressure temperature rating of Class 300 and 600; or
ii. Where the design pressure does not exceed 150 psig (10.3 barg); and
iii. Where the process conditions of the fluid are considered safe. (i.e. nonflammable, non-toxic
and not damaging to human tissue).
Examination of Welds
Examination of all welds shall be applied in accordance with Table 1 on completed work only.
The accepted standard for welds shall be that specified in the Code except that complete
penetration is essential, with no notches or undercutting permitted.
The standard acceptance for non-destructive tests shall be as specified in the Code.
Where a random examination is called for any welds are rejected, further welds shall be
examined until the specified proportion of welds is found to be acceptable. All this work shall be
carried out at the Fabricator’s expense.
Visual examination of all welds shall be external and internal to detect defects, e.g. incomplete
penetration, lack of fusion, misalignment, undercut and concave reinforcement on butt welds.
Pressure Testing
See Section 6. Pressure testing shall be carried out following the guidelines as presented in the
HSE Guidance Note GS4
Paints selected shall be in accordance with those listed in the Painting Specification.
Protection for flanges, pipe ends and other components against mechanical damage or ingress of
dirt shall be provided by the Fabricator.
Each fabricated item shall after the application of primer, be plainly marked in white paint with the
piece number and an arrow indicating the direction of flow.
Each crate, box, bag etc., shall be marked to show their contents.
i. American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) Standard B31.3, Chemical Plant and
Petroleum Refinery Piping.
ii. American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code:
The application edition dates of ASTM, ASME, and ANSI specifications shall be as per Appendix
E of ASME B31.3
Radiographic*
100% -100%
Magnetic Particle
*** Ultrasonic inspection service may be used at the option of City University in lieu of radiographic
* inspection.
Includes half coupling and welds between reinforcing pads and pipe walls where used. The
** complete circumference or 10% of welds of any size, by each welder shall be examined.
Random selection, each welder at Inspector’s discretion. Normally 10% i.e. one exposure of
+ one weld in each ten welds of the same size by each welder.
The purpose of this specification is to define an acceptable standard for the fabrication, testing
and inspection of Hastelloy pipework.
Related Documents
This specification, together with the contract conditions of order, requisition sheets, data sheets
and drawings, covers the requirements for the fabrication, testing and inspection of Hastelloy
pipework.
This specification must be read in conjunction with the “Specification for the Erection of
Pipework”.
Application Standards
The fabrication, testing and inspection of pipework shall be in accordance with AMSE code for
pressure piping, B31.3, 1993 edition plus Addenda B31.3a 1993, the requirements of this
specification and any applicable governmental rules or regulations. Where differences exist
between the codes and City University’s requirements, the latter shall govern. Where
governmental rules apply, City University should be informed in writing at the earliest possible
time.
Definitions
The term ‘City University’ shall be deemed to mean City University London or those acting on
behalf of City University London.
The term ‘Fabricator’ shall be deemed to mean the Contractor, Sub-Contractor or Site Fabricator
who undertakes the fabrication of Pipework.
The term ‘Code’ used in this document shall be deemed to mean the American National Standard
Institute Code for Pressure Piping – Chemical Plant and Petroleum Refinery Piping, ASME B31.3.
City University will furnish piping detail drawings of the orthographic or isometric type. Other
drawings or standards showing typical details will also be included where applicable. General
arrangement drawings will show the routing of lines, controlling dimensions, component parts and
attachments for fabrication and erection. The dimensions shown on the isometric or detail
drawing will be true, with no allowance for weld gaps. Generally, gaskets 1/16 in (1.5 mm) or less
in thickness are ignored in dimensional computations while gaskets of greater thickness will be
included.
Materials
This specification covers the fabrication of Hastelloy pipe designated ‘P-44’ in Appendix A of the
Code.
City University will furnish piping and valve specifications defining material requirements and
method of fabrication for the specification service and pressure classes.
It will be the Fabricator’s responsibility to correctly interpret the details drawings and
specifications.
Unless contract instructions dictate otherwise, all materials will be supplied by the Fabricator. The
material shall conform to the requirements of the piping specification and shall be supplied with
the relevant certification as specified. Any substitution of materials by the Fabricator must be
approved by City University in writing before commencement of fabrication.
It is the Fabricator’s responsibility to produce and maintain correct records of materials used. The
Fabricator shall also be responsible for any loss or damage to materials supplied.
Special piping items not included in the piping specification but requiring fabrication or installation
will be listed and separately specified.
Cuttings should be accurate, smooth and true to template. Slag and cutting dross shall be
removed before fitting or welding. Cutting methods which involve heating, e.g., arc, or plasma jet
cutting, must be approved by City University.
Longitudinal weld seams in adjoining lengths shall be 180° apart where possible, but a minimum
between seams of 8 in (200 mm), measured around the pipe, is acceptable. Longitudinal seams
in seam welded pipe shall be located so as to clear opening and external attachments. The
Fabricator shall not make longitudinal joints without prior approval of City University.
Installation and protection of proprietary items shall be in accordance with the manufacturer’s
installation instructions and good engineering practice. They must not under any circumstances
be contaminated with grinding dust or subjected to weld spatter. Surfaces must be properly
cleaned prior to re-assembly.
Unless stated otherwise on the drawings, all flange bolt holes shall be off-centre. Branch
connections shall be in accordance with the piping material specification or as detailed on
fabrication drawings.
Materials have been damaged or found to have defects shall not be used in the fabrication. Minor
surface marks may be cleaned providing the minimum wall thickness is maintained after
considering manufacturing tolerances defined in the appropriate material specification. Equipment
and cleaning methods, as well as the acceptance of such materials, must be approved by City
University.
Sections of pipe shall not be welded together to form a random length shorter than 10 ft (3000
mm).
Bending of fabricated pipework after welding is not permitted without approval of City University.
Tolerances
In addition to tolerances contained within the specified codes or standards, the following shall
also apply:-
i. All linear dimensions involved in the relative position of branches, bosses, flanged ends and
changes in direction each to each other shall be maintained within +/- 0.125 in (+/- 3 mm). (See
figure 2 for details).
ii. All angular dimensions of bends and branches shall be maintained within ¼ degree. (See
Figure 2 for details).
iv. Alignment of flanges and branch welding ends measured as dimensions ‘B’ in Figure 1 (across
any diameter) shall not deviate from the indicated position more than 1/32 in/ft (2.5 mm/m) of
the diameter.
v. Flange faces shall not concave. Convexity of flange contact faces shall not exceed 0.015 in/in
(1.6 mm/100 mm) width of the flange face. On flanges with smooth finish or grooved for RTJ,
the convexity shall not exceed 0.015 in (0.4 mm) across the entire width of the raised face.
vi. In general, tolerances for fabricated pipework shall not exceed those shown in Figure 2.
vii. Lines should not deviate by more than 1 mm per meter to a maximum of 10 mm from its
specified plane.
Preparation
Where reinforced pads are fitted, either for branches or structural attachments, they shall be
accurately shaped so that no gap larger than 1/16 in (1.5 mm), measured before welding, shall
exist between the periphery of the pad and the pipe.
Fore pressure reinforcement, each segment of each reinforcement pad shall be provided with a
hole drilled and tapped ¼ in (6 mm) BS 21 (taper) for testing and venting.
Forged branch attachments shall be of the type specified on City University’s drawings and fitted
accurately to the contours of the run pipe.
Couplings and half couplings shall be accurately shaped and ‘set-on’ to suit the contour of the run
pipe.
Reinforcement pads for structural attachments shall be provided with an untapped holes of ¼ in
(6 mm) diameter.
Fit-Up
Pipes shall be properly supported and aligned by jigs or clamps as required in order to preclude
extraneous loads and minimise stresses during tracking.
Small tack welds, i.e. between ½ in (12.5 mm) and ¾ in (18 mm) in length, penetrating to the
bottom of the groove may be used in fitting up.
Welded ‘bridge pieces’ may be used only with the prior approval of City University.
Alignment of Bores
Pipes with a thickness less than ¼ in (6 mm) shall not have internal misalignment of pipe wall
exceeding 25 percent of the pipe wall thickness.
When misalignment is greater than the above, the components shall b e aligned by drifting, rolling
or machining in accordance with the Code, ensuring that the minimum wall thickness is
maintained after considering the manufacturing tolerance defined in the appropriate material
specifications.
Threading
Threads shall be to BS21 (taper), or ANSI B1.20.1 NPT (taper) where required to match
connections on equipment etc. All threading shall be carried out after bending, forging or heat
treatment, but where this is not possible, suitable thread protection must be provided.
When threaded flanges are specified, the pipe shall terminate 1/16 in (1.5 mm) short of the face
of the flange.
Threaded joints which are to be ‘seal-welded’ shall be made up dry (without thread compound or
tape).
Bends
Changes of direction shall be made in accordance with the drawings and specifications.
Cold formed bends are preferred and they shall be heat treated after bending in accordance with
ASME B31.3.
The use of an induction bending process in acceptable providing the procedure is approved by
City University.
Where pulled bends are specified they will be supplied to site preformed. The Fabricator shall not
undertake any pulling of pipe to form bends.
Unless otherwise noted on City University drawings, welding shall be in accordance with the
Code.
Small tack welds used for ‘fit-up’, if free from cracks, may be included in the first pass provided
that they have been made up by a qualified welder and to the same procedure as that required
for the first pass. Large or defective tack welds shall be chipped out before laying the first pass.
During welding, sections of pipe shall be adequately supported so that joints are relieved of
unnecessary stresses.
Welders shall be properly qualified in accordance with the requirements of Section IX of the
ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code. Competency test certificates must be current and shall
be approved by City University before welding is commenced.
All welding shall be supervised and records maintained to ensure that each weld can be
subsequently identified with the individual welder concerned, the weld procedure used, and
electrodes used.
The Fabricator shall provide all electrodes, filler wires and gases. The issue of electrodes shall be
supervised to ensure the use of correct electrodes and the rotational consumption of stocks.
For all fabrication, the complete circumference of the first five butt welds, of each welder, shall be
radiographed. The radiographs shall be retained for examination and approval by City
University’s Inspector.
No repair shall be done without the approval of City University’s Inspector. The extent of repair
and the procedure shall be agreed before the work is started. Defects in welds requiring repair
shall be removed by flame or arc gouging following by grinding and dressing. As an alternative,
grinding, chipping or machining may be used.
After welding, all flange faces shall be cleaned of weld spatter, arc strike or any other defects or
damage.
Where fillet welds other than those covered by ASME B31.1 are used and no weld preparation is
called for, the minimum length of the weld leg shall be equal to 1.4 times the thickness of the
thinner component.
All pipe butt welds shall be a smooth bore profile with no root over-penetration. A procedure shall
be agreed which will ensure no root over-penetration.
No welding or tack welding shall be carried out when the temperature of the parent metal within
o
75 mm of the joint is less than 5 C.
No special cleaning of pipe is required, however, the Fabricator shall ensure that bores of pipes
are kept clean at all times, free from rust, swarf, sand, grease, oil, scale and other matter.
The Fabricator is responsible for Quality Control, however City University’s representative shall
have the right to inspect any aspect of the work at any reasonable time during fabrication, testing
or on completion. Pipework which does not conform to the requirements to this standard will be
retuned to the Fabricator for repair.
Pipework shall be checked against the drawings and other related documents to verify that it is
fabricated in compliance with the requirements.
Fabrications shall have dimensions falling within the tolerances defined in this standard.
No piping spools are to be dispatched from the fabrication shop to site without prior approval of
City University.
Non-Destructive Testing
The extent of radiographic or other non-destructive examination shall be in accordance with the
classifications given on the drawings and as defined in the following table.
The standard acceptance for non-destructive tests shall be as specified in the Code.
Where pressure testing is to be carried out, it will be in accordance with City University’s
Standard and as specified.
Classification of Piping
Classification I Piping is defined as piping used where the process fluid, in combination with
operating temperatures, pressures and such other conditions, which in the judgment of City
University, make weld failure especially hazardous (hazards shall include flammability, toxicity,
explosion, etc.), or unacceptable for process reasons.
Examination of Welds
Examination of all welds shall be applied in accordance with the following table on completed
work only.
Where a random examination is called for and any welds are rejected, further welds shall be
examined until the specified proportion of welds is found to be acceptable.
Visual examination of all welds shall be external and internal, where possible, to detect defects
including incomplete penetration, lack of fusion, misalignment, undercut and concave
reinforcement of butt welds.
Pressure Testing
See Section 6.
All pressure testing shall be carried out following the guidelines preseted in HSE Guidance Note
GS4.
When shop testing is specified, the Fabricator shall provide all the necessary materials for closing
open ends of piping under test.
Branch and
Class Diameter Method Girth Welds
Fillet
Welds **
Classification I All Visual 100% 100%
Each fabricated item shall be plainly marked or tagged by the Fabricator with the piece number
and an arrow indicating the direction of flow. The piece number consists of the line number plus a
sequential number.
Hastelloy shall not be marked with crayons or paints containing sulphur, zinc, lead or aluminium
or compounds of these substances.
Each crate, box, bag, etc. shall be marked to show their contents.
ii. American Society of Mechanical Engineers (AMSE) Standard B31.3 Chemical Plant and
Petroleum Refinery Piping.
iii. American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code:
The application edition dates of ASTM, ASME and ANSI specifications shall be as per Appendix
E of ASME B31.3.
The welding shall be in accordance with the Code and the requirements of this specification.
‘Engineer’ means City University London or those acting on behalf of City University London.
‘Code’ means American National Standard Institute Code for Precision Piping – Chemical Plant
and Petroleum Refinery Piping ASTM B31.3 1990 Edition plus Addenda B31.3 1990 and B31.3b
1991.
Carbon Steel
(Piping Specification codes CS1A, CS1B, CS1C, CS1D, CS1E, CS1F, CS1G, CS3A, CS3B,
CS3C, CS6A, CS6B, CS7A)
Fittings ASTM A234 Grade WPB, ASTM A105, BS 1965 Ptl Size Range: 15 mm NPS to 60 mm
NPS
Stainless Steel
(Piping Specification Codes SS1A, SS1B, SS1C, SS1D, SS1F, SS1G, SS1T, SS1U, SS3A,
SS3B, SS3C, SS6C, SS3T, SS9T, SS25T).
Fittings ASTM A403 Grade WP 316L, ASTM A182 Grade WP3 16L. ASTM A403 Grade
WP 304L, ASTM A182 Grade WP304L.
Hastelloy
Unless otherwise stated, the shielded Metal-Arc Welding Process shall be used for the following:-
i. Butt and fillet welding of all carbon steel piping 50 mm NPS and above.
ii. Fillet welding of all stainless steel and Hastelloy piping 50 mm NPS and above.
iii. Filling and capping runs on butt welds for all stainless steel piping 50 mm NPS and above.
iv. Structural steel fittings such as lugs, brackets, pipe supports, etc., for all carbon and stainless
steel and Hastelloy piping.
The current for Shielded Metal-Arc Process welding shall be AC or DC for carbon steel and DC
electrode positive for stainless steel and Hastelloy. For all cases the current shall be in
accordance with the electrode Manufacturer’s recommendations.
Unless stated otherwise, the Gas Tungsten-Arc Welding Process with either manually or
mechanically fed filler wire shall be used for the following:-
i. Butt and fillet welding of all carbon steel, stainless steel and Hastelloy piping below 50 mm
NPS.
ii. Butt welding of all stainless steel and Hastelloy piping 50 mm NPS and above, first run only.
Second and subsequent runs shall be carried out as SMAW.
iii. Butt and fillet welding of carbon steel valves below 50 mm NPS.
For stainless steel and Hastelloy butt welds, an internal purge of argon or nitrogen, i.e. ‘backing
gas’ shall be fed into the pipe during root fusion technique using suitable blanking devices to
reduce argon or nitrogen consumption for a minimum of two runs. The backing gas is not required
For butt welding only, the root run may be made by the Autogenous gas tungsten-arc method
(without the addition of filler metal). The weld faces must be close-butted. Where site conditions
result in poor fit up or poor edge preparation, a filler wire shall be used.
WELDING PROCESS
BASE METAL
SMAW ELECTRODES GTAW FILLER RODS
Carbon Steel Root Pass AWS A5.18
Storage Facilities
The Contractor shall provide adequate and suitable storage facilities on site for electrodes and
filler rods. Electrode types shall be clearly identified and completely separated. Immediately prior
to use, sufficient electrode packets shall be opened and placed in electrically heated,
thermostatically controlled, storage cabinets which shall remain heated at all times at a
temperature in accordance with the electrode Manufacturer’s recommendations. (Damp
electrodes shall not be used).
The edges of carbon steel piping shall be prepared for welding by machining, machine flame
cutting and grinding, grinding, filling or any combination of same. Flame cut edges shall be prior
to welding.
The edges of austenitic chromium nickel steel piping shall be prepared for welding by mechanical
means wherever possible. Sawing or filing may be employed, but it must be ascertained and
confirmed by the Contractor, that any grinding wheel or file used for this purpose is free from any
ferrous or copper deposit which could be detrimental to the quality of the weld. (Filler rods shall
be degreased prior to use).
It is not permitted to use a flame cutting or gouging process or an arc gouging process for the
preparation of edges on any stainless steel weld.
Cleaning
Immediately prior to welding, the fusion faces shall be thoroughly cleaned of scale, rust, grease,
paint or other foreign matter which may affect the quality of the deposited metal. Particular care
shall be taken to ensure cleanliness when preparing stainless steel for inert gas shielded arc
welding.
The fusion faces and adjacent parent material shall be thoroughly degreased with acetone,
propanol, or iso-propanol. Chlorinated solvents shall not be used. Weld preparation faces shall
not be handled after degreasing.
Methanol or industrial methylated spirit must not be used under any circumstances.
Weld Preparation
Shall be the single vee unbacked butt on material wall thickness 5.22 mm inclusive as per figure
328.4.2a of the Code.
Where branches are fabricated by welding, their joint design shall comply with the Code.
Branch Connections
The alignment of pipes, branches, fittings and other similar details to be joined shall be aligned in
accordance with the Code.
Butt welding joints in pipes or differing wall thicknesses shall conform to the Code.
Tack Welding
To maintain specified alignment and gap, where used during welding, the parts to be welded shall
be securely held in position by mechanical means or by tack welding.
The specified dimensions of the root gap are the dimensions after tack welding.
The electrodes, where used for tack welding, shall be of the same type and class as, and of size
not larger than, those to be used for completing the root penetration weld.
The minimum size and length of track welds shall not be less than four times the thickness of the
material and shall be similar in area to the first run of welding to be applied. They shall be sound
in strength, free from pin-holes and cracks and the slag shall be removed before the joint is
welded. The extremities of the tack welds shall be dressed by grinding or chipping to facilitate
proper fusion when they are incorporated in the root run.
Clamps for aligning shall not be removed until at least half the root run has been completed and
its uniformly distributed around the circumference of the joint. A partially filled joint must NOT by
subjected to any undue stress.
Accidental contact of the electrode or of non-insulated part of the electrode holder with the pipe or
assemblies shall be avoided.
Each layer of weld metal shall be thoroughly cleaned and visually examined. All slag shall be
removed from each run of weld metal before a further run is superimposed, particular care being
paid to the junctions between weld metal and fusion faces. Each run of weld metal shall be free
from visible defects such as cracks, blow-holes, cavities or other deposition faults.
All such defects shall be removed by chipping, grinding, or filling before a deposition of a
subsequent run. Flame gouging of defects in welds is NOT permissible. Stainless steel wire
brushes must be used for the cleaning of all stainless
steel and Hastelloy deposition welds. Peening of weld runs is not permitted.
Continuity
Welding shall not be interrupted when a groove is only partially filled unless the thickness of the
weld metal; deposited is more than half of the thickness of the joint. No partially filled joint shall be
subjected to undue stresses.
Current Control
Welding current shall be regularly checked by the supervisors or inspectors using a suitable
current-measuring device.
Earthing
Current return cables from the work to the welding machines shall be clamped firmly to the ends
of the pipe assemblies. The earth return shall not pass through any machinery. When welding to
assembled valves, care should be taken to ensure that return cables are attached to the end to
be welded.
Welding shall not be made when weather conditions are likely to impair the quality of the weld
metal or joint. In particular, welds shall not be made on surfaces which are wet due to rain or
condensation, etc. Wind shields and shelter shall be used wherever necessary.
Temperature
o
When the general atmospheric temperature is 0 C or less, the weld metal or joint must be
o
gradually heated until the pipework temperature is at approximately 10 C.
Procedures, stating clearly where they apply, shall be approved by the Engineer before welding
commences.
The welds of pipework fabricated by fusion welding shall be subject to inspection by both visual
and by non-destructive means by the Engineer in accordance with the requirements of this
specification. The Contractor shall provide and maintain facilities for such inspection both in his
fabrication shop and on the site.
External Inspection
All welds shall be visually examined externally for faults and irregularities. Butt weld
reinforcement shall be uniform and shall merge smoothly into the pipe surface without undercut.
Fillet welds shall be regular in form and with undercut not exceeding that stated in ASME B31.3.
Internal Inspection
The backs (i.e. bore sides) of all joints which are accessible shall be inspected throughout their
circumference; full use shall be made of suitable optical instruments for quality acceptance in
accordance with the following requirements:-
i. In general the maximum limits of positive root penetrations shall not exceed 1.5 mm in pipe up
to and including 50 mm NPS and 3 mm in pipes greater than 50 mm NPS.
ii. Initial (root) runs in carbon steel pipe joints shall not show lack of root penetration, or evidence
of non-fusion.
To comply with this specification the quality of butt joints shall be assessed by radiographic
examination.
Radiography shall be in accordance with the Code using fine grain film and gamma techniques.
The quality of radiograph shall also conform to the Code.
In the case of the single image technique the pentameter shall be placed between the film and
the pipe surface. For the double image technique the pentameter shall be placed on the surface
of the pipe nearest the source of radiation.
Each section of the weld shall be marked so that the radiographs can easily be correlated to the
particular part of the joint represented.
Welds shall be accepted or rejected in accordance with the requirements of the Code and
paragraph Internal Inspection.
Where welds fail to comply with the requirements of this specification wholly, or in part, all
unacceptable defects shall be removed.
Localised defects shall be removed by chipping, grinding, filing, flame cutting or flame gouging
and grinding. Flame cutting or gouging is not permitted for stainless steel or Hastelloy.
All repair welds shall be made by the same or other similarly qualified welder, using the same
complete procedure as was employed in making the original welds, including pre-heating and
stress relieving, where these were originally required.
All repair welds shall meet the requirements of this specification and shall be subject to
radiographic examination which shall be carried out before stress relieving if this is required by
the Code.
SUPERVISION
The Contractor shall provide competent welding supervision during all welding.
- Material Test Certificates and Letter of Conformity for all materials supplied by the Contractor
- List of welders names and identification numbers that are used on marked up isometrics,
fabrication sketches and gas.
- All drawings marked up with welder identification numbers and weld numbers on each weld in
conjunction with a weld schedule for each drawing to enable to weld reports and radiographs to
be easily identified.
Upon completion, the Contractor shall retain one copy of the dossier, for their own records and
hand over two dossiers to the Engineer, who will review, accept and retain one copy of his own
records.
Great care must be taken of original documents and radiographs, until they are officially handed
over to the Engineer or Owner. In particular, radiographs shall be stored in a fireproof container.
i. Pressure testing in accordance with this specification to ensure that the pipework has adequate
strength for the design conditions, and;
The Contractor shall demonstrate to City University that all the necessary items are available at
the site in advance of commencing testing to ensure the testing programme is not delayed in any
way.
The test gauge shall comply with the requirements of BS 1780 – Bourdon Tube Pressure and
Vacuum Gauges.
The scale range of the test gauge used shall be suitable for the test pressure.
Test gauges shall be checked against a standard gauge or dead-weight tester before use or
whenever there is reason to believe a true reading is not being obtained. Such tests shall be
witnessed by City University’s responsible person.
Following erection, the inside of all pipes, valves, fittings and other associated equipment shall be
cleaned and all loose mill scale and foreign matter removed, as follows:-
i. All piping systems and equipment shall be flushed out with water (or blown out with air where
water is not the test medium) prior to test. Precautions shall be taken to ensure that debris is
not flushed into vessels, equipment or ‘dead ends’. All flushing, shall be carried out to the
satisfaction of City University.
ii. Control valves shall, where possible, be removed until the initial flushing of the system has
been completed.
iii. Where flushing occurs through a control valve and when no by-pass or inline strainer is fitted,
the cover shall be removed and the seat cleaned under supervision of City University. The in-
line strainer may be either of the permanent of temporary type.
iv. Flushing shall not be carried out through any control valve or other type of valve fitted with a
Teflon, silver, titanium or soft seat, or through any other piece of equipment (such as
rotameters) which might be damaged in the flushing operation. Such equipment shall be either
removed from the system or suitably isolated.
v. The general precautions outlined in the Section on Pneumatic Testing shall be observed when
blowing out with air. Air pressure in the system shall be not greater than 1 barg or the air test
pressure, whichever is less.
vi. The handles of all temporary strainers shall be painted bright yellow to make them readily
identifiable for removal prior to start-up operations. A list of all temporary strainers shall be
kept by the Contractor.
All welded and mechanical joints shall remain uninsulated and free from paint until pressure
testing has been completed.
Wherever possible, underground lines shall be tested before back-filling. Where it is essential to
back-fill any section of a line before testing it is recommended that such section should be
subjected to the test pressure for period of at least two hours and checked for pressure drop.
Testing of lines supported by springs shall be carried out with the locking pins installed in the
springs. The locking pins shall then be removed prior to commissioning. Springs are individually
identified on the pipe support schedule. Thus giving a readily accessible schedule of locking pins.
Supports of pipelines will generally be designed taking into account hydrostatic test loadings.
Where a system is to be isolated between a pair of companion flanges properly and test spades
are to be used. The test spades used shall as far as practical be of the minimum thickness
consistent with the piping design in order to prevent excessive stress or movement of pipework
and equipment during installation.
Spades shall not be used where this could cause misalignment or damage to equipment such as
pumps and compressors which have been aligned, clocked and checked.
Test blank handles shall be painted a bright red to make them readily identifiable for removal prior
to start-up operations.
All restrictions, such as flow nozzles and orifice plates, which interface with filling, draining or
venting, shall be removed from the piping.
Lines containing check valves shall have the source of test pressure located on the upstream
side of the valve.
Unless otherwise specified on the line schedule, lines open to atmosphere or drain shall not be
tested. Such lines shall be examined to determine that all joints are properly made.
Any equipment, or in-line items for which the maximum permissible cold test pressure is lower
than the test pressure applied to the system, shall be removed or blanked off from the line before
testing.
Where expansion bellows are subject to test pressures the bellows shall be fitted with constraints.
A record of any such constraints shall be kept and a check made for commissioning to ensure
that they have been removed.
Connections for which spiral-wound gaskets are specified, and which are to be dismantled after
testing (e.g. temporary spools) shall be fitted with compressed nonasbestos fibre gaskets during
testing, except where specified below is applicable. Non-asbestos gaskets for testing shall be
supplied by the Contractor. The spiralwound gaskets shall be fitted on final assembly.
Where the test pressure exceeds these limitations, spiral wound gaskets shall be used for the
test.
Before applying pressure, the lines or systems shall be inspected for tightness and to verify that
all parts that are not to be included in the test are isolated.
All test pressures and media shall be stipulated in the Line Schedule and unless dictated
otherwise by the requirements of the contract, will be calculated in accordance with the following
rules extracted from ASME B31.3.
Piping systems tested hydrostatically shall be tested to a pressure of not less than 1.5 times the
°
design pressure adjusted to 50 C, but in no case less than 7 barg. To determine the test pressure
the following formula shall be used:-
Pt = 1.5 P St
Where
Pneumatic test pressure shall be 110% of the design pressure, unless otherwise specified. The
maximum pneumatic test pressure shall be 1.0 bar g.
Care shall be taken that stainless steel items used in lines of carbon steel or other materials are
flushed away when checking lines for the above requirement.
Piping and equipment tested with water containing chlorides will contain chloride residues after
drying out. Austenitic stainless steel surfaces operating at temperatures of 70oC or above shall
be additionally flushed using chloride-free water (1 ppm maximum) to remove chloride residues.
If there is a possibility of damage due to freezing, or if the operating fluid would be adversely
affected by water, e.g. instrument air, then oil-free air may be used; approval shall be obtained
from City University before testing.
All vents and other connections which may serve as vents, shall be open during filling in order to
release all air before applying pressure.
The pressure reading shall be taken at the lowest point in a system (the static head shall be taken
into consideration).
Pressure shall be applied by means of a suitable test pumps which shall not be connected to the
system until ready for test. A test gauge shall be provided at the pump discharge to determine the
test pressure of the system and to avoid overpressurising. The pump shall be attended constantly
during pressurising by an authorised operator and effectively isolated from the system during the
test and whenever left unattended.
In order to prevent pressures in excess of the test pressure, power operated test pumps shall be
equipped with a relief valve with a set pressure slightly above the test pressure.
Leaking valve glands shall only be tightened sufficiently to prevent leakage; control valve glands
shall only be tightened under supervision of City University, and the valve shall be actuated after
test.
Where there may be residual moisture in the valve packing after hydrostatic testing, consideration
shall be given to repacking the valves used in low temperature and corrosive chemical duties.
After the system has been filled, the test pressure should be raised in two stages, over a period of
approximately 1 hour.
The test pressure should be held without loss, for 1 hour but slight variation in pressure (5%) may
be experienced if there have been significant changes in climatic conditions during the filling and
testing period.
Where leaks are found during test, the lined shall be repaired and retested.
Pipework Welding, Inspection, Supporting
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And Testing - Rev D
All lines and equipment shall be completely drained after the hydrostatic test of a system has
been completed. Vents shall be opened first to prevent excessive vacuum and permit complete
draining.
Air shall be admitted to the system through a single air hose not exceeding 20 mm diameter. A
safety valve set at not greater than 10% above the test pressure and of adequate capacity shall
be installed in the system close to where air is admitted to the system.
The air hose shall be disconnected whenever the system is left unattended or when a test is in
progress.
A test gauge shall be located in the system close to the air supply point and all pressure gauges
in the system with scale ranges above that of the test pressure shall be connected in.
The system to be tested shall be brought slowly up to a maximum pressure of 1.0 barg and a
check made to locate any leaks. When any leaks have been rectified, the pressure shall be
gradually increased to the full test pressure, with no personnel in the vicinity of the system. (The
test shall be maintained for a minimum of four hours). When the system integrity has been
certified, the pressure shall be reduced to the maximum operating pressure and the lined
checked for leaks with a soapy water solution, and all leaks and defects marked. In this condition
the restriction on personnel in the vicinity is ended.
Before any remedial work is undertaken on weld defects, leaking flanges, etc., the system shall
be depressurized and valves opened to prevent any accidental pressurizing. No work shall be
attempted on a pressurized system.
After the system defects have been rectified, the system shall be re-tested at the original test
pressure.
Systems subject to pneumatic testing may have a permissible maximum pressure loss in four
hours, after allowing for air and ambient temperature changes as follows:
ii. 15% for low capacity systems, such as the instrument air piping, providing that it is
established that the loss is attributable to slightly passing valves or the like.
All other instrument piping shall be tested independently, except in specially defined
circumstances, when the instrument leads shall not be connected until blowing of the
piping system is complete.
Operational pressure gauges may be connected to the system during pneumatic test,
provided that the test pressure does not exceed the scale range.
At the Owner’s option, service testing is allowed for utility piping systems designed for 10.5 barg
at 186ºC or less providing a safe procedure for doing this has been defined. Therefore, all lines
which fall into this category with the exception of low pressure steam in pipelines 10” NPS and
above, can be service tested as a minimum requirement. Service testing shall be carried out in
accordance with procedures which shall include provision for examination of pipelines at intervals
of pressure, i.e. 15% of the service pressure or 1.7 barg whichever is the lower. The test shall be
proceeded by a 100% visual inspection of the system being tested for fabrication and
erection completeness.
During or prior to initial operation, the pressure shall be gradually increased in steps until the
operating pressure is reached, holding the pressure at each step long enough to equalize piping
strains.
i Date of Test
ii Line Number
iv Test Pressure
v Pressurisation Time
ix Name and signature of the Contractor’s personnel responsible for test, and name and signature
of City University’s representative witnessing test.
“Engineer” means City University London or those acting on behalf of City University London.
“Code” means American National Standard Institute Code for Precision Piping – Chemical Plant
and Petroleum Refinery Piping ASTM B31.3a Edition plus Addenda B31.3a 1993.
Lined pipe for on-site erection will be supplied by the Contractor in fabricated flanged spool
pieces.
GRP, plastic and glass pipe may be supplied and installed by a nominated supplier.
To ensure no error occurs in the selection of materials for fabrication and erection, it is the
Contractor’s responsibility to identify and segregate all materials. The Contractor shall establish
an efficient material control procedure and demonstrate the same to the satisfaction of City
University. He shall also be responsible for any loss or damage to any material supplied.
No piping spools shall be dispatched from an off-site fabrication shop to site without
prior agreement of City University.
The Contractor shall be responsible in all cases for ensuring the accurate fabrication and erection
of all sizes of pipework. Positions of field welds(in all planes) including those at loose flanges
shall be decided by the Contractor. Allowance shall be made in the fabrication to account for
fabrication and construction tolerances of the overall project. The Contractor shall demonstrate to
City University at any time that he has made these allowances. It is the Contractor’s responsibility
to establish the number of configurations and length of individual spools to make up the
isometrics.
Where isometrics are provided for small bore piping (40 mm NPS and smaller) the Contractor
shall be responsible for verifying the route, configuration and dimensions of small bore pipes
before erection proceeds.
Except where cold springing is specified on the piping drawings, all piping shall be installed in
place without springing or forcing, and the Contractor must be able to demonstrate this to City
University by breaking joints.
The Contractor shall ensure that all City University’s and Vendor’s equipments of the specific
installation instruction for valves, flexible bellows units and other specialist in-line items are met.
In particular, valves subjected to heat during installation shall have internal parts removed prior to
welding which could be damaged by heat.
The sequence, programme and methods of pressure testing shall be submitted by the Contractor
at an early stage of erection for the approval of City University. The installation of test blinds at
equipment shall be accomplished during pipe erection in accordance with hydrostatic test plans.
Temporary suctions strainers shall be installed as indicated on the piping isometrics at all pumps
and compressors during the piping erection.
Completed spool assemblies from an off-site fabrication shop, which have been inspected and
accepted shall be forwarded to the site lay-down area. The organization of this lay-down area
shall be agreed with City University.
If the Contractor intends to use spool drawings these shall be produced from City University’s
Isometric or Piping General Arrangements Drawings.
The Contractor shall be responsible for the proper assembly of flanged joints, and shall pay due
attention to the following paragraphs:
- The flange faces shall be cleaned free of all dirt, corrosion, grease and protective
coatings, and shall be inspected for defects such as scratches or dents prior to
installation.
- The flanges shall be properly aligned prior to the insertion of gaskets and bolts to avoid
undue stresses or uneven gasket loads.
- Flange machine bolts and studbolts shall extend fully through their nuts, studbolts shall
have equal lengths showing on each side. The lengths of bolts are in accordance with
the Code or Pipe Manufacturer’s Standards and allow for maximum tolerances of
flange, gasket and equipment. In some cases this results in quite a long stud protrusion.
Proprietary thread lubricants should be evenly applied to all bolts.
- The use of washers or spacers to take up excess bolt length is not permitted. Plain
washers are not be used, except with the express permission of City University.
Particular attention should be paid to glass-lined vessel nozzles. No strain or jacking shall be
applied to the mating pipework flanges.
Flange protection shall be kept on all flanged connections to pumps, compressors and similar
equipment, until ready to connect the piping.
The bolt tightening operation shall be carried out in a diametrical sequence in a minimum of three
stages with a tightening sequence at the final torque loading.
Grease or gasket compound shall not be used on gasket or flange faces. Spiral wound gaskets
shall never be re-used. Pipe manufacturer’s recommendations shall be adhered to.
Star washers shall only be used on flanged joints within hazardous and process areas. Star
washers shall be manufactured from stainless steel and shall be of the externally serrated type.
Where applicable at least two bolts on each flanged joint shall be fitted with star washers between
the nut/machine bolt head and the flange. This shall ensure electrical continuity across the
flanges.
Studbolts may be substituted for machine bolts only where the use of machine bolts is found to
be impractical i.e. where a bolt has to screw into a threaded blind hole, as may be found on some
valve flanges and lined pipe fittings.
Screwed Pipework
Threads shall be concentric with the outside of the pipe and shall be stated on the pipe and valve
specification.
Where temperature and service fluids permit, joints shall be assembled using PTFE tape which
shall only be applied to the male thread.
Where seal welds are specified no PTFE tape or thread compounds shall be used and all cutting
fluids shall be removed prior to the joint being made. Seal welds shall cover all exposed threads.
Where threaded couplings or nipples are welded onto pipe spools, the thread must be checked
for fit and roundness after welding, using a thread gauge. If the thread is found to be
unacceptable it shall be chased with a tap or die.
Pipe supports shall be prefabricated, cut to suit and erected in advance of the piping being
installed. It is emphasized that pipework must be erected on permanent supports.
Pipe supports types will be indicated on the Piping Arrangement drawing. The position of
supports will not be dimensioned, locations shall be determined by visual and scaling means.
Variations to City University’s Standards and Specification may be allowed provided the
Contractor is able to demonstrate economical and functional advantages.
Pipes shall not be supported from other pipes without the prior agreement of City University.
Welding of clamps, lugs, or other erection aids to any alloy, stainless steel or lined pipe shall not
be permitted.
Pipe spools shall be permanently attached, (i.e. bolted or welded) to mechanical equipment only
after the equipment has been grouted and permanent pipe hangers and supports have been
installed to accept the entire pipe load.
There are many pipe support manufacturers available and most provide suitable types of
supports that are adequate for the intended use.
Types of Support
The type of support to be used for each application should be assessed by the piping designer
and approved by the Engineer.
The material should be generally be hot dipped galvanised carbon steel with bright zinc plated
fixings.
For some specific process cases galvanised pipe supports may be replaced by 304L stainless
steel supports and fixings.
No painted carbon steel pipe supports or fixings should be used on external piping systems as
they deteriorate rapidly and cause unsightly staining and corrosion of primary support structures.
For standard design types of pipe support City University Specification CU2, Pipe Support
Specification.
The pipe tracks should be designed from rectangular rolled steel hollow sections (RHS) for the
primary pylon supports, lattice beam structures of RHS for the bottom and top chords and welded
vertical struts, bracing may be steel angle sections(RSA).
Horizontal stringers between the chord members of bridge sections should be steel channel
sections bolted to welded cleats on the bridge chords.
Additional permanent steelwork to existing bridge structures should be attached by bolting to new
welded-on fishplates on the main sections of the existing bridgework's.
All bridge structures should maintain the MOT vehicle height clearance for roads i.e. 6.0m and
have future load capacity of 50% design load (min 10 kN/m) and minor offload service bridges 4
kN/m.
Steelwork fish plates and cap plates to be 8mm minimum thick steel and be welded to the main
steelwork by 6 mm fillet welds min. Boltings to be BZP min 16 mm dia.
All steelwork and attachments to be hot dipped galvanised and etched and painted by two pack
epoxy paint of Goosewing Grey colour (Crown).
Welded plates and repairs to existing steelwork to have a primer coat of: Epigrip C400 zinc
phosphate primer, light grey to 200 microns DFT.
Two pack epoxy gloss paint of Goosewing Grey colour (Crown to 75 microns min).
Civil foundations should include allowance for wind exposure on the bridge structure.
All site works require work permit issue and ground works supported by electrical ground
scans.
When Fabricating and Erecting Pipe Supports the Contractor shall make allowance for site
variations by:-
i Shimming up
Spring supports, and fixing nuts and bolts for spring supports etc, shall be supplied by the
Contractor.
The Spring Units shall be adjusted upon completion of spring unit installation, pipe pressure and
leak testing and if required insulation installation. Correct adjustment is obtained when the “Cold
Pre-setting Pins” or plates (there are usually two pins which are painted red) may easily be
removed. Adjustment is achieved by turning the rod turn-buckle on the hanger type units and the
hexagon nuts on pedestal type units. Correct adjustment will facilitate pin removal.
“Cold Pre-setting Pins” shall be removed from all spring units before plant start-up. Pins shall be
greased and wired to the unit for future use.
In the event that piping requires to be dismantled the pins shall be inserted to lock unit prior to the
commencement of work.
NB: Close attention shall be paid to the spring Manufacturers installation instruction leaflets prior
to work commencement.
Temporary Supports
The Contractor shall be responsible for the design and reaction of any temporary pipe supports
for all sizes of pipework to ensure that damage by distortion is avoided.
The Contractor shall demonstrate by unbolting flanges that bellows units are correctly aligned.
Pipe supports shall be positioned such that the lined pipe does not sag at flange joints.
Generally, all supports shall be of the clamp type. Additional support shall be provided where
there are changes in direction of the piping and in areas of high load concentration such as
clusters of valves or fittings.
Welded attachments that are specified by City University shall be fixed prior to lining.
The Contractor is responsible for determining the correct torque value for bolts on flanged joints.
Non-Conductive Fluids
Anti-static gaskets will be used every 2 m when the pipe is used to convey nonconductive fluids.
When computerized piping general arrangement and section drawings are provided, these will
show sufficient pipe routing dimensions for erection purposes only.
Manual piping arrangement drawings will show sufficient dimensions for producing isometrics of
large bore lines (≥50mm NPS) and for erection purposes.
Major pipe track routings are fully dimensioned on the Piping Arrangement drawings.
Isometric Drawings
When computerized isometric drawings are provided they will be for both large and small bore
piping (excluding instrument piping and protective heating system piping).
When Manual Isometrics are provided they will generally be for large bore lines (≥ 50mm NPS)
and lined carbon steel lines. However, when a model is provided, Isometrics will be provided for
all lines (other than Tracks etc).
Piping Model
A Piping model will not normally be supplied unless specifically required by the Contract.
Isometric drawings will have a note to indicate protective heating requirements and tracing limits
shown.
All detailed routing of protective heating systems shall be the Contractor’s responsibility.
Special Piping Item (SPP’s) not included in the standard piping and valve specification are listed
in the Design Item List and cross-referenced in the SPP index.
All pipe supports, guides and anchors are indicated on the piping general arrangement drawings.
Special Pipe Supports, i.e. those supports outside the scope of the standard range of supports
are detailed where necessary and located on the piping general arrangement drawing.
Documentation Discussions
The Contractor’s Senior Site Supervisor together with City University shall attend City University’s
design office for a review and discussion of the design concepts and documentation before
Fabrication and Erection begins.
Schedule of Documents
i. This specification
ii. Specification for Fabrication, Testing and Inspection of Carbon Steel Pipework.
iii. Specification for Fabrication, Testing and Inspection of Stainless Steel Pipework.
x. Line Schedule
xviii. No Schedule is provided of isometric drawings, as each isometric is identified by the number
of the line it represents with a suffix /2, /3, etc., if there is more than one isometric for a line.
This specification covers the gas tungsten arc welding of austenitic stainless steel pipe using
open head automatic orbital tube wire feed welding machines (and manual TIG equipment by
exception).
General Requirements
All welds shall be made using an open head wire feed automatic programmable orbital Pipe
Welding equipment.
At the beginning of each shift and whenever the machine is restarted, one sample weld shall be
made for each automatic welding machine, head combination, materials and tube size, prior to its
use on the job. The samples shall be visually examined. These welds shall be included on the
daily sample log. The samples shall be identified by marker-pen and shall be referenced in the
log.
All weld samples shall be as deposited, without being chemically or mechanically cleaned in any
way after welding. Evidence of minor oxidization does not indicate an unacceptable weld.
All manual welders and automatic welding operators shall have recent work experience on pipe
and have qualified to ASME EN287/288, Section IX for GTAW manual and/or automatic welding,
as applicable to the joints they are to weld.
Prior to welding, the tubing and fittings shall be completely clean for at least 40mm on each side
of the weld zone. When used tubing or fittings are being welded, cleaning shall extend to 75mm
on each side of the weld zone. This cleaning shall be accomplished first by using an approved
solvent, then by wiping with a clean lintfree cloth.
Prior to welding, a check shall be made for alignment and excessive gap and that the electrode is
centred over the butt joint.
The use of manual GTAW (TIG) welding of tack welds is permitted, however, no full butt welds
are allowed with this method without the prior written approval of the project supervisor.
Manual welding shall be accomplished in such a manner as to not cause any deleterious effects
on the completed weld or interior surface of the tubing or fitting. Tacks shall be as light as
possible to reduce excessive heat. Tacks shall not penetrate to the inner surface and the same
back-up purge/shield gas as the production weld shall be applied when welding manually.
After a tack weld has been completed, the fit-up shall be checked for poor alignment
or excessive gap.
All tack welds shall be performed by the same qualified welders and meet the same
requirements as the production weld.
Welding Equipment
Open head wire feed automatic orbital tube as tungsten arc welding machines shall
be used.
Shielding gas shall be High Purity Filtered Argon preferably from cryogenic source.
Electric current shall be continuous or pulsed DC electrode negative, base material positive.
Welding control programmer shall be lockable and shall provide a printout of conditions used for
each weld. And all machines shall have calibration records.
Shielding
The High Purity Argon for arc shielding and back purging shall be used at a controlled rate via
use of flowmeters. Gas lenses shall be used in manual torches. Pressure regulators shall be of
high quality and shall have metallic diaphragms. Purge hoses/tubes shall be clean and
manufacturers from PFA.
Internal gas purge shall be applied for a minimum time until the oxygen level as indicated by a
hand held “Oxytech” oxygen meter indicates an oxygen level of less than 0.01% (minimum scale).
Welding shall not be permitted until the Supervisor is satisfied that full blanketing is in place and
oxidation of inside shall not occur. The length of purge time and flowrates for various tubing sizes
shall be established during procedure qualification and adjusted prior to welding.
An oxygen analyser shall be available periodically to check purge and shield gas at the flowmeter
outlets prior to a new batch of gas being used. Acceptance criteria shall be less than 1 ppm
oxygen content.
Inspection
General acceptance standard for welds shall meet requirements of EN 287/288 (latest Edition)
Table 341.3.2A Acceptance Criteria for Welds.
Concave Root Surface (see fig. 341.3.2 of EN 287/288) shall be minimised to not more than 5%
of tubing wall thickness.
All welds (100%) shall be visually examined per para 341.4.1 of EN 287/288.
Tube ends are machined in accordance with the weld procedure i.e. V or J prep., and any
possible contamination from the cut-off removed.
Cleaning Verification
No visible foreign material is at the weld ends of the components. This includes lint from
cleaning cloths.
The gap between ends of welding components shall be in accordance with the weld
procedure.
The internal surface of the joint is smooth with the two components in perfect alignment.
Full Penetration
The weld bead shall be even in width over the full periphery of the welded joint. The edges of the
butt joint shall not be visible adjacent to the weld bead and there shall be no other crevices or
holes visible.
Zero discolouration shall be the target level of colouration in the heat affected zone region. Light
straw is acceptable, blue is unacceptable.
A concave surface at the weld joint indicating excessive back-up gas pressure is not permitted.
Weld Defects
The following defects are examples for which re-welding may be attempted.
Lack of fusion
Weld Repairs
Repairs to welds shall not be permitted without the prior permission of UKGT Welding Inspector.
The tube ends shall be re-prepared in the proper manner and a new weld performed that will be
subject to all standards tests.
Tube sections from rejected welds may be re-used after the heat affected zone is cut off. The
heat affected zone shall be considered to extend to the limit of the discolouration adjacent to the
weld.
This specification covers the gas tungsten arc welding of austenitic stainless steel tubing using
enclosed head automatic orbital tube welding machines (and manual TIG equipment by
exception). Under certain circumstances this specification may be applied to welding of nominal
bore pipe but in most instances the specification “For welding of stainless steel Pipe pipework
and fittings” should be applied.
General Requirements
All welds shall be made using an enclosed head automatic programmable orbital Tube and Pipe
Welding equipment.
At the beginning of each shift and whenever the machine is restarted, one sample weld shall be
made for each automatic welding machine, head combination, materials and tube size, prior to its
use on the job. The samples shall be visually examined. These welds shall be included on the
daily sample log. The samples shall be identified by marker-pen and shall be referenced in the
log.
All weld samples shall be as deposited, without being chemically or mechanically cleaned in any
way after welding. Evidence of minor oxidization does not indicate an unacceptable weld.
All manual welders and automatic welding operators shall have recent work experience on
tubing/pipe and have qualified to ASME EN 287/288, Section IX for GTAW manual and/or
automatic welding, as applicable to the joints they are to weld. Written qualifications of all welders
shall be available on site.
Prior to welding, the tubing and fittings shall be completely clean for at least 40mm on each side
of the weld zone. When used tubing or fittings are being welded, cleaning shall extend to 75mm
on each side of the weld zone. This cleaning shall be accomplished first by using an approved
solvent, then by wiping with a clean lintfree cloth.
Tacking
The use of manual GTAW (TIG) welding of tack welds is permitted, however, no full butt welds
are allowed with this method without the prior written approval of the project supervisor.
Manual welding shall be accomplished in such a manner as to not cause any deleterious effects
on the completed weld or interior surface of the tubing or fitting.
Tacks shall be as light as possible to reduce excessive heat. Tacks shall not penetrate to the
inner surface and the same back-up purge/shield gas as the production weld shall be applied
when welding manually.
After a tack weld has been completed, the fit-up shall be checked for poor alignment or excessive
gap.
All tack welds shall be performed by the same qualified welders and meet the same requirements
as the production weld.
Welding Equipment
Enclosed head automatic orbital tube gas tungsten arc welding machines shall be used.
Shielding gas shall be High Purity Filtered Argon preferably from cryogenic source.
Electric current shall be continuous or pulsed DC electrode negative, base material positive.
Welding control programmer shall be lockable and shall provide a printout of conditions used for
each weld. And all machines shall have calibration records.
Shielding
The High Purity Argon for arc shielding and back purging shall be used at a controlled rate via
use of flow meters. Gas lenses shall be used in manual torches. Pressure regulators shall be of
high quality and shall have metallic diaphragms. Purge hoses/tubes shall be clean and
manufactured from PFA.
Internal gas purge shall be applied for a minimum time until the oxygen level as indicated by a
hand held “Oxytech” oxygen meter indicates an oxygen level of less than 0.01% (minimum scale).
Pipework Welding, Inspection, Supporting
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And Testing - Rev D
Welding shall not be permitted until the Supervisor is satisfied that full blanketing is in place and
oxidation of inside shall not occur. The length of purge time and flowrates for various tubing sizes
shall be established during procedure qualification and adjusted prior to welding.
The work area shall be protected from draughts to ensure effectiveness of shielding.
An oxygen analyser shall be available periodically to check purge and shield gas at the flowmeter
outlets prior to a new batch of gas being used. Acceptance criteria shall be less than 1ppm
oxygen content.
Inspection
General acceptance standard for welds shall meet requirements of EN 287/288 (latest
Edition) Table 341.3.2A Acceptance Criteria for Welds.
Concave Root Surface (see fig. 341.3.2 of EN 287/288) shall be minimised to not more than
5% of tubing wall thickness.
All welds (100%) shall be visually examined per para 341.4.1. of EN 287/288 Visual
acceptance criteria shall be as per para MJ-6 of EN 287/2889.
Tube ends are machined square and any possible contamination from the cut-off removed.
Cleaning Verification
No visible foreign material is at the weld ends of the components. This includes lint from cleaning
cloths.
Joint Fit Up
The internal surface of the joint is smooth with the two components in perfect alignment.
Full Penetration
The weld bead shall be even in width over the full periphery of the welded joint. The edges of the
butt joint shall not be visible adjacent to the weld bead and there shall be no other crevices or
holes visible.
Zero discolouration shall be the target level of colouration in the heat affected zone region. Light
straw is acceptable, blue is unacceptable.
A concave surface at the weld joint indicating excessive back up gas pressure is not permitted.
Weld Defects
The following defects are examples for which re-welding may be attempted.
Lack of Fusion
Weld Repairs
Repairs to welds shall not be permitted without the prior permission of UKGT Welding Inspector.
The tube ends shall be re-prepared in the proper manner and a new weld performed that will be
subject to all standard tests.
Tube sections from rejected welds may be re-used after the heat affected zone is cut off. The
heat affected zone shall be considered to extend to the limit of the discolouration adjacent to the
weld.