'To Stamp or not to Stamp?' That is the Question!

摘要

Over the past two decades, global sourcing of pressure equipment for use in the oil, gas, and other continuous process industries has increased exponentially. At the same time, pressure equipment manufacturers and their customers have seen a proliferation of codes and standards meant to ensure pressure equipment, once fabricated, can be operated safely and reliably. The American Society of Mechanical Engineers Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code (ASME B&PVC) is by far the most widely adopted standard and, in fact, serves as the basis for many local standards. Notwithstanding the widespread use of the ASME B&PVC, misconceptions remain as to how compliance with the ASME code is achieved and, further, the value of formal ASME certification versus a general requirement by the purchaser that equipment be built and designed "in accordance with ASME." This article presents a brief history of the ASME code and describes the certification process. It also refutes some common misconceptions related to costs of certification. Finally, it provides a case study illustrating the unique value of ASME certification.