Recent Blog Posts

Vessel Nameplate Removal

December 8th, 2015

I recently received an email from a client asking if it is allowable to remove a pressure vessel nameplate and position it in another location on that same vessel. Here is the response that I gave: Dear John, Unfortunately, ASME National Board does not allow nameplates to be removed unless approved by an inspector and an updated […]

Manufacturer Data Reports

September 28th, 2015

When performing Compliance Audits and Mechanical Integrity inspections, I often find facilities do not have Manufacturer Data Report as required for a compliant PSM program. What is a Data Report? Often referred to as the “birth certificate” of a pressure vessel or heat exchanger, the data report (U-1 or U-1A, U-3 form) is a document […]

Machinery Room Doors

August 31st, 2015

When evaluating the safety of a refrigeration machinery room, it is important to take a close look at the machinery room doors. Door location, hardware, and accessibility are all important factors in determining proper room design. The following is a brief summary of the relevant codes and standards on the topic of machinery room doors: Note: Both […]

Provision for Refrigerant Removal

August 4th, 2015

Most people who have worked around the ammonia refrigeration industry for any period of time recognize the importance that strainers play in the proper operation and maintenance of an ammonia refrigeration system. Typically located upstream of control valves, strainers perform the important function of filtering out debris that would otherwise damage control valves and prove […]

Ventilation System Dampers

June 23rd, 2015

I recently interacted with IIAR (International Institute of Ammonia Refrigeration) on the issue of ventilation system dampers. My original question, along with the response from IIAR is included below: Question: ANSI/IIAR 2 Addendum B §13.3.3.4 requires that “If motorized dampers are utilized they shall be of the power to close and spring to open type.” […]