ASME Standards PCC-2 and 3

Last month we spoke about ASME’s post-construction standard PCC-1, which covers assembly of bolted flanges. ASME also publishes standards PCC-2, Repair of Pressure Equipment and Piping, and PCC-3, Inspection Planning Using Risk-Based Methods.

PCC-2 covers methods of repair of pressure vessels, heat exchangers, and piping. It includes both welded and non-welded repair techniques, such as mechanical clamps, leak boxes, composite wraps, weld overlays, and other specialized procedures. Keep in mind, equipment repairs should always be made in accordance with all jurisdictional requirements, including the National Board Inspection Code (NBIC) when applicable.

PCC-3 provides guidance to owners of pressure equipment for developing and implementing a risk-based inspection (RBI) program. It helps users establish inspection intervals and methods based on the likelihood and consequences of failure. This approach emphasizes safe and reliable operation through cost-effective inspection. A well-designed inspection program should be a major component of any plant’s mechanical integrity or process safety management (PSM) program.