Approval of piping systems

There must be a high degree of quality control when high-pressure pipe systems are
being fabricated to ensure that they meet the specifications of the relevant codes.
The inspecting authority may be the machinery inspection branch of the state
or territory government, the insurance company underwriting the job or the
representatives of the client for whom the pipework is being fabricated.
The quality control program includes the following steps.
1. Approval of the design of the pipe system.
2. Approval of the fabricator who may have to prove that there is adequate equipment
and expert personnel to successfully meet the requirements of the relevant
code(s).
3. Frequent checks to ensure that the specified material is being used.
4. Approval of welding procedures and regular inspections to ensure that these
procedures are being followed.
5. Qualification of welders who are tested to ensure that they are capable of carrying
out the approved procedures successfully.
6. Non-destructive testing as required by the code(s).
7. Post-weld heat treatment as required by the code(s).
8. Final hydrostatic testing or alternative testing method.
Fabricators are responsible for the quality of the work they perform and for the
coordination of all inspection and testing procedures as required by the relevant
code(s).

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