Pip Vecv1001 2000

REVISION
August 2000
Process Industry Practices

Vessels
PIP VECV1001
Vessel/S&T Heat Exchanger Design Criteria
ASME Code Section VIII, Divisions 1 and 2
PURPOSE AND USE OF PROCESS INDUSTRY PRACTICES
In an effort to minimize the cost of process industry facilities, this Practice has
been prepared from the technical requirements in the existing standards of major
industrial users, contractors, or standards organizations. By harmonizing these
technical requirements into a single set of Practices, administrative, application, and
engineering costs to both the purchaser and the manufacturer should be reduced. While
this Practice is expected to incorporate the majority of requirements of most users,
individual applications may involve requirements that will be appended to and take
precedence over this Practice. Determinations concerning fitness for purpose and
particular matters or application of the Practice to particular project or engineering
situations should not be made solely on information contained in these materials. The
use of trade names from time to time should not be viewed as an expression of
preference but rather recognized as normal usage in the trade. Other brands having the
same specifications are equally correct and may be substituted for those named. All
Practices or guidelines are intended to be consistent with applicable laws and
regulations including OSHA requirements. To the extent these Practices or guidelines
should conflict with OSHA or other applicable laws or regulations, such laws or
regulations must be followed. Consult an appropriate professional before applying or
acting on any material contained in or suggested by the Practice.
This Practice is subject to revision at any time by the responsible Function Team
and will be reviewed every 5 years. This Practice will be revised, reaffirmed, or
withdrawn. Information on whether this Practice has been revised may be found at
http://www.pipdocs.org.
© Process Industry Practices (PIP), Construction Industry Institute, The

University of Texas at Austin, 3208 Red River Street, Suite 300, Austin,
Texas 78705. PIP member companies and subscribers may copy this Practice
for their internal use.
September 1997 Issued

February 1999 Complete Revision
August 2000 Revision
Not printed with State funds.

REVISION
August 2000
Process Industry Practices

Vessels
PIP VECV1001
Vessel/S&T Heat Exchanger Design Criteria
Table of Contents
5.2 MAWP and Coincident Maximum
1. Introduction .................................. 3 Temperature .................................... 10
1.1 Purpose ............................................. 3 5.3 Minimum Design Metal Temperature
1.2 Scope................................................. 3 and Coincident Pressure ................. 11
5.4 External Pressure Design ................ 11
2. References ................................... 4 5.5 Cyclic Service .................................. 11
2.1 Process Industry Practices ................ 4 5.5.1 Number of Cycles........................12
5.5.2 Fatigue Analysis ..........................12
2.2 Industry Codes and Standards .......... 4
5.5.3 Fatigue Loading Data ..................12
2.3 Other References .............................. 5
5.6 Welded Pressure Joint
2.4 Government Regulations ................... 6
Requirements .................................. 12
5.7 Postweld Heat Treatment ................ 14
3. Definitions .................................... 6 5.8 Wind Load ....................................... 15
5.8.1 User Selections from ASCE 7 .....15
4. General ......................................... 7 5.8.2 Determination of Wind-Induced
4.1 Applicable PIP Documents ................ 7 Forces .........................................17
4.2 ASME Code Requirements................ 7 5.9 Seismic Loads ................................. 17
4.2.2 Applicable Code Scope 5.9.1 General Requirements and Data
Exemptions ................................... 7 from ASCE 7 ...............................17
4.2.3 Waste Heat Recovery Vessels ..... 7 5.9.2 Seismic Loads for Ground-
4.3 National Board Registration............... 7 Supported Equipment..................18
4.4 Jurisdictional Compliance .................. 7 5.9.3 Seismic Loads for Structure-
4.5 Units of Measurement ....................... 8 Mounted Equipment ....................18
4.6 Language........................................... 8 5.10 Design Loads and
4.7 Documentation to be Provided to the Load Combinations.......................... 19
5.10.1 Dead Load...................................19
Manufacturer...................................... 8 5.10.2 Operating Live Load ....................19
5.10.3 Pressure Load .............................19
5. Design........................................... 8 5.10.4 Thermal Load ..............................19
5.1 Design Pressure and Temperature ... 8 5.10.5 Test Load ....................................20
5.10.6 Wind Load ...................................20
5.10.7 Seismic Load...............................20
Process Industry Practices Page 1 of 58

PIP VECV1001 REVISION
Vessel/S&T Heat Exchanger Design Criteria August 2000
5.10.8 Piping and Superimposed 5.20.7 Thermal Performance..................50

Equipment Loads ........................ 20 5.20.8 Hydraulic Performance ................52
5.10.9 Load Combinations ..................... 20 5.20.9 Vibration ......................................53
5.11 Wind-Induced Vibration of Vertical
Vessels.............................................21 6. Materials ..................................... 53
5.11.1 Vortex Shedding Ranges ............ 22 6.1 Material Specifications .....................53
5.11.2 Corrective Action......................... 22 6.1.1 External Attachments ..................53
5.12 Formed Heads .................................23 6.1.2 Internal Attachments....................53
5.13 Flanges.............................................23 6.2 Source of Materials ..........................54
5.13.1 ASME B16.47, Series A .............. 23 6.3 Corrosion/Erosion Allowance ...........54
5.13.2 ASME B16.47, Series B .............. 23 6.3.1 Basis............................................54
5.13.3 Custom-Designed Flanges per 6.3.2 Corrosion Loss ............................54
Code ........................................... 24 6.3.3 Erosion Loss................................54
5.13.4 Custom-Designed Lap Joint 6.4 Gaskets ............................................55
Flanges ....................................... 25
5.13.5 Lap Joint Flanges NPS 24 and
Smaller........................................ 27 7. Testing ........................................ 55
5.13.6 Slip-on Flanges ........................... 27 7.1 Hydrostatic Test ...............................55
5.13.7 Threaded and Socket Weld 7.1.1 UG-99 Standard Hydrostatic
Flanges ....................................... 28 Test..............................................55
5.13.8 Flange Facing and 7.1.2 Horizontal Vessels.......................55
Surface Finish ............................. 28 7.1.3 Vertical Vessels ...........................55
5.13.9 Piping Connections ..................... 29 7.1.4 Test Temperature ........................55
5.13.10 Quick Opening Closures ............. 29 7.2 Pneumatic Test ................................56
5.13.11 Flanges - Pass Partition Areas . 29 7.3 Proof Test.........................................56
5.13.12 Flanged Joints .......................... 29
5.14 Nozzles.............................................29 8. Vessel Rigging Analysis/Lifting
5.15 Manways ..........................................31
5.16 Anchor Bolts .....................................32
Requirements ............................. 56
8.1 Impact Factor ...................................56
5.17 Internals............................................33
8.2 Vertical Vessels................................56
5.18 Vessel Supports ...............................34
5.18.1 General ....................................... 34 8.3 Local Stresses..................................57
5.18.2 Vertical Vessels .......................... 34 8.4 Welds ...............................................57
5.18.3 Horizontal Vessels ...................... 36
5.18.4 Stacked Exchangers ................... 37 Appendices
5.19 Heat Exchanger Component A - General Considerations for Pressure Relief
Design ..............................................38 Valve Application
5.19.1 Tubes .......................................... 38 B[V] - Welded Pressure Joint Requirements
5.19.2 Tubesheets ................................. 38 Form
5.19.3 Tube-to-Tubesheet Joints ........... 39
B[E] - Welded Pressure Joint Requirements
5.19.4 Tube Bundles.............................. 40
5.19.5 Expansion Joints......................... 41 Form
5.19.6 Vapor Belts ................................. 42 C - Equivalent Pressure Formulas for Bending
5.19.7 Exchanger Covers....................... 42 Moment and Axial Tensile Load
5.19.8 Pass Partition Plates................... 43 D - Minimum Clearance for Nozzle Adjacent to
5.19.9 Floating Heads............................ 43 Integral Tubesheet
5.19.10 Kettle Type Exchangers............ 43
5.19.11 Instrument, Vent, and
Drain Connections ...................... 44
5.19.12 Nameplates and Stampings ..... 44
5.19.13 Shell and Bonnet Design .......... 44
5.20 Heat Exchanger Thermal .................44
5.20.1 Fouling Factors Selection ........... 44
5.20.2 Fluid Side Selection .................... 45
5.20.3 Exchanger Configuration ............ 46
5.20.4 Flow Arrangement....................... 47
5.20.5 Tube Selection ............................ 48
5.20.6 Bundle Design and
Tube Layout ................................ 49
Page 2 of 58 Process Industry Practices

REVISION PIP VECV1001
August 2000 Vessel/S&T Heat Exchanger Design Criteria
1. Introduction
Note to Readers: This Practice contains design criteria for pressure vessels and shell-and-
tube heat exchangers. Corresponding subject matter for pressure vessels and shell-and-tube
heat exchangers is covered by paragraphs identically numbered. Paragraphs pertaining to
pressure vessels are preceded by [V]. Paragraphs pertaining to shell-and-tube heat
exchangers are preceded by [E]. Paragraphs pertaining to both are preceded by [V/E]. In
addition, ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code, Section VIII, Division 2 requirements are
shown in braces { }.
This Practice should be used for pressure vessels built to Division 1 or Division 2 of the
ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code, henceforth referred to as the Code. Shell-and-tube
heat exchangers are limited to Division 1 in this Practice.
1.1 Purpose
[V] The primary focus of this Practice is to communicate vessel design criteria and
methodology from the User to a Designer. This Practice is also intended as guidance
for the development of purchase specifications covering the construction of new
pressure vessels which meet the philosophy and requirements of Section VIII,
Division 1 {or 2} of the Code.
[E] The primary focus of this Practice is to communicate vessel design criteria and
methodology from the User to a Designer. This Practice is also intended as guidance
for the development of purchase specifications covering the construction of new
shell-and-tube heat exchangers which meet the philosophy and requirements of
Section VIII, Division 1 of the Code and TEMA Standards of the Tubular
Exchangers Manufacturers Association.
1.2 Scope
1.2.1 [V/E] This Practice must be used in conjunction with PIP VEDST003,
PIP VEDV1003, PIP VEFV1100, and PIP VESV1002 in order to comprise a
complete vessel purchase specification.
1.2.2 [V/E] Many recognized and generally accepted good engineering
construction practices are included herein. However, in light of the many
diverse service applications of Code vessels, these practices must be
employed with engineering judgment and supplemented as appropriate with
requirements related to specific materials of construction, service fluids,
operating environments, and vessel geometries. Accordingly, provisions of
this Practice may be overridden or supplemented by an Overlay
Specification.
1.2.3 [V/E] Standardized pre-designed (off-the-shelf) vessels and heat exchangers
are not within the scope of this Practice, but are covered in PIP VESSM001.

2. References
The following documents are only those specifically referenced in this Practice. In
applications where laws or regulations issued by municipal, state, provincial, or federal
authorities cover pressure vessels, those laws or regulations should be reviewed prior to the
initiation of design work since the requirements may be different or more restrictive than
those covered in this Practice. Short titles will be used herein when appropriate.
2.1 Process Industry Practices (PIP)

For the following reference documents, the latest edition issued at the date of
contract award shall be used.
− PIP VEDST003 - Shell and Tube Heat Exchanger Specification Sheet
− PIP VEDV1003 - Vessel Drawing/Data Sheet and Instructions
− PIP VEFV1100 - Vessel/S&T Heat Exchanger Standard Details (27 Details
and Index)
– PIP VESSM001 - Specification for Small Pressure Vessels and Heat
Exchangers with Limited Design Conditions
− PIP VESV1002 - Vessel/S&T Heat Exchanger Fabrication Specification
2.2 Industry Codes and Standards

For the following reference documents, if Table U-3 {AF-150.1} of the Code lists an
edition or addenda different than the latest edition issued, the edition listed in Table
U-3 {AF-150.1} shall be used. For documents not listed in Table U-3 {AG-150.1},
the latest edition or addenda issued at the date of contract award shall be used.
• American Institute of Steel Construction (AISC)
– AISC Manual of Steel Construction
• American National Standards Institute (ANSI)
– ANSI/ASME B36.10M - Welded and Seamless Wrought Steel Pipe
– ANSI/ASME B36.19M - Stainless Steel Pipe
• American Petroleum Institute (API)
– API 650 - Welded Steel Tanks for Oil Storage
• American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE)
– ASCE 7 - Minimum Design Loads for Buildings and Other Structures

• American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME)

− ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code
Section I - Power Boilers
Section II - Materials, Parts A, B, C, D
Section VIII - Pressure Vessels, Divisions 1 and 2
Section IX - Welding and Brazing Qualifications
– ASME B1.1 - Unified Inch Screw Threads (UN and UNR Thread Form)
– ASME B16.5 - Pipe Flanges and Flanged Fittings, NPS 1/2 through NPS 24
– ASME B16.11 - Forged Fittings, Socket-Welding and Threaded
– ASME B16.47 - Large Diameter Steel Flanges, NPS 26 through NPS 60
• International Conference of Building Officials (ICBO)
– Uniform Building Code (UBC)
• Manufacturers Standardization Society of the Valve and Fittings
Industry, Inc. (MSS)
– MSS SP-44 - Steel Pipeline Flanges
• Tubular Exchanger Manufacturers Association (TEMA)
− Standards of the Tubular Exchanger Manufacturers Association
• Welding Research Council (WRC)
– WRC Bulletin 107 - Local Stresses in Spherical and Cylindrical Shells Due
to External Loadings
2.3 Other References

– “Design Equations for Preventing Buckling in Fabricated Torispherical
Shells Subjected to Internal Pressure,” G.D. Galletly, Proceedings:
Institution of Mechanical Engineers. London: Vol. 200 No. A2.
– Dynamic Response of Tall Flexible Structures to Wind Loading. Joseph
Vellozzi, Ph.D., P.E. U.S. Department of Commerce, National Bureau of
Standards, Building Science Series Number 32, 1966.
– Process Equipment Design. Brownell and Young. Wiley & Sons Publishers,
1959.
– “Stresses in Large Cylindrical Pressure Vessels on Two Saddle Supports,”
L.P. Zick, Pressure Vessels and Piping: Design and Analysis, A Decade of
Progress. Vol. 2, 1972.
– “Wind Loads on Petrochemical Facilities,” ASCE Task Committee on Wind-
Induced Forces, Wind Loads and Anchor Bolt Design for Petrochemical
Facilities. (ISBN-0-7844-0262-0)

2.4 Government Regulations

• U. S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
– Clean Air Act Amendments 1990
• U. S. Department of Labor, Occupational Safety and Health
Administration (OSHA)
– OSHA 29 CFR 1910.106(b)(5)(ii) - Flammable and Combustible Liquids
– OSHA 29 CFR 1910.119 - Process Safety Management of Highly Hazardous
Chemicals
– OSHA 29 CFR 1910.146(k)(3)(ii) - Permit-Required Confined Spaces for
General Industry
3. Definitions
Code: ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code Section VIII, Division 1{or 2}. References to
Division 2 are identified in braces { }.
Construction: An all-inclusive term comprising materials, design, fabrication, examination,

inspection, testing, certification (Code stamp and Manufacturer’s Data Report),
{Manufacturer’s Design Report} and pressure relief
Designer: The party responsible for defining and specifying the mechanical design
requirements (e.g., Vessel Drawing/Data Sheet {User’s Design Specification}) consistent
with User criteria for use by the Manufacturer. The Designer is frequently an engineering
contractor, but could be the User, third party consultant, or the Manufacturer. The Designer
is also considered the thermal Designer with respect to heat exchanger design.
Manufacturer: The party entering into a contract with the Purchaser to construct a vessel in
accordance with the purchase order
National Board: The National Board of Boiler and Pressure Vessel Inspectors, an
organization comprised of chief inspectors of various governmental jurisdictions in the
United States and Canada. Vessels meeting requirements of the Code, except those stamped
with the Code “UM” symbol, may be registered with the National Board.
Overlay Specification: Technical requirements that supplement or override the provisions of

this document, such as a User specification or a project specification
User: The party responsible for establishing construction criteria consistent with the Code
philosophy and service hazards. “User” refers to the owner and/or operator of the equipment.
Vessel: This term may be used as a non-specific reference to a pressure vessel or a shell-and-
tube heat exchanger.

4. General
4.1 Applicable PIP Documents

[V/E] All vessels shall be designed in accordance with this Practice,
PIP VEDST003, PIP VEFV1100 (applicable details), PIP VEDV1003, and
PIP VESV1002.
4.2 ASME Code Requirements

4.2.1 [V/E] Pressure vessels within the scope of this Practice shall satisfy all
applicable requirements, including Code symbol stamping.
4.2.2 Applicable Code Scope Exemptions
[V/E] The Code Scope exemptions that represent across-the-board
acceptance are those covered under Code Paragraphs U-1(c)(2)(h)
{AG-121(h)} and U-1(c)(2)(i) {AG-121(i)}, as follows:
4.2.2.1 [V/E] U-1(c)(2)(h) {AG-121(h)}: Vessels not exceeding 15 psig,
with no limitation on size [see Code Paragraph UG-28(e)
{AD-300}]
4.2.2.2 [V/E] U-1(c)(2)(i) {AG-121(i)}: Vessels having an inside
diameter, width, height, or cross-section diagonal not exceeding
6 inches, with no limitation on length of vessel or pressure
Note: The 6-inch dimension is in the corroded condition.
The above is not intended to prohibit the use of other Scope exemptions in
Code Paragraph U-1(c)(2); however, such use shall be by agreement with the
User.
4.2.3 Waste Heat Recovery Vessels
[V/E] Steam generating vessels associated with waste heat recovery
operations shall be constructed and stamped with the Code “U” symbol in
accordance with Code Section VIII, Division 1. Dual Code symbol stamping
of such vessels (both Section I “S” symbol and Section VIII, Division 1 “U”
symbol) is not permitted.
4.3 National Board Registration

[V/E] National Board registration of vessels stamped with the Code “U” {“U2”}
symbol is required.
4.4 Jurisdictional Compliance

[V/E] All aspects of the work shall comply with applicable local, county, state, and
federal rules and regulations. This includes, but is not limited to, the rules and
standards established by EPA and OSHA. (See Section 2.4.)

4.5 Units of Measurement

[V/E] U.S. customary (English) units shall be regarded as standard; metric (SI) units
may be included for reference only and shall not be interpreted as a precise
conversion.
4.6 Language
[V/E] The language of all documents shall be either English or include the English
translation.
4.7 Documentation to be Provided to the Manufacturer

[V/E] The following information shall be provided to the Manufacturer with the
purchasing inquiry:
4.7.1 [V] Design requirements to be provided to the Manufacturer shall be per
PIP VEDV1003, with additional drawings or details as necessary.
4.7.2 [E] Design requirements to be provided to the Manufacturer shall be per
PIP VEDST003, with additional drawings or details as necessary.
4.7.3 [V/E] Welded pressure joint requirements, including:
• Type of Category A, B, C, and D joints (see Appendix B[V] or
B[E])
• Type and degree of nondestructive examination to be applied to the
joints (see Appendix B[V] or B[E])
4.7.4 [V/E] Quality Overview Plan, as shown in PIP VESV1002, Appendix A.
4.7.5 [V/E] Documentation Schedule and Manufacturer’s Data Package, as shown
in PIP VESV1002, Appendix B.
4.7.6 [V] {User’s Design Specification}
5. Design
5.1 Design Pressure and Temperature

[V/E] The design pressure and coincident maximum metal temperature shall be
determined by the Designer by carefully considering all operating phases and
associated loadings (e.g., liquid head and other sources of pressure variation, such as
that resulting from flow) that the vessel may experience during the specified project
life, such as:
• Initial startup
• Normal operations
• Temporary operations
• Emergency shutdown
• Emergency operations

• Normal shutdown
• Startup following a turnaround or an emergency shutdown
• Cleaning, steam out, and decontamination
• Upset conditions
• Environmental restraints on relief venting
• [E] Tube failure [Code Paragraph UG-133(d)]
[V/E] The margin above the maximum anticipated operating pressure selected to
establish the design pressure and coincident maximum metal temperature must be
carefully considered for each vessel component as a function of the overall objective
with respect to pressure relief, coupled with the uncertainties in determining what
actual pressures will be developed. For example, where minimization of severely
flammable or acutely toxic environmental hazards is a controlling design
requirement, the establishment of a design pressure and associated Maximum
Allowable Working Pressure (MAWP) {MAWP replaced by Design Pressure in
Division 2, AD-121.1} that will provide containment without actuation of the
pressure relief device may be a consideration.
[V/E] As will be noted with reference to Appendix A, this margin is also dependent
upon the operational characteristics of the pressure relief device. For example, when
the maximum anticipated operating pressure of a gas/vapor service can be identified
with confidence, and when metal-seated, direct spring-operated valves will be used,
the design pressure is frequently established by dividing the maximum anticipated
operating pressure by 0.90. However, when a pilot-operated pressure relief device is
used, the design pressure is sometimes established by dividing the maximum
anticipated operating pressure by a factor as high as 0.98.
[V/E] Refer to the Overlay Specification for any margins to be applied to the
maximum operating pressure(s) and coincident temperature(s).
[V/E] Also use of Code Case 2211, entitled “Pressure Vessels with Overpressure
Protection by System Design, Section VIII, Divisions 1 and 2,” may be an
appropriate option. Note that prior jurisdictional acceptance may be required and that
this Code Case Number shall be shown on the Manufacturer’s Data Report.
Likewise, with permission from the authority having legal jurisdiction over the
installation of pressure vessels (should one exist), the advantages of using the
provisions of Code Case 2203, entitled “Omission of Lifting Device Requirements
for Pressure Relief Valves on Air, Water over 140° F, or Steam Service, Section
VIII, Divisions 1 and 2,” should be considered.
[E] The shell side and tube side design pressures and temperatures shall be reviewed
to determine extreme conditions that may be encountered. During transients (startup,
pressure relief, or shutdown, etc.), the shell side or tube side fluid may be absent, not
flowing, or auto-refrigerating with design pressure in the other chamber. For
components subjected to both shell side and tube side conditions, the more severe
condition shall control. The following additional conditions shall be considered:

5.1.1 [E] The exchanger shall be designed for full pressure on either side with
atmospheric (or full vacuum if specified) on the other side. If an exchanger
is designed for differential pressure, the Data Sheet and nameplate shall so
indicate.
5.1.2 [E] Fixed tubesheet exchangers cannot generally be operated at the
coincident nameplate temperature-pressure conditions. The basis for
differential thermal expansion used in the design shall be defined and shall
become a fabrication drawing requirement. (See PIP VEDST003.)
5.2 MAWP {Design Pressure} and Coincident Maximum Temperature

5.2.1 [V/E] The MAWP {Design Pressure} to be marked on the Code nameplate
is defined as the maximum gauge pressure permissible at the top of a
completed vessel in its normal operating position at the designated
coincident metal temperature for that pressure. (See Code Appendix 3
{AD-121} for definitions of MAWP and Design Pressure.) This MAWP
may be determined from the design pressure or from calculations based on
the specified nominal component thickness, but reduced by the specified
corrosion allowance.
[V/E] The maximum permissible set-to-operate pressure of a single safety
relief device cannot be higher than the MAWP {Design Pressure}. (See
Code rules when multiple safety relief devices are employed.)
[V/E] See Code Paragraph UG-20(a) {AD-121} for Code rules relative to
determining the coincident maximum metal temperature to be stamped on
the nameplate. A suitable margin consistent with the uncertainties with
which the true maximum mean-metal temperature can be determined should
be included. The maximum design temperature rating shall be increased to
the highest temperature possible without affecting the thickness of the shell
or heads and without changing the pressure class for nozzle flanges. When
appropriate, a vessel may be designed and Code stamped for more than one
pressure/coincident maximum metal temperature condition.
5.2.2 [V/E] To provide for future field tests, the vessel and foundation (provided
by others) shall be designed so that any component in the corroded condition
will withstand the combination of hydrostatic test pressure at the top of the
vessel (as defined in Code Paragraph UG-99 {Article T-3}) and the
hydrostatic head of the vessel full of water when the vessel is in its operating
position without exceeding the stress levels defined in Section 5.10.9(4).
Vessel designs that include such features as conical sections without
knuckles, torispherical heads with an inside crown radius/head thickness
(L/t) ratio greater than 500, openings in the shell that exceed the dimensional
limits given in Code Paragraph UG-36(b)(1) {Not Division 2 Applicable},
thermal gradients, or body flanges may require special analysis for future
tests. Refer to Section 5.10 for additional requirements that apply. Note that
the equipment foundation must also be designed to support the loading of a
future test.

5.3 Minimum Design Metal Temperature (MDMT) and Coincident Pressure

[V/E] The MDMT and coincident pressure to be marked on the Code nameplate
shall be selected by the Designer in consideration of the operating phases such as
those listed in Section 5.1 and of the Code rules in Paragraph UG-20(b) {Not
Division 2 Applicable}. Reliable administrative procedures to control the
pressure/coincident temperatures during transient operations (e.g., startup and
shutdown) are often appropriate from a materials of construction selection point of
view. For example, when considering the effects of auto-refrigeration on carbon and
low-alloy steels, such procedures make it appropriate to consider operations below
the MDMT stamped on the nameplate, provided the reduction in MDMT for the
coincident general primary membrane tensile stress results in a temperature that is no
colder than that permitted in Code Paragraph UCS-66(b) {AM-218.1}. When
atmospheric temperatures govern the metal temperatures during startup or normal
operations, the lowest 1-day mean atmospheric temperature at the installation site
must be considered. Figure 2-2 from API 650 may be used to establish the lowest
1-day mean temperatures insofar as applicable. The mean metal temperature during
shop and future field pressure testing shall also be considered during the vessel
design stage. During the pressure test, the pressure-resisting components and
attachments, that when welded to pressure-retaining components are judged to be
essential to the vessel’s structural integrity, shall have a temperature at least 30ºF
warmer than the MDMT to be stamped on the nameplate, but shall not exceed 120ºF.
(See Section 6.1.)
5.4 External Pressure Design

[V/E] In a manner similar to that described in Section 5.1, the Designer shall
establish the external design pressure and coincident temperature by determining
requirements for external pressure based on the expected operation of the vessel and
adding a suitable operating margin.
[V/E] If the vessel is not designed for full vacuum, and if the use of vacuum relief
devices is selected, consideration must be given to the effects of introducing air into
the vessel. Vessels in steam service shall be designed for full vacuum, and
consideration shall also be given for vessels in services that may be subject to steam
out. Consideration shall also be given to external pressures caused by sudden
cooldown of gases or vapors in the vessel or by the sudden emptying of the vessel
contents.
[V/E] Code-required stiffening rings for shells under external pressure shall be
placed on the outside of the vessel, shall have a thickness not less than 3/8 inch, and
shall have a ring width-to-thickness ratio no greater than 10. Stiffening rings shall be
attached by continuous fillet welds on both sides of the ring.
5.5 Cyclic Service

[V/E] The required service for all vessels shall include consideration by the Designer
of cyclic service. Code Paragraph UG-22(e) {AD-160} mandates that cyclic and
dynamic reactions from any mechanical or thermal loading source be considered in
design. Batch operation vessels and vessels having agitators, for example, quite

frequently fall into this category. The following guidelines {AD-160} are
recommended as a starting point when determining if cyclic analysis will be
required. The need for a fatigue analysis by the Manufacturer shall be stated on the
Data Sheet by the Designer.
5.5.1 Number of Cycles {See AD-160.2}
[V/E] Code vessels should be considered to be in cyclic service when the
total number of cycles in the following three items (1.+2.+3.) exceed 1000
cycles in the desired design life of the vessel:
1. The expected number of full range (design) pressure cycles, including
startups and shutdowns
2. The expected number of operating pressure cycles in which the range
of pressure variation exceeds 20% of the design pressure
3. The expected number of thermal cycles where the metal temperature
differential between any two adjacent points exceeds 50ºF (For a
definition of adjacent points, see Code Section VIII, Division 2,
Paragraph AD-160.2, footnote 3.)
5.5.2 Fatigue Analysis
[V/E] In cases where the preliminary guidelines in Section 5.5.1 indicate that
a fatigue analysis may be required, the rules in Code Section VIII, Division
2, Paragraph AD-160, “Fatigue Evaluation,” are recommended for use with
sound engineering judgment as a guideline for establishing further action. A
fatigue analysis shall always be performed for agitator mounting nozzles and
their attachment to the vessel. (See Sections 5.12.2 and 5.14.1.)
5.5.3 Fatigue Loading Data
[V/E] The applicable fatigue loading conditions shall be stated on
PIP VEDV1003 and PIP VEDST003.
5.6 Welded Pressure Joint Requirements

5.6.1 [V/E] Consistent with the service-specific needs of each vessel,
consideration must be given to the type of welded pressure joints to be
furnished in the pressure-boundary components. Consideration shall also be
given to the type/degree of nondestructive examination to be applied to these
joints. (See User’s responsibilities under the Code as outlined in the Code
Foreword. See also Code Paragraph U-2(a) {AG-301}.) As a minimum,
specific Code requirements must be met. In order to provide a means of
communicating the requirements to the prospective manufacturers in a
manner that is not open to dispute, the Code has provided the Welded Joint
Category system in Code Paragraph UW-3 {AD-400}. A Welded Pressure
Joint Requirements Form for documenting and transmitting the needed
information for each welded joint category (location) is included in
Appendix B[V] or B[E]. Also included in these Appendices is a completed
form showing the requirements described in Section 5.6.2, illustrating the
use and usefulness of this form for communicating welded pressure joint

requirements to manufacturers for quotations and purchase specifications.

Notes A through C of the Nondestructive Examination Notes (Page 2 of the
Form) are standard examination notes that may be selected by the User. The
remaining options or User-defined options may be added as appropriate.
5.6.2 [V/E] The welded pressure joint requirements are to be selected consistent
with service-specific needs; however, the following shall apply as a
minimum:
5.6.2.1 [V/E] Welded joints of Categories A, B, and, when used, butt-type
Categories C and D shall be Type No. 1 of Code Table UW-12
{AF-221}. Note that this excludes the use of permanent weld joint
backing strips and the use of butt welds with one plate offset
[Code Figure UW-13.1(k)]. (See Section 5.6.2.3.)
5.6.2.2 [V/E] Non-butt joints that connect nozzles (including manways
and couplings) to the vessel wall (Code Category D joints) shall be
full penetration welds through the vessel wall and through the
inside edge of reinforcing plates, when used. Nozzle necks
designated to extend beyond the inside surface of the vessel wall
shall have a fillet weld at the inside corner. (See Section 5.6.2.4.)
5.6.2.3 [V/E] {Not Division 2 Applicable} The minimum degree of
examination of welded butt joints shall be spot radiography per
Code Paragraph UW-52, such that, in combination with the
requirements of Section 5.6.2.1, a joint efficiency not lower than
0.85 will result. In applying the rules of Code Paragraph UW-52,
the increments of weld shall be selected so as to include all
Category A, B, and C butt welds, except Category B or C butt
welds in nozzles and communicating chambers that exceed neither
10 inches nominal pipe size nor 1-1/8 inches wall thickness.
5.6.2.4 [V/E] The need for examining the accessible surfaces of the
completed Category D corner joint welds by magnetic particle,
liquid penetrant, ultrasonic, or other nondestructive methods shall
be considered on a case-by-case basis. For example, see optional
Note E in the Nondestructive Examination Notes of the Welded
Pressure Joint Requirements Form.
5.6.2.5 [V/E] Use either Appendix B[V] or B[E] to document specified
requirements.
5.6.2.6 [E] Tubesheet-to-shell (or channel) weld joints shall be any full
penetration weld permitted by Code Figure UW-13.2 or Figure
UW 13.3, except as follows:
5.6.2.6.1 [E] Weld joints that employ a permanent backing strip

are not permitted.

5.6.2.6.2 [E] To avoid the potential for crevices generated

during fabrication, Code Figures UW-13.2 (d), (e-2)
and (i) are not permitted.
5.6.2.6.3 [E] Exchangers having any of the following design

conditions shall employ tubesheet-to-shell (or
channel) weld joints per Code Figures UW-13.2 (a),
(f) or (k), or Figure UW-13.3:
• Tube side MAWP exceeding 600 psig
• Shell side MAWP exceeding 1000 psig
• MDMT colder than minus 20°F
• High-alloy tubesheet and adjoining shell (or

channel) with the weld joint exposed to the
process fluid
• Shell (or channel) inside diameter (ID) larger

than 48 inches with carbon steel, low-alloy
steel, or clad steel tubesheet material; or larger
than 30 inches with high-alloy or nonferrous
tubesheet material
5.6.2.7 [E] For the purpose of determining required tubesheet-to-shell (or
channel) weld sizes in accordance with Code requirements, a fixed
tubesheet shall be considered supported (not less than 80% of the
pressure load is carried by the tubes) if:
[(AtEt)/(AsEs)] ≥ 4.0
Where:
At = Total cross-sectional metal area of tubes, sq. in.
Et = Modulus of Elasticity of tube material at mean metal
temperature, psi
As = Cross-sectional metal area of shell based on actual
thickness less corrosion allowance, sq. in.
Es = Modulus of Elasticity of shell material at mean metal
temperature, psi
5.7 Postweld Heat Treatment (PWHT)
5.7.1 [V/E] Vessels shall be postweld heat treated per applicable sections of the
Code in accordance with material specifications or when specified by the
User due to service such as ammonia, caustics, amines, or wet hydrogen
sulfide. Requirements for PWHT of carbon and low-alloy steels are provided
in Table UCS-56 {AF-402.1} of the Code. Alternative PWHT requirements
of Code Table UCS 56.1 {AF-402.2}, “Alternative Postweld Heat Treatment
Requirements for Carbon and Low-Alloy Steels,” shall not be employed.

5.7.2 [V/E] PWHT provides reduction of residual stresses due to forming and
welding and softens heat-affected zones. Some steels can be damaged within
certain temperature zones below PWHT temperature. A materials engineer
shall be consulted regarding the need for PWHT beyond the requirements of
the Code and dependent on service conditions. The resulting
recommendation shall be included on the Data Sheet, PIP VEDV1003, or
PIP VEDST003.
5.8 Wind Load

5.8.1 User Selections from ASCE 7 (References are to ASCE 7-95,
unless otherwise specified)
Note: Local codes or regulations may require compliance with UBC or
other rules for wind load design.
[V/E] Wind load design requirements that shall be used for U.S. locations
are covered in ASCE 7; however, simply specifying wind loads in
accordance with ASCE 7 is an incomplete specification since choices exist
within ASCE 7 that the Designer must make. The Designer shall determine
and specify on the Data Sheet, PIP VEDST003, or PIP VEDV1003 the
following items:
5.8.1.1 Classification Category (from Table 1-1)
[V/E] There are four Classification Categories. This selection allows
the Designer to determine the Importance Factor, I, from Table 6-2.
The Importance Factor is needed to determine the Velocity Pressure.
Category II (formerly Category I in ASCE 7-93 and earlier editions)
has been the industry standard; however, in some cases it may be
appropriate to select Category III.
5.8.1.2 Basic Wind Speed (from Figure 6.1)
[V/E] The Designer shall make this determination by knowing the
geographic location of the equipment’s point of installation.
[V/E] There are different units of measurement for wind speed that
must be recognized for design. The basic wind speed in ASCE 7 is in
terms of a 3-second gust. This is the mean wind speed averaged over
3 seconds. All U.S. codes before ASCE 7-95 use wind speed in terms
of the fastest mile. These wind speed numbers cannot be used
interchangeably in design. Interchanging these wind speed values
can produce results that may be 40% or more in error.
5.8.1.3 Exposure Category (from Paragraph 6.5.3)
[V/E] There are four Exposure Categories from which to select.
Velocity Pressure Coefficients, Kz, are provided in Table 6-3 as a
function of the selected Exposure Category. Exposure Category C
should be selected for most Gulf Coast sites. For other than coastal
plant sites, Exposure Category B is often selected. The Designer

shall make this determination by knowing the geographic location of

the equipment’s point of installation.
5.8.1.4 Topographic Factor, Kzt (from Paragraph 6.5.5 and Figure 6-2)
[V/E] Wind speed-up over isolated hills and escarpments must be
considered for Exposure Category B, C, or D where the upwind
terrain is free of such topographic features for a distance of 1 mile or
50 times the height of the hill or escarpment, whichever is less.
Wind speed-up over isolated hills and escarpments must also be
considered for structures situated on the upper half of hills or near
the edge of escarpments. For Exposure Categories B and C, wind
speed-up does not need to be considered when the height of hills or
escarpments is less than 30 feet and 60 feet respectively, which
would be typical for the Gulf Coast region.
5.8.1.5 Gust Effect Factor
[V/E] For flexible structures such as a tall vertical process vessel, a
Gust Effect Factor, Gf , is another essential variable needed to
determine the wind forces involved. The instructions in ASCE 7 in
this regard are as follows:
• [V/E] Gust Effect Factors for main wind-force resisting
systems of flexible buildings and other structures shall be
calculated by a rational analysis that incorporates the dynamic
properties of the main wind-force resisting system.
• [V/E] For flexible vertical vessels, defined as vessels with a
fundamental (natural) frequency of vibration less than 1 Hertz
[including vessels with a height-to-diameter (h/D) ratio greater
than 4, where h is the total height of the vessel and D is the
vessel diameter measured to the mid-thickness of the vessel
wall], the recommendation is that Gf be determined using
either the analysis method given in Paragraph 6.6 of the
Commentary Section of ASCE 7 or some other rational analysis
method that incorporates the dynamic properties of the main
wind-force resisting system. When employing equation C6-9 in
Paragraph 6.6, use 0.01 as the damping ratio, β, for steel
construction.

5.8.1.6 Force Coefficients

[V/E] Force Coefficients, Cf, formerly called “Shape Factors,” are
also needed to determine wind-induced forces acting on the vessel.
Typical factors are provided in Table 6-7. The following are
recommendations for Cf to be used in design:
Vessel Description Cf
A. For all horizontal vessels and for vertical 0.5
vessels having an h/D ratio not greater
than 1
B. For vertical vessels having an h/D ratio See Table 6-7 for
greater than 1 (applies to that portion moderately smooth
of vessel without spoilers) surfaces
C. For that portion of vertical vessels See Table 6-7 for very
provided with spoilers as recommended rough surfaces
in Section 5.11.2.1 or 5.11.2.2 of this
Practice
5.8.2 Determination of Wind-Induced Forces

[V] ASCE 7 does not provide the complete methodology needed to account
for wind-induced forces on common appurtenances to pressure vessels such
as ladders, platforms, handrails, piping, etc. The report entitled “Wind Loads
on Petrochemical Facilities” (see Section 2.3 of this Practice) provides
guidelines and examples for the determination of the total wind-induced
forces on pressure vessels, including those from appurtenances. If most
detail items (ladders, platforms, piping, etc.) of the vessel are known or can
be estimated with reasonable accuracy, the Detailed Method described in
this report shall be used for the vessel design.
[E] See PIP VEDST003 for specific loading information, when applicable.
5.9 Seismic Loads

Note: Local codes and regulations may require compliance with UBC or other
rules for seismic design.
5.9.1 General Requirements and Data from ASCE 7 (References are to
ASCE 7-95, unless otherwise specified)
[V/E] The seismic design requirements and the specification of criteria
variables for the calculation of seismic response loads for the design of
vessels are in ASCE 7. The calculation of seismic forces for vessels is
governed by one of two methods. For vessels mounted on the ground, see
Section 5.9.2 of this Practice. For vessels mounted above grade within a
structure, see Section 5.9.3 of this Practice. The first step in an analysis is to
perform an eigenvalue analysis of the vessel in order to calculate its first
natural period (horizontal direction, in the installed position). This is done
by dividing the vessel into an appropriate number of mass and stiffness

elements per the theory of structural dynamics. For long pieces of

equipment, more elements are normally required for an accurate analysis. A
general rule is to use the diameter of the vessel as the minimum longitudinal
length of each element. For vertically-oriented vessels, the mass points are
numbered starting at the first point above grade. For horizontally oriented
vessels, only one mass point is normally required because the vessel has the
center of gravity of the majority of its mass concentrated at one level above
the ground. For vessels that can be shown to have uniform properties in mass
and stiffness, the closed form handbook solution for natural period may be
used.
[E] See PIP VEDST003 for specific loading information, when applicable.
[V/E] The design of pressure retaining elements (both internal and external)
shall permit allowable stress multiplying factors which do not exceed those
found in Code Paragraphs UG-23(c) and (d) {Table AD-150.1}. The load
combination factors of ASCE 7, Paragraphs 2.4.3 and 2.4.4, are not
permitted. The design of supports shall meet the requirements in
Section 5.18 of this Practice.
5.9.2 Seismic Loads for Ground-Supported Equipment
[V/E] The governing equation for horizontal seismic base shear of ground-
supported equipment is:
V = CsW
where:
Cs = 1.2Cv/(RT2/3)
Cs (seismic design coefficient) should not be less than 0.5Ca , but need not
be greater than 2.5Ca/R.
Cv , Ca are site-specific coefficients based on Soil Profile Type and values
of Av and Aa as determined from the corresponding contour maps.
R is Response Modification Factor based on nonbuilding structure type
and vessel contents if applicable (ASCE 7 Table 9.2.7.5).
T is the first natural period of the equipment to be calculated
W is the operating weight of the equipment.
The lateral horizontal seismic forces induced at the levels or mass points of
the equipment and in the direction causing the highest stresses shall be
determined from the rules in ASCE 7. The Designer shall specify the site-
specific values on the Data Sheet, PIP VEDV1003, or PIP VEDST003.
Note: ASCE 7, Section 9.2.7.2, requires that the calculated shear be
increased for vessels with hazardous contents, if they are supported by
structures similar to buildings. Other special requirements may apply for
special cases such as vessels with fundamental period T, less than

0.06 sec, storage tanks, and irregular equipment structures. The designer
shall be responsible for such special analysis and design requirements.
5.9.3 Seismic Loads for Structure-Mounted Equipment
[V/E] For equipment mounted in a structure above grade, the governing
equation for seismic force is:
Fp = 4.0 Ca Ip Wp
where:
Ca = seismic coefficient
Ip = component importance factor = 1.5
Wp is the operating weight of the equipment.
Fp is the horizontal seismic force applied at the center of gravity of the
equipment and in the direction causing the highest stresses.
If the above method of calculating the floor-mounted equipment seismic
force is too conservative, the alternate method may be used. See equations
9.3.1.2-2 through -5 in ASCE 7. Note that this method requires the
calculation of the fundamental period T of the structure that the equipment is
mounted in.
5.10 Design Loads and Load Combinations

[V/E] The Designer shall determine the following loads and specify them on the
Vessel Drawing/Data Sheet. Design loads are defined and classified as follows:
5.10.1 Dead Load (L1)
[V/E] Dead Load is the installed weight of the vessel, including internals,
catalyst or packing, refractory lining, platforms, insulation fireproofing,
piping, and other permanent attachments.
5.10.2 Operating Live Load (L2)
[V/E] Operating Live Load is the weight of the liquid at the maximum
operating level, including that on trays.
5.10.3 Pressure Load (L3)
[V/E] Pressure Load is the MAWP {Design Pressure} (internal or external at
the coincident temperature) considering the pressure variations through the
vessel, if any. MAWP may be equal to the design pressure (see Code
footnote 34). For vessels with more than one independent chamber, see Code
Paragraph UG-19(a) {AD-102}.
5.10.4 Thermal Load (L4)
[V/E] Thermal Loads are the loads caused by the restraint of thermal
expansion/interaction of the vessel and/or its supports.

5.10.5 Test Load (L5)

[V/E] Test Load is the weight of the test medium, usually water. Design
basis shall consider that the vessel will be tested in its normal operating
position. (See Section 5.2.2.)
5.10.6 Wind Load (L6)
[V/E] Wind Load shall be determined in accordance with Section 5.8.
5.10.7 Seismic Load (L7)
[V/E] Seismic Load shall be determined in accordance with Section 5.9.
5.10.8 Piping and Superimposed Equipment Loads (L8)
[V/E] Loads caused by piping other than the Dead Load in Section 5.10.1
and those caused by superimposed equipment shall be considered as
applicable.
5.10.9 Load Combinations
[V/E] Vessels and their supports shall be designed to meet the most severe
of the following load combinations: (See Section 5.18 for vessel supports.)
1. L1+L6 Erected Condition with full Wind Load
2. L1+L2+L3+L4+L6+L8 Design Condition with full Wind Load
(include both full and zero pressure conditions (L3) for check of
maximum longitudinal tensile and compressive stress)
3. L1+L2+L3+L4+L7+L8 Design Condition with Seismic Load
(include both full and zero pressure conditions to determine L3 for
check of maximum longitudinal tensile and compressive stress)
4. L1+(F)L3+L5+(0.25)L6 Initial (New uncorroded) Hydrostatic Test
Condition and Future (corroded) Hydrostatic Test Condition with
vessel in normal operating position and with 50% of design wind
velocity (25% of Wind Load)

F is the appropriate Code test factor that, when multiplied by the

lowest ratio (for the materials of which the vessel is constructed) of
the stress value S {stress intensity value Sm} for the test temperature
of the vessel to the stress value {stress intensity value Sm} for the
design temperature, established the minimum required hydrostatic test
pressure at every point in the vessel.
Following are the Division 1 Code hydrostatic test factor requirements
in UG-99, UG-101(c), Code Case 2046, and Code Case 2055-1:
• 1.5 for contruction to 1998 and earlier editions (4.0 design
margin)
• 1.3 for construction to 1999 and later addenda/editions
(3.5 design margin)
For Division 2, the hydrostatic test factor is 1.25.
The general primary membrane tensile stress in the corroded condition
(or when no corrosion allowance is specified) under this load
combination shall not exceed {AD-151.1}:
• 90% of the Specified Minimum Yield Strength at 100°F for
carbon and low-alloy steels
• The Specified Minimum Yield Strength at 100°F for austenitic
stainless steels
(See examples of design considerations described in Section 5.2.2 and
testing requirements in Section 7.)
5. Lift Condition: See Section 8.
5.11 Wind-Induced Vibration of Vertical Vessels

[V/E] Vertical vessels having an h/D ratio (not including insulation thickness, but
including skirt height) greater than 15 may vibrate due to vortex-excited resonance
unless sufficient external appurtenances or wind spoilers are present to disrupt the
airflow over the vessel, thereby preventing the generation of the vortices with the
undesirable predominant frequency. (In general, the addition of spoilers is typically
more feasible than changing the natural frequency of the vessel or providing
supplementary damping.) In the case of cylindrical pressure vessels that have been
determined to be candidates for wind-induced vibration, it has been found that
spoilers are only required for the top third of the vessel height and that normal
attachments in this region (e.g., ladders and piping) will be effective as spoilers
provided the maximum circumferential distance between them is 108 degrees (30%
of the vessel circumference).
[V/E] Vessels with an h/D ratio of 15 or greater that do not have a significant
number of effective attachments shall be investigated for dynamic behavior due to
wind excitation as described by Vellozzi (see Section 2.3) and Sections 5.11.1.1,
5.11.1.2, and 5.11.1.3. Other similar proven evaluation methodology may be used.

5.11.1 Vortex Shedding Ranges

[V/E] Vessels may vibrate in any of three vortex shedding ranges.
5.11.1.1 [V/E] Lower Periodic Vortex Shedding Range: When the
Reynolds number is less than 300,000 and the Strouhal number is
approximately 0.2, vibration due to periodic vortex shedding may
occur with tall slender vessels that have very low fundamental
frequencies.
5.11.1.2 [V/E] Random Vortex Shedding Range: When the Reynolds
number is between 300,000 and 3,500,000, random vortex
shedding occurs. When the Strouhal number is approximately 0.2,
the random vortex oscillations may lock-in and become periodic,
causing the vessel to vibrate.
5.11.1.3 [V/E] Upper Periodic Vortex Shedding Range: When the
Reynolds number is above 3,500,000 and the Strouhal number is
approximately 0.2, self-excited vibration will occur when the
natural frequency of the vessel corresponds with the frequency of
vortex shedding.
5.11.2 Corrective Action
[V/E] When it has been determined that a vessel may vibrate and the
attributes of the vessel (e.g., normal attachments) cannot be changed to put it
in a range where vibration will not occur, wind spoilers in accordance with
Section 5.11.2.1 or 5.11.2.2 shall be added to the top-third of the vessel.
5.11.2.1 [V/E] Helical Spoilers: Use a three-start system of spoilers in a
helical pattern on the top third of the vessel. An optimum
configuration consists of spoilers with an exposed width beyond
insulation of 0.09D and a pitch of 5D, where D is the diameter of
the top third of the vessel. The spoiler system may be interrupted
to provide clearance at vessel appendages.
5.11.2.2 [V/E] Short Vertical Spoilers: Use a three-start system of short
vertical spoilers arranged in a helical pattern on the top-third of the
vessel. The exposed width beyond insulation of the spoilers should
be 0.09D and the pitch (height of one helical wrap) between 5D
and 11D. There should be a minimum of eight (8) spoilers over the
pitch distance (each complete helical wrap) and a minimum of 1.5
helical wraps over the top-third of the vessel. The spoiler system
may be interrupted to provide clearance at vessel appendages.
5.11.2.3 [V/E] Projected Area: When spoilers as described in Sections
5.11.2.1 and 5.11.2.2 are added to a vessel, the column projected
area normal to wind, Af, and the corresponding force coefficient,
Cf, for the column height where spoilers have been added (see
Section 5.8.1.6) shall be used when designing the vessel and
supporting structure to calculate the overturning load. The column
projected area shall be calculated using the projected diameter

taken at the outside edge of the spoilers multiplied by the height of

the section under consideration.
5.12 Formed Heads

5.12.1 [V/E] Design rules to prevent buckling of thin fabricated torispherical heads
subjected to internal pressure are not yet available in Division 1 or Division
2 of the Code. Accordingly, for L/t ratios greater than 500, design checks of
the Code-required thickness should be made based on equations for perfect
torispheres that have been modified to reflect experimental results on
fabricated models (see Section 2.3, Galletly). This check may reveal the need
for a head thickness greater than the Code-required minimum thickness.
Note: L is the inside spherical or crown radius and t is the minimum
required thickness of the head after forming (corroded condition).
5.12.2 [V/E] When an agitator is mounted on a nozzle (or studding outlet), in a
formed head, the head thickness determined from Code formulas for
pressure loadings and static local loadings analysis is often not sufficient to
provide the rigidity and stress levels acceptable for the dynamic loadings that
will be applied. Before ordering the head, the agitator manufacturer shall be
consulted regarding the recommended minimum head thickness for the
agitator installation under consideration.
5.13 Flanges (see PIP VESV1002, Section 6.3.16)

[V/E] The Designer is responsible for ensuring that the facings, bolt circle, number
of bolts, and size of bolts of vessel nozzles match the mating piping flanges. Flanges
for all flanged vessel nozzles equal to or smaller than NPS 24 shall meet the
requirements of ASME B16.5. Body flanges in this size range may be either per
ASME B16.5 or custom-designed per the Code. For nozzles larger than NPS 24 and
for body flanges of any size, the options available (as follows in Sections 5.13.1
through 5.13.4) to the User must be carefully selected as a function of the need.
5.13.1 ASME B16.47, Series A (NPS 26 through NPS 60)
[V/E] These are standard carbon, low-alloy, and austenitic stainless steel
flanges of the integral hub, welding neck style that are dimensionally the
same as MSS SP-44 flanges. The materials covered are identical with those
in Materials Groups 1 and 2 of ASME B16.5. Line valves and machinery
nozzles may be provided with flanges of MSS SP-44 dimensions. Therefore,
vessel nozzle flanges that meet the dimensions of Series A flanges may be
either necessary or desirable. Series A and Series B flanges are not
dimensionally compatible in all sizes.
5.13.2 ASME B16.47, Series B (NPS 26 through NPS 60)
[V/E] These are standard carbon, low-alloy, and austenitic stainless steel
flanges of the integral hub, welding neck flange style that are dimensionally
the same as flanges covered under the now obsolete API 605. The materials
covered are identical with those in Materials Groups 1 and 2 of
ASME B16.5. Machinery nozzles may be provided with flanges of Series B

dimensions. Therefore, vessel nozzle flanges that meet the dimensions of

Series B flanges may either be necessary or desirable. Series A and Series B
flanges are not dimensionally compatible in all sizes.
5.13.3 Custom-Designed Flanges per Code
5.13.3.1 [V/E] Custom-designed flanges may be required when:
a. Materials of construction covered in ASME B16.5 or
ASME B16.47 are not appropriate for the service conditions.
b. For NPS 26 through NPS 60, the desired flange style is other
than the welding neck type (e.g., lap joint, slip-on) covered
in ASME B16.47.
c. Design conditions for the intended service application
exceed the pressure-temperature ratings of ASME B16.5 or
ASME B16.47 flanges.
d. Service requirements result in significant mechanical
loadings other than pressure. The pressure-temperature
ratings of both ASME B16.5 and ASME B16.47 are based
primarily on pressure loadings and accordingly, the flanges
may not be suitably designed for externally applied moment
or axial thrust loadings (e.g., as imposed by mating piping,
weight, wind, or seismic loadings), resulting in leak-
tightness problems. See Appendix C for the method usually
employed for considering such mechanical loadings.
e. Rigidity requirements of ASME B16.47 flanges are
sometimes below recommended guidelines, even when
flanges are subjected only to pressure loadings within the
pressure-temperature ratings, or for those flanges designed
in accordance with Code Appendix 2 {Appendix 3}. See
Code Appendix S-2 {Appendix M} for Rigidity Index
guidelines.

5.13.3.2 [V/E] Recommended minimum gasket contact widths are shown in

the following table:
Vessel OD Gasket Contact Width
(inches) (inches)
≤ 36 1
36 < OD ≤ 60 1-1/4
OD > 60 1-1/2
Notes:
1. Gasket Contact Width is the recommended minimum
width of the gasket in contact with both flange faces.
2. For 3-ply corrugated metal gaskets, the gasket OD
shall be a minimum of 1/4 inch less than the raised
face or lap ring OD. (See Section 5.13.4.4.)
5.13.3.3 [V/E] Design flanges not only for the design pressure, but also for
other loadings that will be applied to the joints during the project
life (e.g., externally applied bending moment and axial thrust
loadings.) [See Section 5.13.3.1(d).]
5.13.3.4 [V/E] Select flange thickness so that, considering all loadings that
will be applied [see Section 5.13.3.1(d)], the Rigidity Index as
defined in Appendix S-2 {Appendix M} of the Code is ≤ 1.0,
based on the recommended value of KL of 0.2 or K1 of 0.3, as
applicable.
5.13.3.5 [V/E] Flange bolts shall not be less than 3/4 inch nominal
diameter. Flange bolt holes shall be 1/8 inch larger than the
diameter of the bolts.
5.13.3.6 [V/E] Nubbins are permitted only by agreement with the User.
5.13.4 Custom-Designed Lap Joint Flanges
[V/E] Practices relative to lap joint flanges that experience has shown will
result in a level of damage tolerance, leak-tightness integrity, and gasket
replacement capability equivalent to the welding neck style are as follows:

5.13.4.1 [V/E] The recommended radial lap width is as shown in the

following table:
Nozzle Vessel OD Radial Lap Width
(inches) (inches)
OD ≤ 18 1
18 < OD ≤ 36 1-1/2
36 < OD ≤ 60 1-3/4
OD > 60 2
Note: Radial Lap Width shall be measured from
the toe of the lap-to-shell attachment weld to the
outer edge of the lap ring. (See Section 5.13.4.4.)
5.13.4.2 [V/E] The gasket contact width is as shown in the Table in

Section 5.13.3.2.
5.13.4.3 [V/E] Finished lap ring thickness is a minimum of 3/16 inch
greater than the nominal wall thickness of the nozzle/shell to
which it is attached. This thickness will allow possible future
re-machining of the lap and should be sufficient to allow the laps
to be machined front and back, if necessary to maintain parallel
surfaces after repair.
5.13.4.4 [V/E] If the values in the Tables in Sections 5.13.3.2 and 5.13.4.1
are not used, the gasket/lap/flange design shall be configured so
that the gasket load reaction on the lap (defined as “G” in Code
Appendix 2 {Appendix 3}) is as close as practicable to being
coincident with the reaction of the flange against the back of the
lap (taken at the midpoint of contact between the flange and lap).
The Code does not treat the gasket reaction and flange/lap reaction
independently [see Code Figure 2-4(1) {Figure 3-310.1(a)}].
However, this recommended configuration is believed to promote
improved joint performance because it minimizes the amount of
bending in the lap ring resulting from applied forces.
5.13.4.5 Lap Type Flange-to-Shell Clearance
[V/E] The difference between the flange inside diameter (ID) and
the shell OD shall not exceed:
• 1/16 inch for nominal diameters up to and including NPS 12
• 1/8 inch for nominal diameters over NPS 12 through 48 inches
OD
• 3/16 inch for nominal diameters over 48 inches OD
5.13.4.6 Flange Bevel and Lap Ring Weld
[V/E] The fillet weld attaching the lap ring to the shell shall be an
equal leg fillet weld with the leg dimension equal to the nominal
shell thickness (+1/16 inch, -0). The difference between the diameter
of the flange bevel where the lap ring contacts the surface of the

flange and the nominal diameter at the toe of the lap ring attachment
weld at the back of the lap ring shall be 1/8 inch (+1/16 inch, -0).
5.13.5 Lap Joint Flanges NPS 24 and Smaller
[V/E] When ASME B16.5 lapped flanges are specified, the User is
cautioned to make the checks/inspections necessary to ensure that the
flanges actually are ASME B16.5 lapped flanges.
[V/E] For certain of the smaller sizes in each pressure class, the length-
through-hub (dimension Y) of the slip-on flange and the lapped flange are
the same. (This is true through NPS 12 for Class 150, through NPS 8 for
Class 300, etc.) Accordingly, since the slip-on flange is more commonly
used, flange manufacturers typically modify the small slip-on flanges to
make the lapped style. This modification consists of machining the corner
radius of the bore as specified in ASME B16.5 (dimension r) and removing
the raised face. The latter change is permitted in Interpretation 3-5 of
ASME B16.5, provided the resulting flange meets the requirements for a
lapped flange, including flange thickness, or a length-through-hub
dimension.
[V/E] The caution is focused on larger sizes where the length-through-hub
(dimension Y) for lapped flanges is greater than that of the slip-on style.
Some flange manufacturers have furnished the modified versions of these
slip-on flanges as lapped flanges, calling them short-hubbed lapped flanges.
These flanges do not comply with ASME B16.5 and, as a result, do not
comply with either the Code or OSHA when Code construction is mandated.
The strength of the short-hubbed flanges cannot generally be justified by
Code calculations.
5.13.6 Slip-on Flanges
[V/E] Slip-on flanges are limited to use under the following conditions:
1. [V/E] ASME B16.5 standard forged flanges for design pressures
and coincident temperatures not exceeding the pressure-
temperature ratings for Class 150 flanges as specified in
ASME B16.5, except that the maximum design temperature shall
not exceed 650°F
2. [V/E] {Not Division 2 Applicable} Custom-designed flanges per
Code Figure 2-4(8), (8a), (9), (9a), (10), or (10a) for design
temperatures not exceeding 650ºF; and for flange thickness not
exceeding 3 inches
3. [V/E] Corrosion allowance does not exceed 1/16 inch (1.6 mm)
4. [V/E] Carbon or low-alloy steel flanges attached to solid high-
alloy necks are limited to design temperatures no higher than
450ºF, unless a higher temperature is justified by a complete stress
analysis and approved by the User

5. [V/E] MDMT is not colder than minus 20ºF for carbon and low-
alloy steels
6. [V/E] Vessel is not for lethal service (Code requirement)
7. [V/E] Vessel or nozzle is neither for cyclic pressure or
temperature service nor subjected to cyclic loadings from
associated equipment
8. [V/E] For vessels not in hot hydrogen service (Hot hydrogen
service is defined as hydrogen partial pressure exceeding 100 psia,
with a corresponding coincident temperature exceeding 400ºF.)
5.13.7 Threaded and Socket Weld Flanges
[V/E] Threaded and socket weld flanges shall not be used. (See Section
5.13.9.)
5.13.8 Flange Facing and Surface Finish
5.13.8.1 [V/E] Flanges, except for lapped flanges, shall either have a raised
face or shall have a construction that provides outer confinement
to the gasket if required by Section 5.13.8.3. The height of a raised
face shall be 1/16 inch or a greater height when required by
ASME B16.5 or ASME B16.47, or as specified by the User. For
some User-designated services, flat-face flanges or ring joint
facings may be required.
5.13.8.2 [V/E] Standard flanges and factory-made lap joint stub ends shall
have a surface finish in accordance with ASME B16.5 or
ASME B16.47, as applicable. For standard flanges in services
requiring special consideration (e.g., hydrogen) and for custom
flanges and shop-fabricated lap joint stub ends, the gasket contact
surface shall have either a serrated concentric or serrated spiral
finish having a resultant surface finish from 125 - 250 µ inch
average roughness.
5.13.8.3 Confined Joints
[V/E] For any of the following conditions, gasketed flange joint
designs (body flange and nozzle joints) larger than NPS 24 shall
provide outer confinement of the gasket:
• Design pressure 300 psi or higher
• Design temperature hotter than 500°F
• MDMT colder than minus 20°F
• Cyclic pressure or temperature service
• Joint requires metallic gasket
Note: Robust metal reinforced gaskets (e.g., spiral-wound with
outer gauge ring, double-jacketed corrugated metal gaskets with
a corrugated metal filler, etc.) are exempted.

5.13.9 Piping Connections

[V/E] All piping connections to vessels shall be either flanged or butt-
welded. The minimum size shall be NPS 1-1/2. The use of threaded
connections is not recommended because of the potential for crevice
corrosion and notch sensitivity. Threaded connections for vents and drains or
instrument connections are permissible when specified by the User. When
used, the minimum size shall be NPS 3/4 Schedule (Sch) 160 or 6000#
coupling. (See ASME B16.11.) Nozzle sizes NPS 1-1/4, 2-1/2, 3-1/2, and 5
shall not be used.
5.13.10 Quick Opening Closures
[V/E] Swing bolts (eye bolts) shall be of one-piece construction without
welding. Hinge pins shall be solid (not rolled) and of the same material as
the swing bolts.
5.13.11 Flanges - Pass Partition Areas
[E] In multi-pass heat exchangers, the total gasket sealing areas of the pass
partition plate(s) shall be included when calculating the minimum initial bolt
load required to seat the gasket (Wm2).
5.13.12 Flanged Joints
[E] Removable channels or bonnets, channel covers, and floating head
covers shall be attached with through-bolted flanged joints, except TEMA
Type D stationary head designs.
5.14 Nozzles
5.14.1 [V/E] Nozzles supporting agitators, pumps, or other mechanical equipment
shall be suitably reinforced to withstand the mechanical loadings specified
by the device manufacturer. Likewise, nozzles for pressure relief devices
shall be designed and reinforced for thrust reaction. Use of heavier nozzle
necks, conventional reinforcing pads with properly contoured fillet welds,
and formed heads of appropriate stiffness are the elements that result in a
design suitable for an infinite number of cycles. Gussets shall not be used to
strengthen, stiffen, or reinforce nozzles, unless demonstrated by calculations
to be suitable for the specified cyclic life or thermal condition.
For such nozzles, consideration shall be given to the dimensional
requirements of the device as supplied by the device manufacturer (e.g.,
tolerances).
5.14.2 [V/E] Surface-attached nozzles as shown in Code Figures UW-16.1(a),
(a-1), (a-2), (a-3), and (b) {Figures 610.1(a) and (b)}, and those with internal
reinforcing pads, are not permitted.
5.14.3 [V/E] Nozzle locations (including manways) and their reinforcing pads, if
necessary, shall preferably not interfere with or cover pressure vessel weld
seams [see PIP VESV1002, Section 5.2.2(c)]. When located in heads other

than hemispherical heads, all the nozzle reinforcing shall preferably be

within the spherical portion of the head.
5.14.4 [V/E] Vessels shall be provided with sufficient connections to permit
purging, pumpout, venting, decontamination, pressure relieving, and
draining. Vortex breakers shall be provided on pump suction nozzles. (See
PIP VEFV1124.)
5.14.5 [V/E] For vessels supported by a skirt, the flange of any nozzle in the bottom
head shall be located outside the skirt.
5.14.6 [V/E] In establishing nozzle and manway projections, clearance should be
provided for removing flange stud bolts from between the flange and vessel
and for accessing flange stud nuts. Clearance for flange studs and nuts
should be considered when nozzles penetrate insulation or platforms.
Minimum projection from the outside of the vessel wall to the nozzle face
shall be:
• 8 inches for nozzles up to and including NPS 8
• 10 inches for nozzles larger than NPS 8
Round up the dimension from the face of the nozzle to the vessel centerline
or reference line to the next larger 1/2-inch increment.
5.14.7 [V/E] Minimum nozzle neck nominal thickness for carbon steel nozzles shall
be per Code Paragraph UG-45, except in no case shall the nominal thickness
selected for NPS 3 and smaller be thinner than Sch 80.
5.14.8 [V/E] Minimum nozzle neck nominal thickness for high-alloy and non-
ferrous alloy nozzles shall be per Code Paragraph UG-45, except in no case
shall the nominal thickness selected for NPS 3 and smaller be thinner than
Sch 40S.
5.14.9 [V/E] {Not Division 2 Applicable} When there is concern that an overstress
condition may exist, the local membrane and surface stresses due to local
loads (e.g., piping loads, platform loads, etc.) shall be determined using the
WRC Bulletin 107 procedure, or other local stress analysis procedures. For
local loads and pressure, the allowable stresses are 1.5S for local primary
membrane stress and 3S for primary membrane plus secondary bending
stress at nozzles, platform lugs, etc. S shall be the Code-allowable stress at
the design temperature.
5.14.10 [E] Nozzles shall not be located closer to an integrally attached tubesheet,
either shell side or tube side, than shown in Appendix D.
5.14.11 [V/E] Openings exceeding the size limits stated in Code Paragraph
UG-36(b)(1) shall meet the supplemental rules of Code
Appendix 1-7(a) and (b). (Code Case 2236 covering alternative design rules
for large openings shall only be used with User’s agreement.)
5.14.12 [V/E] A minimum of three safety retainer clips shall be welded to the nozzle
neck at the back of NPS 4 and larger lap joint flanges that face upward.

(Facing upward is defined as inclination of the nozzle from the horizontal at

an angle of 30 degrees or greater.) These clips shall be located so that a
spacing of one length-through-hub dimension (dimension Y in
ASME B16.5) will exist between the back of the lap and the face of the
flange. This will allow for future painting of the nozzle neck in this region.
5.15 Manways
[V/E] The location, quantity, and size of manways and internal ladder rungs shall be
specified to ensure that all interior areas are accessible as required. Minimum
requirements regarding manway and inspection openings are covered in Code
Paragraph UG-46 {Article D-10}, “Inspection Openings.”
5.15.1 [V/E] Service conditions, size, and configuration of the vessel may justify
manways other than (or in addition to) those mandated by the Code.
5.15.1.1 [V] Vessels with mixers/agitators shall be provided with at least
one manway that does not require removal of the mixer/agitator.
5.15.1.2 [V] Unless other provisions (e.g., body flanges) are made for tray
removal, trayed towers shall have at least two manways, one at the
top and one at the bottom. Additional manways shall be as
specified by the User.
5.15.2 [V/E] Manways shall be usable from a ladder, platform, or grade.
5.15.3 [V] Vessels smaller than 3 feet ID that are subject to internal corrosion,
erosion, or mechanical abrasion shall be equipped with inspection openings
as described in Code Paragraph UG-46 {Article D-10}. Vessels in this size
category may justify the use of body flanges.
5.15.4 [V] Vessels 3 feet ID and larger that are subject to internal corrosion,
erosion, or mechanical abrasion shall be equipped with one or more flanged
and blinded manways.
5.15.5 [V/E] The nominal recommended manway size is NPS 24 with a finished ID
not less than 23 inches. Manways shall not be smaller than NPS 18 or have a
finished ID of less than 17 inches. Larger diameter manways should be used
to satisfy additional needs such as, but not limited to, installation of
internals/catalyst, packing, maintenance requirements, long projection due to
thick insulation, etc.
5.15.6 [V/E] To provide utility for entry and exit, vessel geometry, and location of
access platforms shall be considered when locating manways. Internal
ladders or grab rungs may be needed at manway locations for entry and exit.
5.15.7 [V/E] Provisions shall be made for lifting devices (fixed or portable) at
manways for personnel rescue as described in OSHA 29 CFR 1910.146.
5.15.8 [V/E] Manways shall be equipped with either a davit or a hinge to facilitate
handling of the blind flange. Manways oriented with the nozzle neck axis in
a horizontal plane shall be equipped with a hinge in accordance with
PIP VEFV1116 or a davit in accordance with PIP VEFV1117. Attach the

davit-socket bracket to the nozzle neck when lap joint flanges are employed.
Manways on the top of vessels oriented with a vertical nozzle neck axis shall
be equipped with a davit in accordance with PIP VEFV1118.
5.15.9 [V/E] Consideration may be given for use of suitable process connections as
manways and handholes. (Consider both size and location.)
5.15.10 [V/E] When approved by the User, flanges and their pressure-retaining
covers for manways may be custom-designed, with due consideration being
given to providing a Rigidity Index in accordance with the recommendations
in Code Appendix S-2 {Appendix M}. A detail sketch describing the flange,
cover, bolting, and gasket, as well as Code calculations supporting the
design, shall be provided.
5.16 Anchor Bolts

5.16.1 [V/E] Materials for anchor bolts shall be selected from one of the following:
1. Carbon steel: A-36 or A-307 Grade B
2. Low-alloy steel: A-193 B7. The User’s written approval shall be
obtained for the use of this low-alloy material.
5.16.2 [V/E] The allowable design stress, as calculated using the tensile stress area
of the threaded portion, shall not exceed the following (see Note):
• [V/E] Carbon steel: 20,000 psi
• [V/E] Low-alloy steel: 30,000 psi
Note: For vessels on concrete foundations, the allowable stress of
anchor bolts may be limited by the strength and dimensions of the
concrete for the bolt spacing selected. Allowable stresses used in
the final design shall be agreed to by the structural engineer.
• [V/E] Anchor bolts selected shall not be smaller than 3/4 inch, shall
be selected in multiples of 4, and shall straddle normal centerlines.
• [V/E] Anchor bolting shall be furnished and installed by the User.
5.16.3 [V/E] Anchor bolts shall be selected with the following threads and the
tensile stress area shall be selected accordingly:
• [V/E] Bolts 1 inch and smaller in diameter: Coarse thread series,
ASME B1.1
• [V/E] Bolts larger than 1 inch in diameter: 8 thread series,
ASME B1.1
5.16.4 [V/E] For vessels on concrete foundations, the allowable concrete bearing
stress used in design shall be 1800 psi.
Note: This value is based on the use of concrete with an ultimate strength,
f'c, of 3000 psi for which the minimum allowable bearing is (0.7)(0.85)f'c
(approximately 1800 psi for 3000 psi concrete).

Higher values may be used consistent with the ulitmate strength chosen (if
known) and other provisions of state-of-the-art concrete foundation design.
The design loadings for anchor bolts embedded in concrete may be
determined by either the simplified method (neutral axis of bolt pattern at
centerline of vessel) or the shifted neutral axis method (See Section 2.3,
Brownell and Young). However, the use of the latter method is
recommended for large vertical vessels because of the economic benefit.
Note: The neutral axis shift method does not apply for vessels supported
by steel structures.
5.16.5 [V/E] Anchor bolts embedded in concrete foundations shall be zinc-coated
(hot dip galvanized or mechanically zinc-coated) so that the addition of a
corrosion allowance is not required.
5.17 Internals
[V/E] Functional design of trays and other removable internals are outside the scope
of this Practice.
5.17.1 [V/E] Removable internals shall be sized to pass through designated vessel
openings. On vessels with internals where a vessel manway is not located in
the top head, internal rigging clips shall be provided to facilitate handling of
the internals.
5.17.2 [V/E] Vessel internals such as distributors, dip tubes, baffles, and
thermowells should not be located near manways in a manner that would
interfere with personnel access or rescue. Special consideration should be
given to the area directly below manways and to head knockers above
manways. In some circumstances, the addition of grab rungs may be
necessary.
5.17.3 [V/E] In services the User has defined as corrosive, welding of vessel
internals attached to a pressure boundary component shall be continuous on
all surfaces in order to eliminate corrosion pockets. All seams and corner
joints shall be sealed.
5.17.4 [V/E] Internal piping and baffles shall be mounted in a manner that will not
unduly restrict thermal expansion. Consideration shall be given to vibration
and the possibilities of fatigue failure. Where vibration and fatigue are
governing design requirements, internal non-pressure parts (e.g., baffles that
may be subject to vibration or cyclic loading) shall be continuously welded.
5.17.5 [V/E] Internal bolting in vessels, especially where vibration is expected
(e.g., where agitators are installed), shall either be double nutted, tack-
welded to the clip (or baffle), or have a lock wire placed in the nut/bolt or
other supports.
5.17.6 [V/E] The nominal chemical composition of internal non-pressure piping
shall be compatible with that of the inside surface of the vessel and the
process. Flanges for internal non-pressure piping may be fabricated from
plate but must conform to ASME B16.5 Class 150 bolting dimensions.

5.17.7 [V/E] Vessel internals and all portions of each vessel shall be self-draining
to ensure complete elimination of liquid from the vessel when drained.
5.17.8 [V/E] For integrally clad and/or weld overlayed vessels, lightly loaded (as
defined in Code Section VIII, Division 2, Paragraph AD-912, footnote 4)
supports, such as those for trays, baffles, etc., may be welded directly to the
alloy clad or weld overlay. Where supports are carrying an appreciable load
(> 25% of the allowable stress for fillet welds), such as packing bed support
rings, the Designer shall determine and specify whether the support shall be
welded directly to the base metal.
5.18 Vessel Supports

5.18.1 General
5.18.1.1 [V/E] Code-allowable stresses {design stress intensity} shall be
used for vessels and their supports. For combinations of
earthquake or wind loadings with other loadings listed in Code
Paragraph UG-22 {AD-110}, the allowable stresses {design stress
intensity} may be increased as permitted by Code Paragraph UG-
23(c) {AD-151.1}. See Section 5.10.9 for load combinations to be
considered. See also Code Appendix G {AD-940}.
5.18.1.2 [V/E] For structural-shape support members in compression where
slenderness ratio is a controlling design consideration, no increase
in the allowable compressive stress is permitted.
5.18.1.3 [V/E] For supports outside the scope of the Code, either Code-
allowable stresses {design stress intensity} or, for structural
shapes, those in the AISC Manual of Steel Construction may be
used.
5.18.1.4 [V/E] The MDMT for the vessel support assembly shall not be
warmer than the lowest 1-day mean atmospheric temperature at the
installation site. (See Section 5.3.)
5.18.1.5 [V/E] Localized shell stresses at all support-to-shell locations shall
be considered, as applicable, for wind load, earthquake, and all
other loadings described in Paragraph UG-22 {AD-110} of the
Code. (See Sections 5.8, 5.9 and 5.18.2.5.)
5.18.1.6 [V/E] Where reinforcing pads are used under supports,
consideration shall be given to stresses due to possible temperature
differentials among the vessel, pads, and supports.
5.18.2 Vertical Vessels
5.18.2.1 [V/E] Vertical vessels shall normally be designed as self-
supporting units and shall resist overturn based upon wind or
earthquake loadings (as described in Sections 5.8 and 5.9) and
other applicable loadings per Paragraph UG-22 {AD-110} of the
Code.

5.18.2.1.1 Skirts or lugs shall be used to support towers or large

vertical vessels and are preferred for vessels having
top-entering agitators.
5.18.2.1.2 Leg supports shall be limited to spherical and

cylindrical vessels that meet the following:
• Design temperature does not exceed 450°F
• Service is noncyclic and nonpulsating (See
Note 1.)
• Vessel h/D ratio does not exceed 5 (Height is
the distance from base of support to the top
tangent line of the vessel.) (See Note 2.)
Note 1: Vessels having agitators experience
transient transverse forces due to dynamic
bending moments from the agitator and
sloshing of the liquid. Therefore, the design
of leg-supported vessels with agitators
requires the application of experience-based
engineering judgment to ensure that
displacement stiffness and stress levels
essential to satisfactory operation are
provided.
Note 2: Caution is advised for leg-supported
vessels that may be within h/D ≤ 5 but could
have excessive axial and/or bending loads
on the legs or an overstress condition in the
vessel wall.
5.18.2.2 [V/E] Skirts shall be attached to the bottom head by a continuous
weld sized so as to provide for the maximum imposed loadings.
The preferred skirt attachment detail shall be butt type (skirt butted
to knuckle portion of head such that the centerlines of the skirt
plate and the head flange are the same diameter, or such that the
OD of the shell and the OD of the skirt coincide). A lapped type
skirt design (skirt lapped to straight flange of head) may also be
used. See Figure AD-912.1 of Division 2 of the Code for some
illustrative weld attachment details and associated minimum weld
sizes. All butt weld joints within the skirt shall be Type No. 1 of
Code Table UW-12 {AF-221}. Alignment tolerance at plate edges
to be butt-welded shall be per Code Paragraph UW-33
{AF-140.2}. The type of skirt attachment detail, the style of
anchor ring assembly (e.g., single ring with gussets, single ring
with chairs, double ring with gussets, etc.), and the type/degree of
nondestructive examination of the skirt assembly welds shall be a
matter of agreement between the User and the Designer.

5.18.2.3 [V/E] Skirt diameter permitting, one or more 24-inch diameter or

larger openings shall be provided to allow free access for
inspection and/or maintenance work inside the skirt. Other opening
geometries are acceptable and are a matter of agreement between
the User and the Designer.
5.18.2.4 [V/E] When the skirt is to be provided with insulation or
fireproofing, all openings shall be provided with rings or collars
projected to equal the insulation or fireproofing thickness. Sleeves
shall be of sufficient size to provide clearance for painting,
insulation, and expansion. Sleeve material shall be the same
material composition as that portion of the skirt and shall be
continuously fillet-welded inside and outside.
5.18.2.5 [V/E] The skirt for stainless steel or other high-alloy steel vessels
shall be of a material with essentially the same coefficient of
expansion as the head to which it is attached when the maximum
temperature stamped on the Code nameplate is hotter than 450°F.
The length of this high-alloy steel portion of the skirt shall not be
less than 2 ( Rt ) , where R is the mean skirt radius and t is skirt
thickness, in inches. The lower portion of these skirts may be
constructed of carbon or low-alloy steel. When the maximum
temperature stamped on the Code nameplate is 450°F or colder,
the entire skirt may be made of carbon or low-alloy steel. In all
cases, the materials and thicknesses selected shall be suitable for
the maximum and minimum design metal temperatures and the
imposed loadings.
5.18.2.6 [V/E] Corrosion allowance for the skirt and base ring shall be
specified separately from the vessel corrosion allowance.
5.18.3 Horizontal Vessels
5.18.3.1 [V/E] Horizontal vessels shall be designed for two saddle supports
attached by welding. Design of saddle supports and calculation of
localized shell stress may be determined by the L. P. Zick method.
(See Section 2.3 and Code Appendix G {AD-940}).
The minimum saddle support contact angle shall be 120 degrees.
For vessels, saddle supports shall be located a maximum distance
of Ro/2 from the head tangent line, where Ro is the shell outside
radius.
5.18.3.2 [V/E] Saddle wear plates, when required, shall have the following
proportions:
• Thickness: Established by design, but not less than the
smaller of shell thickness or 3/8 inch

• Width: Width of saddle plus 5t each side of the saddle,

where t = cylindrical shell thickness in the corroded
condition
• Extension Beyond Horn of Saddle: r/10, where r = radius
of cylindrical shell in corroded condition
The wear plates shall have a minimum radius of 2 inches on the
corners, shall be continuously welded to the shell, shall be
provided with one 1/4 inch drilled telltale hole (or equivalent
venting) per segment, and shall be vented to the atmosphere. Vent
holes shall be located at the low point of the wear plate and shall
not be plugged during hydrostatic testing.
5.18.3.3 [V/E] One of the saddles shall be designated as the fixed saddle in
which holes shall be provided to receive the anchor bolts. The
other saddle shall be designated as the sliding saddle in which
slotted holes shall be provided. The diameter of the bolt holes and
width of the slot shall be 1/4 inch larger than the bolt diameter.
The length of the slot shall be: 2αDL∆T
Where:
α = Coefficient of thermal expansion of shell material, in/in °F
DL = Length between saddle supports, measured to
centerline of anchor bolts, inches
∆T = Greatest absolute value of: ambient temperature at
installation (but not warmer than 70°F) minus the
maximum or minimum shell temperature to be stamped
on the Code nameplate, °F
The anchor bolts are to be located at the center of the bolt holes
(fixed saddle) or the midpoint of the slot (sliding saddle). All
sliding saddles shall be provided with slide plates. Slide plates are
to be furnished by others. Examples of standard details that may
be used (non-mandatory) are shown on PIP VEFV1105 and
PIP VEFV1106.
5.18.3.4 [V/E] The bottom of the saddle supports shall extend at least
1 inch below nozzles or other projecting vessel components.
Alternatively, a temporary member shall be attached at each
support to provide necessary extension until the vessel is placed in
permanent position.
5.18.3.5 [V/E] Saddles to be used in conjunction with weigh cells or slide
plates require design considerations to accommodate the
applicable loadings.
5.18.4 Stacked Exchangers
5.18.4.1 [E] Stacked exchangers shall have the lower shell(s) designed to
withstand the superimposed load of the upper exchanger(s) filled

with water or operating fluid (whichever is greater) without

distorting the shell in a manner that could cause binding of tube
bundle(s).
5.18.4.2 [E] When two or more exchangers are stacked, a 1/2-inch
shimming allowance shall be provided between intermediate
supports.
5.18.4.3 [E] The lower fixed support of stacked exchangers shall be
designed for the full bundle pulling load for removal of any upper
bundle.
5.18.4.4 [E] Consideration shall be given to the effects of differential
thermal expansion between exchangers.
5.18.4.5 [E] Component (i.e., bonnet, cover, etc.) lifting lugs shall be given
special consideration. Two or more lifting lugs located at
45 degrees from the top centerline shall be provided to permit
removal of the component without difficulty.
5.19 Heat Exchanger Component Design

5.19.1 Tubes
(See Section 5.20.5 for additional information.)
5.19.1.1 [E] Tubes may be either welded or seamless.
5.19.1.2 [E] Corrosion allowance need not be added to tubes.
5.19.2 Tubesheets
5.19.2.1 [E] Tubesheets shall be designed for full design pressure on either
side, with atmospheric pressure or specified vacuum on the other
side. Differential pressure design may only be used when approved
by the User.
5.19.2.2 [E] Manufacturer shall calculate the value of Xa (the ratio of the
tube bundle axial stiffness to the tubesheet bending rigidity) as
defined in Code Paragraph AA-2.4. These calculations shall be
submitted with the mechanical design calculations.
5.19.2.2.1 [E] If the value of Xa is less than 3.0, the tubesheet

shall be designed in accordance with Code
Appendix AA rules or the methods provided in the
references in TEMA RGP-RCB-7. For values of Xa
equal to or greater than 3.0, the tubesheet may be
designed in accordance with TEMA, Code rules, or the
references in TEMA RGP-RCB-7.
5.19.2.2.2 [E] Tubesheets exceeding the scope of TEMA shall be

designed in accordance with Code rules or TEMA
RGP-RCB-7 references, regardless of the value of Xa.

5.19.2.3 [E] Tubesheets welded to a carbon steel shell or channel shall be

of carbon steel or clad carbon steel. Solid alloy tubesheets may be
welded to a carbon steel shell or channel, provided one of the
following is met:
1. [E] The thermal coefficients of expansion do not vary more
than 15% from the tubesheet to the shell or channel over the
operating temperature range.
2. [E] A stress analysis is performed by the Manufacturer and
approved by the User for the joint between the tubesheet and
the shell or channel.
3. [E] The tubesheet is welded to a relatively short cylindrical
section of the same material, and a stress analysis of the
junction of the alloy and carbon steel cylindrical section is
performed and approved by the User.
5.19.2.4 [E] In addition to TEMA requirements for tubesheet cladding,
consideration shall be given to providing adequate cladding
thickness under pass partition and gasket grooves.
5.19.2.5 [E] Loose liners and plug-welded strip liners are not permitted.
5.19.2.6 [E] Confining gasket grooves shall be provided for all exchangers
with gasketed pass partition joints.
5.19.3 Tube-to-Tubesheet Joints
5.19.3.1 [E] When the type of joint is not specified, expanded joints with
grooves shall be used for tubesheets of homogeneous material.
Expansion may be by roller, hydraulic pressure, or other User
approved method.
5.19.3.2 [E] If tube-to-tubesheet leakage is deemed to be detrimental to the
process, seal-welded and expanded joints are to be used. Transient
operations may also warrant seal-welded and expanded tube joints.
Seal-welded and expanded joints with grooves shall be used for
integrally clad tubesheets.
5.19.3.3 [E] Strength-welded tube-to-tubesheet joints are to be used when
expanded joints cannot carry the expected tube load or when the
residual interface pressure due to expansion (tube rolling or
hydraulic expansion) is compromised during operation. The loss of
residual interface pressure can occur with high temperature
applications or when significant differential thermal expansion
occurs between the tube and the tubesheet.
5.19.3.4 [E] The special close fit tolerances for tube holes as stated in
TEMA shall be mandatory for:
• Austenitic tubes with expanded and grooved tube-to-
tubesheet joints

• Seal-welded or strength-welded tube-to-tubesheet joints

• Hydraulically expanded tube-to-tubesheet joints
5.19.4 Tube Bundles
5.19.4.1 [E] The minimum mean bend diameter of U-tubes shall not be less
than 3 times the nominal tube OD.
5.19.4.2 [E] The end baffle spaces shall be equal to or greater than the
central baffle space.
5.19.4.3 [E] 1. Cross-baffle metallurgy and thickness shall be selected
considering the corrosivity of the shell side fluids and
the intended design life.
2. Cross baffles that resist corrosion shall have a thickness no
less than the greater of that specified by TEMA or
1/8 inch.
3. Cross baffles susceptible to corrosion shall have a thickness
not less than the greater of the TEMA minimum, 2 times
the corrosion allowance, or 3/16 inch.
5.19.4.4 [E] Each support plate and baffle in horizontal exchangers shall be
provided with a 1/2 inch x 90 degree notch in the bottom for
draining.
5.19.4.5 [E] All TEMA Type S and T (with removable shell cover)
exchangers shall have a floating head support plate located
4 to 6 inches from the inside face of the floating tubesheet.
5.19.4.6 [E] Except for shell side isothermal boiling, isothermal
condensing, or kettles, bypass sealing devices shall be provided as
follows:
• Seal strips are required when the radial clearance between
shell and the outer tubes exceeds 5/8 inch.
• Exchangers with vertical cut baffles (baffle cut parallel to
shell side nozzle centerline) shall have seal strips installed to
seal the bypass areas caused by the omission of tubes.
• Dummy tubes, rods, or seal strips shall be provided for any
pass partition lanes that are parallel to the shell side flow.
• Seal strip thickness shall not be less than the greater of 75%
of baffle thickness or 1/4 inch.
• For vertical cut baffles (baffle cut parallel to shell side
nozzle centerline), seal strips shall not extend into the inlet
or outlet baffle spaces. For horizontal cut baffles (baffle cut
perpendicular to shell side nozzle centerline), seal strips
shall extend from the front or stationary tubesheet to the last
baffle or support plate.

• One pair of seal strips or one dummy tube shall be provided

for each five(5) tube rows between baffle cuts. Minor
adjustments may be made to suit actual tube layout.
5.19.4.7 [E] Exchangers with removable tube bundles weighing
20,000 pounds or more shall have bundle skid bars.
5.19.4.7.1 A minimum of two skid bars shall be provided. The

bars shall be 1/2 inch minimum thickness by 1-1/2
inch minimum height flat bar. The skid bars shall be
located no more than 30 degrees from the vertical
centerline.
5.19.4.7.2 The skid bars shall extend from the stationary

tubesheet to floating head support plate (TEMA Types
S and T) or end baffle (TEMA Types P, U, and W).
5.19.4.7.3 When skid bars interfere with nozzle openings, the

skid bars shall be terminated at the baffle or support
plate adjacent to the nozzle. A tie rod/spacer of
adequate strength to carry the bundle pulling load
shall be located close to the tube field and within
3 inches of the skid bar and shall extend from the
tubesheet or baffle/support plate on one side of the
nozzle to the baffle/support plate on the other side of
the nozzle.
5.19.4.8 [E] Perforated or slotted impingement plates shall not be used.
5.19.4.9 [E] Multiple exchangers of the same TEMA size and material,
either stacked or parallel, shall have interchangeable components
to the maximum extent possible.
5.19.5 Expansion Joints
5.19.5.1 [E] Shell expansion joints shall be of the “thick wall” flanged and
flued type or flanged only type. “Thin wall” bellows type shall
only be used by User agreement, shall conform to Code
Appendix 26, and shall have the welding stubs of the same
material as the shell.
5.19.5.2 [E] The design of expansion joints shall be performed by any
method of stress analysis (e.g., finite element analysis), including
TEMA Paragraph RCB-8, which can be shown to be applicable to
expansion joints. The allowable stresses and cycle life for design
shall conform to Code Appendix CC. The need for and design of
expansion joints shall satisfy the following condition:
• Differential thermal expansion encountered in the most
adverse combination of temperature combinations
anticipated and specified by the User – for all normal
operating (including shutdown and startup) and upset

conditions or operation based on metal temperatures

rather than fluid temperatures and MAWP rather than
operating pressures
5.19.5.3 [E] Shell expansion joints shall be ventable and drainable in the
operating position.
5.19.5.4 [E] Expansion joints for single pass floating head units may be of
the “thin wall” bellows type. The expansion joint manufacturer
shall provide the bellows with welding stubs of the same material
as the tail pipe material. The design of the expansion joint shall
conform to Code Appendix 26.
5.19.5.5 [E] The expansion joint-to-shell weld shall not be located less than
2 ( Rt ) from the back of the tubesheet, where R is the outside
radius of the shell, in inches, and t is the actual thickness of the
shell less corrosion allowance, in inches.
5.19.6 Vapor Belts
5.19.6.1 [E] The design of vapor belts shall include:
• Effect of pressure loads
• Longitudinal stresses produced by operating and test
pressures (in other than fixed tubesheet designs)
• Consideration of flexibility produced when designing the
exchanger shell, tubes, and tubesheet. When a sleeve type
vapor belt is used, the design shall be considered flexible
and designed per Section 5.19.5.1.
5.19.6.2 [E] Vapor belts may be used as expansion joints provided all
requirements of Section 5.19.5 are met. Whether or not vapor belts
are used as expansion joints, vapor belt flexibility shall be
considered in the design of exchanger shell, tubes, and tubesheets.
5.19.7 Exchanger Covers
5.19.7.1 [E] TEMA Type T exchangers (except kettle type reboilers) shall
have removable shell covers.
5.19.7.2 [E] When full diameter tubesheets are specified on exchangers
with removable tube bundles, the following shall apply:
1. Retaining studs are recommended to maintain the gasket

seal on the shell side of the tubesheet with the channel (or
bonnet) removed. Retaining studs shall be installed in 25%
of the boltholes (four minimum).
2. The tubesheet shall be designed to withstand shell side or
tube side hydrostatic test pressure with bonnet/channel or
shell removed.

5.19.7.3 [E] Mitered 90 degree reducing elbows for thermosyphon reboiler

outlet heads shall conform to the following requirements:
1. No less than three (3) changes in direction at the inside and

outside contour
2. Cyclic loading is not a governing design requirement.
3. Meridian (change of direction) angles between adjacent
sections shall be approximately equal for gradual flow
transition.
4. The general contours shall be similar to those of
commercial forged reducing elbows.
5.19.8 Pass Partition Plates
[E] Drain holes shall not be provided in pass partition plates.
5.19.9 Floating Heads
5.19.9.1 [E] Floating heads shall be designed and dimensioned in
accordance with Code Figure 1-6(d).
5.19.9.2 [E] Nubbins shall only be used by agreement with the User.
5.19.9.3 [E] Floating heads shall be designed with respective corrosion
allowance applied to the inside and outside of the floating head
and flange. Corrosion allowance on the OD of the flange shall be
added to the recommended edge distance for the selected bolt size.
5.19.10 Kettle Type Exchangers
5.19.10.1 [E] If a weir plate is required, the weir plate shall be
continuously welded all around to the shell and shall be of
sufficient height to flood the top row of tubes with a minimum
of 2 inches of process fluid during normal operation.
5.19.10.2 [E] Consideration shall be given to draining both sides of the
weir.
5.19.10.3 [E] Rails shall be provided to support and guide the tube bundle.
Rails shall be welded to the shell. A hold down bar or angle
shall be provided directly above the floating head or the last U-
tube support plate.
5.19.10.4 [E] All kettle type exchangers shall either have a 3-inch
minimum length cylindrical section (includes flanged hub, if
any) between the shell flanges and conical transitions or be
provided with other alternatives for cone-to-flange fit-up and
bolting clearance. For kettle type exchangers with tubesheets
integral with the shell, the minimum length of cylindrical section
between the tubesheet and the conical transition shall be the

greater of 3 inches or ( Rt ) , where R is the mean radius of the

cylindrical section and t is the thickness of the section.
5.19.11 Instrument, Vent, and Drain Connections
5.19.11.1 [E] Additional connections (such as specified by TEMA) shall
not be provided in the nozzle necks.
5.19.11.2 [E] Consideration should be made to placing vents in the
tubesheet to meet specific process needs. When vents/drains are
specified to be in the tubesheet, installation shall be per standard
details. (See PIP VEFV1127.)
5.19.12 Nameplates and Stampings
5.19.12.1 [E] Required nameplate markings shall not be stamped directly
on the exchanger.
5.19.12.2 [E] In addition to required Code information, the following
information shall be stamped on the nameplate:
• User’s equipment item number
• Initial test pressures
• Purchase order number
5.19.12.3 [E] Exchanger nameplates shall be located on the shell in an
accessible location. Manufacturer shall show the nameplate
location on the dimensioned outline drawing.
5.19.13 Shell and Bonnet Design
[E] The use of commercially produced NPS pipe for shell and bonnet
sections NPS 24 and smaller is recommended. When specifying NPS pipe
as an acceptable option for rolled plate, consider Manufacturer’s tolerance
when specifying inside diameters if internals such as minimum tube counts
are critical.
5.20 Heat Exchanger Thermal

[E] Thermal design of shell-and-tube heat exchangers must consider safety,
operation, maintenance, and initial cost aspects of the intended service. Each heat
exhanger unit requires independent design. The thermal design method to be used
must be acceptable to User and Designer. The Designer shall be sufficiently trained
to perform the calculations and properly interpret the results.
5.20.1 Fouling Factors Selection
5.20.1.1 [E] An arbitrary rule to distinguish between clean and dirty service
is to define a service as dirty when the fouling factor equals or
exceeds 0.002 hr ft2 °F/BTU. A lower fouling factor implies a
clean service.

5.20.1.2 [E] Fouling factors should be supplied from previous experience

or similar service. If not available, the fouling factors for each
fluid should be selected from TEMA. The fouling factor is based
on the heat transfer surface contacting the fluid. The total fouling
factor is the sum of the outside fouling factor and the inside
fouling factor related to the outside surface.
Do not use arbitrarily high fouling factors to provide thermal
overdesign or to compensate for uncertainties in thermal properties
or process design. High heat transfer coefficients should not be
expected when high fouling factors are used; low heat transfer
coefficients should not be expected when low fouling factors are
used. The percentage of surface area added as a result of the
fouling factor should be reviewed.
5.20.1.3 [E] The service overall heat transfer coefficient divided by the
clean overall heat transfer coefficient determines the fraction of
surface required for the heat exchanger to meet the process
requirements when the exchanger is “clean.” The balance of the
surface exists for fouling. Excessive surface available for fouling
can be expensive, promote fouling, and make the exchanger
difficult to control when it is clean. A review of the clean
exchanger performance is required.
Note: A “clean” reboiler with low-pressure steam may require
a wide range control valve or low outlet pressure for control.
5.20.2 Fluid Side Selection
[E] When the fluids have not been assigned a side, the following guidelines
may be used to select the fluid side: (Consideration shall be given to the
maintenance, operation, size, and cost.)
5.20.2.1 Favoring Shell Side Fluid Placement
• More viscous services
• Lower flow rate service
• Low available pressure drop
• Clean service
5.20.2.2 Favoring Tube Side Fluid Placement
• Cooling water service
• Slurry service
• High-pressure service
• Higher fouling service
• Service requiring more expensive materials

5.20.3 Exchanger Configuration

[E] The various configurations have certain advantages and disadvantages
with regard to maintenance, operation, and cost. Selection of the proper
configuration is of prime importance and affects the thermal design
characteristics significantly. The various configurations are defined in
TEMA.
5.20.3.1 Fixed Tubesheet Units
[E] Advantages:
• Typically lowest cost design
• No gasketed joint between tube side and shell side fluids
• Shell side has no gasketed girth joints
• Can handle temperature crosses with counterflow designs
• Low circumferential bypass area around the bundle
• Straight tubes allow mechanical tube side cleaning
[E] Disadvantages:
• Shell side cannot be mechanically cleaned
• Limited access for internal shell inspection
• Limited differential thermal expansion allowed without the
use of an expansion joint
5.20.3.2 U-Tubes
[E] Advantages:
• Typically lowest cost removable bundle design
• No thermal expansion problems between shell and tubes
• Removable bundle for shell side mechanical cleaning
• Allows for internal shell inspection
• Low circumferential bypass area
• For tube side high-alloy and high-pressure, typically lower
cost than fixed tubesheet
• No gasketed joint between tube side and shell side fluids
[E] Disadvantages:
• Tube side not easily mechanically cleaned
• Only tubes at bundle periphery can be easily replaced
• Can have large pass lane bypass area under certain baffle
arrangements

• U-Bends are susceptible to vibration problems, unless

properly supported
5.20.3.3 TEMA Type S (non-pull through floating head)
[E] Advantages:
[E] Disadvantages:
• Higher cost
• Internal gasketed joint
• Larger circumferential bypass area
• Labor intensive to pull bundle
5.20.3.4 TEMA Type T (pull through floating head)
[E] Advantages:
[E] Disadvantages:
• Highest cost
• Internal gasketed joint
• Largest circumferential bypass area around the bundle
5.20.3.5 TEMA Type F (two pass shell)
[E] Use of the TEMA Type F shell requires User’s approval.
Consideration should be given to differential pressure and
temperature across the longitudinal baffle, heat transfer through the
longitudinal baffle, and flow bypassing around the removable
longitudinal baffles.
5.20.4 Flow Arrangement
5.20.4.1 [E] Liquids, in general, are to be arranged in an upward flow
direction in order to facilitate liquid filling without gas pockets.
Particulate-laden liquids, such as boiler water blowdown, may be
considered for a downward flow arrangement to assist in the
exhaustion of solids when velocities warrant such arrangement.

5.20.4.2 [E] Two phase flows, in general, are to have the hot stream
(condensing) flow downward and the cold stream (boiling)
upward. Exceptions are “falling film evaporation” and “reflux
condensation,” which will have downward liquid and upward
vapor flows. Mist flow may warrant flow in either direction.
5.20.4.3 [E] Gases may flow down or up consistent with the Log Mean
Temperature Difference (LMTD) calculation.
5.20.5 Tube Selection
(See Section 5.19.1 for additional information.)
5.20.5.1 Diameter
[E] The preferred tube size for use in heavy tube side fouling (dirty
service) (0.002 hr ft2 °F/BTU or greater) is 1 inch OD. For light
tube side fouling (clean service), 3/4 inch OD tubes are preferred.
5.20.5.2 Length
[E] Specify commonly used tube lengths, if practical.
5.20.5.3 [E] Recommended Tubewall Thickness
Tube Material Tube Wall Thickness

BWG inches mm
Carbon steel, low-alloy steel, 14* 0.083* 2.1*
aluminum, and aluminum alloys
Copper and copper alloys 16* 0.065* 1.7*
High-alloy steel and other non- 16** 0.065** 1.7**
ferrous materials
Titanium 20** 0.035** 1.2**
BWG = Birmingham Wire Gauge
* = minimum
** = average
5.20.5.4 [E] Enhanced Surface Tubes and Turbulence Promoters

The use of enhanced surface tubes or tube inserts requires an
agreement between the User and the Designer. Enhancements may
be quite effective in one process, but not effective in another.
Designers may offer enhancements as an alternate.
Enhanced surfaces are available in many forms such as low fin,
sintered metal, oval or deformed tubes, or tubes with longitudinal
fins. Inserts are used to promote turbulence. Spiral inserts may also
reduce fouling buildup.
Low fin tubes may be used under the following conditions:
• Deposition of solid matter on the tube surface from the shell
side stream is not a problem.

• Tube side inlet temperatures are well above the shell side
stream pour-point temperature.
• Surface tension will not “hold” the condensate in the fins.
• Tube external corrosion is not expected.
5.20.6 Bundle Design and Tube Layout
5.20.6.1 Tube Layout
5.20.6.1.1 [E] Removable bundle designs and square (or rotated

square) tube pattern should be considered for dirty
shell side service. (See Section 5.20.1.2.) Cleaning
lanes of 1/4 inch minimum are to be maintained
throughout the bundle.
5.20.6.1.2 [E] Triangular pattern can be used for clean shell side
services, independent of whether the bundle is
removable or not. An expanded pitch triangular design
can be used in dirty services only when sufficient
cleaning lanes are provided by the tube layout and
when approved by User.
5.20.6.2 Baffles
5.20.6.2.1 [E] In horizontal exchangers, the horizontal cut (baffle

cut perpendicular to shell nozzle axis) single
segmental baffles are the most commonly used and
generally preferred for single-phase shell side service.
In horizontal exchangers, vertical cut (baffle cut
parallel to shell nozzle axis) baffles may be used to
minimize liquid pooling in two-phase service.
Vertical exchangers should have baffles cut

perpendicular to the inlet flow path.
To avoid flow-induced tube vibration, the tube field

may be modified to provide “no tubes in the baffle
window.” Intermediate tube supports may be provided
to further reduce vibration probability.
5.20.6.2.2 [E] Multi-segmental baffles (usually double,

occasionally triple segmental) are used to reduce the
shell side pressure drop.
5.20.6.2.3 [E] Special baffle designs (e.g., rod, disk and donut,
longitudinal, spiral baffles, etc.) require User’s
approval.

Baffles utilizing rods are used to reduce shell side

pressure drop and probability of flow-induced tube
vibration.
Longitudinal baffles (TEMA Type F shell) allow the

maximum LMTD correction factor.
“De-tuning” baffles are used in gas service shell side

when required to prevent acoustic vibration.
5.20.6.2.4 [E] U-tube bundles: The baffle adjacent to the tube

bends shall be located in the straight portion of the
tubes not more than 2 inches from the tangent line of
the bends.
5.20.6.2.5 [E] Tie rods and spacers: Peripheral tie rods and
spacers for positioning baffles shall be located so that
the outside of the spacers coincides with the outer
periphery of the baffles. The ID of the spacer shall not
be greater than the OD of the tie rod plus 1/8 inch.
5.20.7 Thermal Performance
5.20.7.1 [E] Condensing Heat Transfer
For accurate condenser design, the temperature difference should
be calculated incrementally. The temperature and heat transfer of
the condensing vapor mixtures will vary with the fraction
condensed. Even with pure components, the condensing
temperature will not be constant if there is significant pressure
drop. The effect of delta P on delta T should be checked, especially
if the overall delta T is small.
For rough calculations, a straight line temperature may be used for
the condensing zone. For final design, the results should always be
checked using stepwise increments. When the vapor entering a
condenser is superheated (temperature above the dew point) or
when the condensate is subcooled (temperature below the bubble
point), special considerations are required.
If the temperature of the heat transfer surface (tube wall
temperature) encountered is less than the dew point of the vapor,
the vapor will begin to condense on contact and a wet wall
condition will occur. In such cases, a condensing heat transfer
coefficient is used (just as in the case of saturated vapor) and the
Mean Temperature Difference (MTD) is based on the dew point
temperature rather than the superheated vapor temperature.
If the tube wall temperature is greater than the dew point of the
vapor, a dry wall condition occurs. In such cases, the single phase
gas heat transfer coefficient is used and the actual vapor

temperature is used to calculate the MTD for the increment of the

exchanger at dry wall conditions.
Some subcooling of condensate usually occurs in total condensers.
Condensers can sometimes be designed to accommodate subcooling
by flooding a portion of the shell with condensate. However, the
accuracy of predicting subcooling performance is low because the
true liquid level and subcooling MTD are almost impossible to
determine. If required, significant subcooling duty should be done
in a separate liquid cooler.
5.20.7.2 Water Cooled Services (Cooling Water on Tube Side)
[E] When the cooling water is on the tube side, water velocity
significantly affects the fouling rate, erosion, corrosion, and
resulting maintenance of installed equipment. The Designer should
therefore attempt to select an optimal velocity with considerations
given to installed and maintenance cost. The following tabulated
values for minimum and maximum velocities and maximum tube
wall temperature provide accepted practical limitations. Site-specific
water quality and treatment practices may justify deviations from
these limits.

Minimum Velocity Ft/sec

Material CTW Closed Brackish Raw Seawater
loop surface
Ferrous 5* 3 --- --- ---
Nonferrous 5* 3 4 5 5
* Lower minimum velocities may be necessary in some cases due to
hydraulic limitations. Consideration should be given to the water quality
and higher fouling factors for these cases.
Maximum Velocity Ft/sec

loop surface
Ferrous 10 16 --- --- ---
Admiralty 8 --- --- --- ---
Al-Brass 8 --- 6 --- ---
Cupro- 12 --- 7 7 7
Nickel
Aust. SS --- 16 --- --- ---
Monel 16 16 14 14 14
Titanium 16 16 16 16 16
Maximum Contacted* Metal Surface Temperature, °F

loop surface
All Material 140 No Limit 140 120 140
* Beneath any fouling layer on the waterside when there is no fouling on the
hot side.
Blanks in the above tables indicate that the listed material is

generally not specified for the application.
5.20.8 Hydraulic Performance
[E] The requirement for thermal design described in Section 5.20 also
applies to the hydraulic design.
[E] The User and the Designer shall agree on the pressure drop design
factors. Pressure drop considerations include:
• Mill tolerance of tubes
• Fouling build up on tube side and shell side
• Piping between exchangers in series
• Piping for thermosyphon reboilers

5.20.9 Vibration
[E] The Designer shall include a check for flow-induced tube vibration. The
method of vibration analysis shall be acceptable to the User. The vibration
analysis shall consider, as a minimum, vortex shedding, fluid elastic
instability, turbulence excitation (buffeting), and acoustic resonance.
Generally, the natural frequency (or harmonics) of the tubes should not be
within 20% of the predicted flow vibration frequency produced by any
excitation mode, unless the vibration amplitude is within accepted practices.
6. Materials
6.1 Material Specifications

[V/E] Materials not specified by the User shall be selected based on known or
anticipated process conditions and approved by the User.
[V/E] The cost of heating the test fluid for shop or future field hydrostatic tests (so
that the temperature of the pressure-resisting components is MDMT plus 30°F
during the test) should be a consideration when selecting the materials of
construction and the associated MDMT to be stamped on the vessel.
6.1.1 External Attachments
[V/E] External attachments welded to pressure-resisting components shall be
made of Code-approved materials. (External attachments such as nozzle
reinforcing pads and stiffening rings are, by Code definition, pressure-
resisting components.) The material selected is often the same type as the
pressure-resisting component to which it is attached. The selection of the
type of external attachment material and the specific ASME SA material
specification should be made with due consideration being given to the
following:
1. Potential problems associated with welding dissimilar materials
2. Compatibility with the Code nameplate maximum and minimum
design metal temperatures
3. Whether or not the attachment is essential to the structural integrity of
the vessel (see Code Paragraph UCS-66 {AM-204})
4. Differential thermal expansion characteristics and associated stresses
5. Corrosion resistance
6. Painting requirements
7. Suitability for the anticipated loadings
6.1.2 Internal Attachments
[V/E] See Section 5.17 for commentary.

6.2 Source of Materials

[V/E] If the User restricts sources of fabrication materials, the prospective
manufacturers must be informed at the time of bidding. Some reasons for restrictions
may include but are not limited to:
• Maintenance of a specific alloy composition
• Compliance with government requirements
• Compatibility with existing equipment
• Compliance with User procurement policies
6.3 Corrosion/Erosion Allowance

6.3.1 Basis
[V/E] The required design life shall be based on written agreement between
User and Engineering Contractor. Allowances specified by the Designer
shall be based on need and can best be determined by past experience in
similar operating environments. If no past experience is available, such as
with a new process, a materials engineer should examine the process and
make judgment on the expected corrosion rate. Corrosion allowance should
not be arbitrary; rather, it should be compatible with design life
requirements.
6.3.2 Corrosion Loss
[V/E] Additional metal thickness must be added to compensate for
anticipated loss due to metal reacting with the environments to which it is
subjected (including cleaning operations, shutdowns, etc.).
6.3.2.1 [V/E] Internal corrosion loss due to the process conditions affects
all pressure-containing parts. Internal structural parts may
experience corrosion loss on more than one surface. Bolted parts
are frequently constructed of different materials and need to be
assessed separately.
6.3.2.2 [V/E] External corrosion may result from exposure of bare metal
to the atmosphere, especially in coastal areas and under insulation.
Other equipment operating nearby may influence corrosion (e.g.,
cooling towers).
6.3.3 Erosion Loss
[V/E] Additional metal thickness must be added in specific locations where
metal loss is expected due to stream flow that is of high velocity or abrasive
for any reason. Erosion loss usually occurs within a definable area, and
compensation can be made as follows:
• Weld overlay of the area with the intent that the overlay is sacrificial

• Addition of a welded wear plate with the intent that the plate is
sacrificial
Note: Use caution when using this method in hydrogen service.
• Internal refractory linings, if appropriate
• Increase of inlet nozzle size
6.4 Gaskets
[V/E] In no case shall the nominal thickness of sheet or laminate service gasketing
be greater than 1/16 inch.
7. Testing
[V/E] All new pressure vessels shall be pressure tested prior to being placed in service. The
following paragraphs provide guidance and references to design and execution
considerations relative to hydrostatic and pneumatic pressure testing.
7.1 Hydrostatic Test

7.1.1 UG-99 Standard Hydrostatic Test
[V/E] All provisions of this Code paragraph must be met when the
hydrostatic test is employed. Paragraph UG-99(b) {AT-302}, including
footnote 34 {Not Division 2 Applicable}, shall be considered to be the
standard hydrostatic test. The test pressure or applicable Code paragraph
number shall be specified on the Data Sheet.
7.1.2 Horizontal Vessels
[V/E] A horizontal vessel designed to support a full weight load of water
shall be tested while resting on its support saddles, without additional
supports or cribbing.
7.1.3 Vertical Vessels
7.1.3.1 [V/E] Short vertical vessels may be shop-tested in the erected
position, depending on their height and the shop capability.
7.1.3.2 [V/E] Tall vertical vessels may be shop tested in the horizontal
position. These vessels must be adequately supported during the
test to prevent damage.
Note: Design shall be per Section 5.10.9(4) regardless of test
orientation.
7.1.3.3 [V/E] Vertical vessels being tested in the erected position, whether
shop or field, shall have consideration given to the additional
pressure and weight due to the fluid head. (See Section 5.2.2.)
7.1.4 Test Temperature
[V/E] See PIP VESV1002, Section 6.3.8.

7.2 Pneumatic Test

[V/E] Caution: Pneumatic testing presents hazards that must be addressed as part
of the engineering design of the pressure vessel.
(Reference Code Paragraph UG-100 {AT-400}, “Pneumatic Test” and Code
Paragraph UW-50 {Not Division 2 Applicable}, “Nondestructive Examination Of
Welds On Pneumatically Tested Vessels.”)
[V/E] Due to the additional hazards of pneumatic testing, vessels shall be designed
to minimize the possibility of failure during the test. The vessels shall be constructed
of materials that ensure fracture toughness during the test. Additional nondestructive
examination may be required of main seams, nozzle attachments, and some structural
attachments. All such nondestructive examination shall be performed in accordance
with Code methods and acceptance criteria.
[V/E] Large diameter low-pressure designs, vessels with exceptionally large volume,
service that would not allow residual water in the process, and designs that would
force great overdesign of the vessel and foundation only to support a water full test
may be considered for pneumatic testing.
7.3 Proof Test

[V/E] (Code reference - Paragraph UG-101, “Proof Tests To Establish Maximum
Allowable Working Pressure.”) Proof tests are highly individualized and are not
included in this Practice.
8. Vessel Rigging Analysis/Lifting Requirements
8.1 Impact Factor

[V/E] Unless otherwise specified by the User, a minimum impact factor of 1.5 shall
be applied to the lift weight for designing lifting devices. The basis for the lift weight
must be established during the design phase of the vessel so that the design of lifting
devices includes all components to be included in the lift (e.g., trays,
ladders/platforms, insulation, additional piping with insulation, etc.).
8.2 Vertical Vessels

[V/E] Vertical vessels having h/D ratios greater than 8 and weighing more than
25,000 pounds shall have bending stresses in the vessel shell/skirt checked from the
loadings imposed during the lift from the horizontal to vertical position. Calculated
general primary membrane tensile stress shall not exceed 80% of the material’s
specified minimum yield strength at 100ºF. Calculated compressive stress shall not
exceed 1.2 times the B factor obtained from the Code. Vessel lifts are recommended
to be made when wind speeds are less than 33% of design wind velocity and the
resulting wind load (at 33% design wind velocity) is included in the consideration of
the lift.

8.3 Local Stresses

[V/E] Local stresses in the vessel shell/head/skirt/base rings from the lifting
attachments (e.g., lugs, trunnions, etc.) shall be determined for the imposed loadings
using local stress analysis procedures such as WRC Bulletin 107 or other accepted
local stress analysis procedures (e.g., finite element analysis). For the rigging
condition, the allowable stresses as shown in Section 5.14.9 shall be used.
8.4 Welds
[V/E] Shear stresses for fillet welds on the lifting attachments to the vessel
shell/head shall not exceed 0.55 times the Code-allowable stress {design stress
intensity} at 100ºF for the material selected.

This page is intentionally blank.

APPENDIX A
General Considerations
for
Pressure Relief Valve Application
General Considerations for Pressure Relief Valve Application
A general comparison of operational characteristics is given for the different types of pressure relief
valves in common industrial use. The influence on operating margin, from set pressure, is
considered.
Operational characteristics of direct spring-operated and pilot-operated pressure relief valves

should be known by the User as well as the Designer. Direct spring and pilot-operated relief
valves are available for use on applications that must meet Code requirements. The approximate
reseating pressure for direct spring-operated valves is 93% of the set pressure in gas or vapor
service and 85% of set pressure for National Board tested safety relief valves in liquid service.
Many older liquid service safety valves, requiring 25% overpressure to be full open, have a
reseating pressure as low as 70% of the set pressure. The reseating pressure for pilot-operated
valves is typically specified in the same range as the direct spring valves. However, the reseating
pressure of pilot-operated valves can be lowered to a value slightly above atmospheric by adding
a manual blowdown connection which can be operated either locally or remotely. Pilot-operated
valves are used in this fashion as remote, manual, emergency, blowdown valves. The versatile
pilot-operated valve has some significant application limitations. Pilot-operated pressure relief
valves are supplied with filters to protect against foreign matter and are generally recommended
for relatively clean service. A summary detailing when, and when not, to use pilot-operated valves
is given below.
USE DO NOT USE

• Clean gas or vapor service • Corrosion of wetted part is possible
• Clean liquid service • Polymerization process
• Coking service
• Abrasive or dirty service
• Freezing of contents at ambient temperature is
possible
The point where leakage begins to be a concern when using direct spring-operated valves
depends on the disk seat design. Metal-to-metal contact seats will begin to leak at about 90% of
set pressure. O-ring soft seat disk type direct spring-operated valves will not leak below 95% of
set pressure. Pilot-operated valves will not leak below 98% of set pressure. The recommended
maximum equipment operating pressure is slightly below, but many times considered to be equal
to, the start-to-leak limit for the valve.
Page A-2 Process Industry Practices

APPENDIX B [V]
Welded Pressure
Joint Requirements Form
Welded Pressure Joint Requirements
DESIGN BASIS
SHELL AND CONE THICKNESS BASED ON: DISHED HEAD THICKNESS BASED ON:
JOINT EFFICIENCY E = _________ JOINT EFFICIENCY E = _________
WELDED PRESSURE JOINT REQUIREMENTS

JOINT LOCATION TYPE OF JOINT NDE
PARAGRAPH UW-3 (SEE LETTERED NOTES)
CATEGORY A (SEE NOTE 5) TYPE NO. (1) OF TABLE UW-12
HEAD -TO-SHELL
CATEGORY B TYPE NO. (1) OF TABLE UW-12
OTHER
BODY FLANGES
CATEGORY C
NOZZLE FLANGES FIGURE 2-4
CATEGORY D SEE GENERAL NOTE (6)
GENERAL NOTES:
1) Unless otherwise indicated, all references on this form are to ASME Code paragraphs, tables, and figures. All nondestructive examination
shall be performed per Code methods.
2) Joints supplied shall be either detailed or identified by use of standard AWS welding symbols on the vessel Manufacturer's drawings.
3) Permanent weld joint backing strips are not permitted.
4) Separate internal nozzle reinforcing plates are not permitted.
5) The flat plate from which formed heads are to be made shall be either seamless or made equivalent to seamless in which all Category A
welds are Type (1) and fully radiographed per UW−51 before forming. After forming, the spin hole, if it remains in the final construction, shall
be closed with a metal plug which is butt-welded in place with the weld meeting the Category A weld joint requirements shown in the table.
6) Category D welds shall be per Figure UW-16.1 using full penetration welds through vessel wall and through inside edge of external
reinforcing plates, when used. Nozzle necks designated to extend beyond the inside surface of the vessel wall shall have a fillet weld at the
inside corner.
WELDED PRESSURE
JOINT REQUIREMENTS
ITEM NUMBER: ____________________________________ PRESSURE VESSELS
EXCLUDING HEAT EXCHANGERS
VESSEL ASSEMBLY DWG.: __________________________ DRAWN BY CHECKED BY DATE DRAWING NUMBER
PAGE 1 OF 2
Page B[V]-2 Process Industry Practices

Nondestructive Examination Notes
A. Full radiography shall be per Paragraph UW-51. For welded pipe components, this applies
only to Categories B and C butt joints. For exclusions, see Paragraph UW-11(a)(4).
B. Spot radiography shall be per Paragraph UW-52. For welded pipe components, this applies
only to Categories B and C butt joints. For exclusions, see Paragraph UW-11(b).
C. Spot radiography shall be per Paragraph UW-52. Rules of UW-11(a)(5)(b) must be satisfied.
The Manufacturer is cautioned to select the appropriate increments of weld for establishing
the spot radiography requirements for the vessel. [See UW-52(b)(4).]
General Note: Notes D through H are examples of user options that are sometimes
selected for critical services. Other options may be provided as appropriate.
D. When joint thickness exceeds 2 inches, examine (using MT or PT) the root pass after back-
chipping to sound metal and all accessible surfaces of completed welds of Categories A, B,
C, and D butt type joints.
E. When design is based on a joint efficiency of 1.00, examine (using MT or PT) Categories C
and D non-butt type joints after back-chipping or gouging root pass to sound metal and
accessible surfaces of completed weld.
F. When nozzles are attached with a full penetration weld through the nozzle wall, the cut edge
of the opening in vessel walls thicker than 1/2 inch shall be examined using MT or PT. The
examination shall be made before nozzle attachment and a re-examination shall be made
after attachment, when accessible.
G. Examination (using MT or PT) of completed welds shall be made after PWHT for the
following:
1. Vessels or vessel parts for which impact testing is required
2. Welds joining non-impact tested low-alloy steels thicker than 1-1/4 inches
3. Welds joining carbon steels thicker than 2 inches
4. When required by Code
H. Butt welds exempt from radiography by Paragraph UW-11(a)(4) shall have accessible
surfaces of completed welds MT or PT examined. (Only applies to designs employing impact-
tested steels when Category A joints are based on a joint efficiency of 1.00.)
Item Number:
Vessel Assembly Dwg.:

Reference paragraphs are contained in Division 1 of the ASME Code.
MT = Magnetic Particle Examination
PT = Liquid Penetrant Examination
PAGE 2 OF 2
Process Industry Practices Page B[V]-3

EXAMPLE
Use Of Welded Pressure Joint Requirements Form

To illustrate the use and usefulness of the Welded Pressure Joint Requirements form for communicating welded
pressure joint requirements to manufacturers for quotation and purchase specification purposes, the following
completed form shows the requirements described in Sections 5.6.2.1, 5.6.2.2, 5.6.2.3, and 5.6.2.4. With reference to
the lettered Nondestructive Examination Notes (page 2 of the form), note that other options are available for convenient
use or may be provided.
DESIGN BASIS
SHELL AND CONE THICKNESS BASED ON: DISHED HEAD THICKNESS BASED ON:
JOINT EFFICIENCY. E = __0.85_______ JOINT EFFICIENCY. E = __0.85_______


B
HEAD -TO-SHELL
CATEGORY B TYPE NO. (1) OF TABLE UW-12 B
OTHER
B
BODY FLANGES
CATEGORY C --
NOZZLE FLANGES FIG. 2-4 (6)

B

--
GENERAL NOTES:
1) UNLESS OTHERWISE INDICATED. ALL REFERENCES ON THIS FORM ARE TO ASME CODE PARAGRAPHS.
TABLES AND FIGURES. ALL NONDESTRUCTIVE EXAMINATION SHALL BE PERFORMED PER CODE METHODS.
2) JOINTS SUPPLIED SHALL BE EITHER DETAILED OR IDENTIFIED BY USE OF STANDARD AWS WELDING
SYMBOLS ON THE VESSEL MANUFACTURER'S DRAWINGS.
3) PERMANENT WELD JOINT BACKING STRIPS ARE NOT PERMITTED.
4) SEPARATE INTERNAL NOZZLE REINFORCING PLATES ARE NOT PERMITTED.
5) THE FLAT PLATE FROM WHICH FORMED HEADS ARE TO BE MADE SHALL BE EITHER SEAMLESS OR MADE
EQUIVALENT TO SEAMLESS IN WHICH ALL CATEGORY A WELDS ARE TYPE (1) AND FULLY RADIOGRAPHED
PER UW−51 BEFORE FORMING. AFTER FORMING, THE SPIN HOLE, IF IT REMAINS IN THE FINAL
CONSTRUCTION, SHALL BE REPAIRED WITH A METAL PLUG THAT IS BUTT-WELDED IN PLACE WITH THE
WELD MEETING THE CATEGORY. A WELD JOINT REQUIREMENTS SHOWN IN THE TABLE.
6) CATEGORY D WELDS SHALL BE PER FIG. UW-16.1 USING FULL PENETRATION WELDS THROUGH VESSEL
WALL AND THROUGH INSIDE EDGE OF EXTERNAL REINFORCING PLATES WHEN USED. NOZZLE NECKS
DESIGNATED TO EXTEND BEYOND THE INSIDE SURFACE OF THE VESSEL WALL SHALL HAVE A FILLET WELD
AT THE INSIDE CORNER.
WELDED PRESSURE
JOINT REQUIREMENTS
ITEM NUMBER: ________PIP 123456___________________ PRESSURE VESSELS
EXCLUDING HEAT EXCHANGERS
DRAWN BY CHECKED BY DATE DRAWING NUMBER
VESSEL ASSEMBLY DWG.: ___PIP 123456______________
PAGE 1 OF 2
Page B[V]-4 Process Industry Practices

APPENDIX B [E]
Welded Pressure
Joint Requirements Form
Welded Pressure Joint Requirements

DESIGN BASIS
SHELL THICKNESS BASED ON: DISHED HEAD THICKNESS BASED ON:
JOINT EFFICIENCY E = _________(SHELL) JOINT EFFICIENCY E = _________(SHELL)
JOINT EFFICIENCY E = _________(CHANNEL) JOINT EFFICIENCY E = _________(CHANNEL)

SHELL HEAD-TO-SHELL
SIDE OTHER
CATEGORY C TUBESHEETS FIGURE UW-13.2
TUBE HEAD-TO-CHANNEL
SIDE OTHER
CATEGORY C
BODY FLANGES FIGURE 2-4
GENERAL NOTES:
1) Unless otherwise indicated, all references on this form are to ASME Code paragraphs, tables, and figures. All nondestructive examination shall
be performed per Code methods.
2) Joints supplied shall be either detailed or identified by use of standard AWS welding symbols on the vessel Manufacturer's drawings.
3) Permanent weld joint backing strips are not permitted.
4) Separate internal nozzle reinforcing plates are not permitted.
5) The flat plate from which formed heads are to be made shall be either seamless or made equivalent to seamless in which all Category A welds
are Type (1) and fully radiographed per UW−51 before forming. After forming, the spin hole, if it remains in the final construction, shall be
closed with a metal plug which is butt-welded in place with the weld meeting the Category A weld joint requirements shown in the table.
6) Category D welds shall be per Figure UW-16.1 using full penetration welds through vessel wall and through inside edge of external reinforcing
plates, when used. Nozzle necks designated to extend beyond the inside surface of the vessel wall shall have a fillet weld at the inside corner.
WELDED PRESSURE
JOINT REQUIREMENTS
ITEM NUMBER: ____________________________________ SHELL AND TUBE HEAT EXCHANGERS
VESSEL ASSEMBLY DWG.: __________________________ DRAWN BY CHECKED BY DATE DRAWING NUMBER
PAGE 1 OF 2
Page B[E]-2 Process Industry Practices

Nondestructive Examination Notes

A. Full radiography shall be per Paragraph UW-51. For welded pipe components, this applies
only to Categories B and C butt joints. For exclusions, see Paragraph UW-11(a)(4).
B. Spot radiography shall be per Paragraph UW-52. For welded pipe components, this applies
only to Categories B and C butt joints. For exclusions, see Paragraph UW-11(b).
C. Spot radiography shall be per Paragraph UW-52. Rules of UW-11(a)(5)(b) must be satisfied.
The Manufacturer is cautioned to select the appropriate increments of weld for establishing
the spot radiography requirements for the vessel. [See UW-52(b)(4).]
General Note: Notes D through L are examples of user options that are sometimes
selected for critical services. Other options may be provided as appropriate.
D. When joint thickness exceeds 2 inches, examine (using MT or PT) the root pass after back-
chipping to sound metal and all accessible surfaces of completed welds of Categories A, B,
C, and D butt type joints.
E. When design is based on a joint efficiency of 1.00, examine (using MT or PT) Categories C
and D non-butt type joints after back-chipping or gouging root pass to sound metal and
accessible surfaces of completed weld.
F. When nozzles are attached with a full penetration weld through the nozzle wall, the cut edge
of the opening in vessel walls thicker than 1/2-inch shall be examined (using MT or PT). The
examination shall be made before nozzle attachment and a re-examination shall be made
after attachment, when accessible.
G. Examination (using MT or PT) of completed welds shall be made after PWHT for the
following:
1. Vessels or vessel parts for which impact testing is required
2. Welds joining non-impact tested low-alloy steels thicker than 1-1/4 inches
3. Welds joining carbon steels thicker than 2 inches
4. When required by Code
H. Butt welds exempt from radiography by Paragraph UW-11(a)(4) shall have accessible
surfaces of completed welds MT or PT examined. (Only applies to designs employing impact-
tested steels when Category A joints are based on a joint efficiency of 1.00.)
J. Non-butt type joints attaching tubesheets shall be MT or PT examined (usually on exchangers

larger that NPS 24, or any size having design pressure on the tubesheet attachment side
exceeding 300 psi) as follows:
1. Before welding, examine the cut surfaces per Paragraph UG-93(d)(4).
2. For joints per Figure UW-13.2(f), (j), or (k), examine the deposited groove weld
surfaces after machining weld flush with tubesheet.
3. For double-welded joints, after back chipping the reverse side of weld metal first
deposited and before additional welding, examine the back-chipped surfaces.
4. Examine all accessible surfaces of completed weld.
5. After welding, re-examine all cut edges examined per Item 1 above that remain
exposed.
K. Tubesheet stock material exceeding 3 inches in thickness shall be ultrasonically examined

after cutting to final size per ASME SA-578 Acceptance Level 1, Supplementary Requirement
S1 (applies to nonclad material).
Process Industry Practices Page B[E]-3

L. Clad tubesheet material shall be ultrasonically examined after cutting to final size per
ASME SA-578 Acceptance Level 1, Supplementary Requirement S7 (applies to clad material
of any thickness).
Item Number:
Vessel Assembly Dwg.:

Reference paragraphs are contained in Division 1 of the ASME Code.
MT = Magnetic Particle Examination
PT = Liquid Penetrant Examination
PAGE 2 OF 2
Page B[E]-4 Process Industry Practices

APPENDIX C
Equivalent Pressure Formulas for

Bending Moment and Axial Tensile Load
Equivalent Pressure Formulas for Bending Moment and Axial Tensile Load
When sustained bending moments or axial thrust loadings are applied to the flanged joint during
operation in sufficient magnitude to warrant consideration in the flange design, the design
pressure, P, used in the calculation of total hydrostatic end load, H, in the flange design
calculations should be replaced by the following design pressure:
PFLG = P + PEQ
The equivalent pressure PEQ is determined as follows:
16M 4F
PEQ = +
πG3 πG2
Where:
M= Sustained bending moment applied across full section at flange during the design
condition, in-lb
F= Sustained axial tensile force applied at flange, lb
G= Diameter at location of gasket load reaction, in (See Appendix 2 {Appendix 3} of the
Code for full definition.)
Note: Experience has shown that axial tensile forces resulting from a properly designed
piping system have no significant effect on the flange design and hence are typically not
included in the PEQ determination.
Therefore, the hydrostatic end load, H, used in the flange calculations is determined as follows:
2
H = 0.785 G PFLG
Dynamic Bending Moment
8M
PEQ =
πG3
Where:
M= Bending moment, as defined above, but including dynamic bending moment (e.g.,
seismic moment) applied across full section at flange during the design condition,
in-lb
Other Terms = Same as above
Page C-2 Process Industry Practices

APPENDIX D
Minimum Clearance for

Nozzle Adjacent to Integral Tubesheet

Pip Vecv1001 2000

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REVISION

Process Industry Practices

© Process Industry Practices (PIP), Construction Industry Institute, The

September 1997 Issued

Not printed with State funds.

Process Industry Practices

Process Industry Practices Page 1 of 58

5.10.8 Piping and Superimposed 5.20.7 Thermal Performance..................50

Page 2 of 58 Process Industry Practices

Process Industry Practices Page 3 of 58

2.1 Process Industry Practices (PIP)

2.2 Industry Codes and Standards

Page 4 of 58 Process Industry Practices

• American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME)

2.3 Other References

Process Industry Practices Page 5 of 58

2.4 Government Regulations

Construction: An all-inclusive term comprising materials, design, fabrication, examination,

Overlay Specification: Technical requirements that supplement or override the provisions of

Page 6 of 58 Process Industry Practices

4.1 Applicable PIP Documents

4.2 ASME Code Requirements

4.3 National Board Registration

4.4 Jurisdictional Compliance

Process Industry Practices Page 7 of 58

4.5 Units of Measurement

4.7 Documentation to be Provided to the Manufacturer

5.1 Design Pressure and Temperature

Page 8 of 58 Process Industry Practices

Process Industry Practices Page 9 of 58

5.2 MAWP {Design Pressure} and Coincident Maximum Temperature

Page 10 of 58 Process Industry Practices

5.3 Minimum Design Metal Temperature (MDMT) and Coincident Pressure

5.4 External Pressure Design

5.5 Cyclic Service

Process Industry Practices Page 11 of 58

5.6 Welded Pressure Joint Requirements

Page 12 of 58 Process Industry Practices

requirements to manufacturers for quotations and purchase specifications.

5.6.2.6.1 [E] Weld joints that employ a permanent backing strip

Process Industry Practices Page 13 of 58

5.6.2.6.2 [E] To avoid the potential for crevices generated

5.6.2.6.3 [E] Exchangers having any of the following design

• Tube side MAWP exceeding 600 psig

• Shell side MAWP exceeding 1000 psig

• MDMT colder than minus 20°F

• High-alloy tubesheet and adjoining shell (or

• Shell (or channel) inside diameter (ID) larger

Page 14 of 58 Process Industry Practices

5.8 Wind Load

Process Industry Practices Page 15 of 58

shall make this determination by knowing the geographic location of

Page 16 of 58 Process Industry Practices

5.8.1.6 Force Coefficients

5.8.2 Determination of Wind-Induced Forces

5.9 Seismic Loads

Process Industry Practices Page 17 of 58

elements per the theory of structural dynamics. For long pieces of

Page 18 of 58 Process Industry Practices

5.10 Design Loads and Load Combinations

Process Industry Practices Page 19 of 58

5.10.5 Test Load (L5)

Page 20 of 58 Process Industry Practices