The Meaning of an ASME Code Stamp

[Enginator]

This may actually apply to more than ASME BPVC, but I was wondering what it means exactly to have a stamped/certified vessel (or piping)? Does that mean it was fabricated to the code? Or designed as well? What I'm getting at, is does the inspector who stamps also review the design calculations for adequacy? My guess is that is not the case.

 

[metengr]

Does that mean it was fabricated to the code?

Reply; Yes

Or designed as well?

Reply; Yes for design and fabrication.

What I'm getting at, is does the inspector who stamps also review the design calculations for adequacy?

Reply; No, not for adequacy, that is the design engineer's responsibility. The Inspector will review the calcs for accuracy, and also ensures all of the fabrication requirements (welding, NDT, inspection results, hydrostatic testing, etc) have been met.

 

[Enginator]

Ok, just to clarify, the inspector reviews calcs for accuracy, but not that the code was applied in proper fashion (adequacy)?

The reason I ask, is that I'm on a requirements review team, and some are saying that if we come across a tank that is code stamped, then we can assume it was designed properly and it meets all design requirements. My opinion is that is a bit of a leap in logic.

 

[metengr]

Enginator;
The design of the component is the responsibility of the Owner's Engineer. This means proper material selection based on known service conditions that the Design Engineer understands and is not something that the Code book provides.

The Code book is not an engineering handbook. It provides guidance on materials, their limitations and possible corrosion/damage mechanisms to consider. The Inspector just makes sure the Code requirements and calcs have been followed, that is it.