Weld Proximity - good engineering practice?

[Chiller]

Some design codes define a min distance between welds as a good engineering practice, such as PD5500.

In a lot of cases, nozzles and attachments can sometimes be so near to a main weld seam (and in my present case on it).
Does anybody have any thoughts about this matter?

If like in my particular case where no changes to the construction is acceptable, is there anything that one can do to satisfy ones concerns?

Many thanks in advance

 

[apiguy]

I'm not familiar with PD5500 but the ASME Code Section VIII
gives details regarding this application. A brief summary is as follows:

If the opening is adequately reinforced, it may be placed in a welded joint.

Openings may be located in the head to shell weld or category B or C joints provided that the weld meets the prescribed radiographic requirements for a length equal to 3X the diameter of the opening with the center of the hole at midlength.

For materials 1.5"(3.8cm)thick, or less, the edge of openings shall not be placed closer than .5" (1.27cm) from the edge of a Category A, B,or C weld except when the weld satisfies the prescribed radiographic requirements.

For attachment welds, the following rules apply:

When pressure parts extend over pressure retaining welds, such welds shall be ground flush for the portion of the weld to be covered.
When non-pressure parts extend over pressure containing welds, such welds shall be ground flush as above, or the parts shall be notched or coped to clear the pressure containing welds.

This is just my opinion as I read the code, but you should check with a Design Engineer if you have any other concerns.

Regards,
Rich

 

[PAN]

In my previous project, PWHT is required in the case of not enough weld proximity.