Per B31.3-2004
300.1 Scope
Rules for the Process Piping Code Section B31.31 have
been developed considering piping typically found in
petroleum refineries; chemical, pharmaceutical, textile,
paper, semiconductor, and cryogenic plants; and related
processing plants and terminals.
300.1.1 Content and Coverage
(a) This Code prescribes requirements for materials
and components, design, fabrication, assembly, erection,
examination, inspection, and testing of piping.
(b) This Code applies to piping for all fluids, including
(1) raw, intermediate, and finished chemicals
(2) petroleum products
(3) gas, steam, air, and water
(4) fluidized solids
(5) refrigerants
(6) cryogenic fluids
(c) See Fig. 300.1.1 for a diagram illustrating the application
of B31.3 piping at equipment. The joint connecting
piping to equipment is within the scope of B31.3.
300.1.2 Packaged Equipment Piping. Also included
within the scope of this Code is piping which interconnects
pieces or stages within a packaged equipment
assembly.
300.1.3 Exclusions. This Code excludes the following:
(a) piping systems designed for internal gage pressures
at or above zero but less than 105 kPa (15 psi),
provided the fluid handled is nonflammable, nontoxic,
and not damaging to human tissues as defined in 300.2,
and its design temperature is from -29°C (-20°F)
through 186°C (366°F)
(b) power boilers in accordance with BPV Code2 Section
I and boiler external piping which is required to
conform to B31.1
(c) tubes, tube headers, crossovers, and manifolds of
fired heaters, which are internal to the heater enclosure
(d) pressure vessels, heat exchangers, pumps, compressors,
and other fluid handling or processing equipment,
including internal piping and connections for
external piping
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Best Regards,
John C. Luf