Comparison of the ASME Welding Qualification Code Requirements for Power Plants
Darren Barborak and Steve McCracken
The American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) Boiler and Pressure Vessel Codes and Code for Pressure Piping have been utilized extensively for the construction and maintenance of plants in the power generation industry. These codes consist of different relevant sections and standards that are applicable to the various pressure retaining components and their service application. This paper presents a comparison of the welding requirements between the various ASME construction codes and standards outside of the qualification requirements within Section IX. Topics of discussion include preheat temperature, inter-pass temperature, post-weld heat treatment, toughness testing, filler material requirements, and tack welds. Individual paragraphs and subparagraphs specific to these topics are compared and contrasted to establish their similarities and differences.