ASME SECTION II, PART A INTERPRETATIONS

8/7/2019 ASME SECTION II, PART A INTERPRETATIONS

1/235

ASME SECTION II, PART A INTERPRETATIONS

NOTE: THESE INTERPRETATIONS ARE FOR ASME COMMITTEE USE

ONLY. THEY ARE NOT TO BE DUPLICATED OR USED FOR OTHER THAN

ASME COMMITTEE BUSINESS.

THERE MAY BE SOME TYPOGRAPHICAL ERRORS IN THIS DOCUMENT.

PLEASE REVIEW THE ACTUAL PUBLISHED INTERPRETATION FOR THE

EXACT WORDING.


2/235

Section II-A Interpretations Vol. 1

NOTE:

The following Interpretations are for Section II, Part B:II-77-06

The following Interpretations are for Section II, Part C:II-77-05

II-77-07

II-77-08


3/235


Interpretation: II-77-01

Subject: Section II, Part A, ASTM A 519, Grade 1026

Date Issued: January 18, 1977

File: NA

Question: May ASTM A 519, Grade 1026 material be used in a Code approvedvessel?

Reply: Material should be produced and documented to an ASME specification.Material produced under an ASTM specification may be designated as complying with a

corresponding ASME specification providing the ASME specification is shown to be

identical with the ASTM specification for the grade, class, or type produced andproviding the material is confirmed as complying with the ASTM specification by

material test report or certification of compliance from the material manufacturer.

Since ASTM A 519 material does not comply with the above requirements

it cannot be used in Code construction.


4/235



Subject: Section II, Part A, SA-479, Paragraph 6.1.1, Use of Cold Working


File: NA

Question: With reference to paragraph 6.1.1 of SA-479, is some cold workpermissible after solution annealing for austenitic stainless steels, except for specifically

strain hardened type?

Reply: Some cold work such as straightening or final sizing, not extensive in

nature, is permissible on austenitic stainless steel after solution annealing as outlined in

paragraph 6.1.1 of SA-479 to permit the material to meet the tolerance requirements of A484, General Requirements for Stainless and Head Resisting Wrought Steel Products,

which is the general specification applicable to SA-479.


5/235



Subject: Section II, Part A, SA-105, Paragraph 4.4, Use of Forged Bar Flanges


File: NA

Question: With reference to paragraph 4.4 of SA-105, are flanges excluded frommanufacturing utilizing forged bar?

Reply: It is the intent of SA-105, paragraph 4.4, that all flanges are excluded frommanufacturing utilizing forged bar. The stresses at the intersections of a flange are too

high for the flange to be manufactured from forged bar. Also the grain flow in a flange is

undesirable for this type of manufacturer.


6/235



Subject: Section II, Part A, Application of Centrifugally Cast Austenitic Cold

Wrought Pipe to Various ASME Pipe Specifications


File: NA

Question: What is the applicability of centrifugally cast austenitic cold wrought pipe

to various Code specifications?

Reply: Material specifications deemed suitable for inclusion in the ASME Code

are adopted from the various ASTM material specification documents. They are either

adopted identically or are modified to suit the requirements of the ASME. The materialspecification Code Book, Section II, is a compilation of the acceptable materials that can

be used in Code construction. However, it is up to the various referencing Sections of the

ASME Code to accept for inclusion in their Code books the material specification they

consider necessary for construction.It is acceptable to use a manufacturing method and adapt it to two

different material specifications as long as all the requirements of the specifications are

met, and there is a certified documentation of same.


7/235



Subject: Section II, Part A, SA-564, Impact Requirements

Date Issued: March 15, 1977

File: NA

Question: What are the requirements for impact testing for age hardened material9/16

in. and under in accordance with material specification SA-564?

Reply: There are no provisions in the Code for impact testing of age hardenedmaterial, such as SA-564, Type 630 material, for bar sizes in. and under. For shapes,

angles, tees, and channels there are provisions in SA-370 for subsize impact testing when

subsize specimen dimensions can be met.


8/235



Subject: Section II, Part A, SA-240, Type 304, Chemical Certification

Date Issued: April 27, 1977

File: BC77-231

Question: Can a material identified as SA-240, Type 304, in a mill test report beacceptable in Code construction when referenced as ASTM A 240-75a, and includes a

listing of residual elements?

Reply: A mill test report stating the chemical composition of Type 304 material in

SA-240 can be accepted as satisfactory for use in ASME Code Construction. The ASTM

designation referenced on the report does not invalidate the certification since bothASME and ASTM specifications are identical except for the deletion of two grades in

SA-240 not accepted by the ASME.

The inclusion of residual elements in the mill test report is acceptable

since the reporting of such elements is neither required nor prohibited.


9/235



Subject: Section II, Part A, SA-193, Hardness Requirements for Grade B8, Class 1

Bolts


File: NA

Question: Are paragraphs 5.3 and 9.2.3 of SA-193 in conflict concerning the

hardness requirements of Grade B8, Class 1 bolts, and can the supplier cold head the

material after carbide solution heat treatment?

Reply: Paragraphs 5.3 and 9.2.3 of SA-193 are compatible and apply to the

manufacture of Grade B8, Class 1 bolts. Cold sizing, or forming operations may beperformed on carbide solution heat treated material, as specified in paragraph 5.3

provided all areas of the finished bolt, including the areas affected by the sizing or

forming operations meet the maximum hardness specified in paragraph 9.2.3.


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Subject: Section II, Part A, Application of S or U Symbol to Pipe

Manufactured to SA-155, SA-358, and SA-671

Date Issued: May 31, 1977

File: BC77-223

Question: May the S or U Code Symbol Stamp be applied to fusion welded pipe

manufactured to SA-155, SA-358, and SA-671?

Reply: Sections I and VIII do not permit the usage of fusion welded pipe

furnished as materials to SA-155, SA-358, or SA-671. The pipe product described in

these specifications might be used in Section I or Section VIII construction provided theproduct was furnished as a part meeting all requirements applicable to a shell fabricated

from Code approved plate material including authorized inspection at the point of

manufacture and Manufacturers Partial Data Report covering each pipe length. Such a

fusion welded cylinder would require the S Code symbol stamp for Section I usage orthe U Code symbol stamp for Section VIII usage. The ASME Code does not prohibit

such a fusion welded cylinder, when Code symbol stamped and documented with an

ASME manufacturers Partial Data Report Form, from also being marked with such pipespecification designation as might be appropriate. Such a pipe material specification

marking, however, would have no Code significance and might be confusing becauseSections I and VIII do not include these specifications (fusion welded pipe with filler

metal added) in their lists of acceptable materials.


11/235



Subject: Section II, Part A; SA-105, Heat Treatment of Valve Bodies Under 4 in.

Date Issued: July 1, 1977

File: BC77-339

Question: Is it a mandatory requirement of 5.1 of SA-105 to have forged steel bodiesand bonnets heat treated for 1500 psi carbon steel OS&Y welded bonnet socket weld

globe valves, 1 in. and 2 in. nominal pipe size?

Reply: It is the intent of SA-105, 5.1, to require heat treatment of piping

components only if they meet the criteria of being over 4 in. nominal pipe size and over

300 psi primary service pressure rating.


12/235



Subject: Section II, Part A; SA-278, Casting Thickness


File: BC77-305

Question: What is the definition of the term Controlling Section on constant andvaried casting thickness as referred to in SA-278?

Reply: It is the intent of SA-278 that the Designer must define the governingthickness and that, in general, this will be the maximum thickness of the pressure

retaining boundary portion of the casting.


13/235



Subject: Section II, Part A; SA-351, Melting Practice

Date Issued: August 2, 1977

File: BC77-336

Question: What is the intent of SA-351 when it references manufacture by theelectric furnace process?

Reply: It is the intent of the present wording of SA-351 to include both electricarc and electric induction melting and does not preclude vacuum degassing.


14/235



Subject: Section II; Use of ASME Material Specifications Relative to Contract

Dates of Other Book Sections

Date Issued: September 7, 1977

File: BC77-418

Question (1): Is it possible to use materials manufactured to an earlier or later Edition or

Addenda of Section II than those shown in the Edition or Addenda which apply to a

specific contract?

Reply (1): The specific requirements concerning the Edition or Addenda of Section II

Material Specifications must be reviewed for compliance with that Section (Section I, III,IV, or VIII) referencing the Material Specifications. In general, later Editions or

Addenda of Section II Material Specifications are acceptable, providing the purchaser

and the Authorized Inspector are in agreement with the use of the later Edition. Earlier

Editions of the Material Specifications may be employed, provided the stamp holdercertifies that the requirements of the earlier Edition meet or exceed those of the Edition in

effect at the date of contract and the Authorized Inspector is satisfied with the

certification.

Question (2): May SA-234 fittings be made from SA-516 plate?

Reply (2): Code Case 1571, approved March 3, 1973, permits the use of SA-516

plate in the production of SA-234 fittings.


15/235



Subject: Section II, Part A; SA-105 Flanged Parts

Date Issued: October 25, 1977

File: BC77-630

Question: SA-105 under 4.4 allows the use of hot rolled or forged bar for themachining of hollow cylindrically shaped parts except flanges. Does this restriction

apply to small integrally reinforced flanged nozzles?

Reply: It is the intent of SA-105 that it prohibits the machining of any type of

flange(s) or flange parts from bar stock.


16/235



Subject: Section II, Part A; SA-264, 13.1 and 13.1.1, Percentage of Bond

Date Issued: November 15, 1977

File: BC77-623

Questions: Is the intent of 13.1 and 13.1.1 of SA-264 that 100% bond is required onthe cladding surface, and that the Material Manufacturer must repair unbonded areas by

welding? Also, if the area to be repaired exceeds 3%, must approval by the purchaser be

obtained?

Replies: It is the intent of SA-264 that 13.1.1 requires a 100% bond between the

cladding material and base steel. The Material Manufacturer may repair defects in thecladding by welding if the repaired area will be 3% or less of the cladding surface

without prior approval. If the repaired area is to exceed 3% of the cladding surface, prior

approval must be obtained from the purchaser for repairs, in accordance with 13 of SA-

264.


17/235



Subject: Section II, Part A; Use of Explosive Welding in SA-264

Date Issued: December 26, 1977

File: BC77-794

Question (1): Can explosive welding be used by a Material Manufacturer to manufactureSA-264 for use as pressure retaining material in a Section VIII, Division 1 pressure

vessel?

Reply (1): SA-264 does not prohibit the use of explosive welding to produce clad

steel as long as all requirements of the Specification are complied with. Welding

qualification per Section IX of the ASME Code is not required.

Question (2): Is it the intent of the Code to include explosive welding in permissible

welding processes of UW-27 of Section VIII, Division 1?

Reply (2): It is not the intent of the Code to include explosive welding among the

permissible welding processes in UW-27 of Section VIII, Division 1 as this technique is

not appropriate for the fabrication of welded joints in a vessel.


18/235


NOTE:

The following Interpretations are for Section II, Part B:II-78-01

II-78-10

The following Interpretations are for Section II, Part C:

II-78-02

II-78-03

II-78-04II-78-05

II-78-08

II-78-09II-78-11


19/235



Subject: Section II, Part A, SA-105, 4.4, Manufacture


File: None

Question: May hollow cylindrical shaped parts be machined from hot rolledseamless mechanical tubing, to the requirements of 4.4 of SA-105, provided that the axial

length of the part is approximately parallel to the metal flow lines of the stock and the

requirements of Tables 1 and 2 are met?

Reply: The provisions of 4.4 of SA-105 allow the manufacture of hollow

cylindrical parts, except flanges from hot rolled or forged bar (including hollow bar ifextruded). There is no allowance for the use of hot rolled mechanical tubing. The Code

does not allow hot rolled mechanical tubing to be used since it is not considered

acceptable for pressure parts.


20/235



Subject: Section II, Part A, SA-182, 4.4 and 5.3


File: BC78-75

Question 1: Can it be inferred from 4.4 of SA-182 that blind slip-on or weld neckflanges may be machined from slices cut from the end of round bar stock without further

forging?

Reply 1: 4.4 of SA-182 permits machining small cylindrically shaped parts within

the limits defined by A 234. A 234 covers fittings which are defined in 1.1 Scope as

those covered by ANSI B16.9, B16.11, and B16.28, none of which include flanges.Therefore, the direct machining of small parts permitted by 4.4 of SA-182 does not

include flanges and it was specifically the intent of the Committee not to permit flanges

to be machined directly from bar.

Question 2: If the process is well documented in a manner satisfactory to the

purchaser, can austenitic steel forgings for flanges and fittings be quenched immediately

after forging (Temperature above 1900 F) or must the forgings be reheated in furnaces tomeet the intent of 5.3 of SA-182?

Reply 2: It is the intent of SA-182, 5.3 to require that austenitic stainless steel

forgings be furnished in the solution annealed condition and that the test required by 9 be

run on samples representing the forgings. Since SA-182 does not address itself to themechanics of the heat treating process, any heat treatment procedure that results in a

forging in compliance with the specification is acceptable. This is normally done by

reheating stainless steel forgings in a heat treating furnace designed for heat treatingwhich usually provides closer control and more uniformity than obtained in furnace

equipment used to heat for forging. However, there is nothing in the specification to

prevent heating austenitic stainless steel material to the solution annealing temperature,

forging, and water quenching provided controls are adequately instituted and monitoredto assure that all the requirements of SA-182 are met.

Question 3: Does the use of an ASME, Section II SA Specification on a flange or pipefitting imply that the item has been warranted for Section III applications?

Reply 3: The stamping of an SA Specification number on a flange or pipe fittingonly implies that the manufacturer is certifying that the product complies with the

Specification. Depending on the specific product, size, and usage, Section III may or

may not have additional requirements that must be met including the requirement that theproduct be manufactured under an acceptable Quality Assurance Program.


21/235



Subject: Section II, Part A, SA-476


File: BC78-470

Question: Does the statement in SA-476 which states that the castings are to be usedin the as-cast condition for paper mill dryer rolls for up to 450F exclude heat treatment?

Reply: It is not the intent of SA-476 to exclude heat treatment meant to assist inthe application of the castings, provided that this would not degrade the mechanical

properties. A change in the wording of the scope of the specification is currently under

active consideration. This would change the words The castings are to be used in the as-cast condition to read the castings are usually used in the as-cast condition for

pressure-containing parts in the form of paper mill dryer rolls at temperatures up to

450F. Thermal stress relieving would be considered as a beneficial heat treatment in

this instance.


22/235



Subject: Section II, Part A, Steels to American Standards


File: BC77-235

Question (1): Can a maximum tensile strength be imposed in SA-333?

Reply (1): This question has been considered in the past and the consensus of the

materials committee has been that a maximum tensile strength limit is unnecessary.

Question (2): Does material with 2.1% Cr and 1% Mo meet the requirements of SA-

106?

Reply (2): No. SA-106 covers carbon steel and the presence of 2.1% Cr and 1% Mo

indicate intentional additions to produce alloy steel.

Question (3): With respect to SA-420, Grade WPL 6, is it the intent of the Specification

to allow carbon steel 85 ksi yield strength and 112 ksi tensile strength to be used at

46C?

Reply (3): It is the intent of SA-420 that carbon steel be supplied for Grade WPL 6and that the chemical and tensile requirements of the applicable specifications listed in

Table 1 be met. Since SA-420 permits quenching and tempering, it is possible, but

improbable, that fittings made from A 333 and 334, Grade 6 materials could havestrength levels such as those set forth in the inquiry. SA-333 and SA-420 do not speak to

the maximum and minimum temperatures at which the various grades may be used.

Question (4): Are there unwritten understandings in the United States regarding the

maximum tensile strength of SA-420, Grade WPL 6 or SA-333, Grade 6?

Reply (4): No.

Question (5): Are 85 ksi yield strength and 112 ksi tensile strength acceptable variations

for SA-420, Grade WPL 6?

Reply (5): SA-420 does not impose maximum yield strength and tensile strength

limits for Grade WPL 6. Therefore, strength levels such as those set forth in the inquiryare not prohibited.

Question (6): Can a maximum tensile strength be imposed in SA-420?


23/235

Reply (6): This question has been considered in the past and the consensus of thematerials committee has been that a maximum tensile strength limit is unnecessary.


24/235


NOTE:

The following Interpretation is for Section II, Part C:II-78-14


25/235



Subject: Section II, Part A, SA-515 and SA-516 Plates


File: BC78-465

Question: Do intermediate and moderate temperatures refer to the same range oftemperatures, being resultant of overlapped ranges between both plates in which the use

of one or the other is only dependent on nontechnical factors such as stocks, availability,

and prices?

Reply: The titles of SA-515 and SA-516 plates are intended to suggest service

temperatures based upon the general properties of the materials. That is to say finegrained steels usually have improved notch toughness and are more suitable for low

temperature than coarse grained steels.

The intermediate and moderate temperatures could overlap, but the use of

the materials does not really depend upon nontechnical factors like stocks, availability,etc. A material could be in service at a moderate temperature; however, if a pressure

vessel were to be hydrostatically tested at a lower temperature, a fine grained material

could be considered as a more suitable material than a coarse grained steel.The range of temperature service for each plate cannot be specifically

defined because services are very broad and overlapping is anticipated. The vesseldesigner or engineer should determine the material required for each specific application

based upon service requirements.

The materials can only be used for Code construction at temperatures forwhich allowable stresses are given in stress tables. The tables can therefore be used as a

guide for additional information.


26/235



Subject: Section II, Part A, Additional Elements in SA-240 TP 316 or TP 316L


File: BC78-530

Question: Is it permissible to add titanium to SA-240 TP 316 or TP 316L in anamount not exceeding five times the percentage of carbon to act as a stabilizer provided

all other chemical and mechanical test requirements are met in Tables 1 and 2?

Reply: The intentional addition of elements, for the enhancement of properties,

other than those listed in Table 1 of SA-240 is not intended. Titanium stabilized Types

316 and 316L would be considered to be new grades and, as such, would be subject to theGuidelines On The Adoption of New Base Materials as published in Section II.


27/235



Subject: Section II, Part A, SA-182, Paragraph 4.4


File: BC78-388

Question: Paragraph 4.4 of SA-182 deals with the forging of products and states thatthe material shall be forged as close as practical to the specified shape and size. Is the

method of manufacture for a valve bonnet which is outlined in the attachment acceptable

for forgings made to SA-182?

Reply: Yes. Cutting a multiple forging into individual lengths to make

components to SA-182 is also acceptable. It should be noted, however, that the use ofrolled bar stock is limited by the same rules as those which appear in ASTM A 234.


28/235



Subject: Section II, Part A, SA-335, Sections 4.1.4 and 9.1


File: BC78-685

Question: Is it permissible, where SA-335 P-No. 2 seamless pipe is extruded directlyfrom cast ingot, so that no intermediate bloom or billet is utilized, to satisfy the grain size

requirements of SA-335, 4.1.4 and 9, by performing the grain size test on a small test

ingot (up to 6 in. diameter) teemed from the parent heat and given a suitable hot workingreduction to simulate the hot extrusion process prior to performing the test?

Reply: It is the Committees opinion that the intent of the grain size testrequirement in SA-335 for Grade P-No. 2 pipe would be satisfied by the procedure

indicated in the question. Alternatively, it is the Committees opinion that the grain size

test may be performed on the pipe.


29/235


NOTE:


II-79-04


30/235



Subject: Section II, Part A, SA-182 TP 304


File: BC78-679

Question: All other requirements being equal and complied with, can austeniticforgings tension tested to ASTM A 182-77a and the pending SA-182, Winter 1978

Addenda, be considered to also comply with the intended requirements of Paragraph 9.5

tension tests of SA-182, Summer 1976 Addenda?

Reply: Yes.


31/235



Subject: Section II, Part A, SA-234, SA-403, and SA-420


File: BC79-176

Question: May seamless, as well as welded, fittings constructed of SA-234, SA-403or SA-420 be used for Section I and/or Section VIII, Division 1 applications?

Reply: The Preambles of SA-234, SA-403, and SA-420 are not intended toexclude the use of the materials under Sections of the Code other than Section III.

The use of SA-234, SA-403, and SA-420 is not required for usage under

Sections I and VIII. See PG-11 and UG-11, respectively, in those sections of the Code.Thus, material certified to either the ASTM or the ASME versions of those specifications

is permitted for Sections I and VIII.

For seamless products (i.e, manufactured without welding) SA-234 and A

234 are identical, so that a product which complies with one of these specificationscomplies with the other.

Similar distinctions apply to the ASME SA-403 and SA-420 and their

ASTM counterparts A 403 and A 420, respectively.


32/235


NOTE:


II-79-06II-79-07II-79-08


33/235



Subject: Section II, Testing Requirements in SA-450


File: BC79-378

Question: Do the provisions of SA-450 Section 19.1 (Summer 1979 Addenda) whichstate Test specimens shall be taken from the ends of finished tubes prior tobeing cut

to length mean that test specimens may not under any circumstance be taken from tubes

cut to length?

Reply: It is the opinion of the Committee that the SA-450 provision in question is

intended to permit rather than require the taking of test samples prior to cutting to lengthso as not to unnecessarily force the discard of an entire tube length because of test sample

removal. If circumstances require, and if contractual obligations relating to the quantity

and length of tubes are satisfied, specimens may be taken from tubes already cut to

specified length.

Question: Test specimens, removed from the discard end of SA-249 tubes, contain a

cold drawing manufacturing flaw which resulted in failure to pass the flattening test. Webelieve this cold drawing manufacturing flaw is confined to the discarded cut tube ends.

In these circumstances may we discard the flattening test specimens, substituting othersfrom the already cut-to-length tubes under the provision of SA-450, 19.2?

Reply: If it can be demonstrated that failure of the flattening test was the result ofa flaw introduced during cold working and is associated with cold working conditions

occurring only at the discarded tube ends, other test specimens from the same lot may be

substituted. The specification does not specify means by which the above may bedemonstrated, but such demonstration is required before the provisions of SA-450,

Section 19.2 may be used.

Because specifics as to the actual flaw conditions and nature of the

flattening test failure were not given in your inquiry, we are uncertain as to whether theprovisions of 5.2 of SA-450 are applicable to your situation. The purpose of the

flattening test is to detect less than expected ductility, laminated or unsound steel or

incomplete weld and disclosure of any of these conditions constitutes failure of theflattening test. But disclosure of preexisting surface imperfections present in the test

specimen prior to testing does not constitute failure of the flattening test.


34/235


NOTE:


II-80-08II-80-10II-80-14


35/235



Subject: Section II, Part A, SA-105, 5.1


File: BC79-785

Question: In the case of other piping components in the referenced paragraph, do thelimits of 4 in. nominal pipe size and 300 psi service rating both need to be exceeded

before heat treatment is required?

Reply: Yes. Both limits need to be exceeded before heat treatment is required.


36/235



Subject: Section II, Hardness Requirements of SA-234

Date Issued: February 25, 1980

File: BC79-172

Question: 9.1 and 9.2 of SA-234 state that the hardness of fittings to SA-234 shallnot exceed 197 HB or 217 HB, depending on the material. However, there is no

statement as to taking hardness tests, their frequency, and no reporting requirement.

What requirements, if any, apply?

Reply: It is the opinion of the Committee that with respect to 9 of SA-234, it is up

to the Manufacturer to ensure that fittings do not exceed the required maximum hardness.The procedure used to assure this is again the Manufacturers responsibility.

SA-234 is in the process of being revised to conform to ASTM A 234-79a,

and this revision includes a new supplementary requirement S8, which will permit the

purchaser to specify hardness testing of fittings. This may further help to clarify theintent of the Specification.


37/235





File: BC80-135

Question: Does material supplied in accordance with ASTM A 105-76 comply withthe requirements of SA-105, Summer 1978 Addenda?

Reply: Yes.


38/235



Subject: Section II, Part A, SA-105, 5.1


File: BC79-468

Question: Does a primary service pressure fitting under 4 in. nominal pipe size, butrated at over 300 psi, require heat treatment?

Reply: No. 5.1 of SA-105 states that all flanges with primary service pressureratings over 300 psi have to be heat treated. Other piping components, however, need

only be heat treated when the primary service pressure exceeds 300 psi and the nominal

pipe size exceeds 4 in., i.e., both conditions must be met. Such a fitting for a pressurerating of 400 psi and a size of 3 in., for example, would not have to be heat treated.


39/235



Subject: Section II, Product Analysis Tolerances for SA-312 and SA-530


File: BC80-80

Question: May the product analysis tolerances given for stainless steel plates in SA-480 be applied to SA-312 pipe?

Reply: No. SA-312 requires the chemical composition determined by ProductAnalysis meet that which is prescribed in Table 1 of SA-312.


40/235





File: BC80-81

Question: Is it permissible for an NV Certificate Holder to purchase forged, square,steel bars to the requirements of SA-105, cold hammer forge the corners until the bars are

round, and then cut slices off the bars for subsequent machining into flanges for

attachment to, and to become part of, the finished component?

Reply: No.


41/235



Subject: Section II, SA-578, Requirement S6.5


File: BC80-46

Question: Do both of the following conditions have to exist to permit weld repair ofunbonded cladding as defined in S6.5 of SA-578?

Condition A: that these areas total less than 20 in.2 (129 cm2) in any 4 ft2

(0.37 m2) and there is not less than 12 in. (305 mm) between areas.

Condition B: that the total repair area is less than 5% of the total plate

area.

Reply: Yes. Both Conditions A and B must be satisfied.


42/235



Subject: Section II, SA-312 With Respect to Sections 7 and 8


File: BC80-245

Question (1): Is it the intent of Section 7 of SA-312 that a pipe manufacturer may reportthe heat analysis made by a steel manufacturer rather than report the chemical

composition determined from a product analysis made by the pipe manufacturer?

Reply (1): Yes.

Question (2): Is it the intent of Section 8 of SA-312 that a product analysis by the pipemanufacturer is not mandatory but is instead an option which may or may not be

exercised by the purchaser?

Reply (2): Yes.


43/235



Subject: Section II, Permissible Chromium Content


File: BC79-745

Question: What is the maximum percent chromium content acceptable in SA-350,Grade LF2?

Reply: Material conforming to SA-350, Grade LF2, may have chromium presentas a residual element. Residual elements are those which may be found in steels but

which are not intentionally added to the steels for the purpose of improvement or

enhancement of the mechanical properties. SA-350, Grade LF2, does not impose amaximum limit on the amount of chromium which may be present as a residual element.

Grade LF2 of SA-350 is classified as a carbon steel. The intentional

addition of chromium would cause a steel to be classified as alloy steel.


44/235



Subject: Section II, Chemical Requirements

Date Issued: May 8, 1980

File: BC80-204

Question (1): Does the symbolas found in Table 1 of SA-240, SA-312, and SA-479indicate that the percentage of the applicable element must be nil?

Reply (1): No. The symbol merely indicates that there is no requirement for theelement.

Question (2): Are residual quantities of elements (i.e., molybdenum) which are notrequired in Table 1 of SA-240, SA-312, and SA-479 acceptable when found in samples?

Reply (2): Yes.

Question (3): To what extent may molybdenum be accepted as a residual element in

Grades of SA-240, SA-312, and SA-479 for which there are no requirements for

molybdenum?

Reply (3): The Specifications do not impose a maximum limit on the amount ofmolybdenum which may be present as a residual element. For these particular steels,

molybdenum has effects similar to chromium and is generally regarded as beneficial. For

some uses, special considerations, such as weldability, may make it desirable for the userto impose a maximum limit, but such considerations are beyond the scope of the Material

Specifications.


45/235


NOTE:



46/235



Subject: Section II, Hardness of Swaged Portion of Boiler Tubes


File: BC79-382

Question: Is it required that carbon steel tubes, such as SA-210 A-1, which haveundergone fabrication operations by the boiler manufacturer meet the maximum hardness

specified in the Specifications?

Reply: No. The maximum hardness specified in the Section II Material

Specification is one of a number of requirements intended to help insure that the tubing

furnished by the material manufacturer will withstand fabrication and installationrequirements. Section I does not specify hardness limits for the tubing as fabricated and

installed in a boiler.


47/235



Subject: Section II, Part A, Product Analysis Tolerances for SA-312 and SA-530


File: BC80-462

Question: May the product analysis tolerances given for stainless steel plates in SA-480 be applied to SA-312 pipe?

Reply: No. SA-312 requires the chemical composition as determined in theProduct Analysis meet that prescribed in Table 1 of SA-312.


48/235



Subject: Section II, Part A, Ultrasonic Examination of Heavy Steel Forgings


File: BC80-361

Question: NB-2542.1 requires that forgings be ultrasonically examined inaccordance with SA-388. ASTM E 428 is an applicable document of SA-388. Is it

required that calibration notches machined into hollow-ring forgings per SA-388 (7.3.3)

meet the criteria of E 428?

Reply: No, it is not a requirement of SA-388 that calibration notches machined

into hollow-ring forgings or calibration blocks meet the criteria of E 428.


49/235



Subject: Section II, Part A, Close Coiling of SA-53 Types S and E and SA-106

Pipes, Close Coiling of SA-178 Grade A and C Tubes


File: BC80-756

Question (1a): What is the definition of close coiling as referred to in SA-53?

Reply (1a): There is no definition of close coiling but a consideration of the bendingrequirements of SA-53 would seem to indicate that d:D ratios of between 8 and 12 be

classified as close coiling. For a more definitive answer, we suggest that you direct

your question to ASTM.

Question (1b): Should the coiling d:D ratio to be used in fabrication be specified on the

order?

Reply (1b): The Specification indicates that the end use is to be shown on the order.

Information on critical fabrication operations to which the material will be subjected

should be included in the end use information.

Question (2): Should Grade A be specified for SA-178 material which is to be subjectedto close coiling?

Reply (2): Since there are no bending requirements in SA-178, the materialmanufacturer should be consulted on the suitability of the material for close coiling.


50/235


NOTE:



51/235



Subject: Section II, Part A, Weld Repair of SA-216


File: BC80-692

Question: For P-No.1 materials produced to meet SA-216, does 10.3 make itmandatory to stress relieve all repair welds?

Reply: If the repair welds exceed the limits of 10.3, they must be stress relieved.


52/235





File: BC81-117

Question: Is it required to have the letters MT following the specificationdesignation in the certified material test report for full-heat treated plates supplied to SA-

20 in Section II?

Reply: No.


53/235



Subject: Section II, Part A, General Requirements for Tubes

Date Issued: June 19, 1981

File: BC81-189

Question (1): Is it required that material supplied to one of the specifications listed in 1.1of SA-450 meet the requirements of SA-450?

Reply (1): 1.1 and 1.2 of SA-450 set forth the extent to which material supplied toone of the specifications listed in 1.1 must comply with the various sections of SA-450.

Question (2): Is it correct that cold-drawn seamless austenitic tubes up to 2 in. O.D. andwith wall thicknesses greater than 2% of specified outside diameter, but in any case not

less than 0.020 in., shall have a permissible variation in outside diameter not exceeding

the amounts prescribed in Table 5 of SA-450 and that Note B of the same table is

applicable only to ovality and not to outside diameter?

Reply (2): No. Note B of Table 5 of SA-450 states the maximum permissible

variation in outside diameter of cold drawn seamless austenitic tubes is+-0.010 in. The

effect of the Note is to substitute 0.010 in. for the values of 0.004 in., 0.006 in., and 0.008

in. in Table 5 when the product is cold-drawn seamless austenitic tubes.


54/235



Subject: Section II, Part A, ERW Carbon Steel


File: BC81-191

Question: Is it necessary that the requirements of Section 7 of SA-214 be satisfied?

Reply: Yes. All requirements of the specification must be met to be in

compliance with the specification.


55/235





File: BC81-224

Question: May welded pipe made from solution treated material be supplied in the aswelded condition to SA-312 of Section II, Part A?

Reply: No. All pipe is to be furnished in the heat treated condition per 5.4.1. Aswelded pipe may not be furnished under SA-312.


56/235



Subject: Section II, Part A, Interpretation of Test Requirements


File: BC81-217

Question (1): May an organization that furnishes tubing as material to SA-192 and SA-210 elect to substitute the nondestructive electric test of SA-450 in lieu of the hydrostatic

test as is provided for in 12.4 of SA-192 of SA-210?

Reply (1): Tubing furnished as material to SA-192 and SA-210 must have been

hydrostatically tested unless the purchaser of the material specifies that the

nondestructive electric test of SA-450 may be used.

Question (2): May an organization which furnishes fabricated sections requiring ASME

Code stamping and Data Reports, purchase SA-192 and SA-210 tubing for those sections

with the nondestructive electric test of SA-450 in lieu of the specification hydrostatictest?

Reply (2): Yes. However, the hydrostatic test requirements of the Section of theCode to which the sections are being fabricated must be met.

ATTENTION

The foregoing Interpretation has been further considered, and the following correctedQuestion (1) sent to the inquirer:

Correction Issued: March 26, 1982

Question (1): May an organization that furnishes tubing as material to SA-192

and SA-210 elect to substitute the nondestructive electric test of SA-450 in lieu of the

hydrostatic test as is provided for in 12.4 of SA-192 and 14.5 of SA-210?


57/235



Subject: Section II, Part A, Composite Plate


File: BC81-522

Question (1): For material supplied to SA-263, SA-264, and SA-265, shall the tests bemade in the same condition of heat treatment to which the plate is furnished or to the

condition of heat treatment anticipated in the fabrication of a vessel, for example, Section

VIII - Division 1, UCS-85?

Reply (1): For material supplied to SA-263, SA-264, and SA-265, the test specimens

are required to be in the same condition of heat treatment as that in which the compositeplate is supplied. However, the fabrication code may impose additional requirements,

such as those in Section VIII - Division1, UCS-85, which require that test specimens be

subjected to the heat treatment that the material will be subjected to during fabrication. It

is not the intent of the material specifications to prohibit additional Code requirementsbeing applied to the test specimens required by the material specifications.

Question (2): For material supplied to SA-265 with SA-387, Grade 22 backing material,should the composite plate be furnished in the as-rolled condition as permitted by 3.2, or

heat treated in accordance with 5.2 of SA-387?

Reply (2): SA-265, 3.2, states that the composite plate will be furnished in the as-

rolled condition unless the purchaser and the manufacturer have agreed upon heattreatment.

It is the opinion of the Materials Subcommittee that the intent of the

Specification is that the base metal should conform to the requirements of the base metalSpecification. Thus, in the instance cited, the composite plate should conform to 5.2 of

SA-387 if no other heat treatment has been agreed upon. The purpose of the stress

relieving treatment is to minimize the possibility of cracking of the plate during shipment

or subsequent torch cutting of the plate.The ASTM Subcommittee having jurisdiction over A 265 has been asked

to review the Specification with the intent of adopting revisions to clarify the intent of the

Specification.

Question (3): Would there be different requirements for roll bonded clad versus

explosion clad material?

Reply (3): No.


58/235



Subject: Section II, Parts A and B, Material Chemistry Deviation


File: BC81-483

Question: If the composition of a material deviates from the limits in the materialspecification, but the mechanical properties and all other requirements of the

specification have been met, can the material be used provided the chemistry deviation is

considered insignificant relative to the application, and the material meets the corrosiontest requirements stipulated by the vessel manufacturer?

Reply: No.


59/235



Subject: Section II, Parts A and B, Definitions for Tube and Pipe


File: BC81-654

Question (1): Is there a definition for pipe and tube?

Reply (1): No.

Question (2): What are some of the differences between pipe and tube?

Reply (2): As there is no definable difference, we can only answer this question ingeneral terms. The primary differences are:

(a) Pipe is usually furnished to standardized nominal pipe sizes and wall thicknesses in

accordance with ANSI B36.10 and B36.19. There are no similar standards for tubing.

(b) Pipe is often used with welding or threaded fittings and tubes are generally not usedwith fittings.

(c) The term tubing generally is not used to describe products over 5 in. O.D. Note the

scope clause of SA-213, 1.3.(d) The required specification tests for tubing usually differ from those required for pipe.

SA-450, for example, describes reverse flattening, flare, flange, and hardness tests, noneof which are covered in SA-530.


60/235


Interpretation: II-A-83-01

Subject: Section II, Part A, SA-479, Table 1, Type 316 Hardness Requirement


File: BC82-379

Question: It appears that the hardness requirement for Type 316 strain-hardenedmaterial in Table 1 of specification SA-479 is in error. Is the requirement proper and

intended and, if not, may it be ignored?

Reply: The ASTM Subcommittee which has jurisdiction over the ASTM

specification has determined that the hardness requirement for Type 316 strain-hardened

material in Table 1 of the specification is an error and was not intended. Action has beentaken to delete the hardness specification from the ASTM specification. Hardness

requirements for strain-hardened material are being developed in ASTM.

Section II is also of the opinion that the requirement is an error since the minimum tensileand hardness requirements are in conflict. Action is being taken to delete the hardness

requirement from SA-479. Section II is of the opinion that this hardness requirement

should not apply.


61/235





File: BC82-625

Question (1): May the tempering operation for SA-540 material supplied in thequenched and tempered condition be performed in more than one cycle in order to obtain

the required mechanical properties?

Reply (1): Yes. It is permissible to perform the tempering operation in more than one

cycle.

Question (2): In the case of performing tempering as per Question (1), would each cycle

be considered a new heat treatment, therefore allowing only one quenching and three

tempering cycles to be permitted?

Reply (2): No. Paragraph 14.1 limits heat treatment to three complete quenching and

tempering cycles, regardless of the number of tempering steps applied in each cycle.


62/235





File: BC83-020

Question: Is the addition of 0.40% nickel to SA-105 material for improvement ofimpact properties prohibited?

Reply: No.


63/235



Subject: Section II, Part A, SA-105, Use of Plate Material


File: BC82-716

Question (1): If plate meeting the requirements of SA-36 is used for blind flanges, is itpermissible to certify the finished product as SA-105?

Reply (1): No.

Question (2): If the answer to Question (1) is no, what stamping or certification of the

finished product is permissible?

Reply (2): The stamping or certification applicable to the plate from which the piece

was cut.


64/235



Subject: Section II, Part A, SA-387, Chemical Properties of Part A Materials


File: BC82-415

Question (1): If a material specification does not set forth separate specific tolerancesfor product analysis, what tolerances apply?

Reply (1): If a material specification does not set forth separate specific tolerancesfor product analysis, the applicable tolerance is zero. That is, the chemical composition

limits shown in the material specification apply to both heat and product analyses.

Question (2): Are different product analysis limits applicable if samples are taken after

mechanical and thermal treatments?

Reply (2): No. (It must be recognized that analysis results from material subject tocertain heating operations may not properly represent its original composition unless the

sampling procedures are such as to ensure that the sample truly represents the material in

its original condition.)


65/235



Subject: Section II, Part A, SA-671 and SA-672


File: BC83-057

Question: In the preamble of Section II, SA-671 and SA-672 as published from S74to W77, is the sentence The plate used to fabricate the pipe shall conform to SA-240 in

error?

Reply: Yes. This sentence was inadvertently copied from specification SA-358

and should be deleted.


66/235



Subject: Section II, Part A, Clarification of SA-20, Section 13


File: BC83-214

Question (1): What are the lower size limitations for stamping plate material to SA-20?Do these limitations apply to ring shapes or pieces to be ground top and bottom?

Reply (1): Specification SA-20 covers requirements for plates. The specificationdoes not cover requirements for parts or pieces cut from plates.

Question (2): Does the term stencil allow for marking by hand with a paint stick orother marker?

Reply (2): No.


67/235





File: BC81-706

Question (1): Is SA-105 limited to standardized pipe components?

Reply (1): No.

Question (2): Does SA-105 require heat treatment of computed forged girth flanges for

pressure vessels and heat exchangers whose primary pressure rating is below 300 psi?

Reply (2): No.


68/235





File: BC83-015

Question (1): For the GTAW process, must the deposited weld metal alloy contentconform to either SFA-5.9, Table 1, or the base metal?

Reply (1): Yes.

Question (2): For the SAW process, must the deposited weld metal alloy content

conform to either SFA-5.9, Table 1, or the base metal?

Reply (2): Yes.

Question (3): For either of the preceding, if an element fails to meet Table 1, but iswithin the permitted range of the base material, is the analysis acceptable?

Reply (3): Yes. The specification permits the base metal composition range or thefiller metal composition range to govern the acceptability of the alloy content of the

deposited weld metal.


69/235



Subject: Section II, Part A, A 490 and SA-354


File: BC83-105

Question: Bolts of 1 in. diameter and under are produced to A 490 and SA-354.Paragraph 7.2 of A 490 requires that bolts 1 in. diameter and less be tested full size

(tensile). Is it permissible to perform tension testing of specimens machined from bar

prior to fabrication of bolts, tie bolts, and U-bolts of 1 in. diameter and under instead ofthe full size proof load testing required by the end item bolting specifications SA-354 and

A 490?

Reply: No.


70/235



Subject: Section II, Part A, Use of Cold Pilgering Process Under SA-213


File: BC83-193

Question: Is cold pilgered tubing acceptable under the provisions of SA-213?

Reply: Yes.


71/235



Subject: Section II, Part A, Use of Slotted Head Cap Screws Under SA-307


File: BC83-338

Question: May slotted head bolts be provided under SA-307 with the understandingthat the geometry of the head is a contractual matter?

Reply: Yes.


72/235



Subject: Section II, Part A, Isothermally Annealed SA-209 Tubing


File: BC83-440

Question: Is isothermal annealing permitted under SA-209, Seamless Carbon-Molybdenum Alloy Steel Boiler and Superheater Tubes?

Reply: Yes.


73/235


No Section II-A Interpretations listed in this volume.


74/235



Subject: Section II, Part A, SA-278, Para. 9


File: BC84-257

Question: Does para. 9 of SA-278 permit the use of an indelibly marked serialnumber traceable to a material certificate which identifies the manufacturer and the class

of material in lieu of direct indelible marking of the manufacturer and class?

Reply: No.


75/235



Subject: Section II, Part A, General Requirements for Tubes


File: BC83-426

Question (1): Is it permissible to machine off the outside surface of the flattening testsample by 0.008 in., radially measured, in order to eliminate the surface imperfections

and superficial ruptures that are referred to in paras. 5.2 and 5.3 of SA-450 before

running the flattening test?

Reply (1): No.

Question (2): Is it permissible to prepare samples for the flaring and flange test in the

same way as above if minute ruptures are present on the normal test?

Reply (2): No.

Question (3): In order to conduct the reverse flattening test as per SA-370, shall the half-

tube be flattened as per Fig. 27, i.e., with the original inner surface of the weld located atthe mid-portion of the flattened half-tube?

Reply (3): Yes.

Question (4): In order to conduct the reverse flattening test as per SA-370, shall the half-tube be bent backward until the two cut edges meet the original inner surface of the weld

exposed on the outside of the maximum bend?

Reply (4): No.


76/235



Subject: Section II, Part A, SA-363 and SA-264, Cast Roll Cladding


File: BC84-172

Question: Is the cast roll clad method (enshroud casting and rolling) permitted bySA-263 and SA-264?

Reply: Yes.


77/235



Subject: Section II, Part A, SA-508, Para. 6.1.6.4, Method 4, Location of Test

Specimens


File: BC84-173

Question: In SA-508 does Method 4 (para. 6.1.6.4), for the location of mechanical

test specimens, require that they be taken from an area of the forging which, together

with welded thermal buffers, has a heat treated cross section not less than the maximumheat treated cross section of the forging?

Reply: Yes.


78/235



Subject: Section II, Part A, SA-105, SA-182, and SA-350, Forged to Size


File: BC84-308

Question: Specifications SA-105, SA-182, and SA-350 require that the material beforged as close as practicable to the specified shape and size. Is this requirement

intended to reduce material and machining costs?

Reply: No.


79/235



Subject: Section II, Part A, SA-20, Plate from Coils


File: BC84-163

Question: Does SA-20 prohibit the production of plate from coil?

Reply: No.


80/235



Subject: Section II, Part A, SA-370, Para. 21.1.2


File: BC84-336

Question: Does SA-370 permit Charpy machines with a capacity of greater than 265ft-lbf?

Reply: Yes.


81/235



Subject: Section II, Part A, SA-403, Para. 8, Tensile Testing


File: BC84-415

Question: For SA-403 fittings made from plate, may a record of a tension test madeon the plate in the same condition of heat treatment as the finished fitting be supplied in

lieu of performing the tension test described in para. 8.2?

Reply: No.


82/235



Subject: Section II, Part A, SA-370, Cv Specimen Tolerances


File: BC84-627

Question: When testing in accordance with SA-370, do the tolerances specified bySA-370, Fig. 11, or E-23, Fig. 6, for Cv specimens apply?

Reply: The tolerances of SA-370, Fig. 11, apply.


83/235



Subject: Section II, Part A, Marking of Material with ASME, SA-312


File: BC84-555

Question: Does the ASME Statement of Policy on the Use of ASME Marking toIdentify Manufactured Items preclude marking such as ASME SA-312 TP304 on such

completed material?

Reply: No.


84/235



Subject: Section II, Part A, SA-106, Section 20, Finish


File: BC84-255

Question (1): In SA-106, Section 20, Finish, does the term imperfections include cracksand cracklike conditions?

Reply (1): Yes.

Question (2): In SA-106, what is the permissible depth of surface imperfections?

Reply (2): See para. 20.2 and para. 20.3.2 of SA-106.

Question (3): Does SA-106, Section 20, require visual examination?

Reply (3): Yes.

Question (4): Does SA-106, Section 20, require magnetic particle examination?

Reply (4): No.

Question (5): Does SA-106, Section 20, permit magnetic particle examination in lieu of

visual?

Reply (5): No.


85/235



Subject: Section II, Part A, SA-216, Section 10, Repair by Welding


File: BC84-688

Question: Does SA-216 have a maximum permissible size for defects in castingswhich will be repaired by welding?

Reply: No.


86/235



Subject: Section II, Part A, SA-240, Para. 12.2


File: BC84-631

Question: Does para. 12.2 of SA-240 permit only one tension test and only onehardness test to be performed on every 100 pieces or less produced from a single heat and

heat treated in different batch furnace charges?

Reply: No.


87/235


Interpretation: IIA-86-01

Subject: Section II, Part A, SA-182, Para. 5.1


File: BC85-249

Question: Does the term annealed in SA-182, para. 5.1, require full annealing?

Reply: Yes.


88/235



Subject: Section II, Part A, SA-403, Preamble


File: BC85-250

Question: Does the preamble of SA-403 require that all SA-403 fittings be producedunder Section III Code requirements when the purchaser did not specify Section III

compliance?

Reply: No.


89/235



Subject: Section II, Part A, SA-53, Para. 21.3, Marking


File: BC85-470

Question: Does the terminology transfer complete identification in SA-53, para.21.3, allow for the use of ballpoint markers?

Reply: No.


90/235



Subject: Section II, Part A, SA-234, Para. 6.2.4, Heat Treatment


File: BC85-544

Question: Does para. 6.2.4 of SA-234 require postweld heat treatment of GradesWPB, WPC, and WPR which were produced by fusion welding and with a nominal

thickness at the joint of less than 19 mm?

Reply: No.


91/235



Subject: Section II, Part A, SA-105, SA-182, and SA-350, Hardness Testing


File: BC85-561

Question: If simulated PWHT is specified by the purchaser in the order, are thehardness requirements, prescribed in Table 3 of SA-105, Table 4 of SA-182, and para.

6.3.1 of SA-350, the values obtained by testing on the actual forging not subjected to

PWHT?

Reply: Yes.


92/235



Subject: Section II, Part A, SA-325, Bolting


File: BC85-197

Question (1): Can bolts in sizes smaller than in. be manufactured to SA-325?

Reply (1): No.

Question (2): For diameters greater than 3/2 in., Note 1 of SA-325 refers the user to A

449. Can such bolts be considered as SA-325 bolts when they meet the mechanical and

chemical requirements of A 449?

Reply (2): No.


93/235


No Section II Interpretations listed in this volume.


94/235



Subject: Section II, Part A, SA-268 and SA-688, Welder and Weld Procedure

Qualification


File: BC86-325

Question: Is welder and weld procedure qualification required by SA-268 and SA-

668?

Reply: No.


95/235



Subject: Section II, Part A, SA-312, Repair of Welds


File: BC86-369

Question: Is it permissible to repair weld seams in SA-312 pipe?

Reply: No.


96/235




97/235



Subject: Section II, Part A, SA-240, Ordering Information


File: BC86-510

Question: May plate or sheet conforming to SA-240, Type 304 which has beenprocured with a purchase order not including finish, form, and preparation, be accepted as

meeting the requirements of SA-480?

Reply: Yes.


98/235



Subject: Section II, Part A, SA-350, Para. 11.4, Marking


File: BC87-155

Question (1): When Charpy impact tests are performed not only at the standardtemperature specified in Table 5 of SA-350 but also at additional nonstandard

temperatures specified by the purchaser, is it necessary to stamp the additional

nonstandard temperatures in accordance with SA-350, para. 11.4?

Reply (1): Yes, in addition to the standard temperature.

Question (2): If the reply to the question above is yes, shall all the additional

nonstandard temperatures be stamped?

Reply (2): Yes.


99/235



Subject: Section II, Part A, SA-264, Para. 9.1.1, Elongation Requirements


File: BC87-246

Question (1): Does SA-264 require that the elongation be determined on the tension teston the composite plate?

Reply (1): Yes.

Question (2): Does SA-264 require that the elongation determined on the tension test on

the composite plate meet the requirement specified in the specification for the base steelused?

Reply (2): Yes.


100/235



Subject: Section II, Part A, SA-182, Para. 4.4, Machining of Forgings


File: BC87-392

Question: May flanges machined from individual forged rings greater than 4 in. indiameter be certified to SA-182?

Reply: Yes.


101/235



Subject: Section II, Part A, SA-312, Para. 5.3.2, Solution Treated Condition


File: BC87-260

Question: In SA-312, para. 5.3.2, does the term solution-treated refer to the heattreatment described in para. 5.3.1; that is, heating to the specified temperature and then

quenching in water or rapidly cooling by other means?

Reply: Yes.


102/235



Subject: Section II, Part A, SA-105, Para. 1.1, Scope


File: BC87-303

Question (1): Does SA-105 provide for the manufacture of forged tubesheets?

Reply (1): No.

Question (2): Does SA-105 provide for the manufacture of flat covers and nonstandard

flanges?

Reply (2): Yes.

Question (3): Does SA-105 provide for the manufacture of cylinders?

Reply (3): Yes, except for shells for pressure vessels.


103/235



Subject: Section II, Part A, SA-105, Para. 1.1, Scope


File: BC87-318

Question (1): Are tubesheets and cylindrical forgings for pressure vessel shells requiredto be manufactured to SA-266 only, regardless of weight?

Reply (1): No, other forging specifications may also be used.

Question (2): May end flanges and cylindrical forgings used for integral reinforced

nozzles be manufactured to SA-105?

Reply (2): Yes.


104/235



Subject: SA-515 and SA-20, Heat Treatment Status Marking of Plate


File: BC88-012

Question (1): If a purchaser of SA-515 plates specifies that the plates be furnished in theas-rolled condition but qualified on the basis of normalized test specimens, shall the

plates be marked with the letter G in accordance with SA-20, paragraph 13.4?

Reply (1): Yes.

Question (2): If a purchaser of SA-515 plates with nominal thickness of 2 in. or lessspecifies that the plates are to be normalized by the plate producer, is this heat treatment

requirement considered to be part of the ASME SA-515 Specification?

Reply (2): No.

Question (3): If a purchaser of SA-515 plates with nominal thickness greater than 2 in.

specifies that the plates are to be normalized by the plate producer, is this heat treatmentrequirement considered to be part of the ASME SA-515 Specification?

Reply (3): Yes.


105/235

Section II-A - Interpretations Vol. 24


Subject: SA-193, Paras. 18.1 and 18.2, Marking


File: BC88-070

Question: For T-bolts manufactured to SA-193 Grade B7 that are shipped and storedin boxes, must the marking requirements of both paras. 18.1 and 18.2 be met?

Reply: Yes.


106/235



Subject: SA-182, Para. 4.4, Machining of Forgings


File: BC88-150

Question: May flanges machined from individual pancake forgings be certified toSA-182?

Reply: Yes.


107/235



Subject: SA-105, Para. 5.1, Heat Treatment


File: BC88-209

Question: Do one-piece flanged valve bodies above Class 300 require heat treatmentunder para. 5.1 of SA-105?

Reply: Yes.


108/235


Interpretation: II-A-89-03R

Subject: Section II, Part A; SA-53, Para. 21.3, Marking


File: BC85-470

Question: Does the terminology transfer complete identification in SA-53, para.21.3 allow for the use of legible hand marking?

Reply: Yes.


109/235



Subject: Section II Foreword, Identification and Certification of Materials


File: BC89-030

Question: The Foreword provides for the use of ASTM material. Must this ASTMmaterial be shown to have been produced to the exact ASTM specification (including

year date of issue) indicated in the parenthetical subtitle shown immediately below the

SA or SB numerical designation on the front page of the ASME specification?

Reply: No.


110/235



Subject: Section II, SA-516 and SA-20


File: BC89-106

Question: May the user and the producer agree on the acceptance criteria for notchtoughness tests for SA-516, other than those listed in Table A1.15 (A2.15) of SA-20?

Reply: Yes, provided all other requirements are met.


111/235



Subject: SA-6


File: BC89-194

Question: Does SA-6 require that the year of issue be shown on the mill test report?

Reply: No.


112/235



Subject: SA-194


File: BC89-195

Question: May AISI 4140 starting material be used to manufacture SA-194, Grade2H nuts?

Reply: No.


113/235



Subject: Section II, SA-240, Ti Content in Stainless Steel Plate


File: BC89-197

Question: Does SA-240 specifically address titanium composition limits for Type316L?

Reply: No.


114/235



Subject: Section II, SA-358 and SA-691, Transverse Guided-Bend Weld Test


File: BC89-138

Question: Does the transverse guided-bend weld test of SA-358 para. 12.2 and SA-691 para. 8.2.2 require one test of two specimens or two tests of four specimens?

Reply: One test of two specimens.


115/235


Interpretation: II-A-89-10R

Subject: Section II, SA-53, SA-530


File: BC90-312*

Question: Does SA-53 require the use of A 530?

Reply: Yes.

NOTE: The above Interpretation was printed incorrectly in Interpretation Volume

No. 27 and is reprinted here in its correct form.


116/235



Subject: Section II, SA-53, SA-530


Question: Does SA-53 require the use of A 530?

Reply: No.


117/235




118/235



Subject: Section II, Dual Marking


File: BC89-419

Question (1): May a material certified and marked as meeting two strength levels orgrades of a specification approved for use in an ASME construction code be used at the

allowable stresses or design stress intensities of either strength level or grade?

Reply (1): Yes, provided the appropriate allowable stresses for the grade are used in

the design.

Question (2): May a material certified and marked as meeting a specification approved

for use in an ASME construction code, and also marked and certified as meeting a

specification not approved for use in that ASME construction code, be used in that

construction code?

Reply (2): Yes. The additional markings have no effect on the validity of the

markings and certification of the approved material.


119/235



Subject: Section II, SA-105


File: BC90-740

Question: Does SA-105, para. 4.4 permit cylindrically shaped parts to be classed asSA-105 that are machined directly from hot-rolled bar or seamless mechanical tubing that

is neither hot nor cold forged provided the chemical requirements of Table 1 and the

mechanical requirements of Table 4 are satisfied?

Reply: No. All requirements of the specification shall be met.


120/235



Subject: Section II, SA-234, Weld Repair


File: BC90-789

Question: May an owner perform a weld repair on an SA-234 fitting withoutperforming a post weld heat treatment (PWHT) when the depth of repair exceeds 331/3%

of the nominal wall thickness and PWHT is not required by another code section?

Reply: The specification does not address the owners responsibility.


121/235



Subject: Section II, SA-20, Para. 11.1.1


File: BC90-329

Question: Under the requirements of SA-20, para. 11.1.1 in Section II, Part A, musteach final coil be represented by a test coupon to certify that the coil material meets the

specification, regardless of the number of divisions from the master coil?

Reply: Yes.


122/235



Subject: Section II, SA-703, Investment Casting Process


File: BC90-227

Question (1): In the investment casting process when the furnace charge is a remelt of amaster heat with no additions, and the master heat is defined as a single furnace charge of

refined alloy, may the master heat analysis be used to satisfy the chemical comparison

requirements of SA-703 para. 5.1 for heat analysis?

Reply (1): No.

Question (2): In the investment casting process when the furnace charge is a remelt of a

master heat with no addition and the master heat is defined as a single furnace charge of

refined alloy, may the master heat tensile test be used to satisfy the tensile test

requirements of SA-703, para. 7.1, tensile requirements?

Reply (2): No.


123/235



Subject: Section II, SA-193, Macroetch Testing


File: BC90-648

Question: Is it a requirement of SA-193 that bolting products hot formed from bar,and subsequently heat treated, be subject to the macroetch test required in para. 4.2 of this

specification?

Reply: No.


124/235



Subject: Section II, SA-193, Heat Treatment


File: BC91-017

Question: May a material manufactured to SA-193 be heat treated immediately afterrolling or forging without cooling when an intergranular

ASME SECTION II, PART A INTERPRETATIONS

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