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MSD-PROJ-AK-12-00502 - General Specification 502 - Piping Fabrication Installation and Pressure Testing
MSD-PROJ-AK-12-00502 - General Specification 502 - Piping Fabrication Installation and Pressure Testing
MSD-PROJ-AK-12-00502 - General Specification 502 - Piping Fabrication Installation and Pressure Testing
Document Approval
Author Date Verified By Date Approved By Date
Menno Landsmeer 24.09.2020 Marcha Jansen 05.03.2021
N/A N/A
Hans Boeren 23.09.2020
N/A
N/A
Disclaimer This document is signed electronically and does not need a handwritten signature.
This document is the property of Neptune Energy. It must not be stored, reproduced or disclosed without authorisation. 2.1 - 2019 Page 1 of 71
GENERAL SPECIFICATION
Document code Document title Version Classification
MSD-PROJ-AK-12-00502 General Specification 502 - Piping Fabrication Installation and 1 Internal
Pressure Testing
N/A N/A
N/A
N/A
Table of Contents
1. Scope.......................................................................................................................... 7
3.4.1 General..............................................................................................................................................13
3.4.2 Welding Procedure Specification (WPS)...........................................................................................13
3.4.3 Welding Procedure Qualification (WPQ) ...........................................................................................14
3.4.4 Welders Competence ........................................................................................................................14
3.4.5 Welding preparation ..........................................................................................................................14
3.4.6 Earthing .............................................................................................................................................15
3.4.7 Welding Consumables ......................................................................................................................15
3.4.8 Weld numbering ................................................................................................................................16
3.4.9 Production welding ............................................................................................................................16
3.4.10 Repairs ..............................................................................................................................................17
3.4.11 Post Weld Heat Treatment (PWHT) ..................................................................................................17
3.4.12 Golden Weld ......................................................................................................................................17
4.3.1 Guidelines for the making of small bore NPT connections ...............................................................30
4.3.2 Material problems in making threaded connections ..........................................................................32
4.3.3 Galvanic corrosion and threaded connections ..................................................................................33
5.1 Requirements for Duplex Steel, Super Duplex Steel (Class … DS) and Stainless (s) ...... 34
5.1.1 Handling Duplex Steel (See attachment to this specification) and Stainless Steel ..........................34
5.1.2 Welding of Duplex steel and Stainless (316L) ..................................................................................34
5.1.3 Pickling and passivating of Duplex steel and Stainless (316L) .........................................................34
5.2.1 General..............................................................................................................................................35
5.2.2 Handling ............................................................................................................................................35
5.2.3 Welding .............................................................................................................................................36
8. Documentation ........................................................................................................ 50
10. Attachments............................................................................................................. 51
11.3.1 General..............................................................................................................................................55
11.3.2 Welding Procedure Specifications (WPS) .........................................................................................55
11.3.3 Welding Procedure Qualification (WPQ) ...........................................................................................56
11.3.4 Procedure Qualification Record (PQR) .............................................................................................57
11.3.5 Inspection of Procedure Qualification Test Welds ............................................................................57
11.3.6 Quality Requirements ........................................................................................................................57
11.5.1 General..............................................................................................................................................59
11.5.2 Weather Protection............................................................................................................................60
11.5.3 Handling and usage of Welding Consumables .................................................................................60
11.5.4 Welding End Preparation ..................................................................................................................61
11.5.5 Backing Strips ...................................................................................................................................61
11.5.6 Welding Process, Position and Progression .....................................................................................61
11.5.6.1 Gas Tungsten Arc Welding GTAW (TIG) ....................................................................................................................... 61
11.5.6.2 Submerged Arc Welding SAW ....................................................................................................................................... 62
11.5.6.3 Shielded Metal Arc Welding SMAW ............................................................................................................................... 62
11.6.1 General..............................................................................................................................................64
11.6.2 Bending .............................................................................................................................................65
11.6.3 Alignment and Fit Ups .......................................................................................................................65
11.6.4 Finishing of Surfaces .........................................................................................................................65
11.6.5 Protection of Pipe Ends .....................................................................................................................65
11.6.6 Repair and Removal Procedures ......................................................................................................66
11.7.1 General..............................................................................................................................................67
11.7.2 Methods of Inspection, Testing and Quality Requirements ..............................................................67
11.7.2.1 Radiographic Examination (as noted or NoBo approved equivalent) .............................................................................. 67
11.7.2.2 Ultrasonic Examination .................................................................................................................................................. 67
11.7.2.3 Dye Penetrant Examination ........................................................................................................................................... 68
11.7.2.4 Pre-Welding Inspection.................................................................................................................................................. 68
11.7.2.5 Inspection after Welding ................................................................................................................................................ 68
11.7.2.6 Standards on Inspection ................................................................................................................................................ 68
11.7.2.7 Weld Rejection Report ................................................................................................................................................... 68
11.7.2.8 Right of Rejection .......................................................................................................................................................... 68
11.7.2.9 Assessment of Indications on Radiographs in the Pipe Material adjacent to Welds being inspected .............................. 69
11.7.2.10 Retests of Mechanical Properties .................................................................................................................................. 69
1. SCOPE
This specification is intended to supplement and confirm good working practice during fabrication,
assembly and erection of piping onshore and offshore.
The fabrication and assembly shall be in accordance with industry codes, specifications and
"Approved for Construction Drawings".
All piping shall be designed, fabricated and inspected per subject General Specifications and
according to PED and NEN-EN 13480 for platform piping and in accordance with NEN 3650 for
transport pipelines (requirements for pipeline systems) and NEN 3656 Requirements for submarine
pipeline systems in steel).
All piping shall be fabricated per this specification and as specified by the latest revision of
ANSI B31.3 Petroleum Refinery Piping
ANSI B.1-20.1 Pipe Threads, General Purpose
ANSI B.1.1 Unified Inch Screw Threads
NEN-EN 13480 Metallic Industrial Piping –All parts
NEN 3650 Requirements for onshore pipeline systems
NEN 3656 Requirements for submarine pipeline systems in steel
NEN-EN-ISO 3834-2 Quality requirements for fusion welding of metallic materials
All materials shall be in accordance with the latest revision of COMPANYSpecification 503 - General
Specification for Pipe, Fittings and Valves.
All surfaces shall be coated in accordance with the latest revision of COMPANY Specification 525 -
General Painting and Coating Specification.
All welding of duplex steel shall be per subject attachment to this specification.
All pipe supporting shall be in accordance with the latest revision ofthe drawings for Pipe Supporting
and applicable General Specifications.
2.2 Abbreviations
The following abbreviations have been used and apply in this Specification
AFC Approved For Construction
CBI Conformiteits Beoordelings Instantie (was AKI, Aangewezen Keurings
Instantie)
CS Carbon Steel
DAD Design Appraisal Document
DS Duplex Steel
FP Full Pen
GA General Arrangement
HAZ Heat Affected Zone
LR Latest Revision
LG Level Gauge
MDR Manufacturing Data Record
MIG Metal Inert Gas
MTO Material Take Off
NDT Non-Destructive Testing
NoBo Notified Body
PWHT Post Weld NPT National Pipe Tread
N2 Nitrogen
N2He Nitrogen with Helium
PED Pressure Equipment Directive
PI Pressure Indicator
PQR Procedure Qualification Record
PWHT Post Well Heat Treatment
QC Quality Control
3. PIPING FABRICATION
3.1 General
Fabrication shall take place according to a QC-plan and a test & inspection plan prepared by
CONTRACTOR. This plan is to be approved by COMPANY and CBI (EU, if applicable) before start of
fabrication. As a minimum, the test & inspection plan shall include the applicable items indicated in
this specification.
During all stages of the work all materials used, shall be traceable and shall comply with all relevant
documents and certificates.
If pipes are to be cut into shorter lengths the identification marks shall be re-stamped on the outer
surface of the pipe witnessed by Notified Body (NoBo) where applicable, or fabricator’s QC-
department prior to cutting.
All material shall be visually inspected upon arrival on the construction site for damage, corrosion,
proper protection, weld requirements for weldolets and marking, and certification.
Any deviations shall be reported to COMPANY. All material shall be stored according to the
recommendations of the Supplier, until required for use.
Piping under fabrication for COMPANY shall be fabricated and stored at all times separate from
other piping under fabrication. Detailed records of required, delivered, used, Surplus and abortive
materials will be kept at all times.
Fabrication shall take place under suitable conditions (shop), at all times spools/piping shall be kept
clean (inside mainly for debris/dirt, outside especially for metallic contamination of other (piping)
metal contamination.
If any construction is to be carried out in the vicinity of piping or equipment already installed then,
before such construction work commences adequate protection shall be provided to prevent any
damage from weld spatter, arc cutting droplets etc.
Care shall be taken to avoid overstressing, damage or deformation in any of the piping components
at all stages of the work. Shrinking or hot bending is not allowed in any case.
No field or other welding or other hot work shall be carried out before, where applicable, a hot work
permit has been obtained.
3.2 Drawings
Fabricator shall maintain an up to date record of all applicable drawings at all times.
Piping fabrication shall take place from isometric and/or other drawings containing all required
information for material identification, fabrication, testing, coating, etc.
Piping installation shall take place from isometric and/or GA’s, support and penetration drawings,
and other drawings containing all required information.
Information for piping fabrication and installation shall be subject to approval by COMPANY. Based
on all drawings the exact as built situation shall be recorded and made available to COMPANYwithin
the specified time frame as agreed upon.
3.3 Pre-Fabrication
During all stages of the prefabrication, all used materials shall be traceable and shall comply with all
relevant documents and certificates.
During all stages of the fabrication, all pipe spools shall be properly tagged with their unique spool
number. Labels shall remain on the spool up to the installation. Labels shall be selected and attached
so that during and after blasting and painting the spool number remains readable.
All piping shall be identified using stickers, clearly readable marking indicating the unique line
number.
CONTRACTOR shall apply one sticker per isometric.
This is not applicable for exhaust piping and cunifer piping.
Blomsma stickers (Offshore Signage Standard North Sea Sector) to be used.
Piping spool dimensions shall be selected such that they can be handled in all stages of the work
without damages or overstressing and that tension free installation is ensured.
Piping spools shall be fabricated such that dimensional inaccuracies due to welding are minimised.
All measures shall be taken to ensure correct positioning and fit-up ofthe components to be welded.
Before lining-up, the weld ends shall be cleaned to remove all foreign particles.
Fit -up and tackwelding shall comply with the welding procedures.
Bullets from the pipe material shall be used for tackwelding.
Removal of bullets shall be done by grinding only.
Doubler plates and re-inforcement pads shall be fabricated from the main material (pipe, plate)
unless otherwise approved. Doubler plates and re-inforcement pads shall have a 1/4" NPT hole and
shall be tested (1 bar air) before pressure test pipe, tank or vessel.
(For additional remarks on welding of duplex steel, see Attachment I to this specification.)
3.4.1 General
Fit-up and welding for piping shall be per applicable codes and specifications, and shall further
fulfil all requirements as described in the welding procedures.
Further to obtain a clean piping system the welding process for the root and first following layer
shall be TIG- or MIG-based (to exclude the chance on slag on the inside of the weld).
A written welding procedure specification together with test certificates indicating mechanical
properties and chemical analyses of both base materials and welding consumables shall be
submitted to the COMPANYrepresentative for preliminary approval.
No procedure qualification tests shall be performed until the procedure specification has been
granted preliminary approval by the COMPANY representative.
Welding procedure specifications shall contain the following "applicable parameters" with all
explanatory details necessary, see also: ISO 15609.
When any changes in these parameters are made, the welding procedure qualification shall be
set up as a new WPS, and shall be completely re-qualified.
CONTRACTOR shall demonstrate that the welders have been rated adequate in accordance with
the applicable PED, NEN-EN 13480 –Prescriptions for Platform Piping and NEN 3650 –Transport
Pipelines or NEN 3656 –Requirements for Submarine Pipeline Systems in Steel.
Internal and External surfaces to be welded shall be clean and free from paint, slag, spatter, oil,
rust, scale, salt or other material that would be detrimental to either the weld or the base metal
under welding conditions.
Butt weld end preparation is acceptable only if the surface is reasonably smooth, true and all slag
from oxygen or arc cutting is cleaned from flame cut surfaces. Discoloration (for carbon steel
only) which remain on a flame cut surface is not considered to be detrimental oxidation.
When material subject to "NoBo / AKI approval" is (thermally) removed, the place of attachment,
after grinding, must be subjected to a complete surface examination. (This consists of welded-
on-parts accessories, surplus material, etc. cut or gouged away.)
Complete weld preparation (inside diameter, alignment on inside diameter, root-opening, wall
thickness etc.) shall be as defined in the procedure qualification.
Ifthe external surfaces ofthe two components are not aligned, the weld shall be tapered between
the two surfaces. (Tapering 1: 4)
When bevelling on a weld, after COMPANY approval, (for instance to reduce misalignment) is
obtained by weld reinforcement, this reinforcement must be subjected to a complete non-
destructive examination.
3.4.6 Earthing
All welding work shall be properly earthed with the earthing point as close as possible to the joint
to be welded. The earthing point for field welds shall not be beyond any valves or other installed
equipment. Earthing marks shall be ground smooth and 100% MPI / DPI tested.
Only welding consumables in accordance with NEN-EN 13479 "Welding Consumables" latest
edition shall be used.
Electrodes shall be supplied in fully sealed packages and stored in a dry storage room and handled
according to the manufacturer's recommendations. All manual type electrodes shall be properly
identifiable up to the time of usage, each electrode being distinguished by proper coding. If the
coding is destroyed by baking, handling, or other causes, the electrodes shall not be used.
Electrodes used for stainless steel shall not be stored in heating cabinets containing electrodes
of other types.
Wire spools for automatic and semi-automatic processes shall be stored in cabinets with supplier
wrapping not removed and remain clearly identifiable up to the time ofusage. Unidentifiable wire
shall not be used.
Each batch of wire shall be labelled with the information from the supply container. The labels
with batch number shall be recorded for reference in relation to the actual welding work.
Manual electrodes and wire shall be of the same type as those used in the procedure qualification
tests. Welding approved currents and voltage shall be within the range specified in the welding
procedure.
All unidentifiable, damaged, wet, rusty or otherwise contaminated consumables shall not be
used. Electrodes with visible stains as well as partially used electrodes (once melted) shall not be
used.
All bottles containing shielding or backing gas shall have clear identification labels.
The weld numbering shall clearly show the history of a weld, including any repairs and/or re-
welds
For every weld the following information shall be gathered and maintained up to date in summary
sheets, which shall be made available at regular intervals and of which the final version shall
become part of the as built fabrication package.
A weld is considered complete after visual inspection and approval by COMPANY and completed
and approved NDT examination, for NoBo classified systems also after the approval from NoBo.
Weld numbering is done per iso and starts at “weld 1“ every time.
Prefabrication summary sheets shall reserve a weld number for (offshore) field welds.
Welding shall be performed according to COMPANY and NoBo / AKI approved Welding
Procedures.
Procedures shall be available at actual work location at all times.
Each bead shall be thoroughly cleaned of all scale, slag and other foreign matter by chipping,
grinding and wire brushing prior to application of succeeding bead.
Any piping material which is burned during welding shall be cut out and re-welded.
If lamination or split ends occurs during welding the joint shall be trimmed to remove the defect.
Any bevelled edge that has been damaged shall be repaired and (where required by the applicable
rules for welding) NDT-tested.
Welds which do not meet the requirements of the welding procedure, which are burned or
oxidised or otherwise found to be defective, shall be repaired or cut out at the discretion of
COMPANY's representative.
Immediately after welding the weld shall be thoroughly cleaned by removing all scale, slag weld-
spatter, etc..
At each welding location, at least one electronic backing gas detector and electronic temperature
meter shall be present. If the welding procedure requires backing gas and/or controlled pre-heat
and interpass temperatures, no welding shall be performed without the presence and use of
these devices.
3.4.10 Repairs
If the results of the examination are not acceptable, the weld in question may be repaired once
according to a dedicated and approved repair procedure. Each repair performed on the strength
of the above must be non-destructively re-examined, and the final result shall satisfy the same
requirements.
If according to the NEN-EN codes "Heat treatment of Unalloyed and Low Alloy Steel/Pipes",
PWHT is required, the temperature time chart shall show that the heat treatment has been
performed in accordance with the relevant codes.
Golden welds shall primarily be avoided however when this is not possible the number of golden
welds shall be kept as low as possible. COMPANY and NoBo approval is required for all golden
welds.
Instruction “golden weld procedure” will be provided by COMPANY.
Fabrication shall take place according to a QC-plan and test & inspection plan prepared by
CONTRACTOR. This plan is to be approved by COMPANY and NoBo / Certifying Authority (if
applicable) before start of fabrication. As a minimum, the test & inspection plan shall include the
applicable items indicated in this specification. Pipe support drawings supplied by COMPANY
shall be checked for dimensions and completed for construction details.
Additional pipe supports shall be detailed similar to the submitted supports and have the next
support number in sequence.
Pipe support detail drawings shall be on A4 format and shall have not more than one type of
support and shall show as a minimum:
Location for (field) supports for lines smaller than 1½ inch and drain tubing shall be designed by
CONTRACTOR and approved by COMPANY unless provided by COMPANY.
All supports shall be installed such that piping system is fully and properly supported. Each
support shall be capable to and actually carry the load for which it is designed. Pipe supports
welded to main steel (beams type I, II and III ≥ 400 mm) and structural tubulars (type I, II and III ≥
10") shall have doubler plates, whether indicated on the drawings or not.
Painting on supports shall be the same as for the adjacent structural steel. Painting shall not
affect piping.
Security locks and tabs for spring supports shall not be removed.
Stainless steel or duplex piping shall never be in direct contact with the Carbon Steel supports;
during installation, the correct measures shall be taken.
CONTRACTOR shall prefabricate and supply deck penetrations for piping where this is indicated
on isometric.
Fabrication of penetrations are in accordance with structural specification 201 (MSD-PROJ-AJ-
12-00201).
4. PIPING INSTALLATION
4.1 Remarks for Piping Installation
Prior to installation all spools and piping components shall be checked for damage and absence of
any dirt inside.
Valves and in-line items shall be checked for loose internals or foreign matters.
All components shall be identifiable, pipe spools shall be clearly labelled, and piping items shall be
tagged.
All flange facings, especially gasket areas, shall be checked for damage.
All piping and pipe spools shall be installed without imposing excessive stresses.
Where flanges do not meet, additional field welds shall be made.
No excessive pulling or jacking to force a system in position is allowed.
In general, the sum of structural and equipment fabrication tolerances in dimensions is more than
what can be absorbed during piping installation. Therefore, field welds are required for a correct
installation.
COMPANY shall have the right to check potential stress in piping by unbolting or otherwise.
Flange connections to equipment shall be individually checked for stress-free assembly and
alignment. Supplier’s instructions shall be adhered to.
Pipe supports shall be installed together with the piping system. Where required temporary supports
shall be used. Pipe supports shall be designed, fabricated and installed per the applicable general
specifications or otherwise indicated requirements.
General
Pipe shall be in the middle of the applicable penetration and shall at no time be in contact with the sleeve
Penetrations/sleeves for piping penetrations shall be included on the structural (fabrication) drawings
Where practical piping penetrations can be combined, tailor-made (oblong) sleeves can be drawn and
used
Diameter of sleeves shall be according to specification 201, Attachment A-2076
Sleeves in decks
Penetrations shall not affect structural integrity of the deck
Sleeves 130mm above deck, 10mm in deck plate and 10mm under deck (see table)
Sleeves to be prefabricated and installed in deck during fabrication of deck and coated with deck where
possible
Sleeves in deck to be welded above and below deck with fillet weld = WT sleeve to the deck. Material
comparable to deck plate material
Sleeves in grating
Penetrations shall not affect structural integrity of the grating
In removable grating penetrations to be avoided, possibly half-sleeves with opening to side of grating
can be used
Sleeves 75mm above grating, 30mm (or 50mm) in grating (see table)
Sleeves to be welded in grating during grating fabrication and to be Hot-dip-galvanised with grating.
Material as material for grating
Sleeves/penetrations in beams
Penetrations shall not affect structural integrity of the beam, calculation for each typical application
required, in general penetrations near the middle of the web
For reinforcement rings made from plate, fillet-welded to the web, on one or both sides shall be used
Sleeves to be prefabricated and installed in beam during fabrication of deck and coated with deck
where possible. Material as material for beams
Where the penetration is not indicated on an "AFC" drawing from COMPANY, approval from COMPANY
must be given before work commences
Field welds shall be made after insuring that piping is installed in the correct position. Shrinking as
result offield weld shall be calculated for. Special care shall be taken not to damage already installed
piping and equipment or affect their surfaces by grinding or weld spatter. Proper cover shall be
applied.
Instruments, drain tubing, valve controls etc. shall be installed after piping installation.
Threaded connections shall not be seal welded unless specified or approved by COMPANY.
A sealing compound or tape approved by COMPANY shall be used on all threaded connections.
(See applicable section of this specification.)
After completion of branch welds, the header shall be cleaned before the final weld or flange
connection eliminates access to the inside of the fabricated section.
4.2.1 Scope
This section covers the bolt tension and bolting-up requirements for pipe and pressure vessel
flange joints in all ratings as specified in ANSI-B16.5 and or API-6A (5000, 10000 rating), for
raised flat face and ring type joint flanges.
For bolting-up, requirements for non-standard large bore flange-type connections (pipelines,
vessel heads, etc.) in all cases the applicable drawings must be checked and followed.
Bolting materials shall consist of materials as defined in specification 503 (General Piping
Material Specification).
4.2.2 Codes
Tightening ofbolts in flange connections is possible by means of spanners and torque wrenches.
This may result in uneven stress distribution in bolting and uneven gasket seating pressure.
Especially when applied in higher pressure classes and larger diameters, this method may lead to
flange leakage. When flange joints are leaking additional force is often applied to the bolts in the
area where the leak occurs. This may result in more deformation of the flange and its facing, thus
increasing the tendency to leak.
For the selection of the correct tool for bolt tightening the tables 4.2.3.A, 4.2.3.B in this section
shall be used.
For the bolt tension and torque see table 4.2.7.A, in all cases pay attention to the restricting notes at the
bottom of the table, and carefully check the tables and/or graphs for this purpose that should at all times
be present with the selected tools.
Flange management system including the use of labels is required.
The CONTRACTOR shall maintain currently updated records of all torqued and / or tensioned connections
and include these in the MDR. OR AS BUILT PACKAGE.
Flange management system to be approved by COMPANY.
Table 4.2.3.A
The following flange joints shall be made up by hand using ring spanners of appropriate dimensions. Lengthening
of spanners by means of pipe, crowbars or similar is prohibited.
Table 4.2.3.B
The following flange joints shall be made up by hand using torque wrenches of appropriate dimensions.
Table 4.2.3.C
The following flange joints shall be made up by means of a hydraulic bolt-tension (torque) device.
Table 4.2.3.D
The following flange joints shall be made up by means of a hydraulic bolt - tension (stretch, e.g. "Hydratight", etc.)
device.
Check the condition of the flange faces for smoothness, scratches, dirt, scale, and weld spatter
protrusions. Wire brush clean as necessary. Severe scratches, dents or combinations of defects
will require re-facing with a flange-facing machine.
All sharp edges (including bolt holes) shall be rounded to a minimum radius of 2 mm by
CONTRACTOR.
All threads and bearing surfaces shall be free from sand, chips or any other foreign material which
may influence the torque during tightening.
Check coating on flanges, all face-surface including inside bolt holes shall be coated to
specification 525 (MSD-PROJ-AK-12-00525).
The type and material for the gaskets is defined in General Specification 503 (MSD-PROJ-AK-12-
00503) and also mentioned on the isometric drawings/MTO’s. For clarity table 4.2.5.A, indicating
the type of gasket to be used for classes and class-combinations, is also included in this General
Specification.
Once a gasket is installed, it is difficult to positively identify this gasket. A wrong gasket in a
connection is considered a serious hazardous situation. Although the connection can be
perfectly closed during pressure testing, flange facings can be damaged and gaskets can corrode,
resulting in leakages later during operation of the platform (i.e. due to galvanic corrosion
between non-matching materials).
It is therefore forbidden to use non-spec gaskets in any piping system at any time. Revealing
of any non-spec gasket in any piping system shall be followed by a 100% check (and therefore
replacement, gaskets shall not be re-used) of all gaskets involved in the project, all at cost of the
responsible party.
Only new gaskets shall be used. Damaged gaskets (including loose spiral windings) shall be
rejected. Gasket dimensions, gasket material and type, shall be checked to be per specification.
Non-specification situations, unless specifically defined on the drawings, are not acceptable.
Table 4.2.5.A
Table gaskets
CS DS SS UK UP
Matl Class
15 non asb flat non asb flat non asb flat non asb flat x
CS 30 & 60 spiralw CS spiralw SS spiralw SS x x
90 and > Soft iron R SS316L R SS316L R x x
15 non asb flat non asb flat non asb flat x
DS 30 & 60 spiralw SS spiralw SS x x
90 and > SS316L R SS316L R x x
15 non asb flat non asb flat neoprene
SS 30 & 60 spiralw SS x x
90 and > SS316L R x x
15 non asb flat x
UK 30 & 60 x x
90 and > x x
15 neoprene
UP 30 & 60 x
90 and > x
Abbreviations:
CS Carbon Steel incl CS castings and Hot Dipped Galvanised
DS Duplex Steel incl DS castings
SS Stainless Steel incl SS castings
UK Cunifer, bronze, messing
UP Polyethylene
Detailed descriptions various gaskets:
see Neptune Energy General Specification 503 latest revision
"x" not expected connections, materials per drawing or ask.
Dedicated (electrical) insulation set: only if indicated on the drawings !!
In case of doubt please ask !!
Table 4.2.5.A-1
Care shall be taken to install the correct gaskets and rings as specified in the various piping systems
(specification 503 (MSD-PROJ-AK-12-00503)).
Use of used-, wrong material-, wrong class-, wrong coated-, temporary self made-, or other non-spec-
gaskets or rings is prohibited at all times. Reason for this (and for the harsh measures in case of failure to
comply with this instruction) is the risk that an incorrect gasket or ring remains in the system and becomes
a possible reason for leakage in the future.
Table 4.2.5.A-2
In case of material change at a flange connection, the following shall apply and be adhered to (both on
the isometrics and in actual installation):
Check thread on stud and nut. Minor damage of tread on stud well in between the nuts may be
repaired, including coating.
Complete coating must be intact.
Nut to flange contact surface shall be clean and smooth, avoid damage to coating in consultation
with COMPANY.
Studs area for nuts to be lubricated with approved lubricant. The same lubricant should be used
consistently on all joints especially when controlled bolt tightening is required (see tables 4.2.3).
The lubricant for alu-coated studbolts shall be "Molyslip Alumslip".
Install gasket and all bolts and nuts before any tensioning.
Note: It is recognised that applied torque to a nut member is only one of several ways to
approximate tension and unit stress in a studbolt. Tabulated values (table 4.2.7.A) are presented
for convenience and guidance only. Some factors which affect the relationship between nut
torque and bolt stress are:
Develop the required bolt stress as per table 4.2.7.A "Bolt torque values" in a minimum of three
steps, following a tightening-up procedure as outlined per figure 4.2.7.B "Bolt-up sequence
description".
Note: If more than 30 % of the final bolt stress is applied during the first step, serious damage
will be done to the spiral-wound gasket and subsequent tightening cannot offset this damage.
Gasket shall be rejected.
Requirements are based on bolts with UNC/8UN Thread; friction coefficient of 0.12 or 0.13.
Lubricant with another coefficient of friction will require interpretation of table or recalculation
of bolt torque.
4.2.8 Tools
All tools used for tightening shall fit the hexagon of bolts and nuts without damaging the width
across flats and be suitable for matching nuts in accordance with ANSI B 18.2.2.
Table 4.2.7.A
Recommended bolt tension and bolt torque for ANSI B 16.5 flange connections
Bolt size and Bolt Min. Torque required Nm
thread inch tension yield Molycote Copperb. API-5A Pract. fig. Mach. oil Dry {0.2}
kN Mpa {0.067} {0.100} {0.117} {0.13} {0.150}
1/2 UNC 33 725 80
5/8 UNC 53 725 153
3/4 UNC 78 725 142 194 222 266 274 344
7/8 UNC 108 725 230 318 363 424 451 557
1 8UN 141 725 347 484 555 643 692 831
1 1/8 8UN 185 725 496 699 803 930 1004 1220
1 1/4 8UN 233 725 688 970 1116 1292 1398 1715
1 3/8 8UN 288 725 920 1302 1501 1737 1883 2329
1 1/2 8UN 348 725 1198 1703 1964 2272 2470 3073
1 5/8 8UN 414 725 1527 2178 2515 2910 3166 3985
1 3/4 8UN 486 725 1911 2734 3158 3654 3983 5029
1 7/8 8UN 564 725 2354 3377 3905 4516 4928 6256
2 8UN 650 725 2861 4113 4759 5505 6012 7653
2 1/4 8UN 834 725 4081 5892 6824 7892 8635 11027
2 1/2 8UN 1041 725 5606 8120 9413 10884 15282
2 3/4 8UN 1267 725 6760 9824 11386 14549 18596
Notes: - Tensioning to be done in (min.) 3 steps of 0.30, 0.65 and 1.00 * indicated bolt torque
- Calculation based on API spec. 6A - Appendix D
- Stress basis is 362 MPa (being 50% yield of ASTM A320M - L7 bolting)
- Friction factor as indicated depends on numerous aspects.
- For non-standard and very critical connections dedicated calculations must be made.
The bolt-up sequence indicated in the figure is as an example applicable for all types of fastening
tools, orientation can be changed to suit very minor differences in distance between flange
facings (resulting from fabrication tolerances, not out-of-angle welded flanges).
Important: hand tighten; then pre-tighten bolts to 10/20 ft-lbs torque, but DO NOT exceed 20%
of target torque.
Use the appropriate cross-pattern tightening sequence in the sketch below for rounds 1, 2 and 3
and/or round 4 (each sequence constitutes a "round").
Figure 4.2.7.B
Check gap around the circumference between each of these rounds, measured at every other
bolt. If the gap is not reasonably uniform around the circumference, make the appropriate
adjustments by selective bolt tightening before proceeding.
Rotational Round –100% of final torque (same as round 3 or 4 above). Use rotational, clockwise
tightening sequence, starting with bolt number 1, for one complete round and continue until no
further nut rotation occurs at 100% of the final torque value for any nut.
Threaded (NPT) piping connections and the application of various types of PTFE tape and thread
sealant.
DO NOT:
unscrew an already made up thread connection after application of sealant, not even a
little,
use extra sealant or tape to fix a doubtful thread,
use excessive force to make up of (non-fitting) threads.
Threaded connections used for instrumentation (actual instrument, instrument air, and others)
are considered to be made per piping specifications.
For SS tubing connections, as widely in use within instrumentation and otherwise, the piping
specifications are not to be used.
All instrument tubing systems to be made according to specifications and manufacturers
recommendations.
Although PTFE tape can be applied without problems for numerous applications, it should be
realised that the application is limited by the physical properties of PTFE tape. The table (4.3.1.A)
in this section gives a summary ofthe possibilities for various types oftape and sealant. This table
is based on the manufacturer recommendations and practical experience.
At this moment no "tailor made" code is available for all situations.
The available piping specifications often leave the question for a practical solution for
connecting or matching two different materials un-answered. Especially on equipment with
various materials used, problems can occur.
Examples:
SS and duplex are very difficult materials to cut tread "in the field",
Installation of threaded connections in duplex steel are very difficult, duplex-duplex
connections must be avoided completely (the male tread will cut into the female side,
far before the required number of treads is installed, "galling").
Tools (cutting blocks and others) for SS must be used for SS only.
* See specification 503 (MSD-PROJ-AK-12-00503) for maximum sizes threaded connections various pipe
classes.
A possible problem with threaded connections is galvanic corrosion. Screwed connections made
up with different materials can result in a difference in electrical potential with the right (wrong)
medium this can cause galvanic corrosion. The sharp edges of the (usually male) thread can be
affected very quickly (without the possibility to detect this from the outside). This will result in a
complete collapse of the connection without warning.
Risk for galvanic corrosion can and must be identified during piping design, however, could still
cause problems during offshore use. This should be considered during piping installation and
day-to-day offshore maintenance as well.
5.1.1 Handling Duplex Steel (See attachment to this specification) and Stainless Steel
Duplex and/or Stainless steel shall never be in direct contact with CS pipe supports. During
installation the correct measures shall be taken to ensure this.
For the requirements of welding of Duplex steel reference is made to the applicable attachment
to this specification.
Any welding of / to Duplex steel shall be performed in strict accordance with this document
(Attachment I).
After welding and before coating all duplex pipe spools shall be pickled and passivated by method
of bath emersion (specification to be submitted by Fabricator and approved by COMPANY).
Field welds shall be avoided; in case field welds cannot be avoided completely, a dedicated
procedure for welding and treatment after welding shall be prepared by CONTRACTOR and
submitted to COMPANY for approval.
After welding the outside weld area, Stainless Steel shall be pickled and passivated before
blasting and coating.
5.2.1 General
Cunifer as per ASTM B466, is often referred to as "Cunifer 10" or "offshore quality Cunifer".
Cunifer material can deviate from standard material specifications for dimensions and shape of
specially tee's and flanges.
Cunifer is used with wt's far less than wt for comparable CS piping. For this reason the spools are
rather vulnerable, therefor extra attention in handling and supporting is required.
Cunifer piping shall not be coated, CS parts (flange backing-rings, valves, studbolts & nuts etc.
and obviously supporting) are to be coated or HD galvanized.
(Note : only possible method to coat CS backing-rings to spec. is to coat these before assembling
spools, backing rings are also delivered HD-galvanised, this is in general also acceptable.)
For systems that are normally drained/empty (dry sections deluge systems normally fabricated
from cunifer/class 15UK), after installation, pressure testing and commissioning, drainholes shall
be drilled, locations subject to approval by COMPANY.
5.2.2 Handling
Any direct contact between Cunifer and carbon steel components shall be avoided.
Dedicated tools that have not been used on any other material shall be used.
Earthing clamps for welding and cutting shall be made of bronze.
Handling equipment, such as slings, hooks and lift truck forks shall be protected by clean wood,
cloth or plastic buffers to avoid contact with the surface.
Cunifer shall be stored indoors, it shall be protected from moisture, dust, salt, iron particles and
other matters that may initiate corrosion.
Cunifer shall never be in direct contact with CS pipe supports. During installation the correct
measures shall be taken to ensure this.
Supporting of Cunifer shall be based on (rubber) lined U-bolts with lining pieces in accordance
with General Specification 504 (MSD-PROJ-AK-12-00504).
5.2.3 Welding
Welding of Cunifer will be performed to requirements as laid down in the general welding
requirements description in this specification, with the following additional remarks:
Welding process will be a non-slag process (in general considering the small wall
thickness a TIG process will be used), welding process and consumables will suit the
Cunifer and welding material producers’ guidelines for processing same.
Weld material and HAZ will have mechanical and corrosion qualities at least comparable
to original material.
Welding with 70/30 welding consumables.
Small diameter fittings may require brazing; proper procedure to be issued for approval.
Silver brazing alloys to be used as consumable.
PE-piping in general requires specialists to fabricate and install. In general material to be processed
to piping system to manufacturers recommendation for design, welding (fusing) supporting (entire
length), etc.
PE-piping not to be coated.
Spools class 15U shall be HD-Galvanised (per specification 525) after fabrication of spools. Field
welds are not allowed. Where required additional flange connections to be installed. After
galvanising and before installation flange facings and threaded connections to be checked for and
if necessary cleaned from excessive zinc.
5.5 Class U2
Some systems require extra cleaning by means of pickling and flushing because of their process
function. This is always the case for the systems indicated below, and further as indicated on the
drawings and further documents. Procedure to be prepared by CONTRACTOR and approved by
COMPANY.
Systems to be pickled and passivated as a system for process reasons:
Cleaning shall be carried out on hydraulic systems, with exception of the hydraulic cabinets and
wellhead control panels since they have been cleaned by the panel Supplier. All hydraulic lines shall
be cleaned to a minimum cleanliness level to ISO 4406 class 15/12 (equal to NAS 1638 class 6).
Prior to commencement a cleaning procedure shall be issued for review to COMPANY (cleaning
procedure can be part of the system test procedure).
Cleaning reports and records of samples shall be available for review during FAT.
Items that could be damaged due to cleaning shall be removed or by-passed during cleaning. Items
which create high restrictions due to orifice dimensions shall be removed or by-passed.
When the cleaning is completed, the tubes remain filled and all connection shall be plugged with
metal plugs. In case a different cleaning fluid is used, this shall be removed and tubes shall be blown
out with dry nitrogen.
Important note:
All installed components such as valves; regulators shall be suitable to operate without problems
with oil cleanliness to ISO 4406 class 19/16 (equal to NAS 1638 class 10)
In this specification described method of flushing and testing is applicable for piping systems on
platforms and installations. For (subsea) transportlines dedicated procedures per applicable codes
(NEN 3560) are required.
6.2 Flushing
After installation and before pressure testing piping systems shall be thoroughly flushed. Result
shall be a clean piping system. At least all debris and contamination of the piping system shall be
removed. Depending on the use of the piping system, further requirements shall be applicable
(hydraulic systems, fuel systems, etc.).
Flushing in general shall take place with fresh water;if water in the system is a problem, alternatives
shall be used (air for air-system, oil for hydraulic system, etc.). Flush procedure(s) to be issued for
approval to COMPANY.
Where in-line items can be expected to become any obstruction to flush-out debris, or where the
possibility of damage to system or in-line items exists, these items shall be removed before flushing
(all types of valves, instruments, filters, etc.).
Finished prefabbed galvanised pipe spools to be flushed with potable water to detect extreme layer
thickness or blockage of the pipespool (witnessed by COMPANY).
Alternative methods to be approved by COMPANY.
Systems shall be delivered dry and closed. This can be done with clean hot air, vacuum drying, etc.
Proposal is to be submitted to COMPANY for approval before start erection.
Some systems require extra cleaning by means of pickling and flushing because of their process
function. This is always the case for the systems indicated below, and further as indicated on the
drawings and further documents. Procedure to be prepared by CONTRACTOR and approved by
COMPANY.
Systems to be pickled and passivated as a system for process reasons:
Hydraulical- and lube-oil systems
Piping upstream gas-compressors downstream last filter (note: possible bypass loops to
be included).
See also remarks with “testing” and “medium”.
Cleaning shall be carried out on hydraulic systems, with exception of the hydraulic cabinets and
wellhead control panels since they have been cleaned by the panel Supplier. All hydraulic lines
shall be cleaned to a minimum cleanliness level to ISO 4406 class 15/12 (equal to NAS 1638 class
6).
Prior to commencement a cleaning procedure shall be issued for review to COMPANY (cleaning
procedure can be part of the system test procedure).
Cleaning reports and records of samples shall be available for review during FAT.
Items that could be damaged due to cleaning shall be removed or by-passed during cleaning.
Items which create high restrictions due to orifice dimensions shall be removed or by-passed.
Note: EPI guideline: DOP-PD-15-0037 (for offshore application) will be included in the Offshore
Management System.
Prior to initial operation, each installed piping system shall be pressure and leak tested in
accordance with PED and COMPANY standard practice to assure mechanical strength and
tightness. Table 6.3.1.A is for information only. DAD’s prepared per PED give required test
pressure. All Pressure testing shall be done in accordance with a CONTRACTOR prepared and
COMPANYapproved hydro test procedure. A test diagram shall be made for determining the test
systems.
Test pressure will be indicated on the AFC-drawings, this shall be checked versus pressure on
DAD’s.
CONTRACTOR to check allowed test pressure for all components that are included.
Pressure test procedures shall be made in accordance with NEN-EN 13480 and COMPANY
standard practice.
For new platforms, modules or skids complete systems shall be tested with all pipe supports
fitted. Nitrogen shall be used. Spring supports shall remain in the locked position. This testing
shall be done after fabrication and before leaving the fabrication yard as part of the fabrication
scope (pre-commissioning).
Table 6.3.1.A.
INDICATIVE Hydrostatic Test Pressures
Pipe Max.design Temp. range C Approx. Test Remarks
Class. (Barg) at max. press.
temp. (Barg)
Where practical, appurtenances (valves, small vessels etc.) can be left in place as part of the
system.
In general, instruments can be left in place, if necessary instruments can be blocked off at design
pressure and monitored with a PI (applicable for i.e. LG's). Alternatively process instrument
connections can be disconnected, system to be tested can be blinded off (plug or cap).
At all times the following items shall be considered:
Operation and/or maintenance instructions on items involved shall be carefully checked for
required position before, during and after pressure test.
Relief- and check valves shall be removed. Temporary spools may be used to avoid splitting the
test system.
No test systems shall be coupled by tubing unless agreed otherwise.
6.3.2 Medium
Maximum leakage rates (N2He) for individual joint and system averaged can be found below
Toxic gas (in particular H2S) 5 Scf/yr
Sweet Gas 10 Scf/yr
Gas condensates 10 Scf/yr
Flammable liquids (with flash point < 55°C) 10 Scf/yr
Non-flammable / Non-toxic gas 40 Scf/yr
Fuel and instrument air piping shall be tested with dry air or nitrogen.
Drain systems can be tested with air in combination with a soap solution.
Lube and seal oil systems which could be impaired by the presence of water shall be alternatively
tested in accordance with manufacturer's/COMPANY's recommendation.
Test and flushing water that has been used for carbon steel systems shall not be used for stainless
steel or duplex piping. Water for stainless steel or duplex shall not contain more than 20 ppm
chlorides.
Piping systems shall be thoroughly flushed and filled with medium selected for testing (see
above). The medium shall have ample time for setting and to allow the entrapped air to be vented.
For system tests each pressure test shall be monitored by one recorder, a thermometer and two
pressure gauges one of which is connected to the highest point of the test system.
Recorders and gauges shall be calibrated and certified in accordance with the NoBo requirements
and approved and accepted by COMPANY.
The certificates shall be kept ready for inspection on site.
No testing shall be performed when ambient temperature is below 10 degrees C.
The minimum test pressure shall be measured at the highest point of the system.
If tested with water the test system shall be kept under pressure for settling until all entrapped
air is dissolved into the water. After approval of NoBo or COMPANYthe testing period starts and
shall be recorded. The pressure shall be maintained for the period mentioned in the pressure test
procedure or as long is required by NoBo or COMPANY.
If pads or saddles have been installed at branch connections, ventholes shall be carefully
inspected to reveal any leakage during testing.
Ventholes shall be left open or plugged with a soft material not being able to sustain any pressure.
Each weld, flange connection and piece of equipment shall be carefully checked for leaks during
the test. Any leaks found shall be corrected after de-pressurising the system.
After correction of leaks or defects, CONTRACTOR shall retest the system.
If, during the test period, the pressure changes due to temperature variations of the test medium
a correction calculation shall be part of the test report.
If the ambient temperature is considerably higher than the test medium, care shall be taken that,
due to expansion in case of liquid test medium, the pressure does not exceed the maximum test
pressure.
After successful completion of the pressure test, the system shall be drained promptly and be
dried according to a COMPANY approved procedure. The system shall be filled with nitrogen if
COMPANYrequires so.
Care shall be taken that each high point is vented and each low point is drained.
Draining shall be slow enough not to create a vacuum that possibly can be detrimental to the
system. Prior to blowing all bottom plugs shall be removed.
All duplex systems shall, after completion, prior to load out, be cleaned and flushed with an
approved solvent, dried with hot air or by vacuum and filled with Nitrogen at 1 Bar min. and sealed
off.
System(s) shall be closed with blind-plates and spades, fabricated from plate / supplied by
CONTRACTOR. For duplex flanges stainless steel liners and spades shall be used. Spades shall be
painted pink and clearly visible, all studs / nuts shall be installed, the original gaskets etc. shall be
attached to the spade. A checklist showing all spades shall be made to enable off shore re-
installation of the joints.
After pressure testing and reinstatement of the complete system, extra attention shall be paid to
obtaining a completely closed and leak-free system onshore. This shall be done by a complete
test at design pressure with Nitrogen with Helium (N2He). Before start-up offshore, this shall be
done in line with commissioning plan. This shall be done with a complete service test at operating
pressure.
All test shall be witnessed and approved by COMPANY, and where applicable by NoBo"
representative. During the test the system shall be accessible for proper and safe inspection.
Precautions shall be taken to ensure that the pressure test is done in a safe manner. It should be kept
in mind that a considerable amount of energy is present in the test medium under high pressure.
Only personnel directly involved in the test shall be permitted in the vicinity.
Further if applicable the use of N2 to fill systems after pressure testing and draining the system, shall
be reason for extra attention, note N2 if inhaled in larger quantities is lethal.
Systems filled with N2 shall at all times be clearly marked with appropriate warning signs.
7. QC PIPING FABRICATION
7.1 General
The nature and extend ofsupervision and inspection during fabrication, installation and testing shall
be agreed between COMPANY, NoBo (if applicable) and CONTRACTOR.
The general contents agreed shall be laid down by CONTRACTOR in a quality control plan / test and
inspection plan.
Before blasting / coating can commence, to avoid damage to vulnerable parts (i.e. treads), and
contamination of insides of pipe spools etc. with blasting material, parts shall be protected
(closed or alternative).
For this purpose dedicated materials shall be used (plastic caps, tubes on treaded rods, neoprene
sheets, tape).
No screwed plugs, caps that contain any pressure, shall be used!
7.4.1 Quantities
NDT shall be done per approved procedures and standards and by qualified personnel (Level II).
Procedures and qualifications shall be based on EN 473, EN 13480, NEN 3650 and NEN 3656, and
shall as a minimum fulfil the NoBo requirements as laid down in the subject sheets. The locations
of the weld examined shall be indicated on a drawing in such detail, that the precise location of
each checked weld can be traced. NDT on a weld will include type of check per table included.
Radiographic: The most stringent technique and acceptance criteria shall be used.
All indications shall be reported.
In all applications NDT-results must give clear view on the quality of the weld to be examined.
If necessary NDT-technique will be adapted to suit this goal.
For SS-types (including Duplex) MPI will be replaced by Dye-Penetrant Inspection.
Radiography implies the use of only X-ray tests. Gamma-ray tests may, in specific cases, be
accepted by an approved procedure. Cobalt-60 isotopes shall not be used.
* Weldolets one exposure supported with 100% magnetic particle / dye penetrant
examination.
8. DOCUMENTATION
During fabrication and installation all relevant information shall be tabulated on the "Weld History
Sheet" attached to this specification or on an approved similar Quality Control Document, and shall
be issued to COMPANY.
The extent of further documentation to be issued shall be agreed between COMPANY and
CONTRACTOR.
clean and openings and ends closed, facings protected, properly stored to avoid damage.
transported in (open top) containers suitable for offshore transport and lifting or for larger
spools equipped with rigging for single point lifting. Lifting spools shall not contain
tackwelded items.
installation materials and/or supports shall be packed per spool and shipped with the
subject spools unless agreed otherwise.
have correct and clear marking (project/drawing/spool/platform/weight).
be accompanied by clear and complete paperwork and packing lists.
Release note prepared by CONTRACTOR, for signature COMPANY representative.
10. ATTACHMENTS
Attachment I - Welding of ferritic/austenitic stainless steel (See Chapter 11)
Attachment II - Weld history sheet (See Chapter 12)
11.1.1 Scope
11.1.2 References
The following specifications, codes and standards are to be considered where applicable. All
conflicts between the requirements of these relevant shall be referred to COMPANY for
resolution. In case of conflicts between the documents listed and this document, the most
stringent requirement shall govern. The latest editions of the following standards and codes shall
apply:
11.1.3 Abbreviations
BM Base Metal
EFN Extended Ferrite Number
GMAW Gas Metal Arc Welding
HAZ Heat Affected Zone
IIW International Institute of Welding
NDT Non-Destructive Test
PQR Procedure Qualification Record
QA Quality Assurance
QC Quality Control
SAW Submerged Arc Welding
SMAW Shielded Metal Arc Welding
WM Weld Metal
WPS Welding Procedure Specifications
WPQ Welding Procedure Qualifications
The following recommendations shall be adopted in every step in the manufacturing process to
reduce the risk of surface contamination of this type of stainless steel.
a) Any contact between stainless steel and carbon steel components shall be avoided.
Fabrication and storage of pipe spool shall be carried out in a separate area.
b) Before transportation and field installation each pipe spool shall be protected with tape.
c) Only stainless steel wire brushes that have not been used on any other material shall be used.
Grinding wheels used for stainless steel shall not have been used for other purposes. Tools
shall be clearly marked (i.e. colour coded) to indicate their designated use. Earthing clamps
for welding and cutting should be made of stainless steel.
d) Moisture shall be removed by carefully and controlled heating with a torch. Skin temperature
shall not exceed 150 °C.
e) Acetone (or approved equivalent) may be used for cleaning stainless steel surfaces. Caution:
Acetone is extremely flammable.
f) Arc cutting shall be done by using only plasma arc process.
g) Contamination of Duplex stainless steel with zinc, etc. will not be permitted.
h) Handling equipment, such as slings, hooks, and lift truck forks, shall be covered with clean
wood, cloth, or plastic buffers to exclude contact with the stainless steel surface. These
protection means shall be immediately replaced after any contact with carbon steel.
i) Stainless steel shall be stored indoors, or otherwise protected from moisture, dust, salt, iron
particles, and other matter that may initiate or cause corrosion.
j) If any construction activity is to be carried out in the vicinity of installed duplex or stainless
steel piping and/or equipment, adequate protection shall be provided to prevent any damage
before such construction work commences.
11.1.5 Documentation
The following documentation shall be supplied by the CONTRACTOR and issued for approval
when applicable:
Mill certificates of materials used if the material is supplied by the CONTRACTOR (See
specification 503 (MSD-PROJ-AK-12-00503) and "PED")
Welding Procedure Specifications, Procedure Qualification Records and Welders Certificates
Procedures and methods for assembly, fabrication and handling
Procedures for repairs
Inspection and QC procedures
Non-destructive testing records and radiograph films
Drawings indicating material and NDT locations
Hydro test records, including instruments calibration data
Consumables from COMPANY approved suppliers only shall be used (see Appendix to this
attachment). Consumables shall have a similar chemical analysis to that of the base material,
however, the nickel content shall at least be 7,7%.
The weld metal should have a corrosion resistance equal to, or better than, the base metal.
Electrodes, wire and flux shall be supplied in fully sealed packages and stored in a dry storage
room. All manual type electrodes shall be properly identifiable up to the time of usage, each
electrode being distinguished by proper coding. In case the coding is destroyed by baking,
handling, or other causes, the electrodes shall not be used.
Consumables used for welding duplex stainless steel shall not be stored in heated cabinets
containing electrodes of other types, such as rutile or organic type electrodes or consumables for
welding other types of stainless steel e.g. AISI Type 316L.
Wire spool for automatic and semi-automatic processes shall be stored in cabinets with supplier
wrapping not removed and remain clearly identifiable up to the time of usage.
Each batch of flux and wire shall be labelled with the information from the supply container. The
labels with batch number shall be recorded by reference in relation to the actual welding work.
All non-identified, damaged, wet, rusty or otherwise contaminated consumables are to be
scrapped. Electrodes (once melted) or with white spots on the flux shall not be used.
All bottles containing shielding gases shall have clear identification labels.
11.3.1 General
Detailed welding procedure shall be established and qualified in accordance with NoBo as per
PED, NEN-EN 13480 and as further required in this Specification.
No production welding shall commence until the appropriate procedure tests have been
completed and approved.
A written welding procedure specification together with test certificates indicating mechanical
properties and chemical analyses of both base materials and welding consumables shall be
submitted to the COMPANYrepresentative for preliminary approval.
No procedure qualification tests shall be performed until the procedure specification has been
granted preliminary approval by the COMPANY representative.
Welding procedure specifications shall contain the following "applicable parameters" with all
explanatory details necessary (see also: ISO 15609):
When any changes in these parameters are made, the welding procedure qualification shall be
set up as a new WPS, and shall be completely re-qualified.
A qualified welding procedure specification is one which is tested to and has achieved the
requirements of this Specification, and has been witnessed and approved by the COMPANY's
representative and the Certifying Authority.
The CONTRACTOR shall conduct the tests required to qualify each procedure and tests shall be
witnessed by the COMPANY representative and the Certifying Authority. The results of previous
welding procedure qualification tests may be accepted by the COMPANY's representative and
the Certifying Authority providing:
a) Welding specifications and resulting test certificates are authenticated by the original
documentation, or by certified copies.
b) The CONTRACTOR submits documentation, for the approval of the COMPANY
representative, to demonstrate that all the appropriate test requirements, applicable
parameters, welding conditions, equipment and materials as used in the original welding
procedure qualification tests, comply with and fulfil all the appropriate test requirements
of this Specification.
All services in connection with the establishment of welding procedures, welders performance
qualifications, related tests and additional corrosion tests shall be by the CONTRACTOR.
Welding procedure and welders performance qualification shall be new and subject to approval
by COMPANY's representative.
Welding procedure qualification tests shall be conducted to verify the WPS's, and shall simulate,
as far as practical the conditions and materials to be used for production welding.
A qualified procedure is valid only for diameters and thickness in accordance with PED and NEN-
EN 13480.
The specific parameters of the WPS and test results of the WPQ shall be recorded in the
procedure qualification record PQR, signed by the responsible welding engineer, QA engineer and
NoBo.
The base material, welding consumables and welding process shall be equal to those as specified
in the welding procedure specification WPS.
Dimensions of the weld samples shall be sufficient to provide for the required test pieces as
defined in the PED and NEN-EN 13480.
During welding, the welder's name and all data listed in the WPS shall be recorded.
All weld samples for the procedure qualification shall be subject to NDT (radiographic, ultrasonic
testing and surface examination) and acceptance in accordance with this Specification prior to
mechanical testing. The acceptance criteria for mechanical testing shall be in accordance with
PED and NEN-EN 13480.
A cross-section of the weld shall be made for microscopic and a macroscopic investigation. The
cross-section shall clearly show the weld metal, fusion line and heat affected zone. The ferrite
content shall be measured using a magna-gage equipment or an alternative tool approved by
the COMPANY. At least 5 measurements shall be made. The ferrite content shall be expressed in
an extended ferrite number EFN and the average value shall be between 30 and 65 for the weld
metal and heat affected zone. Any single value shall not exceed a 10% of these values.
Hardness tests shall be carried out at one line 2 mm away from both surfaces of weld cross-
section and halfway between these surfaces. Zones of indentations should give three values in
the base material BM on both sides of the weld in addition to those in the weld metal WM and
heat affected zone HAZ.
The minimum distance between the indentations should be two and half times the width of the
previous indentation. The maximum allowable hardness measured is 305 HV 10 (305 Vickers
hardness measured on 10 kg load). Maximum allowable hardness variation between any point
indicated may be 100 HV 10.
Charpy-V notch impact test shall be carried out when the wall thickness of pipe or fitting exceeds
5 mm.
Three notch impact test pieces (standard specimen 10 x 10 mm) shall be taken in transverse
direction on the weld and shall be tested at Vt-test temperature in accordance with EN 13480
requirements for a Vc-assessment temperature of minus 20 degrees centigrade. The average
impact value shall not be less than 52 Joule with only one value lower, but not below 39 Joule.
The dimensions, preparation and testing ofthe impact test specimens shall be in accordance with
NEN-EN 875.
Subsized specimen may be used when standard specimen cannot be prepared. In this case the
required values may be lowered accordingly.
Pitting corrosion test to ASTM G48 ( method A ) test method at 22 degrees centigrade.
Exposure time 24 hours (no pitting at 20x magnification and weight loss less than 5.0 g/m²).
11.4.1 General
Welders and welding operators shall be qualified in accordance with the requirements of the PED
in accordance with the applicable requirements and of this Specification. Where radiography is
specified only X-ray shall be used. Mechanical testing as required by PED and NEN 13480.
The welder shall clearly mark the pipe adjacent to his weld with the identification mark assigned
to him in his qualification certificate prior to starting the root pass.
The welder/operator who makes the root pass shall write his code at the top of the pipe; if,
however, two welder/operators weld the root pass, each welder/operator shall mark the top of
the pipe with his identification code on the side on which has worked. Subsequent
welders/operators shall write their identification codes below the first code in the sequence in
which they work. The identification marks may not be removed until after the welds have been
inspected both visually and non-destructively.
The CONTRACTOR shall ensure that qualified welders and welding operators are employed
during fabrication only on welding the type, process and position of weld for which their
qualification test so qualifies them. Proven previous qualifications can be submitted to
COMPANY for acceptance. A welder or welding operator may also be required to re-qualify if
inspection during fabrication reveals that repairs are necessary due to unacceptable defects.
The CONTRACTOR shall maintain an accurate record of the performance of each welder which
should show the repair rate.
The repair rate shall be indicated as a percentage of the total length of weld produced.
11.4.4 Retests
Retests are not accepted and only considered after consulting COMPANY's representative.
A Welder's qualification record, which includes references or the corresponding WPS nr., the
applicable parameters and the test results, shall be issued for each welder or welding operator
and for each test.
11.5.1 General
No welding shall be carried out before the welding procedures and procedure qualification
records are completed and approved and the welders have been qualified.
Preparation and welding of pipe components shall be in accordance with the appropriate
qualified welding procedure specifications. Manual electrodes, wire and flux shall be of the same
type and manufacture as those used in the procedure.
No welding shall be done until as much of the pipeline or piping system as will be stiffened
thereby has been properly aligned.
Every buttweld preparation, before welding, will be inspected and approved by COMPANY's
representative.
Test & inspection Plan must contain a column for this inspection.
The COMPANY will have the right to carry out any concurrent test deemed necessary when any
deviation from this specification is made.
Attention is to be given to the necessity of achieving adequate firm support of the pipe
components in both the vertical and horizontal plane.
Alignment and fit-ups for two pipe components shall be in accordance with para. 11.6.3.
Current return cables of welding equipment shall be connected directly to the pipe on which
welding work is to be done using stainless steel clamps.
The earthing point for field welds shall not be beyond any valves or other installed equipment.
Earthing marks shall be ground smooth and 100% dye penetrant tested.
Shelters giving adequate protection at all times to the weld area from wind, rain and moisture
shall be provided.
No welding shall be carried out when the weld surfaces are wet, moist or when the work area is
exposed to winds.
Following is required:
Weld surfaces to be thoroughly dried by heating. High metal skin temperature shall be
avoided and shall not exceed 150 deg. C.
Provisions to be made for maintaining a satisfactory surrounding temperature and
protection for the effects of wind.
Provisions to be made to reduce distortion as could occur due to differences in temperature
between components.
Welding rods, electrodes, filter metals and fluxes shall be handled and used in accordance with
the manufactures recommendations (see chapter 11.2).
The equipment used for edge preparation and cleaning (e.g. plasma cutting, grinding, machining,
emery cloth, grit blasting using alumina shot, wire brushing using a stainless steel wire brush,
etc.) shall cause no detrimental metallurgical effects upon the edges to be welded.
Edge preparations may be made by shearing machining or hand grinding to an accurate form.
Preparation of weld edges by plasma cutting shall, wherever practical, be done with a
mechanically guided torch. Edges shall be left free of slag, spatter, scale, dirt, grease, salt,
protective coating or other foreign matter which might affect the quality of the weld and the cut
surface shall be ground to a smooth bright uniform surface by removing approximately 0.5 mm
of metal. After grinding the weld edges shall be visually examined to ensure freedom from
defects.
Any bevelled edge that has been damaged shall be restored within the tolerances required by the
welding procedure to be applied.
Restoration involving welding shall not be permitted.
The welding end preparation shall be carried out in accordance with minimum requirements
stipulated in Appendix II and shall be subjected to COMPANY approval.
The welding process, procedures and specifications shall be subjected to COMPANY approval.
To ensure a high-quality weld with a smooth surface inside the pipe, GTAW-welding is required
for the root-bead.
99.998 percent argon backing and shielding gas is always required throughout welding.
Oxidation caused by the welding procedure and/or process shall not be allowed. Flushing with
argon before welding will be required. The oxygen content of the backing gas directly before
welding shall be determined with oxygen measuring equipment and shall be less than 0.05
percent.
Between welding passes, the metal should be allowed to cool to approximately 150 deg. C.
For a high quality of welding, ferritic austenitic stainless steel material should be at a
temperature of at least 15 deg. C before welding.
Overheating may also cause cracks, and these too must be removed and repaired
(see paragraph 11.6.6).
When welding pipe, for best results weld short passes on alternate sides of the pipe. On pipe
less than 6 inch in diameter, each pass should be not over 2 inch in length for pipe 6 inch, or
over in diameter, each pass may be 3 inch in length.
This shall be done in a flat position and the pipe shall be rotated. This process shall only be used
for filling and capping. Wire and flux shall be from the same manufacturer.
Electrodes shall only be used for filling and capping and only in the position recommended by
the manufacturer.
In order to avoid surface oxidation during welding process ferritic/austenitic stainless steel pipes
must be purged with 99.998 percent argon backing gas sufficiently to remove all oxygen inside
the pipe in the weld area. The usual way to achieve this is to seal off a small length of the pipe on
each side of the weld groove. This restricted volume is then purged with a suitable inert gas,
sufficient to remove all oxygen.
Devices and procedures shall be subjected to COMPANY approval.
Heat input during welding should be kept low to reduce the danger of unwanted structures and
precipitates.
For this reason the degree of dilution must be kept low. Two layers with little weld metal
deposited are better than one layer with higher heat input and more deposited weld metal.
Preheating is usually not required. A limited preheating may be required in highly constraint
conditions and only considered after consulting COMPANY's representative.
Production welding parameter monitoring is required. Minimum frequency oftesting shall be one
record per process per shift and schedule shall ensure that each welder is tested at least once per
calendar month.
Welding of each weld shall be a continuous operation unless the maximum interpass
temperature is reached.
Line up clamps shall not be removed nor shall the pipe be moved until the root and the second
pass have been completed.
11.5.10 Cleaning
During welding any part of the weld metal of parent plate exposed to the air at elevated
temperature will become oxidised, the oxidation is ranging from light tinting to a black scale.
Oxide shall be removed after each welding root, otherwise preferential corrosion may result,
either from its difference in electrochemical properties or from its crevice action.
Upon completion of each welding pass, the weld shall be cleaned of spatter, slag and flux
deposits. After welding is completed, adjacent surfaces shall be thoroughly cleaned of all spatter
and deposits, pickled and passivated in accordance with an approved procedure by COMPANY's
representative.
To ensure the corrosion resistance of pipelines and piping systems and the passage of pipeline
scrappers and other similar devices through the completed lines it is of particular importance
that the internal surface of pipes be as smooth as possible and free from all internal welding
beads, slag particles, weld spatter etc.
Special care shall be given to the selection of the cleaning equipment and the rules defined in
para. 11.1.4 shall be followed.
All welds shall be continuous and multipass. They shall be properly sized to develop the full
strength of the thinner of the two pipe components joined.
The number of welds shall be as small as possible. In general the minimum allowable distance
between circumferential welds is 3 times the external diameter of the pipe.
Socket weld fittings shall only be used in special cases only with preliminary written approval by
COMPANY's representative.
Where socket weld fittings or valves are used, pipe sections shall be spaced approx. 1.5 mm apart
to avoid "bottoming" which can result in excessive weld stress. Approved welding procedures are
to be adhered to.
Welds shall be left as welded and not be treated with a torch or by any mechanical means outside
the allowances of the welding procedure specification to change their appearance.
Post weld heat treatment is not permitted. Any uncontrolled heating of the pipe may impede the
corrosion resistance of the material and shall be reported to the COMPANY.
11.6 Fabrication
11.6.1 General
All measures shall be taken to ensure correct positioning and sizing of the components to be
welded.
Work shall not be performed when the weather and/or lack of sufficient protection does not
permit satisfactory workmanship or when conditions prevent adequate inspection.
If any fabrication is to be carried out in the vicinity of equipment already installed, than before
such fabrication work commences, adequate protection shall be provided to prevent any damage
from weld spatter, cutting droplets etc.
Care shall be taken to avoid overloading, damage or undue deformation in any of the pipe
components at all stages of the work.
Care shall be taken to avoid any zinc contamination of the stainless steel e.g. by overspray of zinc
containing coatings.
Handling of the stainless steel pipe components shall be done with great care and the measures
outlined in para. 11.1.4 shall be followed.
11.6.2 Bending
Bending of duplex stainless steel pipe requires great care and procedures shall be approved by
the COMPANY before any bending commences. It is usually required to heat treat the material
after bending (1050 deg. C/water quench).
Only for tie-in welds such as riser tie-ins and for special welds e.g. joints connecting valves,
flanges and fittings external line-up clamps may be used.
When the internal diameter is 100 mm or less an external line-up clamp may be used.
Inside diameter misalignment of the adjoining welding ends shall not exceed 1/8 of the wall
thickness with a maximum of 1 mm. If the misalignment exceeds the above value trimming at the
internal diameter of the thicker joint to a taper of 1 : 4 should be properly corrected.
Stainless steel spacing tools shall be used in conjunction with the line-up clamp to assure the
proper joint spacing which shall be in line with the applicable welding procedure.
Any longitudinal welds in pipes shall be so positioned that the weld is at the top 120°of the pipe
and any two adjacent longitudinal welds shall be at least 45°apart.
When fabrication is completed, all welds shall be ground as indicated in the welding procedures
or on the drawings to allow proper radiographic or ultrasonic inspection, and to remove all
detrimental spatter, burrs, tack welds and other marks. Where so required the damage shall be
rectified in accordance with an agreed procedure.
A circular tight cap, of a design which will not damage pipe ends shall be used to cover the open
ends of the pipe and shall be placed on the line at the end of each day's work to prevent entry of
foreign material. Caps shall not be removed until commencement of the following day's work.
The requirements to protect the stainless steel as defined in para. 1.4 shall be adhered to.
All open ends of pipe ate to be capped off and sealed once installation in completed. This
protection shall be in line with para. 11.1.4.
All repairs shall be executed by qualified welders according to approved procedures and all
requirements of this Specification shall be met.
The removal of weld metal or portions of the base metal may be done by machining or grinding.
High metal skin temperature shall be avoided and shall not exceed 150 deg. C. The unacceptable
portions of the weld shall be removed including the relevant heat affected zone and shall be done
in such a manner that the remaining weld metal or base metal is not nicked or undercut. The
grooves are to be free from scale and to have acceptable contours, and shall be visually and dye
penetrant inspected prior to re-welding to ensure the defect has been completely removed.
Additional weld metal to compensate for any deficiency in size shall be deposited using
procedures as required in the making of the original weld. The surfaces shall be thoroughly
cleaned before depositing the additional weld metal.
Local repairs shall normally be inspected 100% by the method prescribed for the original weld
with due regard to confirming that the original defect has been removed.
Every possible care shall be taken with repairs to minimise welding stresses.
If planar defects (cracks, lamellar tears, etc.) have to be repaired, every effort shall be made to
prevent propagation of the defect during its removal. Dye penetrant inspection shall be carried
out to check for the complete removal of the defect.
A weld with unacceptable defects may only be repaired once by COMPANY approved repair
procedure. If the repair is not acceptable the complete weld shall be removed.
Second attempts at repairing the same weld area SHALL only be made by permission of the
COMPANY.
In the event that it is required to cut out a weld, this may be carried out by plasma cutting, after
which all material in the relevant heat affected zones shall be removed prior to rewelding.
An unacceptable weld shall be repaired or replaced in accordance with all above clauses. Where
repair is selected, the following measures are required:
Excessive weld porosity, excessive slag inclusions, heavy metal inclusions, incomplete fusion or
planar defects - remove unacceptable portions and re-weld.
11.7.1 General
Written NDT procedures approved by the COMPANY shall be prepared. All operations shall be
performed in accordance with these procedures.
All radiography shall be carried out in accordance with the method described in NEN EN 1435
and NEN-EN 13480.
Radiography implies the use of only X-ray tests. Gamma-ray tests may, in specific cases, be
accepted by an approved procedure. Cobalt-60 isotopes shall not be used.
Ultrasonic examination may be used in lieu of radiographic examination. The method shall be
selected such that the progress of the construction is not affected (refer to NEN-EN 1714 and
NEN-EN 1712.
All ultrasonic examination work shall be carried out in accordance with the methods described
in NEN-EN13480, and per NoBo approved procedure.
Since the experience with ultrasonic examination of welds in duplex stainless steel is limited the
inspection procedure shall be qualified on a weld produced with the welding procedure to be
used for the project and with the IIW reference blocks VI and V2.
Welds shall be judged in accordance with para. 11.7.2.7.
Any weld or area which is tested by means of dye penetrant testing shall be judged
unacceptable if any crack, regardless of size, is revealed.
All materials shall be in accordance with NEN-EN 13480 and subject to visual inspection for
surface defects, laminations at ends, etc.
All weld surfaces shall be visually inspected and there shall be free of dents, cracks, craters,
pinholes, weld spatter, residual slag, pits, laps and other harmful surface defects.
The report on each rejected weld shall state the identification number ofthe weld and the name
of the welder/operator as well as the reason for rejection of the weld.
The International Institute of Welding code shall be used for indicating the reason.
Since non-destructive testing methods show only dimensions of defects, COMPANYmay reject
welds if the depth of the defects effects the strength of the weld irrespective of the fact that
these welds seem to meet the standards of inspection.
11.7.2.9 Assessment of Indications on Radiographs in the Pipe Material adjacent to Welds being inspected
Welds and adjacent pipe material showing indications the pipe material next to the weld has
been damaged in any way whatsoever (e.g. arc burns, damage of a sharp or deep nature, weld
beads, defects in the longitudinal seam of longitudinally welded pipe, etc.) shall be
unacceptable.
If a test piece does not meet the requirements, the cause should be established where possible.
The tests shall be repeated on two pipes or components taken at random from the same
product lot, to determine whether to reject or approve the whole lot. The CONTRACTOR may
consider reheat treating the complete product lot. Above matters always to be performed in
consultation with COMPANY.
This document is the property of Neptune Energy. It must not be stored, reproduced or disclosed without authorisation. 2.1 - 2019 Page 70 of 71
GENERAL SPECIFICATION
Document code Document title Version Classification
MSD-PROJ-AK-12-00502 General Specification 502 - Piping Fabrication Installation and 1 Internal
Pressure Testing