ASME BPVC.I-2023: Power Boiler Construction Code - Latest Edition

ASME BPVC.I-2023 is Section I of the 2023 ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code, which provides rules for the construction of power boilers, electric boilers, miniature boilers, and high-temperature water boilers.

It covers power, electric, and miniature boilers; high-temperature water boilers; heat recovery steam generators; and certain fired pressure vessels used in stationary service. It also applies to power boilers used in locomotive, portable, and traction service.

The rules apply to boilers generating steam or vapor at pressures exceeding 15 psig, and high-temperature water boilers operating at pressures exceeding 160 psig and/or temperatures exceeding 250°F.

Superheaters, economizers, and other pressure parts connected directly to the boiler without intervening valves are considered part of the boiler's scope.

The ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code, including Section I, is updated and released every two years.

The ASME Certification Mark signifies that stamped items meet the criteria outlined in the most recent edition of the ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code.

ASME BPVC.I focuses on power boilers and operates at higher pressures and temperatures, while Section VIII covers a broader range of pressure vessels used in various industries.

The standard outlines specific safety considerations, including requirements for safety valves to prevent overpressure, and criteria for testing and maintaining these safety systems.

This standard is intended for manufacturers, users, constructors, designers, and others involved in the design, fabrication, assembly, erection, examination, inspection, and testing of power boilers.

Careful application of this section helps users comply with applicable regulations within their jurisdictions while achieving operational, cost, and safety benefits from industry best practices.

What are the major updates in the 2023 edition of ASME BPVC.I?

The standard provides detailed welding requirements, including welding procedure specifications (WPS), welder qualifications, and nondestructive examination (NDE) of welds. It also specifies acceptable welding methods and materials.

The standard outlines specific requirements for the design, sizing, installation, and testing of pressure relief devices to ensure boiler safety under various operating conditions.

The standard includes provisions for the use of new materials, provided they meet specific requirements and are approved through the ASME review process. It also provides guidelines for material testing and qualification.

The standard specifies requirements for various inspections and tests, including hydrostatic testing, nondestructive examination, and in-service inspections, to ensure the integrity and safety of power boilers.

The standard provides specific rules for the design of components operating at elevated temperatures, including creep and fatigue considerations, material selection, and allowable stress values.

The standard requires comprehensive documentation, including design calculations, material certifications, welding records, and inspection reports, to ensure traceability and compliance throughout the boiler's lifecycle.

While ASME BPVC.I primarily focuses on new construction, it provides guidelines for repairs and alterations. For more detailed requirements, users are often directed to the National Board Inspection Code (NBIC)

The standard specifies requirements for various control and safety devices, including water level indicators, pressure gauges, and automatic controls, to ensure safe and efficient boiler operation.

While primarily focused on safety and construction, the standard incorporates provisions that can contribute to environmental performance, such as efficiency requirements and materials selection criteria that can indirectly impact emissions and resource use.

ASME offers various resources including code cases, interpretations, training courses, and certification programs to help professionals understand and apply the requirements of BPVC.I-2023 effectively.

While ASME BPVC.I is widely recognized globally, users should be aware of how it relates to other international standards (e.g., EN 12952) and any specific requirements in their jurisdiction.