API 6D Annex J

API 6D annex J specifies additional requirements, which shall be performed by the manufacturer if specified by the purchaser at time of order placement.

Annex J

(normative)

Requirements for Extended Hydrostatic Shell Test Duration and Records
Retention for Valves in Jurisdictional Pipeline Systems

J.1  General

API 6D annex J specifies additional requirements, which shall be performed by the manufacturer if specified by the purchaser at time of order placement.

API 6D annex J provides a recommended practice pertaining to valves used in jurisdictional pipeline systems. Valves used in transportation of natural and other gas and hazardous liquids or carbon dioxide by pipeline are usually regulated by the national governments of the countries in which the pipeline is located.

This annex specifies the requirements for extended hydrostatic shell testing that shall be performed by the manufacturer if specified by the purchaser. This annex also specifies the test records to be provided to the purchaser and record retention requirements.

J.2 Hydrostatic Shell Testing Requirements

J.2.1 General

The hydrostatic shell test shall conform to 10.3 with test duration of at least four (4) hours.

J.2.2 Test Record Requirements

Test records shall contain the following as a minimum and be provided to the purchaser.

a) The name of the manufacturer, name of the organization that performs testing (if other than the valve manufacturer), the identification of the individual responsible for performing the test, date, time, and location of test.

b) Serial number, size, class, and end connector.

c) Test medium (fluid) used.

d) The beginning, ending, and actual test pressure and temperature readings, unless otherwise agreed.

e) The test duration.

f) A chart recording or digital record of the pressure showing the raise from zero to pressure at the beginning of the test and return to zero at the end.

g) Any significant variations in pressure or temperature for the specific test.

h) Any leaks or failures and their disposition.

i) Certificates of calibration for all instrumentations used in the test, such as pressure transducers, pressure gauges, temperature devices, and chart recorders.

J.2.3 Minimum Requirements for Pressure Transducers, Pressure Gauges, Temperature Devices, and Chart Recorders

Calibration of pressure transducers, pressure gauges, temperature devices, and chart recorders shall conform to 9.1, but at an interval not greater than 12 months.

J.2.4 Record Retention Requirement

Test records in J.2.2 shall be provided to the purchaser and maintained by the manufacturer in conformance with Section 14.