ASME BPVC Section V

Key Changes – 2017 Edition

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SECTION V, ARTICLE 1 – GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

• Only key changes will be discussed.

• Changes with respect to following NDE methods that are mostly used will be discussed.
• PT
• MT
• UT including TOFD, PAUT
• RT
SECTION V, ARTICLE 1 – GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

• Added two new paragraphs to T-110. Paragraph T-110(c) addresses effective date of
new Editions of Section V. Paragraph T-110(d) addresses the use of Code Cases.
• T-110 SCOPE
• (c) New editions of Section V may be used beginning with the date of issuance and become
mandatory 6 months after the date of issuance unless modified by the referencing document.

(d) Code Cases are permissible and may be used, beginning with the date of approval by ASME.
Only Code Cases that are specifically identified as being applicable to this Section may be used.
At the time a Code Case is applied, only the latest revision may be used. Code Cases that have
been incorporated into this Section or have been annulled shall not be used, unless permitted
by the referencing Code. Qualifications using the provisions of a Code Case remain valid after
the Code Case is annulled. The Code Case number shall be listed on the NDE Procedure or
Personnel Certification, as applicable.
SECTION V, ARTICLE 1 – GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

• New Subparagraphs (h), Added use ANSI/ASME ANDE-1, ASME Non-destructive

Examination and Quality Control Central Qualification and Certification Program, to
T-120.
• T-120 GENERAL
• (h) Alternatively, performance-based qualification programs, in accordance with ASME ANDE-1-
2015, ASME Non-destructive Examination and Quality Control Central Qualification and
Certification Program, may be used for training, experience, examination, and certification
activities as specified in the written practice.
• T-170 EXAMINATIONS AND INSPECTIONS
• Revised “Authorized Inspector” to “Inspector” in several places within T-170. Revised
definition of “Inspector” to include “as defined and qualified as required by the
referencing Code Section, or referencing documents.”
SECTION V, ARTICLE 1 – GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

• I-121 GENERAL TERMS Definition of interpretation revised

• interpretation : the process of determining whether an indication is non-relevant or relevant,
which may include determining the indication type and/or other data necessary to apply the
established evaluation criteria for acceptance or rejection.
interpretation : the determination of whether indications are relevant or non-relevant.
• Definition of Cluster Kernel Pixel, Computed Radiography, Digital Detector Array, Digital
Detector System underperforming pixels , DAC Curve are added.
SECTION V, ARTICLE 1 – GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

• Definition of ferromagnetic material and non-ferromagnetic material added

• I-121.5 ET — Electromagnetic (Eddy Current)

• Ferromagnetic material : material that can be magnetized or is strongly attracted by a magnetic
field.
• Non-ferromagnetic material : a material that is not magnetisable and hence essentially is not
affected by magnetic fields. This would include paramagnetic materials (materials that have a
relative permeability slightly greater than unity and that are practically independent of the
magnetizing force) and diamagnetic materials (materials whose relative permeability is less than
unity).
SECTION V, ARTICLE 1 – GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

• Added scanner categories and definition

• I-130 UT — ULTRASONICS
automated scanner : automated scanners are fully mechanized, and, after being attached to the
component, maintain an index and offset position of the search unit and are manipulated by using
an independent motor controller without being handled during operation.
manual scanning : a technique of ultrasonic examination performed with search units that are
manipulated by hand, and without data collection.
Non-automated scanner : non-automated scanners are operated without a mechanical means of
holding an index or search unit offset position. Manual scanners are propelled manually by the
operator and have no means of holding or maintaining probe position once released.
Semi-automated scanner : semi-automated scanners are manually adjustable, have mechanical
means to maintain an index of the search unit while maintaining the search unit offset position,
but must still be propelled manually by the operator. This scanner does have mechanical means to
retain its position while attached to the component once released by the operator.
SECTION V, ARTICLE 2 – RADIOGRAPHIC EXAMINATION

• T-223 BACKSCATTER RADIATION

• A new sentence is added. The lead symbol “B” shall be placed in a location so that it would
appear within an area on the radiograph that meets the requirements of T-282, VIII-288, or IX-
288, as applicable.
• T-261.2 Determination of Source size for X-Ray machines by the pin-hole method is deleted.
• T-275 Location Marker Shall (previously …are to…) appear as radiographic images on the
radiograph (previously film)….
• T-276.1 IQI Material SE-1025 for Hole Type and SE-747 for Wire Type is clarified (Previously as
applicable).
SECTION V, ARTICLE 2 – RADIOGRAPHIC EXAMINATION

• Added a paragraph to Article 2, Mandatory Appendix I, I-223 to clarify placement of

the backscatter check lead figure.
• I-223 BACKSCATTER DETECTION SYMBOL LOCATION

(c) The lead symbol “B” shall be placed in a location so that it would appear within an
area on the radiograph that meets the requirements of T-282.
SECTION V, ARTICLE 2 – RADIOGRAPHIC EXAMINATION

• Revised T-276.2(a) to clarify that IQI selection is based on the material thickness plus the actual
reinforcement thickness from both sides of the weld. Made editorial change to T-276.2(b).
Added T-276.2(c) to address actual material/weld thickness.
• T-276 IQI SELECTION
• T-276.2 Size.
• (a) Welds With Reinforcements. The thickness on which the IQI is based is the nominal single-
wall material thickness plus the actual weld reinforcement thickness estimated to be present on
both sides of the weld (I.D. and O.D.). The values used for the estimated weld reinforcement
thicknesses shall not exceed the maximums permitted by the referencing Code Section. Physical
measurement of the actual weld reinforcements is not required. Backing rings or strips shall not
be considered as part of the thickness in IQI selection.
• (b) Welds Without Reinforcements. The thickness on which the IQI is based is the nominal single-
wall material thickness. Backing rings or strips shall not be considered as part of the thickness in
IQI selection.
• (c) Actual Values. With regard to (a) and (b) above, when the actual material/weld thickness is
measured, IQI selection may be based on these known values.
SECTION V, ARTICLE 2 – RADIOGRAPHIC EXAMINATION

• Revised T-277.1(d) and Article 2, Mandatory Appendix I, I-277(a) and I-277(b) to

replace “perpendicular to” with “across.”

• T-277.1 Placement of IQIs.

• (d) IQI Placement for Welds — Wire IQIs. The IQI(s) shall be placed on the weld so that
the length of the wires is across perpendicular to the length of the weld. The IQI
identification and, when used, the lead letter “F,” shall not be in the area of interest,
except when geometric configuration makes it impractical.
• T-292 The Manufacturer shall be responsible for preparation (previously shall
prepare) of a radiographic review form.
SECTION V, ARTICLE 4 – ULTRASONIC EXAMINATION METHODS FOR
WELDS

• Added wedge contouring requirements to T-432.2 and former T-432.2 redesigned as

T-432.3
• T-432 SEARCH UNITS
SECTION V, ARTICLE 4 – ULTRASONIC EXAMINATION METHODS FOR
WELDS

• T-432 SEARCH UNITS

SECTION V, ARTICLE 4 – ULTRASONIC EXAMINATION METHODS
FOR WELDS

• Revised para. T-434.1.2 to add subpara. (c), which contains the requirements for the
use of a basic calibration block manufactured from a different product form material
or has a different heat treatment from the component to be examined.
• T-434 CALIBRATION BLOCKS
• (c) Transfer Correction. When the block material is not of the same product form or has not
received the same heat treatment, it may be used provided it meets all other block requirements
and a transfer correction for acoustical property differences is used. Transfer correction shall be
determined by noting the difference between the signal response, using the same transducers
and wedges to be used in the examination, received from either

(1) the corresponding reference reflector (same type and dimensions) in the basic calibration
block and in the component to be examined, or
• (2) two search units positioned in the same orientation on the basic calibration block and
component to be examined.

The examination sensitivity shall be adjusted for the difference.

SECTION V, ARTICLE 4 – ULTRASONIC EXAMINATION METHODS
FOR WELDS

• Deleted T-434.2.3 to correct the conflict between T-434.2.3 and T-434.2.2. Deleted III-
434.2.3 to reflect the deletion of T-434.2.3.
• T-434.2 Non-Piping Calibration Blocks.
• T-434.2.3 Block Range of Use. When the block thickness ±1 in. (25 mm) spans two
weld thickness ranges as shown in Figure T-434.2.1, the block’s use shall be acceptable
in those portions of each thickness range covered by 1 in. (25 mm) of the calibration
block’s thickness. As an example, a calibration block with a thickness of 11/2 in. (38
mm) could be used for weld thicknesses of 0.5 in. (13 mm) to 2.5 in. (64 mm).
• For Coarse Grain materials, in T-451, weld mock-ups with reference reflectors in the
weld deposit with single or dual element angle beam LW transducers are required.
No more “ may be necessary”
SECTION V, ARTICLE 4 – ULTRASONIC EXAMINATION METHODS
FOR WELDS

• Added scanning Techniques as T-453 such that a person(s) may select, as an option, a
category of scanner mechanism for qualification, and subsequent exams in lieu of
naming a specific manufacturer and model.
• T-453 SCANNING TECHNIQUES
Examination may be performed by one of the following techniques:
(a) manual scanning using no scanner equipment
(b) non-automated scanning using non-automated scanner(s)
(c) semi automated scanning using semi automated scanner(s)
(d) automated scanning using automated scanner(s)
 SECTION V, ARTICLE 4 – ULTRASONIC EXAMINATION METHODS FOR
WELDS

• Revised Table IV-422 to require additional

essential variables related to wedges. Revised
• Table V-421 is revised to include additional
essential variables related to wedges.

Table V-421 in 2015 Edition

SECTION V, ARTICLE 4 – ULTRASONIC EXAMINATION METHODS
FOR WELDS

• Revised VII-434, VII-466, VIII-434, and VIII-466 to incorporate alternate methods of

simulator check and search unit positioning.
• VII-434 CALIBRATION BLOCKS
• VII-434.1 Calibration and Scan Plan Verification. The following methods from either (a) or both
(b) and (c) shall be used to verify the scan plan and examination calibration:

(a) Scanner Block. A block shall be fabricated meeting the requirements of T-434.1 and Figure T-
434.2.1 except that its thickness, T, shall be within the lesser of 1/4in. (6mm) or 25% of the
material thickness to be examined and the number and position of the side-drilled holes shall be
adequate to confirm the sensitivity setting of each probe, or probe pair in the case of a TOFD
setup, as positioned per the scan plan in the scanner. The scanner block is in addition to the
calibration block required per Article 4, unless the scanner block also has all the specified
reference reflectors required per Figure T-434.2.1. For scanner block(s), VII-466.1 shall apply.
SECTION V, ARTICLE 4 – ULTRASONIC EXAMINATION METHODS
FOR WELDS

• VII-434 CALIBRATION BLOCKS

• (b) Simulator Check. A simulator check shall be used prior to and at the end of each
examination or series of exams. The simulator check may use any reference block (i.e.,
IIW, Rompus) or any block with a known reflector(s), provided that amplitude and
time base signals can be identified and correlated to the original examination
calibration. The time base position, amplitude, and known reflector shall be recorded
on the calibration sheet(s). Accuracy of the simulator checks shall be verified at the
conclusion of each period of extended use. For simulator checks VII-466.2.1 shall
apply.

(c) Search Unit Position Verification. An adjustable scanner or search unit positioning
system that is capable of measuring and securing the search unit shall be used for the
purpose of maintaining and verifying a consistent probe position throughout the
examination to the extent of ensuring that compliance with the scan plan has been
achieved. VII-466.3 shall apply.
SECTION V, ARTICLE 4 – ULTRASONIC EXAMINATION METHODS
FOR WELDS

• Revised Article 4, Mandatory Appendix VIII, VIII-423; “Personnel Qualification” as

there was no definition or guideline to what constitutes actually participating in the
qualification. Personnel collecting data should demonstrate their ability to do so and
not just be there during the qualification.
• VIII-423 PERSONNEL QUALIFICATIONS
• Only qualified UT personnel trained in the use of the equipment and who have participated in
the technique qualification and/or demonstration or who have been trained and examined in
the technique requirements, shall conduct production scans. Participation is defined as having
collected data using the setup being qualified without assistance. Personnel who analyze and
interpret the collected data shall be a Level II or Level III who have documented training in the
use of the equipment and software used. The training and demonstration requirements shall be
addressed in the employer’s written practice.
SECTION V, ARTICLE 4 – ULTRASONIC EXAMINATION METHODS
FOR WELDS

• IX-435.6- Flaw size for Demonstration block- Wording is changed to accommodate h/l used by
B31.
• IX-482- Automated and semi-automated acceptable performance Criteria – revised
SECTION V, ARTICLE 6 – LIQUID PENETRANT EXAMINATION

• Revised T-673.1 to permit dry wiping followed by water-moistened wiping as an

alternative to water spray for removing excess water-washable penetrant. Made an
editorial change to T-673.3.
• T-673 EXCESS PENETRANT REMOVAL
• T-673.1 Water-Washable Penetrants.

(a) Excess water-washable penetrants shall be removed with a water spray. The water pressure
shall not exceed 50psi (350kPa), and the water temperature shall not exceed 110°F (43°C).

(b) As an alternative to (a), water-washable penetrants may be removed by wiping with a clean,
dry, lint-free cloth or absorbent paper, repeating the operation until most traces of penetrant
have been removed. The remaining traces shall be removed by wiping the surface with a cloth
or absorbent paper, lightly moistened with water. To minimize removal of penetrant from
discontinuities, care shall be taken to avoid the use of excess water.
SECTION V, ARTICLE 6 – LIQUID PENETRANT EXAMINATION

• Revised Article 6, Mandatory Appendix II, II-641 and II-642. Added new requirements
for water in II-643.
• II-642 AUSTENITIC OR DUPLEX STAINLESS STEEL AND TITANIUM
• When examining austenitic or duplex stainless steel and titanium, all penetrant materials shall
be analyzed individually for halogens content chlorine and fluorine content in accordance with
SE-165, Annex 4. Alternatively, the material may be decomposed and analyzed in accordance
with SD-808 or SE-165, Annex 2 for chlorine and SE-165, Annex 3 for fluorine. The total chlorine
and fluorine content shall not exceed 0.1% by weight.
• II-643 WATER
• (a) For water used in precleaning or as part of processes that involve water, if potable water
(e.g., drinking, bottled, distilled, or deionized water) is used, it is not required to be analyzed
for chlorine and sulfur.
• (b) Any other type of water used that does not meet the requirements of (a) above shall be
analyzed for chlorine in accordance with ASTM D1253 and for sulfur in accordance with SD-516.
The chlorine content shall not exceed 0.1% by weight and the sulfur content shall not exceed
0.1% by weight.
SECTION V, ARTICLE 8 – EDDY CURRENT EXAMINATION

• T-773 Application of wet particles from aerosol spray cans may be applied before
and/or during (after) magnetizing current application.
• Revised Articles 8, 16, and 17 to change “magnetic” and “ferritic” to “ferromagnetic”
and change “nonmagnetic” to “non-ferromagnetic.”
ARTICLE 23 ULTRASONIC STANDARDS

• Added
• Adopted D7091-13 as SD-7091, Standard practice for nondestructive measurement of
dry film thickness of nonmagnetic coatings applied to ferrous metals and
nonmagnetic, nonconductive coatings applied to non-ferrous metals
ARTICLE 24 – LIQUID PENETRANT STANDARDS

• Added
• Adopted ASTM E2297-15 as SE-2297, Standard guide for use of UV-A and Visible light
sources and meters used in the liquid penetrant and magnetic particle methods

• Adopted ASTM E3022-15 as SE-3022, Standard practice for measurement of emission

characteristics and requirements for led UV-A lamps used in fluorescent penetrant
and magnetic particle testing
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