Strength tests.

(a) A strength test must be performed on each piping system and container to determine whether the component is capable of performing its design function, taking into account—

(1) The maximum allowable working pressure;

(2) The maximum weight of product which the component may contain or support;

(b) For piping, the test required by paragraph (a) of this section must include a pressure test conducted in accordance with section 345 of ASME/ANSI B31.3, except that test pressures must be based on the design pressure. Carbon and low alloy steel piping must be pressure tested above their nil ductility transition temperature.

(c) All shells and internal parts of heat exchangers to which section VIII, Division 1, or Division 2 of the ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code, applies must be pressure tested, inspected, and stamped in accordance therewith.

[45 FR 9203, Feb. 11, 1980, as amended at 58 FR 14522, Mar. 18, 1993]