ASME B31.8S:2016 pdf free download Managing System Integrity of Gas Pipelines ASME Code for Pressure Piping, B31 Supplement to ASME B31.8
1 INTRODUCTION
1.1 Scope
This Code applies to onshore pipeline systemsconstructed with ferrous materials and that transportgas.The principles and processes embodied in integritymanagement are applicable to all pipeline systems.This Code is specifically designed to provide theoperator (as defined in section 13) with the informationnecessary to develop and implement an effective integritymanagement program utilizing proven industry practicesand processes.The processes and approaches describedwithin this Code are applicable to the entire pipeline.
1.2 Purpose and Objectives
Managing the integrity of a gas pipeline system is theprimary goal of every pipeline system operator. Operatorswant to continue providing safe and reliable delivery ofnatural gas to their customers without adverse effects onemployees, the public. customers, or the environment.lncident-free operation has been and continues to bethe gas pipeline industry’s goal. The use of this Codeas a supplement to the ASME B31.8 Code will allow pipe-line operators to move closer to that goal.
A comprehensive, systematic, and integrated integritymanagement program provides the means to improve thesafety of pipeline systems.Such an integrity managementprogram provides the information for an operator to effec-tively allocate resources for appropriate prevention,detection, and mitigation activities that will result inimproved safety and a reduction in the number ofincidents.
This Code describes a process thatan operator of a pipe-line system can use to assess and mitigate risks in order toreduce both the likelihood and consequences of incidents.lt covers both a prescriptive-based and a performance-based integrity management program.
The prescriptive process, when followed explicitly, willprovide all the inspection, prevention, detection, and miti-gation activities necessary to produce a satisfactory integ-rity management program. This does not precludeconformance with the requirements of ASME B31.8.The performance-based integrity management programalternative utilizes more data and more extensive riskanalyses,which enables the operator to achieve agreater degree of flexibility in order to meet or exceedthe requirements of this Code specifically in the areasof inspection intervals, tools used, and mitigation techni-ques employed.An operator cannot proceed with theperformance-based integrity program until adequateinspections are performed that provide the information on the pipeline condition required by the prescriptive- based program.
The level of assurance of a perfor- mance-based program or an alternative international standard must meet or exceed that of a prescriptive program. The requirements for prescriptive-based and perfor- mance- based integrity management programs are provided in each of the sections in this Code.
In addition, Nonmandatory Appendix A provides specific activities by threat categories that an operator shall follow in order to produce a satisfactory prescriptive integrity management program. . This Code is intended for use by individuals and teams charged with planning, implementing, and improving a pipeline integrity management program. Typically, a team will include managers, engineers, operating personnel, technicians, and/or specialists with specific expertise in prevention, detection, and mitigation activities.
1.3 Integrity Management Principles A set of principles is the basis for the intent and specific details of this Code. They are enumerated here so that the user of this Code can understand the breadth and depth to which integrity shall be an integral and continuing part of the safe operation of a pipeline system. Functional requirements for integrity management shall be engineered into new pipeline systems from initial planning, design, material selection, and construction. Integrity management of a pipeline starts with sound design, material selection, and construction of the pipe- line. Guidance for these activities is primarily provided in ASME B31.8.
There are also a number of consensus stan- dards that may be used, as well as pipeline jurisdictional safety regulations. If a new line is to become a part of an integrity management program, the functional require- ments for the line, including prevention, detection, and mitigation activities, shall be considered in order to meet this Code. Complete records of material, design, and construction for the pipeline are essential for the initiation of a good integrity management program.
System integrity requires commitment by all operating personnel using comprehensive, systematic, and inte- grated processes to safely operate and maintain pipeline systems. In order to have an effective integrity manage- ment program, the program shall address the operator’s organization, processes, and the physical system. An integrity management program is continuously evol- ving and must be flexible. An integrity management program should be customized to meet each operator’s unique conditions. The program shall be periodically