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Comparison of ASME B16.34 and API 600 Standards

When it comes to industrial valve standards, two commonly referenced specifications are ASME B16.34 and API 600. While both standards address valve design and manufacturing, they serve different purposes and apply to distinct valve types. Understanding their differences is crucial for engineers, procurement specialists, and quality control professionals.

Scope and Application

ASME B16.34 is a comprehensive standard that covers the design, materials, dimensions, and testing requirements for valves with flanged, threaded, and welding end connections. It applies to a wide range of valve types including gate, globe, check, ball, and butterfly valves for various pressure classes.

API 600, on the other hand, specifically focuses on bolted bonnet steel gate valves for petroleum and natural gas industries. It’s more specialized than ASME B16.34 and includes additional requirements for materials, design features, and testing that are particularly relevant to hydrocarbon service.

Key Differences

1. Valve Types Covered

ASME B16.34 applies to multiple valve types across different industries, while API 600 is exclusively for steel gate valves in oil and gas applications.

2. Pressure-Temperature Ratings

Both standards provide pressure-temperature ratings, but API 600 includes additional requirements for severe service conditions commonly encountered in hydrocarbon processing.

3. Material Requirements

API 600 has more stringent material specifications, particularly for components exposed to corrosive environments. It also mandates specific material testing procedures.

4. Testing Requirements

While both standards require pressure testing, API 600 includes more comprehensive testing protocols including extended shell tests and additional seat leakage tests.

When to Use Each Standard

Choose ASME B16.34 when dealing with general industrial valves across various applications. It provides the fundamental requirements for most valve types.

Select API 600 when specifying bolted bonnet steel gate valves for critical hydrocarbon service, especially in refineries, pipelines, and petrochemical plants where more rigorous standards are required.

Conclusion

While there is some overlap between ASME B16.34 and API 600, they serve different purposes in the valve industry. ASME B16.34 provides broad requirements applicable to many valve types, while API 600 offers specialized specifications for gate valves in demanding oil and gas applications. Understanding these differences ensures proper valve selection and compliance with industry requirements.