scope:

The remit for this EEMUA document is to provide an overview with respect to selection, installation, and maintenance of a variety of the most commonly used mechanical pipe connector designs which can be used as an alternative to hot work i.e., a non-welded cold work solution. This document will prompt focus on key points for Users to select the most appropriate mechanical connector for the specific application and when developing their Maintenance and Inspection strategy for these components post installation. The User should justify the use of a mechanical connector in lieu of a conventional welded connection, however this is not the remit of this document. The primary function of the connectors covered in this guidance is to join two pipes i.e., to transfer the mechanical loads from one length of pipe to another, whilst maintaining pressure containment and not for the purpose of leak sealing or providing mechanical strength to a damaged section of piping. At the time of publication there was no known industry guidance for the management of mechanical connectors, though in-house strategies have been developed by many Users. It is the intention of this document to share good industry practices and highlight considerations to be captured when developing a strategy for mechanical connectors.

The design of the mechanical connectors included in this document are often proprietary designs and are classed as ASME B31.3 Unlisted Components. For this reason, the User should work closely with the OEM when developing their strategy, while using this document to supplement their knowledge and considerations. The remit of this document does not cover threaded fittings, flanged joints, or mechanical clamp repairs (as defined by ASME PCC-2). For guidance on repair management systems, refer to the Marsh Position Paper: Management of Temporary Repairs.

This document was developed by Engineers who work exclusively in the Oil and Gas Sector, as well as OEM Technical Specialists. Although the use of this document was originally targeted for the topside and upstream industry, it is recognised that it may be applicable to a range of other industries - Shipping, Mining, Steel, Chemicals, Nuclear, Water and Food & Beverages to name a few. It is the responsibility of the User to ensure specific details relating to their industry are considered when applying the guidance from this document.

Each Company's organisational structure will vary in terms of maintenance, engineering, and inspection departments. As such, it is the responsibility of the User or Equipment Owner to determine the strategy for mechanical connectors at their respective Companies. The strategy should be endorsed by the relevant Technical Authority for the Company.

This document will advise that a risk based approach is adopted to allow flexibility in application of mechanical connectors to the relevant situation; to ensure correct prioritisation based on design life and to ensure that the use of the mechanical connector does not adversely affect the safe operation of the piping system.

It is expected that the document reader has a basic competency in Piping Design and as such the level of detail contained within this guidance document has been set appropriately.