scope:

PURPOSE

This John C. Stennis Space Center (SSC) standard (SSTD) sets forth the requirements and methods of conducting pressure tests in support of periodic recertification of in-service pressure vessels and pressure systems as prescribed by NASA-STD-8719.17.

APPLICABILITY

a This standard delineates the inspecting and testing practices used during periodic recertification of the in-service SSC pressure vessels and the pressure systems associated with them. Pressure vessel and system recertification will normally be accomplished by using nondestructive testing (NDT) as evidence of mechanical integrity.

b Code compliance pressure testing for the purpose of determining a maximum allowable working pressure shall normally not be the sole evidence for mechanical integrity. However, if the integrity of the component, pipe or vessel cannot be certified to be safe by referencing existing data, by visual inspection, engineering analysis, or comparison to like items with similar histories, it may then be necessary to pressure test the system above normal operating pressure to obtain adequate data for recertification.

c Once a requirement for pressure testing above normal operating pressure has been established, the standard practices set forth in this document will apply.

d The NASA Manager of the Engineering & Test Directorate, or designee, will be responsible for the interpretation of this document.