CHAPTER 13 ‑ BOILER AND PRESSURE VESSEL
SECTION .0100 ‑ DEFINITIONS
13 NCAC 13 .0101 DEFINITIONS
The following definitions apply throughout the rules in this
Chapter and shall be construed as controlling in case of any conflict with the
definitions contained in ANSI/NB-23 National Board Inspection Code Parts 2 and
3, The American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) Boiler and Pressure
Vessel Code, or The North Carolina State Building Code:
(1) "Accepted Design and Construction Code"
means the Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code of the American Society of Mechanical
Engineers (ASME Code), or a comparable code with standards that the Chief
Inspector determines to be as safe as the ASME Code.
(2) "Appurtenance" means any control,
fitting, appliance, or device attached to or working in conjunction with the
boiler proper or pressure vessel.
(3) "ASME Code" means the Boiler and Pressure
Vessel Code of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers.
(4) "Audit" means activities, other than
those identified as certificate inspections, conducted by the Chief Inspector
or his designee. These activities include the following:
(a) reviews and surveys for ASME and National
Board stamp issuance and renewal;
(b) audits conducted on an authorized inspector
at the location of a manufacturer or repair organization as may be required by
the ASME Code, National Board Inspection Code, or National Board Rules for
Commissioned Inspectors; and
(c) audits pursuant to evaluation for the
issuance of North Carolina Specials.
(5) "Automatically fired boiler" means a
boiler that cycles automatically in response to a control system and that does
not require a constant attendant for the purpose of introducing fuel into the
combustion chamber or to control electrical input.
(6) "Authorized Inspection Agency" means an
organization employing commissioned inspectors including the following:
(a) the Bureau as defined in Item (11) of this
Rule.
(b) an inspection agency of an insurance company
licensed to write boiler and pressure vessel insurance; or
(c) an owner-user inspection agency as defined
in Item (38) of this Rule.
(7) "Authorized inspector" means an employee
of an Authorized Inspection Agency who is commissioned by the National Board
and this State, holds an appropriate endorsement on his or her National Board
Commission, and inspects as the third party inspector in ASME Code
manufacturing facilities.
(8) "Boiler," as defined in G.S. 95-69.9(b),
includes the following types of boilers:
(a) "Exhibition boiler" means a
historical or antique boiler that generates steam or hot water for the purposes
of entertaining or educating the public or is used for demonstrations, tourist
transportation, or exhibitions. This term includes steam tractors, threshers,
steam powered sawmills, and similar usages;
(b) "High pressure boiler" means a
boiler in which steam or other vapor is generated at a pressure of more than 15
psig, or water is heated to a temperature greater than 250°F and a pressure
greater than 160 psig for use external to itself. High pressure boilers
include the following:
(i) Electric boilers;
(ii) Miniature boilers;
(iii) High temperature water boilers; and
(iv) High temperature liquid boilers (other than
water).
(c) "Low pressure boiler" means a
boiler in which steam or other vapor is generated at a pressure of not more
than 15 psig, or water is heated to a temperature not greater than 250°F and a
pressure not greater than 160 psig, including the following:
(i) "Hot water heating boiler" means
a low pressure boiler that supplies heated water that is returned to the boiler
from a piping system and is used normally for building heat applications
(hydronic boiler);
(ii) "Hot water supply boiler" means a
low pressure boiler that furnishes hot water to be used externally to itself
(domestic water boiler); and
(iii) "Steam heating boiler" means a low
pressure boiler that generates steam to be used normally for building heat
applications.
(d) "Model hobby boiler" means a boiler
that generates steam, whether stationary or mobile, where the boiler does not
exceed 20 square feet heating surface, a shell diameter of 16 inches, a volume
of 5 cubic feet, and a pressure not exceeding 150 psig and is used for the
purpose of entertainment or exhibiting steam technology; and
(e) "Water heater" means a closed
vessel in which water is heated by the combustion of fuel, by electricity, or
by any other source and withdrawn for potable use external to the system at
pressures not exceeding 160 psig and temperatures not exceeding 210°F.
(9) "Boiler blowoff" means the system
associated with the rapid draining of boiler water to remove concentrated
solids that have accumulated as a natural result of steam generation. This
term also applies to the blowoff for other boiler appurtenances, such as the
low-water fuel cutoff.
(10) "Boiler proper" or "pressure
vessel" means the internal mechanism, shell, and heads of a boiler or
pressure vessel terminating at:
(a) the first circumferential joint for welded
end connections;
(b) the face of the first flange in bolted
flange connections; or
(c) the first threaded joint in threaded
connections.
(11) "Bureau" means the Boiler Safety Bureau of
the North Carolina Department of Labor.
(12) "Certificate inspection" means an
inspection, the report of which is used by the Chief Inspector as justification
for issuing, withholding, or revoking the inspection certificate. The term
"certificate inspection" also applies to the external inspection
conducted in accordance with this Chapter whether or not a certificate is
intended to be issued as a result of the inspection.
(13) "Condemned boiler or pressure vessel"
means a boiler or pressure vessel:
(a) that has been found not to comply with G.S.
Chapter 95, Article 7A, or this Chapter;
(b) that constitutes a menace to public safety;
and
(c) that cannot be repaired or altered so as to
comply with G.S. Chapter 95, Article 7A, and this Chapter.
(14) "Coil type watertube boiler" means a
boiler having no steam space, such as a steam drum, whereby the heat transfer
portion of the water containing space consists only of a coil of pipe or
tubing.
(15) "Commissioned inspector" means an employee
of an Authorized Inspection Agency that is commissioned by the National Board
and the State of North Carolina and who is charged with conducting in-service
inspections of pressure equipment and inspecting repairs or alterations to that
equipment.
(16) "Defect" means any deterioration to the
pressure equipment affecting the integrity of the pressure boundary or its
supports. Defects may be cracks, corrosion, erosion, bags, bulges, blisters,
leaks, broken parts integral to the pressure boundary such as stays, or other
flaws identified by NDE or visual inspection.
(17) "Deficiency" means any violation of the
Uniform Boiler and Pressure Vessel Act or this Chapter or identified defects.
(18) "Design criteria" means accepted design
and construction code requirements relating to the mode of design and
construction of a boiler or pressure vessel.
(19) "External inspection" means an inspection
of the external surfaces and appurtenances of a boiler or pressure vessel. An
external inspection may entail the "shutting down" of a boiler or
pressure vessel while it is in operation, including inspection of internal
surfaces, if the inspector determines this action is warranted.
(20) "Hydropneumatic storage tank" means a
pressure vessel used for storage of water at ambient temperature not to exceed
120°F and where a cushion of air is contained within the vessel.
(21) "Imminent danger" means any condition or
practice in any location that a boiler or pressure vessel is being operated
such that a danger exists, and that could reasonably be expected to cause death
or serious physical harm immediately if the condition is not abated.
(22) "Insurance inspector" means the special
inspector employed by an insurance company, and holding a valid North Carolina
Commission and National Board Commission.
(23) "Internal inspection" means as complete an
examination as can reasonably be made of the internal and external surfaces and
appurtenances of a boiler or pressure vessel while it is shut down.
(24) "Maximum allowable working pressure
(MAWP)" means the maximum gauge pressure as determined by employing the
stress values, design rules, and dimensions designated by the accepted design
and construction code or as determined by the Chief Inspector in accordance
with this Chapter.
(25) "Menace to public safety" means a boiler
or pressure vessel that cannot be operated without a risk of injury to persons
and property.
(26) "Miniature boiler" means a boiler that
does not exceed any of the following:
(a) 16 inch inside shell diameter;
(b) 20 square feet of heating surface (does not
apply to electrically fired boilers);
(c) 5 cubic feet volume; and
(d) 100 psig maximum allowable working pressure.
(27) "National Board Commission" means the
commission issued by the National Board to those individuals who have passed
the National Board commissioning examination and have fulfilled the requirements
of the National Board Rules for Commissioned Inspectors.
(28) "National Board Inspection Code (NBIC)"
means the ANSI/NB-23 standard published by the National Board, as incorporated
by reference under Rule .0103 of this chapter.
(29) "Nondestructive examination (NDE)" means
examination methods used to verify the integrity of materials and welds in a
component without damaging its structure or altering its mechanical properties.
NDE may involve surface, subsurface, and volumetric examination. Visual inspection,
x-rays, and ultrasound are examples of NDE.
(30) "Nonstandard boiler or pressure vessels"
means:
(a) high pressure boilers contracted for or
installed before December 7, 1935;
(b) heating boilers contracted for or installed
before January 1, 1951;
(c) pressure vessels contracted for or installed
before January 1, 1976;
(d) hydropneumatic storage tanks contracted for
or installed before January 1, 1986; and
(e) boilers or pressure vessels for which the
ASME Code is not intended to apply, other than those boilers and pressure
vessels to which the term North Carolina Special applies.
(31) "Normal working hours" means between the
hours of 6:00 AM and 6:00 PM, Monday through Friday, except for state
recognized holidays established in 25 NCAC 01E .0901.
(32) "North Carolina Commission" means the
commission issued by the Board, to holders of a National Board Commission,
authorizing them to conduct inspections in this State.
(33) "North Carolina Special" means a boiler or
pressure vessel that is not constructed under the accepted design and
construction code and for which the owner or operator shall apply for a special
inspection certificate with the Chief Inspector.
(34) "NPS" means nominal pipe size.
(35) "Nuclear component" means the items in a
nuclear power plant such as pressure vessels, piping systems, pumps, valves,
and component supports.
(36) "Nuclear system" means a system comprised
of nuclear components which collectively serve the purpose of producing and
controlling an output of thermal energy from nuclear fuel and includes those
associated systems essential to the function and overall safety of the power
system.
(37) "Operating pressure" means the pressure at
which a boiler or pressure vessel operates. It shall not exceed the MAWP
except as shown in Section I of the ASME Code for forced flow steam generators.
(38) "Owner or user" means any person or legal
entity responsible for the operation of any boiler or pressure vessel installed
in this State. This term also applies to a contractor, installer, or agent of
the owner or user, as applicable.
(39) "Owner-user inspector" means an individual
who holds a valid North Carolina Commission and National Board Commission and
is employed by a company operating pressure vessels for its own use and not for
resale, and maintains an inspection program that meets the requirements of the
National Board for periodic inspection of pressure vessels owned or used by
that company.
(40) "Pressure piping" means piping, including
welded piping, external to high pressure boilers from the boiler proper to the
required valve(s).
(41) "Pressure relief devices" mean the devices
on boilers and pressure vessels set to open and relieve the pressure in the
event of an over pressurization event, and include the following:
(a) "Non-reclosing pressure relief
device" means a pressure relief device designed to remain open after
operation and includes a rupture disk that is a non-reclosing pressure relief
device actuated by static pressure upstream of the device and designed to function
by the bursting of a pressure retaining disk; and
(b) "Pressure relief valve" means a
pressure relief device that is designed to reclose and prevent the further flow
of fluid after normal conditions have been restored. These devices include:
(i) "Relief valve" means an automatic
pressure relief valve that is actuated by static pressure upstream of the valve
that opens further with the increase in pressure over the opening pressure;
(ii) "Safety relief valve" means an
automatic pressure relief valve that is actuated by static pressure upstream of
the valve and characterized by full opening pop action or by opening in
proportion to the increase in pressure over the opening pressure; and
(iii) "Safety valve" means an automatic
pressure relief valve that is actuated by static pressure upstream of the valve
and characterized by full opening pop action.
(42) "PSIG" means pounds per square inch gauge.
(43) "Reinspection or Follow-Up Inspection"
means as complete an examination as is necessary to verify that any repair or
corrective action required as a result of a certificate inspection is
completed.
(44) "Service vehicle" means a vehicle mounted
with an air storage tank and often with other storage tanks that have oil,
grease, or other fluids. The purpose of the vehicle is to service vehicles and
equipment in the field away from the owner's shop.
(45) "Shop inspection" means an inspection
conducted by an Authorized Inspector or a Commissioned Inspector pursuant to an
inspection service agreement whereby the fabrication process or the repair or
alteration of a boiler or pressure vessel is observed to ensure compliance with
the ASME Code and the NBIC. The term shop inspection includes nuclear shop
inspection where fabrication or material supply is done by the holder of an
ASME N type certificate.
(46) "Special inspection" means any inspection
conducted by a Deputy Inspector other than a regularly scheduled inspection.
Special inspection also includes the performance of an inspection by a Deputy
Inspector that requires that the inspector make a special trip to meet the
needs of the individual or organization requesting the inspection, including
conducting certificate inspections during hours other than normal working
hours, and inspection of field repairs and alterations.
(47) "Special inspector" means a National Board
commissioned inspector employed by an insurance company authorized to write
boiler and pressure vessel insurance in the state of North Carolina.
(48) "Violation" means the failure to comply
with the requirements of the Uniform Boiler and Pressure Vessel Act or this
Chapter.
History Note: Authority G.S. 95-69.11; 95-69.14;
Eff. May 29, 1981;
Temporary Amendment [(16)]; Eff. March 10, 1982, for a
Period of 120 Days to Expire on July 8, 1982;
Amended Eff. March 1, 2015; July 1, 2011; January 1,
2009; July 1, 2006; January 1, 1995; January 1, 1987; January 1, 1986; June 1,
1982.
13 NCAC 13 .0102 CONTROLLING
DEFINITIONS
History Note: Authority G.S. 95‑69.11; 95‑69.14;
Eff. May 29, 1981;
Repealed Eff. July 1, 2006.
13 NCAC 13 .0103 INCORPORATED - STANDARDS
(a) The following standards are incorporated by reference,
including subsequent amendments and editions of the standards:
(1) The ANSI/NB-23 National Board Inspection
Code (NBIC) Parts 2 and 3. Copies of the ANSI/NB-23 National Board Inspection
Code Parts 2 and 3 are available for inspection at the offices of the Bureau
and may also be obtained from the National Board of Boiler and Pressure Vessel
Inspectors, via U.S. Mail at 1055 Crupper Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43299, via
telephone at (614) 888-8320, or via the internet at www.nationalboard.org. The
cost is one hundred and fifty dollars ($150.00) per NBIC hard copy edition
(complete set); sixty-five dollars ($65.00) for one part only; and one hundred
and thirty dollars ($130.00) for two parts only, plus shipping and handling.
(2) The American Society of Mechanical
Engineers (ASME) Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code. Copies of the complete set
of the ASME Code are available for inspection at the offices of the Bureau and
may also be obtained from the American Society of Mechanical Engineers, via
U.S. Mail at P.O. Box 2300, Fairfield, New Jersey 07007-2300, via telephone at
(800) 843-2763, via facsimile at (973) 882-1170, via email at
infocentral@asme.org, or via the internet at www.asme.org. The cost is fourteen
thousand five hundred dollars ($14,500) per set.
(3) The North Carolina State Building Code. Copies of the North Carolina State Building Code are available for inspection
at the offices of the Bureau and may also be obtained either from the North
Carolina Department of Insurance, Office of the State Fire Marshall,
Engineering Division, Codebook Section, via walk-in at 322 Chapanoke Road,
Suite 200, Raleigh, North Carolina 27603, or from the International Code
Council via telephone at (800) 786-4452 or via the internet at www.ncdoi.com/OSFM/Engineering/CodeServices/engineering_codeservices_sales.asp.
The cost is one hundred sixteen dollars ($116.00) per copy.
(b) The rules of this Chapter shall control when any
conflict between these Rules and the standards cited in Subparagraphs (a)(1)
and (2) of this Rule exists. In the event that a conflict between these Rules
and the North Carolina State Building Code exists, the more stringent standard
prevails and shall be adhered to.
History Note: Authority G.S. 95-69.11; 95-69.14;
Eff. January 1, 1995;
Amended Eff. July 1, 2011; July 1, 2006.
SECTION .0200 ‑ ADMINISTRATION
13 NCAC 13 .0201 NAME: ADDRESS
(a) The Boiler Safety Bureau, which administers the
provisions of Article 7A of G.S. Chapter 95, is located in Raleigh at the
following physical address:
N.C. Department of
Labor
Boiler Safety Bureau
Old Revenue Building
111 Hillsborough
Street
Raleigh, North Carolina 27603.
(b) All correspondence shall be addressed to the following
mailing address:
North Carolina
Department of Labor
Boiler Safety Bureau
1101 Mail Service Center
Raleigh, North Carolina 27699-1101
Telephone (919)
807-2760
Fax (919) 807-2762.
History Note: Authority G.S. 95‑69.12;
Eff. May 29, 1981;
Amended Eff. July 1, 2006; January 1, 1995; June 1, 1992.
13 NCAC 13 .0202 INSPECTOR QUALIFICATION
(a) Deputy Inspectors conducting certificate inspections
shall be in possession of a valid North Carolina Commission. Special Inspectors
and Owner-User Inspectors shall be in possession of a National Board Commission
and a North Carolina Commission.
(b) A North Carolina Commission shall be issued to an
inspector who:
(1) has attained a passing grade of 70 percent
or higher on an examination administered by the Chief Inspector relating to the
Uniform Boiler and Pressure Vessel Act and the rules of this Chapter; and
(2) meets all other criteria as set forth in
the Uniform Boiler and Pressure Vessel Act and this Chapter.
(c) If a North Carolina Commissioned inspector does not
conduct at least one inspection in North Carolina per calendar year, the
inspector must retake and pass this examination before becoming commissioned again
in this state.
(d) National Board examinations are administered by the
National Board of Boiler and Pressure Vessel Inspectors through Applied
Measurement Professionals ("AMP"). Information on the examinations
may be found on the National Board web site at www.nationalboard.org or by telephone at (614) 888-8320.
(e) The National Board Inservice Inspector examination
covers the installation, operation, maintenance and repair of boilers and
pressure vessels and their appurtenances. A grade of 70 percent or higher must
be attained to achieve a passing grade on the examination.
History Note: Authority G.S. 95-69.11; 95-69.15;
Eff. May 29, 1981;
Amended Eff. July 1, 2011; January 1, 2009; July 1, 2006;
January 1, 1995; September 1, 1986.
13 NCAC 13 .0203 NORTH CAROLINA COMMISSION
(a) When requested by the employer and upon presentation of
a properly completed Application for Commission as an Inspector of Boilers and Pressure
Vessels, a North Carolina Commission, bearing the signature of the Commissioner,
shall be issued by the Board of Boiler and Pressure Vessel Rules (the
"Board") to persons holding a valid National Board Commission who
have taken and passed the examination specified in 13 NCAC 13 .0202(b).
(b) Applications for a North Carolina Commission shall be
processed upon proof of a National Board Commission and payment of a
thirty-five dollar ($35.00) fee to the Department of Labor.
(c) North Carolina Commissions are valid through December
31, at which time the inspector's employer shall submit a renewal request
letter and a thirty-five dollar ($35.00) fee to the Department of Labor.
(d) The North Carolina Commission shall be returned by the
employing company with notification of termination date to the Bureau within 30
days of termination of employment.
(e) A North Carolina Commission may be suspended or revoked
by the Board in accordance with G.S. 95-69.13 for incompetence,
untrustworthiness, or falsification of any statement in an application or
inspection report. The Board shall give notice of the commencement of
proceedings for suspension or revocation of a commission pursuant to G.S.
150B-23. A North Carolina Commission may be suspended prior to the hearing if
the Chief Inspector determines that the public health, safety, or welfare
requires the suspension. In this case, the proceedings shall be promptly
commenced and determined in accordance with G.S. 150B-3. The Board's decision
regarding the competency of an inspector shall be determined after
consideration of the knowledge, skill, and care ordinarily possessed and
employed by boiler and pressure vessel inspection personnel in good standing.
Industry custom and practice shall be considered but are not determinative.
Failure to conduct the inspections in accordance with this Chapter shall
constitute incompetence. The Board shall give the inspector opportunity to
show that he is conducting his duties in a competent manner and that suspension
or revocation is unwarranted. If the inspector believes that the decision of
the Board is not warranted, he may file a petition for judicial review pursuant
to Article 4 of Chapter 150B of the N.C. General Statutes.
History Note: Authority G.S. 95-69.11; 95-69.15;
Eff. May 29, 1981;
Amended Eff. March 1, 2015; July 1, 2011; January 1, 2009;
July 1, 2006; January 1, 1995; March 2, 1992; September 1, 1986.
13 NCAC 13 .0204 CONFLICT OF INTEREST
No one holding a commission in North Carolina shall engage
in any conduct or endeavor that would constitute a conflict of interest
including the following:
(1) Ownership or employment in any kind of boiler or
pressure vessel sales or service business;
(2) Ownership or employment in any kind of boiler or
pressure vessel parts or appurtenances sales or service business;
(3) Consultative services for accepted design and
construction codes or National Board quality program design or implementation;
or
(4) Inspection services outside the purview of the
employing entity.
History Note: Authority G.S. 95-69.11; 95-69.14;
Eff. May 29, 1981;
Amended Eff. July 1, 2011; January 1, 2009; July 1, 2006;
January 1, 1995.
13 NCAC 13 .0205 OWNER‑USER INSPECTION AGENCY
(a) A company seeking to conduct inspections of its own
pressure vessels shall file an application with the Chief Inspector and obtain approval
from the Board.
(b) The company shall, in its application, designate a
supervisor who shall be an engineer within its employ, who, upon approval of
the application, shall:
(1) ascertain that the company's inspectors,
pursuant to Rules .0202 and .0203 of this Section, are issued owner‑user
commission cards;
(2) supervise inspections of pressure vessels
and see that an inspection report, signed by the owner‑user inspector, is
filed at the equipment site;
(3) notify the Chief Inspector of any unsafe pressure
vessel that presents a condition of imminent danger;
(4) maintain a master file of inspection
records that shall be made available for examination by the Chief Inspector or
his representative during business hours:
(A) identifying each pressure vessel by serial number
and abbreviated description; and
(B) showing the date of the last and next scheduled
inspection;
(5) on a date mutually agreed upon with the
Chief Inspector, file an annual statement signed by the supervisor, showing the
number of boilers and certifying that each inspection was conducted pursuant to
this Chapter, accompanied by an administrative fee of twenty-five dollars
($25.00) per vessel.
(c) Inspection certificates shall not be required for
pressure vessels inspected under an owner‑user program.
History Note: Authority G.S. 95‑69.11; 95‑69.15;
95-69.16;
Eff. May 29, 1981;
Amended Eff. March 1, 2015; January 1, 2009; July 1,
2006; January 1, 1995; March 2, 1992; September 1, 1986.
13 NCAC 13 .0206 OWNERS OR USERS TO NOTIFY CHIEF
INSPECTOR OF ACCIDENTS
(a) The owner or user of a boiler or pressure vessel shall
notify the Chief Inspector within 24 hours when a device is rendered
inoperative due to an over pressurization, dry firing or any related event that
causes damage to the equipment, real or personal property, personal injury, or
death.
(b) No person shall remove or disturb the boiler, pressure
vessel, or any of its parts, before an investigation by the Chief Inspector or
designee has been made, except for the purpose of conserving life or limiting
consequential damages.
(c) Insurance inspectors who elect to investigate an
accident shall not have equipment removed from the location until an
investigation has been made by the Chief Inspector or designee.
History Note: Authority G.S. 95‑69.11; 95‑69.14;
Eff. May 29, 1981;
Amended Eff. January 1, 2009; July 1, 2006; January 1,
1995.
13 NCAC 13 .0207 INSPECTION REPORTS
(a) Inspectors shall file inspection reports with the Chief
Inspector:
(1) within 10 working days after each
certificate inspection; and
(2) immediately for all conditions of imminent
danger, or any condition that would result in the insurance company's refusal
to issue or continue an insurance policy on the boiler or pressure vessel.
(b) Inspectors shall notify the Chief Inspector, in person
or by electronic means, upon becoming aware of an accident which renders a
boiler or pressure vessel inoperative or causes damage to property, personal
injury, or death.
(c) Should the inspector, during the course of making an
inspection, find a condition of imminent danger, he shall immediately notify
the Chief Inspector, in person or by electronic means, so that steps might be
taken to remove the device from service.
History Note: Authority G.S. 95‑69.11; 95‑69.14;
Eff. May 29, 1981;
Amended Eff. July 1, 2006; January 1, 1995.
13 NCAC 13 .0208 INSURANCE COMPANIES TO NOTIFY CHIEF
INSPECTOR
(a) All insurance companies shall notify the Chief
Inspector within 30 days if any of the following actions are taken concerning boiler
or pressure vessels:
(1) the issuance of a policy;
(2) the cancellation of a policy; or
(3) removal of a boiler or pressure vessel from
service.
(b) All insurance companies shall notify the Chief
Inspector within 10 days regarding the non-renewal or suspension of a policy
because of unsafe conditions.
(c) Notification for items listed under Paragraph (a) of
this Rule shall be made by using the National Board form NB-4, or a form
determined by the Chief Inspector to be equivalent to the National Board form. Notifications
under Paragraph (b) of this Rule shall be made by telephone at (919) 807-2760,
email at boiler.safety@labor.nc.gov or overnight mail
or package delivery service to the Boiler Safety Bureau, B506, 111 Hillsborough
St., Raleigh, NC 27603. All notifications shall include reference to the
following:
(1) Object, date of service and effective date;
(2) Owner's number;
(3) Jurisdiction number;
(4) National Board number;
(5) Name of manufacturer;
(6) Name of owner including county;
(7) Location of object including county;
(8) User of object;
(9) Date of last inspection for certificate;
(10) Whether or not a certificate of inspection
was issued; and
(11) Reason for discontinuance or cancellation.
History Note: Authority G.S. 95-69.11; 95-69.14;
Eff. May 29, 1981;
Amended Eff. July 1, 2011; January 1, 2009; July 1, 2006;
January 1, 1995.
13 NCAC 13 .0209 INSTALLERS TO NOTIFY CHIEF INSPECTOR
Any company or individual installing boilers or pressure
vessels subject to inspection in accordance with this Chapter shall notify the Chief
Inspector and request a certificate inspection not less than 10 working days
prior to placing equipment in operation. Any company or individual wishing to
install used boilers or pressure vessels that are subject to this Chapter shall
request permission using the Used Equipment Request Form found on the Boiler
Safety Bureau website. Equipment shall not be operated, other than for
testing, prior to an inspection being conducted that finds the boiler or
pressure vessel to be in compliance with this Chapter.
History Note: Authority G.S. 95-69.11; 95-69.14;
Eff. May 29, 1981;
Amended Eff. July 1, 2011; July 1, 2006; January 1, 1995.
13 NCAC 13 .0210 SHOP INSPECTIONS AND NATIONAL BOARD
R STAMP QUALIFICATION REVIEWS
(a) Shop Inspections.
(1) Manufacturers or repair firms seeking to
employ the Boiler Safety Bureau to act as their Authorized Inspection Agency
pursuant to the ASME Code or National Board Inspection Code, shall enter into a
written agreement with the North Carolina Department of Labor, Boiler Safety
Bureau for this purpose.
(2) An audit of the Deputy Inspector serving as
the Authorized Inspector pursuant to Subparagraph (a)(1) of this Rule, and the contracting
company in which he or she is working shall be conducted on an annual basis for
non-nuclear companies and twice each year for nuclear companies. The
contracting company shall pay the audit fees required in Rule .0213 of this
Section.
(b) National Board R Stamp Qualification Reviews
(1) The Chief Inspector, or the Chief
Inspector's designee, shall conduct the qualification reviews for issuance of the
National Board R symbol stamp pursuant to the National Board Inspection Code as
adopted, except as provided in Subparagraph (b)(2) of this Rule.
(2) The Chief Inspector or his designee shall
not conduct the qualification reviews of those companies for which the Boiler
Safety Bureau provides inspection services, or those companies which
specifically request the review be conducted by the National Board.
(3) A review to be conducted by the Boiler
Safety Bureau shall be scheduled upon receipt of request by the National Board.
History Note: Authority G.S. 95‑69.11; 95‑69.14;
Eff. May 29, 1981;
Amended Eff. March 1, 2015; October 1, 2008; July 1, 2006; January 1, 1995.
13 NCAC 13 .0211 CERTIFICATE INSPECTIONS
(a) A commissioned inspector shall inspect all boilers and
pressure vessels at the time of installation and at regular intervals
thereafter, as provided in this Rule.
(b) Subject to the exceptions in Paragraphs (c) and (d) of
this Rule, and after seven days notice is given to the owner or user, an
inspector shall conduct an internal inspection of a high pressure boiler at the
time of installation and annually thereafter. An external inspection shall be
conducted annually while the boiler is in operation. The inspector shall
ensure that the safety controls are operating as required. Issuance of the
inspection certificate shall be based on the results of the internal
inspection; however, if the inspector determines during the external inspection
that an unsafe condition exists that is likely to result in serious personal
injury or property damage, the inspector shall recommend to the Chief Inspector
that the certificate of operation be revoked pursuant to 13 NCAC 13 .0301(d).
(c) In place of the first internal inspection of a new high
pressure boiler, an inspector may conduct an external inspection if the
inspector determines that data sufficient to determine compliance with the
rules of this Chapter can be gathered from an external inspection. This shall
not apply to relocated used boilers or those for which extended inspection
certificates are being requested.
(d) Miniature boilers, coil-type watertube boilers, and
boilers heating a fluid other than water which do not produce steam or vapor
operating as high pressure boilers shall undergo an external inspection
annually. Miniature boilers, coil-type watertube boilers and boilers heating a
fluid other than water operating as heating boilers shall undergo an external
inspection biennially. Hobby boilers, locomotive boilers and exhibition
boilers shall be inspected annually, at the beginning of the season when they
are anticipated to be operated.
(e) Low pressure boilers and pressure vessels, except
hydropneumatic storage tanks, shall undergo an external inspection biennially.
(f) Owner-user inspectors shall conduct inspections for
pressure vessels as prescribed in this Rule.
(g) Inspectors may order coverings removed, internal
inspections, external inspections, removal of internal parts, testing or
calibration of controls, indicating and safety devices and pressure tests
whenever conditions warrant further evaluation of the pressure equipment. The
inspector may also require the boiler to be started to verify the operating
controls.
(h) Hydropneumatic storage tanks shall undergo an external
inspection every four years.
(i) When the inspector or Chief Inspector determines that a
certificate cannot be issued as a result of an inspection, the boiler or
pressure vessel shall be reinspected after the necessary repairs are made.
(j) Inspections shall be conducted in accordance with the
National Board Inspection Code. The inspector may require controls, indicating
and safety devices to be disassembled, tested, checked or calibrated as
necessary to ensure their proper operation.
(k) The Chief Inspector may extend an existing inspection
certificate for a high pressure boiler for a period not exceeding 90 days
beyond the certificate expiration date, should an inspection at the specified
period result in undue hardship for the owner or user. The owner or user shall
submit a written request to extend an existing inspection certificate,
providing justification for an extension. The request shall include a report
from a commissioned inspector of an external inspection which shall have been
conducted no earlier than 60 days before the certificate expiration date, and
the inspection report shall include a recommendation from the inspector for an
extension to the inspection certificate.
(l) The inspection frequency established by this Rule may
be modified by the Chief Inspector for individual boilers and pressure vessels
if the Chief Inspector determines that due to unique conditions, the frequency
established herein is not appropriate, and that the safety attained by the
normal inspection frequency will be otherwise obtained. Requirements for
extended certificates for pressure equipment are detailed in Rule .0214 of this
Chapter. Pressure vessels in "Locked High Radiation" areas may be
certified for up to five years and may be inspected in accordance with Paragraph
(m) of this Rule.
(m) Pressure retaining items which contain highly hazardous
chemicals or biological elements that require level B personal protective
equipment, or are in highly hazardous areas or pressure retaining items
containing radioactive materials causing the pressure equipment to be
classified as "Locked High Radiation," may be inspected remotely by
video provided:
(1) There is a listing of all the items under
this criterion at the site. The list shall be kept current by the owner/user
and any additions or deletions shall be kept current. Prior to inspection the
inspector shall review the last inspection certificate, the ASME data report,
any National Board ("NB") repair/alteration forms and any records of
testing performed during the certificate period;
(2) Each item shall be inspected by means of
live video feed that is monitored by the inspector. The inspector shall remain
in radio contact with the individual operating the video equipment;
(3) The inspector shall be in proximity to the
item and shall witness the video equipment operator enter the location of the
item;
(4) A scan as complete as possible (within the
limitations of the equipment) of all the pressure boundaries shall be witnessed
by the inspector;
(5) The ASME nameplate shall be viewed as well
as the ASME/NB nameplate on any pressure relieving device on the item;
(6) Follow up inspections to verify the
correction of deficiencies can be performed with a video inspection using the
items outlined herein by the inspector;
(7) The inspector shall submit an inspection
report for each pressure retaining item at intervals specified in this Rule and
the report shall be annotated indicating that the item was inspected pursuant
to this Paragraph; and
(8) Any incident that renders the item
inoperative shall be reported to the Bureau by the owner/user or the inspector
within 24 hours.
History Note: Authority G.S. 95-69.11; 95-69.14;
95-69.17;
Eff. May 29, 1981;
Amended Eff. August 1, 2011; July 1, 2006; January 1,
1995; March 2, 1992.
13 NCAC 13 .0212 PREPARATION FOR INSPECTION
(a) The owner or user shall prepare a high pressure boiler,
including locomotive, hobby and exhibition boilers, for internal inspection by:
(1) cooling the boiler, furnace, and setting so
as to prevent damage to any part;
(2) draining and washing internal parts to be
inspected, including disassembly and cleaning of float bowl type low-water fuel
cutoff devices and associated piping plugs or caps;
(3) removing wash-out, drain, and inspection
plugs;
(4) removing enough of the grates in an
internally fired boiler to permit inspection;
(5) removing soot, ashes and unburned solid
fuel plus enough brickwork, refractory, and insulation to permit inspection;
(6) removing manhole and handhole plates;
(7) preparing the controls and safety devices
for inspection and testing;
(8) preventing leakage of water, steam, or
vapors into boiler interiors that would endanger personnel;
(9) providing adequate ventilation to prevent
the accumulation of hazardous gasses; and
(10) providing, when requested by the inspector,
a competent person, as defined under the North Carolina Occupational Safety
& Health standard for confined spaces, to assist the inspector in the performance
of his inspection.
(b) In addition to the requirements in Paragraph (a) of
this Rule, the owner or user shall prepare a high pressure boiler that has a
manhole and which is connected to a common header with another boiler for
internal inspection by:
(1) closing and tagging, or padlocking, the
steam stop valves and opening all drain valves or cocks located between the
steam stop valves;
(2) closing and tagging, or padlocking, the
feed and check valves and opening all drain valves or cocks located between the
feed and check valves;
(3) draining boiler and then closing and
padlocking the blowoff valves;
(4) disconnecting, at the request of the
inspector, blowoff lines between pressure parts and valves;
(5) opening all drains and vent lines;
(6) closing and tagging or padlocking all fuel
valves, blower or fan motors and any other devices that may deliver energy in
any form to the boiler; and
(7) after complying with all other provisions
of this Rule, removing the manhole covers.
(c) The owner or user need not make any special preparation
for an external inspection of a boiler or pressure vessel, except that if the
inspector requires the boiler or pressure vessel to be shut down for a closer
inspection, the boiler or pressure vessel shall be prepared as is required for
the internal inspection of a high pressure boiler.
History Note: Authority G.S. 95-69.11;
Eff. May 29, 1981;
Amended Eff. July 1, 2011; July 1, 2006; January 1, 1995.
13 NCAC 13 .0213 CERTIFICATE AND INSPECTION FEES
(a) An owner shall pay a thirty-five dollar ($35.00) certificate
and processing fee to the North Carolina Department of Labor for each boiler or
pressure vessel inspected by an Insurance Inspector and found to be in
compliance with the rules in this Chapter.
(b) An owner shall pay an inspection and certificate fee to
the North Carolina Department of Labor for each boiler or pressure vessel
inspected by a Deputy Inspector as follows:
Boilers - An inspection of a boiler where the heating
surface is: External Inspection Internal
Inspection
Less than 500 sq. ft. $50.00 $85.00
500 or more sq. ft. but less than 5000 sq. ft. $120.00 $235.00
5000 or more sq. ft. $330.00 $600.00
Cast iron boilers $50.00 $80.00
Locomotive boilers (Antique Exhibition/Show) N/A $150.00
Exhibition boilers (Antique Exhibition/Show) N/A $50.00
Hobby boilers N/A $35.00
Pressure Vessels - An inspection of a pressure vessel, other
than a
heat exchanger, where the product of measurement in feet of
the
diameter or width, multiplied by its length is: External
Inspection Internal
Inspection
Less than 20 $40.00 $45.00
20 or more but less than 50 $50.00 $60.00
50 or more but less than 70 $85.00 $135.00
70 or more $135.00 $190.00
Heat Exchangers - An inspection of a heat exchanger, where
the
heating surface is: External
Inspection
Less than 500 sq. ft. $45.00
500 or more sq. ft. but less than 1000 sq. ft. $60.00
1000 or more sq. ft. but less than 2000 sq. ft. $90.00
2000 or more sq. ft. but less than 3000 sq. ft. $130.00
3000 $180.00
(c) In addition to the fees established in Paragraph (b)
herein, a fee of ninety dollars ($90.00) per hour, including travel time, plus each
expense allowed by G.S. 138-6 and 138-7 and the standards and criteria
established thereto by the Director of the Budget, at the applicable state rate
shall be paid to the North Carolina Department of Labor for each special
inspection as defined by 13 NCAC 13 .0101(46) and for all inspections
performed outside of normal working hours as defined by 13 NCAC 13 .0101(31).
(d) A fee of three-hundred fifty dollars ($350.00) per one‑half
day (four hours) or any part of one‑half day or five-hundred
sixty-dollars ($560.00) for one day (four to eight hours) plus, in either case,
each expense allowed by G.S. 138-6 and 138-7 and the standards and criteria
established thereto by the Director of the Budget, at the applicable state rate
shall be paid to the North Carolina Department of Labor for each shop
inspection as defined by 13 NCAC 13 .0101(45).
(e) A fee of four hundred dollars ($400.00) per one‑half
day (four hours) or any part of one‑half day or six hundred ten dollars
($610.00) for one day (four to eight hours), plus, in either case, each expense
allowed by G.S. 138-6 and 138-7 and the standards and criteria established
thereto by the Director of the Budget, at the applicable state rate shall be
paid to the North Carolina Department of Labor for each nuclear shop inspection
as defined by 13 NCAC 13 .0101(45).
(f) A fee of four hundred fifty dollars ($450.00) per one‑half
day (four hours) or any part of one‑half day or six hundred ninety
dollars ($690.00) for one day (four to eight hours), plus, in either case, each
expense allowed by G.S. 138-6 and 138-7 and the standards and criteria established
thereto by the Director of the Budget, at the applicable state rate shall be
paid to the North Carolina Department of Labor for audits as defined by 13 NCAC
13 .0101(4).
History Note: Authority G.S. 95‑69.11;
Eff. May 29, 1981;
Amended Eff. January 1, 1995; March 2, 1992; September 1,
1986;
Temporary Amendment Eff. March 11, 1997;
Temporary Amendment Eff. March 11, 1997 expired on
December 27, 1997;
Temporary Amendment Eff. December 10, 1997;
Amended Eff. March 1, 2015; July 1, 2006; March 1, 2006;
August 1, 1998.
13 NCAC 13 .0214 EXTENDED PRESSURE EQUIPMENT
OPERATING CERTIFICATES
(a) G.S. 95-69.16 and 13 NCAC .0211(l) of this Chapter
allows the Commissioner, through the Chief Inspector, to modify the inspection
frequency for individual pressure equipment if it is determined that due to
unique conditions, the new frequency will provide for the safety attained by
the normal inspection frequency. Proper maintenance programs, the condition of
the pressure equipment and a baseline inspection help to determine if the
equipment is eligible for extended certification. The Chief Inspector may allow
certificate renewal frequencies of up to three years. Companies wishing to
have their pressure equipment given an extended certification must apply by
letter to the Chief Inspector requesting extended certification.
(b) For a first time extended inspection frequency, the
following shall apply to both new and existing equipment:
(1) Base Line Inspections: At the outset of an
extended inspection frequency, a base line inspection must be conducted of all
inside and outside accessible pressure boundaries. The inspected area shall be
examined visually by a North Carolina Department of Labor, Boiler Safety Bureau
Inspector Supervisor along with a Deputy Inspector for evidence of cracking,
discoloration, wear, pitting, bulging, blistering, excessive corrosion and
erosion, arc strikes, gouges, dents and other signs of surface irregularities. Areas
that are suspect shall be non-destructively examined by a method acceptable to
the Inspector Supervisor and Deputy Inspector. For areas which are still suspect
after such examination, a more thorough supplemental examination and
engineering evaluation of the discontinuities shall be conducted and discussed
with the Chief Inspector or designee. At that time, a decision shall be
rendered on the required repair of the discontinuity;
(2) Inspection Mapping and Records: An
inspection grid map shall be constructed for each pressure component detailing
precisely the areas found suspect. The grid shall not exceed four inch square.
Suspect area shall be described in relevant details and photographs of such
areas shall be taken. Records shall be kept and made available to the Deputy
Inspector prior to the next required inspection;
(3) Base Line Inspection of Boiler Tubes: The
boiler tubes shall be examined by nondestructive examination. Tubes shall be
examined for wear, corrosion, erosion, thinning, bulging, blistering, dents,
discoloration, cracking and any other surface irregularities. Areas which are
suspect shall be noted and discussed with the Inspector Supervisor and Deputy Inspector;
and
(4) Boiler Tube Inspection Mapping and Record:
Where suspect tubes are identified, the boiler tubes shall be numbered in a
logical sequence and the location of any suspect area shall be precisely defined
and described in relevant details. Photographs of such areas shall be taken. Records
shall be kept and made available to the Inspector Supervisor and Deputy
Inspector prior to the next required inspection.
(c) Scheduling of Inspections for Extended Certificate:
Approximately two months prior to a scheduled outage in which the boiler may be
inspected, and prior to the current certificate expiration, the owner shall do
the following in order to initiate the inspection process:
(1) Send a letter addressed to the Chief
Inspector requesting the extended certificate;
(2) Contact the North Carolina Department of
Labor, Boiler Safety Bureau at 919-807-2760 and request to speak with an
Inspector Supervisor for the purpose of scheduling the inspections required for
extending the boiler inspection certificate expiration for to up to 36 months
(have the North Carolina identification number available); and
(3) Agree with the Inspector Supervisor and
Deputy Inspector on a date to meet for the external inspection of the boiler
and to review reports. The boiler must be operating when the external
inspection is done. Heat recovery boilers with less than one percent capacity
factor per year may be excluded from the need to operate during the external
inspection but a letter requesting the exclusion must be sent to the Chief Inspector
stating the capacity factor for the year.
(d) External Inspection: The following reports must be
available to the Inspector Supervisor and Deputy Inspector at the external
inspection:
(1) NBIC R1 forms with job folders (for the
past five years for initial inspections and since the previous inspection for renewals);
(2) A list of major modifications scheduled and
those modifications done since the last internal inspection with the NBIC R2 forms;
(3) VR forms (for the past five years for
initial inspections and since the previous inspection for renewals);
(4) Remaining life analysis (RLA) reports for
headers (for the past five years for initial inspections and since the previous
inspection for renewals);
(5) Side elevation drawing of the boiler (8 ½
inches by 11 inches);
(6) Steam & Mud drums - Original drum
thickness, drawings and P4's if available;
(7) Copy of the last operating certificate and copies
of the last three years of inspection reports;
(8) Reports of annual external inspections (by
owner's insurance company or a Boiler Safety Bureau Deputy Inspector; and
(9) Attention must be paid to the areas
determined suspect by previous inspections.
(e) Internal Inspection: Following are the required inspections
during the outage:
(1) Prior to the outage the safety valves must
be inspected. Schedule the operational test for all safety valves after the
unit comes back up. Upon a successful operational test, the repair
organization will affix an updated inspection tag to the valve. Request the
Deputy Inspector to return and verify the updated inspection tag. In lieu of
operational tests, it is acceptable to replace safety valves with new valves or
valves reworked by a National Board "VR" or "NVR"
authorized company;
(2) Inspect the pressure equipment internally;
and
(3) Inspect the drums and shells using the
following methods:
(A) Examine penetrations into the drum/shell wall for
cracking: if the nozzles are visible from inside the drum/shell, then a visual
examination is satisfactory; otherwise ultrasonically examine the nozzles, from
the outside surface, of at least 20 percent of the pressure equipment nozzles;
(B) Visually examine inside the heads; and
(C) Crawl through the drum/shell for a visual
examination if possible.
(f) Setting the Certificate Interval: The Deputy Inspector
will inform the owner whether the inspection records and condition of the
pressure equipment meet the requirements necessary for requesting the Chief
Inspector to extend the inspection certificate. If the necessary requirements
are met, the Deputy Inspector will submit his inspection report to the Chief
Inspector with the recommendation for up to a three-year certificate.
(g) Follow-up and Interim Inspections: External
inspections of high pressure boilers are required six months after the
certificate renewal, and then annually thereafter. The external inspections
may be performed by the Boiler Safety Bureau Deputy Inspectors or by the owner's
insurance inspector. The results of the inspection must be submitted to the
North Carolina Department of Labor, Boiler Safety Bureau on the appropriate
inspection form as provided by the Chief Inspector.
History Note: Authority G.S. 95-69.11; 95-69.14;
95-69.16;
Eff. July 1, 2011.
SECTION .0300 ‑ ENFORCEMENT OF STANDARDS
13 NCAC 13 .0301 INSPECTION DOCUMENTATION
(a) The inspector shall document the results of the
inspection on a written inspection report or in an electronic format recognized
by the Chief Inspector.
(b) If the inspector finds that the boiler or pressure
vessel is in compliance with the rules in this Chapter, he shall indicate on
the report that the boiler or pressure vessel is satisfactory.
(c) If the inspector finds the boiler or pressure vessel is
not in compliance with the rules in this Chapter, he shall specify on the
inspection report the deficiencies and the required repairs or corrective
action.
(d) The inspector shall determine if the deficiency is such
that operation of the boiler or pressure vessel creates a condition of imminent
danger. If a condition of imminent danger exists, the inspector shall state on
the inspection report that operation of the boiler or pressure vessel is to cease
until completion of the necessary repairs or corrective action. The inspector
shall notify the Chief Inspector upon discovery of any condition of imminent
danger.
(e) If the condition of the boiler or pressure vessel is
such that repairs or corrective action cannot bring the boiler or pressure
vessel into compliance, the inspector shall recommend to the Chief Inspector
that the boiler or pressure vessel be condemned from further use.
(f) For inspections revealing deficiencies, the inspector
shall provide the owner/user contact with specific information regarding the
violation. The Bureau shall generate a Notice of Violation letter and send to
the owner/user. The Notice of Violation shall outline the violation(s), the
required corrective action, and the date by which the corrective action shall
be completed.
(g) The Bureau shall issue an invoice to the owner or user
for the inspections made and for issuance of the inspection certificate. The
owner or user shall remit payment as indicated on the invoice within 30 days to
the North Carolina Department of Labor.
History Note: Authority G.S. 95-69.11; 95-69.16;
Eff. May 29, 1981;
Amended Eff. July 1, 2011; January 1, 2009; July 1, 2006;
January 1, 1995; August 1, 1988.
13 NCAC 13 .0302 CERTIFICATE ISSUANCE
(a) The Chief Inspector shall issue an inspection
certificate to the owner/user, upon receipt of payment, when the boiler or
pressure vessel is found to be in compliance with this Chapter.
(b) The owner shall post the inspection certificate under
protective cover in a prominent place visible to the operator while reading the
pressure, or if a pressure gauge is not required to be installed, while
observing operation of the boiler or pressure vessel, unless environmental
conditions or proprietary reasons make it impracticable. The certificate shall
be maintained in a readily retrievable location if the conditions make it
impracticable to post.
(c) If the Chief Inspector determines that a boiler or
pressure vessel is exposing the public to an unsafe condition likely to result
in serious personal injury or property damage, the Chief Inspector may refuse
to issue or renew or may revoke, suspend or amend an inspection certificate;
provided, however, that whenever any action is taken under this Paragraph, the
affected party shall be given notice of the availability of an administrative
hearing and of judicial review in accordance with Chapter 150B of the N.C.
General Statutes.
History Note: Authority G.S. 95‑69.11; 95-69.17;
Eff. May 29, 1981;
Amended Eff. January 1, 2009; July 1, 2006; January 1,
1995.
13 NCAC 13 .0303 INSPECTIONS REVEALING DEFICIENCIES
(a) The owner or user shall complete any required repairs
or corrective action and request an additional inspection within 60 calendar
days of the inspection, except in cases where the boiler or pressure vessel is
removed from service, in which case the owner or user shall send in written
confirmation, signed by the owner or user, that use of the boiler or pressure
vessel has been discontinued and that the boiler or pressure vessel has been
removed from the source of energy.
(b) Upon notification by the inspector of a boiler or
pressure vessel for which continued operation creates a condition of imminent
danger, the Chief Inspector shall determine if the recommendations of the
inspector are valid, and if so, the Chief Inspector shall notify the owner or
user by the most expedient means possible, followed by written notification
within 15 calendar days stating that the use of the boiler or pressure vessel
shall be discontinued immediately.
(c) The owner or user may continue operation of the boiler
or pressure vessel, including those boilers or pressure vessels that are
condemned, during the 60 day period, except that this provision shall not apply
to boilers and pressure vessels after notification by the Chief Inspector to
the owner or user that a condition of imminent danger exists.
(d) After completion of any required repairs or corrective
action, the boiler or pressure vessel shall be reinspected to the extent
necessary to verify satisfactory completion of the required repairs or
corrective action.
(e) An owner shall pay a fee of forty dollars ($40.00) to
the North Carolina Department of Labor for each reinspection or follow-up inspection
conducted by Deputy Inspectors.
History Note: Authority G.S. 95‑69.11;
Eff. May 29, 1981;
Amended Eff. March 1, 2015; July
1, 2006; January 1, 1995.
13 NCAC 13 .0304 APPEALS
(a) If the owner or user believes that the recommendations
of the inspector are not warranted, he may request a review by the Chief
Inspector within 15 days of the inspection. The Chief Inspector shall notify
the owner or user of his decision in writing within 15 days of receipt of a
request for a decision.
(b) If the owner or user believes that the decision of the Chief
Inspector is not warranted he may file for a contested case hearing pursuant to
Article 3 of Chapter 150B of the N.C. General Statutes.
(c) After verbal notification from the Chief Inspector that
a condition of imminent danger exists, the owner or user shall not operate the
boiler or pressure vessel, however, the owner or user may file for a contested
case hearing pursuant to Article 3 of Chapter 150B of the N.C. General
Statutes.
History Note: Authority G.S. 95‑69.11; 95-69.17;
Eff. May 29, 1981;
Amended Eff. July 1, 2006; January 1, 1995.
13 NCAC 13 .0305 MENACE TO PUBLIC SAFETY NOTICE
(a) The Chief Inspector or his designee may post a menace
to public safety notice on the boiler or pressure vessel:
(1) if the owner or user fails to request a
reinspection within 60 days of an inspection during which deficiencies were
noted;
(2) upon verbal notification by the Chief
Inspector regarding an inspection whereby the inspector identified a condition
of imminent danger; or
(3) within 15 days after the Chief Inspector renders
a decision regarding an appealed decision.
(b) The notice described in this Rule shall be posted on
the boiler or pressure vessel and in the establishment where the boiler or
pressure vessel is being used so that it may be easily read by members of the
public and employees.
(c) The menace to public safety notice shall not be
removed, rendered illegible or inaccessible, or otherwise obliterated except
with the approval of the Chief Inspector.
(d) The Chief Inspector shall notify the Commissioner of
Labor regarding action pursuant to G.S. 95-69.19.
History Note: Authority G.S. 95‑69.11; 95‑69.17;
Eff. January 1, 1995;
Amended Eff. July 1, 2006.
13 NCAC 13 .0306 VIOLATIONS
(a) Any person or legal entity operating a boiler or
pressure vessel:
(1) without an inspection certificate;
(2) after the inspection certificate has
expired;
(3) while the inspection certificate is
suspended;
(4) after the inspection certificate has been
revoked and the boiler or pressure vessel has been condemned; or
(5) in excess of the maximum allowable working
pressure as stated on the inspection certificate, or outside of the design
pressure or temperature of the boiler or pressure vessel,
shall be subject to action as described in this Rule.
(b) Action to be taken by the Chief Inspector may include
any or a combination of the following actions:
(1) injunctive proceedings instituted by the
Commissioner pursuant to G.S. 95‑69.11; or
(2) civil penalties issued by the Commissioner
pursuant to G.S. 95-69.19.
History Note: Authority G.S. 95‑69.11; 95‑69.14;
95‑69.18;
Eff. May 29, 1981;
Recodified from 13 NCAC 13 .0305 Eff. January 1, 1995;
Amended Eff. July 1, 2006; January 1, 1995.
section .0400 – GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
13 NCAC 13 .0401 DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION STANDARDS
(a) The design, construction, installation, inspection,
stamping, and operation of all boilers and pressure vessels shall conform to
the rules in this Chapter and the accepted design and construction code.
(b) Repairs and alterations to boilers and pressure vessels
shall conform to the requirements of the National Board Inspection Code, except
as provided in Paragraph (g) of this Rule.
(c) The rules of this Chapter shall control when any
conflict is found to exist between the Rules and the accepted design and
construction code or the National Board Inspection Code.
(d) Welded repairs and alterations shall be made only by an
individual or organization in possession of a valid certificate of
authorization for use of the National Board "R" symbol stamp, except
as provided in Paragraph (g) of this Rule. Repairs and alterations shall be
reported on National Board "R1" and "R2" reports
respectively, as required by the NBIC. These reports are available through the
National Board of Boiler and Pressure Vessel Inspectors. The reports, along
with supplements used, shall be submitted to the Chief Inspector within 60 days
of the completion of the work conducted. Repair and alteration reports shall be
annotated with the appropriate NC identification number for the pressure
equipment repaired.
(e) In such cases where removal of a defect in a
pressure-retaining item is not practical at the time of discovery, with
approval of the Chief Inspector, the repair shall be conducted in compliance
with the NBIC, Part 3 Repairs and Alterations, Repair of Pressure-Retaining
Items Without Complete Removal of Defects. The Chief Inspector may be contacted
in writing at 1101 Mail Service Center, Raleigh, NC 27699-1101 or via telephone
at (919)807-2760.
(f) Repairs of safety valves or safety relief valves shall
be made by an individual or organization in possession of a valid certificate
of authorization for use of the National Board "VR" symbol stamp.
(g) Welded repairs and alterations to exhibition
(historical) boilers of riveted or welded construction may be conducted by a
welder who has been qualified in accordance with the ASME Boiler and Pressure
Vessel Code, Section IX, Welding and Brazing Qualifications.
History Note: Authority G.S. 95-69.11;
Eff. May 29, 1981;
Amended Eff. October 1, 2014; July 1, 2011; January 1,
2009; July 1, 2006; January 1, 1995; February 1, 1989; February 1, 1985; June
1, 1982.
13 NCAC 13 .0402 NORTH CAROLINA STAMPING AND
REGISTRATION
(a) Boilers and pressure vessels shall be registered with
the National Board and shall bear the National Board stamping as follows:
(1) high pressure boilers installed after November 2, 1946;
(2) heating boilers (except cast iron boilers)
installed after January 1, 1976;
(3) pressure vessels installed after January 1,
1979; and
(4) hydropneumatic storage tanks installed
after January 1, 1986.
(b) Boilers and pressure vessels may be exempted from the
requirement for National Board registration provided the owner or user submits
a letter requesting a variance to the Chief Inspector giving reason for the
request. The requestor shall enclose with the letter a copy of the original
manufacturer's data report. The documentation shall be reviewed by the Chief
Inspector to determine if the information is complete and traceable to the
boiler or pressure vessel. The owner or user shall be advised of the Chief
Inspector's decision within 30 working days with regard to the approval or
disapproval of the request.
(c) Electric boilers shall be listed with a qualified
testing laboratory recognized by the Occupational Safety and Health
Administration as a nationally recognized testing laboratory (NRTL) pursuant to
29 CFR 1910.7.
(d) The owner or user shall, upon request of the inspector,
provide a manufacturer's data report for the boiler or pressure vessel.
(e) When a new boiler or pressure vessel is installed, or
when an existing installation receives its first certificate inspection, a
Deputy Inspector shall conduct the first inspection and apply a metal tag
embossed or stamped with the North Carolina identification number (e.g., NC000)
to the boiler or pressure vessel on or adjacent to the manufacturer's nameplate
or stamping. If the boiler or pressure vessel is constructed of materials
having adequate thickness to allow stamping, the identification number may be
stamped onto the boiler or pressure vessel.
(f) The owner or user shall keep all required stamping
exposed at all times unless a clearly marked removable cover is installed so
that it may be readily accessible at any time.
History Note: Authority G.S. 95‑69.11; 95‑69.14;
Eff. May 29, 1981;
Amended Eff. July 1, 2006; January 1, 1995; February 1,
1989; November 1, 1986.
13 ncac 13 .0403 MAXIMUM ALLOWABLE WORKING PRESSURE
(a) An inspector may lower the maximum allowable working
pressure of any boiler or pressure vessel because of age, condition or the
circumstances under which it is operated.
(b) The inspector shall justify the reduction in the
maximum allowable working pressure and note the new maximum allowable working
pressure on the inspection report.
(c) No boiler or pressure vessel may be operated in excess
of the maximum allowable working pressure as stated on the inspection
certificate or outside of the temperature ranges for which the boiler or
pressure vessel was designed.
(d) If a boiler or pressure vessel has its maximum
allowable working pressure reduced under this chapter, the owner or user may
appeal the inspector's decision to the Chief Inspector in accordance with the
requirements of 13 NCAC 13 .0304.
History Note: Authority G.S. 95‑69.11; 95‑69.14;
Eff. May 29, 1981;
Amended Eff. January 1, 2009; January 1, 1995.
13 NCAC 13 .0404 CONTROLS AND SAFETY DEVICES
Boilers and pressure vessels shall be equipped with all
suitable controls and safety devices required for safe operation of the
equipment. Controls and safety devices shown in Table-0404 in this Rule are
considered minimum requirements for the various types of boilers and pressure
vessels listed. All devices required in this Rule and shown in Table-0404 are
suitable for the maximum allowable operating pressure and temperature of the
boiler or pressure vessel on which they are installed. The design,
construction, installation, and operational requirements for controls and
safety devices are as required in Rules .0405 through .0420 of this Section.
TABLE-0404
REQUIRED DEVICE AND
REFERENCED RULE
HIGH PRESSURE
BOILER
STEAM HEATING
BOILER
HOT WATER HEATING
BOILER
HOT WATER SUPPLY
BOILER
WATER HEATER
PRESSURE VESSEL
Pressure Relief Device .0405
X
X
X
X
X
X
High Limit Control .0406
X
X
X
X
X
Pressure Gauge .0407
X
X
X
X
X
Steam Syphon (steam boilers only)
.0407
X
X
Water Column & Gauge Glass (steam boilers only) .0408
X
X
Low-Water Fuel Cutoff (If input > 400,000 Btu) .0409
X
X
X
X
Temperature Gauge .0410
X
X
X
Bottom Blowoff Valves .0411
X
X
Drain Valves .0411
X
X
X
X
X
X
Make-up Water Stop Valve(s) .0411
X
X
X
X
X
Expansion Tank .0412
X
X
X
Flame Failure Control .0420
X
X
X
X
History Note: Authority G.S. 95-69.11; 95-69.14;
Eff. January 1, 1995;
Amended Eff. July 1, 2011; January 1, 2009; July 1, 2006.
13 NCAC 13 .0405 PRESSURE RELIEF DEVICES
(a) Boilers and pressure vessels shall be protected from
overpressurization by a pressure relief device. All pressure relief devices
installed on any boiler or pressure vessel shall be constructed and stamped in accordance
with the accepted design and construction code.
(b) All pressure relief devices shall be stamped and
capacity certified by the manufacturer indicating compliance with the National
Board. The stamping shall include the set pressure (that pressure at which the
valve is set to open) and the relieving capacity (the rate of flow).
(c) High pressure boilers with over 500 square feet of
heating surface and electrically fired boilers having an input in excess of
1100 kW shall be provided with a minimum of two safety valves. For high
pressure boilers with a combined bare tube and extended water-heating surface
area exceeding 500 square feet, one safety valve is required if the design
steam generating capacity of the boiler is less than 4,000 pounds of steam per
hour.
(d) Safety valves and safety relief valves for heating
boilers shall have a seat diameter of not less than ½ inch, and not more than 4
½ inches.
(e) Pressure relief devices shall have a set pressure and
relieving capacity in accordance with the accepted design and construction code
requirements for the type equipment on which the pressure relief device is
installed. At least one pressure relief device shall have the set pressure set
at not greater than the maximum allowable working pressure of the boiler or
pressure vessel. The relieving capacity shall not be less than the minimum
required relieving capacity indicated on the manufacturer's name plate or
stamping, or as otherwise required by the accepted design and construction
code. Safety relief valves installed on water heaters shall be of the
combination temperature and pressure relieving type.
(f) All safety valves installed on high pressure boilers
shall be installed on top of the boiler, or in the case of watertube boilers on
top of the upper drum, with the spindle in the vertical position. All safety
valves and safety relief valves installed on heating boilers shall be on top of
the boiler or on an opening at the highest practicable part of the side of the
boiler, but in no case shall the safety valve be installed below the normal
operating level for a steam boiler. Safety valves and safety relief valves
installed on hot water heating boilers, hot water supply boilers, and steam
heating boilers shall be installed with the spindles mounted in the vertical
position. Safety relief valves for water heaters may be installed with the
spindles mounted in either the vertical or horizontal position. In no case may
pressure relief devices be mounted on appurtenances.
(g) The distance between the pressure relief device outlet
nozzle on the boiler and the pressure relief device inlet shall be kept to a
minimum consistent with the size of the pressure relief device and the pipe
sizes required. In no case shall any valves or stops be installed in the inlet
piping to the pressure relief device or in the discharge piping from the
pressure relief device. The boiler outlet and the piping between the boiler
outlet and the pressure relief device shall have a cross sectional area of not
less than the cross sectional area of the pressure relief device inlet.
(h) Discharge piping from the pressure relief device outlet
shall be the same size, or larger, than the outlet pipe connection on the
pressure relief device and shall be extended full size to a safe location. A
safe location shall be interpreted to mean a location within six inches of the
finished floor of the mechanical room, to a location outside the building
terminating a safe distance above the building roof or to a location outside
the building within six inches above the finished grade. For vessels such as
organic fluid heaters where the medium presents a hazard, the discharge shall
be to a containment vessel large enough to hold all anticipated pressure relief
discharges. When pressure relief device discharge piping is routed vertically,
piped drainage shall be provided by the use of drip pan elbows installed on the
outlet of each pressure relief device served.
(i) Multiple pressure relief devices may be piped to the
point of discharge using a common discharge header pipe. The header pipe size
shall have a diameter sufficient to provide an equivalent cross-sectional area
equal to or larger than the sum of the cross-sectional areas of the pressure
relief device outlets to which it is connected.
(j) Pressure relief devices on pressure vessels may be
installed with the spindle in the vertical or horizontal position. The
pressure relief device inlet, discharge piping, and the requirement for piping
the discharge to a safe location shall be the same as noted for boilers. The
requirement for discharge piping is optional for pressure vessels used to store
compressed air, inert gasses, water, or other fluids no more hazardous than
water.
(k) Pressure relief devices for direct fired pressure
vessels and for those used as air compressor storage tanks shall be installed
directly on the pressure vessel with no intervening valves. Pressure relief
devices for all other pressure vessels may be installed directly on the
pressure vessel or in the piping system, except as modified in this Rule. A
stop valve may be installed between a pressure vessel and the pressure relief
device if one of the following is satisfied:
(1) the stop valve is normally locked in the
open position, and may only be closed when there is a full time attendant
stationed at the stop valve when it is in the closed position for testing
purposes; or
(2) isolating the pressure relief device from
the pressure vessel by closing the stop valve also isolates the pressure vessel
from the source of pressure.
(l) Pressure relief devices shall be sealed to prevent the
valve from being taken apart without breaking the seal. Pressure relief
devices for boilers and pressure vessels containing air, water, or steam, shall
be provided with a test lever, pull test ring or other mechanism which may be
used to test the operation of the valve. Pressure relief devices which are
required to be provided with a testing mechanism shall be readily accessible
for testing from the work platform or other means, such as a pull chain, shall
be provided so that the pressure relief device can be tested from the work
platform.
(m) When a hot water supply boiler or storage vessel is
heated indirectly by steam or hot water in a coil or pipe, the pressure relief
device capacity shall be determined by the heating surface available for heat
transfer, and the pressure relief device shall not be less than 1 inch
diameter.
(n) A person shall not:
(1) attempt to remove, tamper, alter or conduct
any work on any pressure relief device while the boiler or
pressure vessel is in operation, except as permitted by the accepted design
and construction code or the National Board Inspection Code;
(2) load a pressure relief device in any manner
to maintain a working pressure in excess of the maximum allowable working
pressure as stated on the inspection certificate;
(3) operate any boiler or pressure vessel
without the safety appliances as described in this Chapter, the accepted design
and construction code,and the National Board Inspection Code;
(4) use a pressure relief device required by
this Chapter as an operating pressure control; or
(5) remove the seal and attempt to adjust or
otherwise work on a pressure relief device unless the person/company removing
the seal is a authorized holder of a National Board "VR" stamp.
(o) If an owner or user can demonstrate that a pressure
vessel is operating in a system of such design that the maximum allowable
working pressure cannot be exceeded, the Chief Inspector shall waive the
requirement for installation of a pressure relief device if the pressure vessel
meets the safety requirements greater than or equal to the level of protection
afforded by this Chapter and the accepted design and construction code, and
does not pose a danger to persons or property.
(p) Pressure relief device piping shall be supported so
that the piping is supported with no additional force being applied to the
pressure relief device.
(q) Hydropneumatic storage tanks shall be provided with a
relief valve of not less than ¾ inch NPS and rated in standard cubic feet per
minute (SCFM). The relief valve shall be installed on top of the tank. This
rule applies to any equipment installed after January 1, 2009. Preexisting
installed equipment shall meet the criteria effective on January 1, 1995 and
does not require a change-out of the existing relief valve unless the current
relief valve becomes defective.
(r) Dead weight safety valves are prohibited from use on
any boiler or pressure vessel regulated by this Chapter.
(s) When the minimum safety valve relieving capacity is not
found on the data plate, the following guide may be used to determine the
required safety valve capacity for steam boilers. The factor noted in the
table shall be multiplied by the heating surface of the boiler to determine
required safety valve relieving capacity.
Table-0405 Guide for Estimating Steaming Capacity Based on
Heating Surface
Firetube Boilers
Watertube Boilers
Boiler heating surface:
Hand-fired
5
6
Stoker-fired
7
8
Oil, gas, or pulverized fuel
8
10
Waterwall heating surface:
Hand-fired
8
8
Stoker-fired
10
12
Oil, gas, or pulverized fuel
14
16
Copper-finned watertube
Hand-fired
N/A
4
Stoker-fired
N/A
5
Oil, gas, or pulverized fuel-fired
N/A
6
History Note: Authority G.S. 95‑69.11; 95‑69.14;
Eff. May 29, 1981;
Amended Eff. June 1, 1992; February 1, 1985;
Recodified from 13 NCAC 13 .0404 Eff. January 1, 1995;
Amended Eff. January 1, 2009; July 1, 2006; January 1,
1995.
13 NCAC 13 .0406 HIGH PRESSURE OR TEMPERATURE LIMIT
CONTROL
(a) Each automatically fired steam boiler or system of
commonly connected steam boilers shall have at least one steam pressure control
that will shut off the fuel supply to each boiler or system of commonly
connected boilers when the pressure reaches a preset maximum operating
pressure. In addition to the required operating pressure control, each
individual automatically fired steam boiler shall have a high steam pressure
limit control that will shut off the fuel supply to the boiler to prevent
pressure in excess of the maximum allowable working pressure. The high limit
control shall be equipped with a manual reset which shall prevent the boiler
from being fired after the maximum pressure has been reached until the operator
resets the switch manually. Steam boilers shall be provided with a syphon(s)
or equivalent which will provide a water seal and protect the pressure
control(s) from being damaged by the steam.
(b) Each automatically fired hot water heating boiler, hot
water supply boiler, water heater or each system of commonly connected hot
water heating or supply boilers shall have at least one temperature-actuated
control to shut off the fuel supply when the system water reaches a preset
operating temperature. In addition to the required temperature control, each
individual automatically fired hot water heating boiler, hot water supply
boiler, and water heater shall have a high temperature limit control that will
prevent the water temperature from exceeding the maximum allowable temperature
for the respective equipment. The high limit control for the hot water heating
boilers and hot water supply boilers that are either stamped with the ASME "H"
symbol or are not constructed in accordance with the ASME Codes shall be
equipped with a manual reset which shall prevent the boiler from being fired
after the maximum temperature has been reached until the operator resets the
switch manually.
(c) Automatic resets or remote resets by electronic means
are prohibited. The manual reset may be incorporated in the high limit
control. Where the reset device is separate from the high limit control, a
means shall be provided to indicate actuation of the high limit control. Each
high limit and operating control shall have its own sensing element and
operating switch.
History Note: Authority G.S. 95-69.11; 95-69.14;
Eff. May 29, 1981;
Recodified from 13 NCAC 13 .0407 Eff. January 1, 1995;
Amended Eff. July 1, 2011; July 1, 2006; January 1, 1995.
13 NCAC 13 .0407 PRESSURE GAUGES
(a) Boilers and pressure vessels, other than water heaters,
shall be provided with a pressure indicating gauge which is visible to the
operator on the floor or normal work platform.
(b) Pressure gauges shall have a pressure range of not less
than 1½ times the operating pressure, nor more than four times the operating
pressure, except that steam heating boilers shall have an upper limit of not
less than 30 psig nor more than 60 psig, and a dial travel of three inches between
0 psig and 30 psig.
(c) Hot water storage vessels and expansion tanks in boiler
systems need not be provided with a pressure gauge in addition to the gauge
supplied on the boiler.
(d) Steam boilers shall be provided with a syphon or
equivalent which will provide a water seal and protect the gauge from being
damaged by the steam.
(e) Pressure vessels, other than those used as air
compressor receiver tanks, may have a remotely located pressure indicating
device or a system pressure monitoring device in lieu of a pressure gauge
connected directly to the pressure vessel.
History Note: Authority G.S. 95‑69.11; 95‑69.14;
Eff. January 1, 1995;
Amended Eff. July 1, 2006.
13 NCAC 13 .0408 GAUGE GLASSES AND WATER COLUMNS
(a) Steam boilers, except for forced flow steam boilers and
forced flow water boilers requiring forced circulation to prevent overheating
of the tubes, shall be provided with a visible gauge glass which will allow the
operator to observe the water level of the boiler. Boilers with a maximum
allowable working pressure in excess of 400 psig shall have two gauge glasses.
Two independent remote level indicators may be used, in accordance with the
ASME Code, in lieu of one of the gauges. Gauge glasses and remote level
indicators must be visible to the operator while reading the pressure at the
boiler.
(b) Gauge glasses shall be mounted directly on the boiler
or on a water column. Gauge glasses shall be mounted so that the lowest
visible part of the gauge glass is above the lowest permissible water level by
at least 2 inches for high pressure boilers and 1 inch for steam heating boilers.
Gauge glasses may be installed with stop cocks or valves to allow for gauge
glass replacement during boiler operation. The connections from the boiler
shall be not less than 3/4 inch NPS up to and including the isolation valves,
and not less than 1/2 inch outside diameter tubing from the isolation valve to
the gauge glass.
(c) Gauge glasses shall be provided with a drain valve or
cock and discharge outlet at the bottom-most connection of not less than 1/4
inch diameter. The discharge outlet shall be piped to a safe location to
prevent injury to the operator while blowing down the gauge glass.
(d) Water columns, chambers which moderate fluctuations in
water elevations for determining the operating water level in a boiler, when
used, shall be designed, constructed, and stamped as required by the ASME
Code. The piping connections to the boiler shall be not less than 1 inch NPS
for high pressure boilers or 3/4 inch NPS for heating boilers. If the water
column is connected to the boiler by pipe fittings, no shut off valves of any
type shall be placed in such pipe. A cross or equivalent fitting shall be
placed at every right angle turn to facilitate cleaning. Water columns shall
have a drain valve and discharge outlet of not less than 3/4 inch NPS.
History Note: Authority G.S. 95-69.11; 95-69.14;
Eff. January 1, 1995;
Amended Eff. July 1, 2011; July 1, 2006.
13 NCAC 13 .0409 AUTOMATIC LOW-WATER FUEL CUTOFF
CONTROLS AND WATER-FEEDING DEVICES
(a) Each automatically fired steam or vapor boiler, except
miniature boilers, shall meet the following criteria:
(1) Have at least two automatic low-water fuel
cutoff devices;
(2) One of the low-water fuel cutoff devices
may also be used to regulate the normal water level;
(3) Each cutoff device shall be installed to
prevent startup and to shut down the boiler fuel or energy supply automatically
when the surface of the water falls to a level not lower than the lowest
visible part of the gauge glass;
(4) One control shall be set to function ahead
of the other. The lower fuel cutoff device shall be equipped with a manual
reset which shall prevent the boiler from being fired after the low water limit
has been reached until the operator resets the switch manually; and
(5) The low-water fuel cutoffs shall be
attached directly to the boiler or to the water column with no stops or valves.
For float type low-water fuel cutoffs installed external to the boiler, each
device shall be installed in individual chambers which shall be attached to the
boiler by separate pipe connections below the waterline. If the low-water fuel
cutoff is connected to the boiler by pipe and fittings, no shut off valves of
any type shall be placed in such pipe. A cross or equivalent fitting shall be
placed at every right angle turn to facilitate cleaning. Piping from the
boiler shall be not less than 1 inch NPS. Low-water fuel cutoff designs
embodying a float and float bowl shall have a vertical straightaway valved
drain pipe of not less than ¾ inch NPS at the lowest point in the water-equalizing
pipe connections by which the bowl and the equalizing pipe can be flushed and
the device tested.
(b) Each automatically fired hot water heating boiler with
heat input greater than 400,000 Btu/hr (117 kW) shall meet the following
criteria:
(1) Be protected by a low-water fuel cutoff
intended for hot water service;
(2) The fuel cutoff device shall be installed
to prevent startup and to shut down the boiler fuel or energy supply
automatically when the surface of the water falls to a level not lower than the
lowest safe permissible water level established by the boiler manufacturer;
(3) The fuel cutoff device shall be equipped
with a manual reset which shall prevent the boiler from being fired after the
lowest water level has been reached until the operator resets the switch manually;
(4) The low-water fuel cutoff installed in a
hot water heating boiler system may be installed anywhere in the system above
the lowest safe permissible water level established by the boiler manufacturer
so long as there is no isolation valve installed between the device and the
boiler. Connections to the system shall be not less than 1 inch NPS; and
(5) A means shall be provided for testing the
operation of the low-water fuel cutoff on a hot water heating boiler system
without resorting to draining the entire system.
(c) Coil type boilers or watertube boilers requiring forced
circulation to prevent overheating of the coils or tubes may have a flow-sensing
device installed at or near the boiler proper, in lieu of a low-water fuel
cutoff, to automatically cut off the fuel supply when the circulation of flow
is interrupted. If there is a definitive water line, a low-water fuel cutoff
complying with the forgoing shall be provided in addition to the flow-sensing
device.
(d) Electric boilers where uncovering of the electrical
element can lead to an unsafe condition shall be equipped with a low-water fuel
cutoff device. In the case of electrode type boilers, where the reduction in
water level provides a self-limiting control on heat input, a low-water cutoff
control is not required.
(e) Automatically fired boilers shall be provided with a
system to automatically maintain a constant water level so that the water level
cannot fall below the lowest safe water line.
(f) Low water fuel cutoff devices embodying a float and float
bowl shall be installed so that the boiler feedwater or makeup water cannot be
introduced through the float chamber.
History Note: Authority G.S. 95-69.14;
Eff. January 1, 1982;
Recodified from 13 NCAC 13 .0416 Eff. January 1, 1995;
Amended Eff. July 1, 2011; January 1, 2009; July 1, 2006;
January 1, 1995.
13 NCAC 13 .0410 TEMPERATURE
GAUGES/THERMOMETERS/TEMPERATURE SENSORS
(a) Every high temperature water boiler, hot water heating
boiler, hot water supply boiler or water heater shall be provided with a
temperature gauge, thermometer or temperature sensor with the display located
and connected so that it is readable. The temperature gauge, thermometer or
temperature sensor shall be located so that it indicates the temperature of the
water in the boiler at or near the outlet at all times.
(b) Temperature gauges and thermometers shall have a range
of approximately two times the intended operating temperature. The temperature
gauge shall have a range of no less than one and a half times and no more than four
times the intended operating temperature.
(c) Electronic temperature sensors may be used in lieu of
temperature gauges and thermometers and shall meet the following requirements:
(1) The sensor shall be powered from the boiler
power supply, have a backup power supply, and have a display that remains on at
all times;
(2) The full scale of the sensor and display
shall be at least 250 degrees Fahrenheit, and shall be accurate to within +/-
one degree;
(3) The sensor shall have a minimum operating
temperature range of 32 degrees Fahrenheit to 300 degrees Fahrenheit; and
(4) The display shall have an ambient operating
temperature range of 32 degrees Fahrenheit to 120 degrees Fahrenheit, unless
otherwise required by the application.
History Note: Authority G.S. 95-69.11; 95-69.14;
Eff. May 29, 1981;
Amended Eff. January 1, 1982;
Recodified from 13 NCAC 13 .0411 Eff. January 1, 1995;
Amended Eff. July 1, 2011; July 1, 2006; January 1, 1995.
13 NCAC 13 .0411 VALVES, DRAINS, AND BOTTOM BLOWOFFS
(a) High pressure boilers operating in excess of 100 psig
must be provided with two stop valves for boiler blowoff and drain outlets.
Any boiler having a common steam connection with another boiler, and having a
manhole opening, shall be provided with two steam outlet stop valves with an
ample free-blow drain or vent between the two stop valves. The discharge of
this drain shall be visible to the operator while operating the valve.
(b) All boilers, except for coil-type water tube boilers,
shall be provided with a drain outlet and stop valve of not less than 3/4 inch
NPS at the lowest water containing space, except that if the boiler is provided
with a blowoff outlet at the lowest water containing space, an additional drain
outlet is not required.
(c) High pressure boilers shall be provided with a bottom
blowoff outlet and valve of not less than 1 inch NPS nor more than 2 1/2 inches
NPS, except as modified below:
(1) Miniature high pressure boilers shall have
a blowoff outlet of not less than 3/4 inch NPS;
(2) Electric high pressure boilers not greater
than 200kW shall have a blowoff outlet of not less than 3/4 inch NPS;
(3) High pressure boilers having a heating
surface not greater than 100 square feet shall have a blowoff outlet of not
less than 3/4 inch NPS; and
(4) All other high pressure boilers shall have
a blowoff outlet of not less than 1 inch NPS.
(d) Steam heating boilers shall be provided with a bottom
blowoff outlet and valve of not less than 1 inch NPS nor more than 2 1/2 inches
NPS, except as modified below:
(1) Steam heating boilers having a minimum
safety valve relieving capacity not exceeding 500 pounds of steam per hour
shall have a blowoff outlet of not less than 3/4 inch NPS;
(2) Steam heating boilers having a minimum
safety valve relieving capacity greater than 1205 pounds of steam per hour but
not greater than 2500 pounds of steam per hour shall have a blowoff outlet of
not less than 1 1/4 inches NPS;
(3) Steam heating boilers having a minimum
safety valve relieving capacity greater than 2500 pounds of steam per hour but
not greater than 6000 pounds of steam per hour shall have a blowoff outlet of
not less than 1 1/2 inches NPS;
(4) Steam heating boilers having a minimum
safety valve relieving capacity greater than 6000 pounds of steam per hour
shall have a blowoff outlet of not less than 2 inches NPS; and
(5) All other steam heating boilers shall have
a blowoff outlet of not less than 1 inch NPS.
(e) All blowoff from boilers shall discharge into a
blowdown tank suitable for separating steam and water or shall be piped to
prevent injury. Discharge directly to a sewer is prohibited.
(f) Valves for high pressure boilers shall be designed and
constructed in accordance with the requirements of ASME Section I, and shall be
stamped or embossed with the pressure/temperature rating of the valve.
(g) Valves for heating boilers shall be suitable for the
operating pressure and temperature of the boiler.
(h) Pressure reducing valves shall be installed in the
makeup water line where inlet supply water pressure is more than 75 percent of
the maximum allowable working pressure of the boiler or pressure vessel.
(i) A shutoff valve shall be provided in the makeup water
line next to each boiler and shall meet the following specifications:
(1) Each steam heating boiler and hot water
heating boiler shall be provided with a shutoff valve and a check valve. The
shutoff valve shall be installed either upstream or downstream of the check valve;
(2) Each high pressure boiler, except for high
temperature water boilers, shall be provided with a shutoff valve and a check
valve. The shutoff valve shall be installed between the check valve and the
boiler; and
(3) When two or more high pressure boilers are
fed from a common source, there shall also be a globe or regulating valve in
the branch to each boiler located between the check valve and the source of the
supply.
(j) Pressure vessels subject to corrosion shall be equipped
with a drain valve installed at the lowest point of the pressure vessel or by
installation of an internal drain pipe installed not more than 1/4 inch above
the lowest internal surface.
History Note: Authority G.S. 95-69.11; 95-69.14;
Eff. January 1, 1995;
Amended Eff. July 1, 2011; July 1, 2006.
13 NCAC 13 .0412 EXPANSION TANKS
(a) Hot water heating systems shall allow for thermal
expansion and contraction of the piping to prevent excessive stress from being
introduced into the pipe or connected equipment.
(b) When new equipment is installed and a backflow
prevention system is installed or already exists on a potable water supply line
for a hot water supply boiler or water heater, expansion tanks shall be
installed. For water heaters, backflow preventers or check valves may be
installed at the meter in water systems.
(c) When expansion tanks are used they shall be constructed
and stamped in accordance with the requirements of this Chapter for pressure
vessels, unless exempted due to the vessel size or operating limits.
(d) For a closed type system the expansion tank shall be
not less than that determined as follows:
Vt = [(0.00041T - 0.0466)Vs]/[(Pa/Pf) -
(Pa/Po)] where:
Vt = minimum volume of tank(s), gal
Vs = volume of system, not including tanks, gal
T = average operating temperature, deg F
Pa = atmospheric pressure, psi
Pf = fill pressure, psi
Po = maximum operating pressure, psi.
History Note: Authority G.S. 95-69.11; 95-69.14;
Eff. May 29, 1981;
Recodified from 13 NCAC 13 .0410 Eff. January 1, 1995;
Amended Eff. July 1, 2011; January 1, 2009; January 1,
1995.
13 NCAC 13 .0413 CLEARANCES
(a) All boilers and pressure vessels shall be located so
that adequate space is provided for proper operation, including visibility of
all gauges, for the inspection of all surfaces, tubes, waterwalls, economizers,
piping, valves and other equipment, and for maintenance and repair, including
replacement of tubes. Boiler clearances shall remain free of all items,
including temporarily stored items, other than boiler piping and trim. Boiler
piping and trim shall not impede access to the boiler.
(b) Adequate clearance for boilers and
pressure vessels installed prior to January 1, 2009 shall not be less than the
following:
(1) Three feet of clearance shall be provided
between the boiler or pressure vessel on all service sides, and clearances as
recommended by the manufacturer on all other sides. Service side shall be
interpreted as any side, including the top, of a boiler or pressure vessel on
which clearance is necessary to access operating controls, safety devices,
drain and blowoff valves, or inspection openings.
(2) Cabinet mounted boilers, such as those used
primarily for process or cooking, and having a maximum input of 400,000 Btu/hr
need only be provided with the unobstructed clearances recommended by the
manufacturer.
(c) Adequate clearance for boilers and pressure vessels
installed after January 1, 2009 shall not be less than the following:
(1) High-pressure steam boilers that exceed
5,000,000 Btu/hr input (1465 kW), 5,000 pounds of steam per hour capacity or a
1,000-square-foot heating surface shall have a minimum unobstructed clearance
of seven feet from the top of the boiler to the ceiling.
(2) The following types of boilers and pressure
vessels shall have a minimum unobstructed clearance of three feet from the top
of the boiler to the ceiling:
(A) Steam-heating boilers and hot-water-heating boilers
that exceed 5,000,000 Btu/hr input (1465 kW), 5,000 pounds of steam per hour
capacity or a 1,000-square-foot heating surface;
(B) High-pressure steam boilers that do not exceed
5,000,000 Btu/hr input (1465 kW), 5,000 pounds of steam per hour capacity or a
1,000-square- foot heating surface; and
(C) All boilers with manholes on top of the boiler.
(3) Package boilers, steam-heating boilers and
hot-water-heating boilers without manholes on top of the shell that do not
exceed 5,000,000 Btu/hr input (1465 kW), 5,000 pounds of steam per hour
capacity or a 1,000-square-foot heating surface shall have a minimum unobstructed
clearance of two feet from the ceiling.
(d) When boilers or pressure vessels are installed or
replaced, unobstructed clearance shall be provided to allow access for
inspection, maintenance and repair. Passageways around all sides of boilers and
pressure vessels shall have an unobstructed width of not less than 18 inches,
unless otherwise recommended by manufacturer's installation instructions.
History Note: Authority G.S. 95‑69.11; 95‑69.14;
Eff. May 29, 1981;
Recodified from 13 NCAC 13 .0409 Eff. January 1, 1995;
Amended Eff. February 1, 2009; January 1, 1995.
13 NCAC 13 .0414 GAS‑FIRED JACKETED STEAM
KETTLE
Gas-fired jacketed steam kettles having a steam space of
such size that they are subject to the rules in this Chapter shall be equipped
with the operating controls and safety devices required for boilers, except
that only one low water fuel cutoff control is required.
History Note: Authority G.S. 95‑69.11; 95‑69.14;
Eff. May 29, 1981;
Amended Eff. January 1, 2009; July 1, 2006; January 1,
1995.
13 NCAC 13 .0415 AGE LIMIT FOR CERTAIN BOILERS AND
PRESSURE VESSELS
(a) Except as provided in Paragraph (b) of this Rule, a
boiler or pressure vessel shall not be operated for longer than 20 years from
the date of its installation if it is not constructed according to the ASME
Code and has riveted longitudinal lap joints.
(b) The Chief Inspector may authorize operation of a boiler
or pressure vessel meeting the criteria listed in Paragraph (a) of this Rule
after the owner or user satisfactorily completes such additional examinations,
tests, and engineering evaluations as may be deemed necessary by the Chief
Inspector, to demonstrate that the boiler or pressure vessel is suitable for
operation at the maximum allowable working pressure for the term of the
inspection certificate.
History Note: Authority G.S. 95‑69.11; 95‑69.14;
Eff. May 29, 1981;
Recodified From 13 NCAC 13 .0405 Eff. January 1, 1995;
Amended Eff. July 1, 2006; January 1, 1995.
13 NCAC 13 .0416 REINSTALLATION OF CERTAIN BOILERS
AND PRESSURE VESSELS
(a) A boiler or pressure vessel that is not constructed
pursuant to the accepted design and construction code shall not be reinstalled
at any location in this State when the reinstallation is accompanied by a
change of ownership of the boiler or pressure vessel unless the owner/user
receives authorization in writing from the Chief Inspector.
(b) Used boilers or pressure vessels shall not be installed
unless an application for permission to install the equipment has been approved
in writing according to the rules in this Chapter by the Chief Inspector
followed by a certificate inspection by a Deputy Inspector.
(c) Applications to install used or nonstandard boilers or
pressure vessels must be made in writing to the Chief Inspector.
History Note: Authority G.S. 95‑69.11; 95‑69.14;
Eff. May 29, 1981;
Recodified from 13 NCAC 13 .0406 Eff. January 1, 1995;
Amended Eff. January 1, 2009; July 1, 2006; January 1,
1995.
13 NCAC 13 .0417 SUPPORTS
Each boiler and pressure vessel shall be supported by
masonry or structural supports of sufficient strength and rigidity to safely
support the boiler or pressure vessel and its contents and distribute the
weight contained thereon. There shall be no excessive vibration in the boiler,
pressure vessel, or connected piping or fittings.
History Note: Authority G.S. 95‑69.11; 95‑69.14;
Eff. May 29, 1981;
Recodifed from 13 NCAC 13 .0408 Eff. January 1, 1995;
Amended Eff. January 1, 2009.
13 NCAC 13 .0418 VENTING OF NON‑PRESSURIZED
CONDENSATE RECEIVERS
Two means of venting shall be provided on any condensate
receiver tank equipped with an internal float. The tank shall have two
separate connections, one to be used as a vent and one as an overflow, and
shall be so piped.
History Note: Authority G.S. 95‑69.11; 95‑69.14;
Eff. May 29, 1981;
Recodifed from 13 NCAC 13 .0412 Eff. January 1, 1995.
13 NCAC 13 .0419 AIR AND VENTILATION REQUIREMENTS
(a) Unobstructed air openings shall be sized on the basis
of 1 sq. in. (650 sq. mm) free area per 2000 Btu/hr. maximum fuel input of the
combined burners located in the boiler room, or as specified in the National
Fire Protection Association (NFPA) standards for oil and gas burning
installations for the particular job conditions. The boiler room air supply
openings shall be kept clear at all times.
(b) Power ventilators or fans shall be sized on the basis
of 0.2 cfm (0.0057 cubic meters per minute) for each 1000 Btu/hr. of maximum
fuel input for the combined burners of all boilers and water heaters located in
the boiler room.
(c) When power ventilators or fans are used to supply
combustion air they shall be installed with interlock devices so that the
burners will not operate without an adequate number of ventilators/fans in
operation.
(d) Oil, gas and solid fuel fired boilers and pressure
vessels shall be equipped with exhaust flues, stacks, or chimneys discharging
to a safe point outside of the building.
History Note: Authority G.S. 95‑69.11; 95‑69.14;
Eff. May 29, 1981;
Amended Eff. January 1, 1982;
Recodified from 13 NCAC 13 .0413 Eff. January 1, 1995;
Amended Eff. July 1, 2006; January 1, 1995.
13 NCAC 13 .0420 FIRING MECHANISM CONTROLS
(a) Automatically fired boilers and pressure vessels shall
be provided with firing mechanism controls.
(b) Oil, gas-fired, and electrically heated boilers shall
be equipped with primary (flame safeguard) safety controls, safety limit
switches, and burners or electric elements that are listed and labeled with a
testing laboratory recognized by the Occupational Safety and Health
Administration as a nationally recognized testing laboratory (NRTL) pursuant to
29 CFR 1910.7.
(c) Automatically fired boilers installed after January 1,
2007, shall be provided with a remote emergency fuel shut-off switch marked for
easy identification. The remote shut-off switch shall be located outside each
door of the room in which the boiler is located. Alternatively, the shut-off
switch may be located just inside the entrance door(s) where the equipment is
located. If there is more than one door to the boiler room, there shall be a
switch located at each door designed for primary emergency egress from the
boiler room.
(d) For installations which are gas-fired, the burners used
shall conform to the North Carolina Fuel Gas Code in effect at the time of
installation.
History Note: Authority G.S. 95‑69.11; 95‑69.14;
Eff. January 1, 1995;
Amended Eff. February 1, 2009; July 1, 2006.
13 NCAC 13 .0421 NORTH CAROLINA SPECIAL
(a) The North Carolina Department of Labor may issue an
inspection certificate for a boiler or pressure vessel constructed under
standards equivalent to those established in the ASME Code if an application
for permission to construct and install a North Carolina Special is submitted
to and approved by the Chief Inspector prior to commencing construction. The Chief
Inspector may approve a request for an inspection certificate if the
application is complete and if the information contained in the application
demonstrates that the boiler or pressure vessel is as safe as a similar boiler
or pressure vessel constructed to the requirements of the ASME Code. The
application, which may be in the form of a letter, shall contain relevant data
proving that its construction is equivalent to ASME standards. The Chief
Inspector or his designee may elect to visit, at the expense of the owner, user
or manufacturer, the facility where the boiler or pressure vessel is under
construction in order to audit the manufacturer's construction techniques,
personnel qualifications, and quality control program.
(b) The North Carolina Department of Labor may issue an
inspection certificate for a boiler or pressure vessel which has operated in
another state even if the ASME construction and stamping requirements otherwise
contained in the North Carolina Rules are not satisfied if the following
requirements are satisfied:
(1) the state in which the boiler or pressure
vessel was operated enforces ASME Code requirements for similar boilers and
pressure vessels;
(2) the boiler or pressure vessel was inspected
during construction by an inspector commissioned by the state in which the item
was installed or manufactured; and
(3) the report from the last certificate
inspection conducted in the state in which the boiler or pressure vessel was
previously installed is made available to the Chief Inspector, and the
inspection resulted in the applicable authorization for operation.
(c) The applicant shall submit a design specification,
certified by a professional engineer, to the Chief Inspector to verify that the
boiler or pressure vessel meets the ASME Code as far as is practicable. The
following documentation shall be included as a minimum:
(1) design calculations and drawings;
(2) material test reports or their equivalent,
and for material not allowed by ASME, an evaluation of the materials in
comparison to the most similar material approved for ASME construction;
(3) a record of welding qualifications as
required by Section IX of the ASME Welding and Brazing Qualifications Code; and
(4) satisfactory results of any additional
examination or test deemed necessary by the Chief Inspector.
(d) Design calculations for pressure vessels to be operated
in excess of 3,000 psig shall include a fatigue analysis as described in ASME
Section VIII, Division 2 or 3, to determine the operating lifetime of the
pressure vessel, and a proposal for operation that details the owner's
monitoring program to verify compliance with the fatigue analysis.
(e) The maximum allowable working pressure for the boiler or
pressure vessel as established in the calculations shall be consistent with
what is required by the ASME Code for similar boilers or pressure vessels.
(f) Boilers and pressure vessels operating as North
Carolina State Specials shall meet all installation, alteration, inspection,
repair, and operation requirements of this Chapter.
(g) The Chief Inspector may approve operation of boilers
and pressure vessels which were constructed to the requirements of a department
of the federal government which enforces requirements equivalent to the ASME
Code, provided an application as otherwise required by this Chapter is
submitted to the Chief Inspector and found acceptable.
History Note: Authority G.S. 95‑69.11; 95‑69.14;
Eff. May 29, 1981;
Amended Eff. March 2, 1992;
Recodified from 13 NCAC 13 .0415 Eff. January 1, 1995;
Amended Eff. July 1, 2006; January 1, 1995.
13 NCAC 13 .0422 EXHIBITION BOILERS
In addition to the requirements outlined in this Chapter for
manually fired boilers, exhibition boilers shall meet the following
requirements:
(1) Exhibition boilers that are not built to the ASME
Code shall not be operated above 125 psig without specific written approval by
the Chief Inspector who shall base such approval on documentation and
calculations submitted by the owner. These documents and an inspection shall
support higher pressure ratings.
(2) Safety relief valves shall not exceed the maximum
allowed working pressure and shall be ASME/NB certified valves.
(3) Each boiler shall have as a minimum;
(a) A properly operating pressure gauge which
shall be approximately double the pressure to which the safety relief valve is
set but in no case shall it be less than 1 1/2 times the set pressure.
(b) A safety relief valve which shall be capable
of protecting the boiler from over pressurization.
(c) A water gauge glass
(4) When fusible plugs are used, they shall be replaced
every two years with appropriately sized plugs of the required material.
(5) A hydrostatic test may be required by the inspector
if, in his opinion, it is necessary to prove the integrity of the pressure
boundary. The hydrostatic test shall not exceed 100% of the maximum allowed
working pressure of the vessel or the set pressure of the safety valve,
whichever is greater.
(6) Upon successful completion of the inspection and
payment of fees the Chief Inspector shall issue a Certificate of Inspection valid
for one year.
History Note: Authority G.S. 95‑69.11;
95‑69.14;
Eff. July 1, 2006.
13 NCAC 13 .0423 MODEL HOBBY BOILERS
In addition to the requirements outlined in this Chapter for
manually fired boilers, model hobby boilers shall meet the following
requirements:
(1) Each boiler shall have as a minimum:
(a) A properly operating pressure gauge that
shall not be less than 1 ½ times nor more than four times the operating
pressure of the boiler;
(b) Two safety relief valves each of which shall
be capable of protecting the boiler from over pressurization. Requirements for
ASME/NB certification are waived;
(c) An easily accessible mud-ring valve;
(d) A water gauge glass; and
(e) If constructed of copper, a fusible plug in
the top of the crown sheet.
(2) Upon successful completion of the inspection and
payment of the fees, the Chief Inspector shall issue a Certificate of
Inspection valid for one year.
History Note: Authority G.S. 95‑69.11; 95‑69.14;
Eff. July 1, 2006.
SECTION .0500 ‑ NON‑STANDARD BOILERS AND PRESSURE
VESSELS
13 NCAC 13 .0501 GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
(a) All aspects of a nonstandard boiler or pressure vessel
including, but not limited to, its installation, repair, alteration,
inspection, appurtenances, and operation shall conform to the ASME Code and the
National Board Inspection Code and the Rules in this Chapter, except for the
design criteria for the boiler or pressure vessel proper and pressure piping.
(b) Replacement parts for the boiler or pressure vessel
shall conform to the ASME Code and the Rules in this Chapter.
(c) An inspector shall determine the maximum allowable
working pressure for a nonstandard boiler or pressure vessel in accordance with
the Rules in this Chapter.
(d) The maximum allowable working pressure on the shell of
a nonstandard boiler or pressure vessel shall be determined by the strength of
the weakest course computed from the thickness of the plate, the tensile
strength of the material, the efficiency of the longitudinal joint, inside
diameter of the weakest course and the factor of safety set by the Rules in
this Chapter.
(e) For cylindrical pressure parts subject to internal
pressure:
(TStE)/(RFS) = maximum allowable working pressure, psig.
(f) Design variables:
(1) TS = ultimate tensile strength of
shell plate; if unknown, it shall be taken as 45,000 psi;
(2) t = minimum thickness of shell
plate of weakest course, in inches;
(3) E = efficiency of longitudinal
joint depending upon construction;
(A) values for riveted joints are determined by
calculated riveted efficiency; and
(B) values for fusion welded joints and riveted joints are
determined pursuant to the following table:
WELD JOINT DESIGN EFFICIENCY
Single lap weld
0.40
Double lap weld
0.50
Single butt weld
0.60
Double butt weld
0.75
RIVETED JOINT DESIGN EFFICIENCY
Single lap
0.58
Double lap
0.74
Double butt and strap
0.82
Triple butt and strap
0.84
Quadruple butt and strap
0.94
(4) R
= inside radius of weakest course of shell, in inches, provided the thickness
does not exceed 10 percent of the radius; if the thickness is over 10 percent
of the radius, the outer radius shall be used;
(5) FS = factor of safety allowed by the Rules
in this Chapter.
(g) The maximum allowable working pressure for cylindrical
nonstandard boilers and pressure vessels subject to external pressure, flat or
formed heads, and non-circular boilers and pressure vessels shall be determined
by the most applicable rules for new construction in the ASME Code.
(h) The maximum allowable working pressure for cast iron
boilers, including boilers having cast iron shells or heads and steel or
wrought iron tubes, shall be not greater than 30 psig for water service and 15
psig for steam service.
(i) Replacement parts, repair, and alteration of
nonstandard boilers and pressure vessels shall be as required for ASME stamped
boilers and pressure vessels of similar design.
History Note: Authority G.S. 95‑69.11; 95‑69.14;
Eff. May 29, 1981;
Amended Eff. July 1, 2006; January 1, 1995.
13 NCAC 13 .0502 NONSTANDARD HEATING BOILERS
13 NCAC 13 .0503 NONSTANDARD PRESSURE VESSELS
History Note: Authority G.S. 95‑69.11; 95‑69.14;
Eff. May 29, 1981;
Repealed Eff. January 1, 1995.
13 NCAC 13 .0504 FACTORS OF SAFETY
(a) For nonstandard boilers, the factor of safety is four
and one‑half, except for horizontal‑return tubular boilers having
continuous longitudinal lap seams more than twelve feet in length, where the
factor of safety is eight. When this latter type of boiler is removed from its
existing setting, it shall not be reinstalled for pressure in excess of fifteen
psig.
(b) The factor of safety for nonstandard boilers with lap‑riveted
longitudinal seams less than twelve feet in length is six.
(c) The factor of safety for a nonstandard boiler with butt
and double‑strapped longitudinal seams is five.
(d) For nonstandard pressure vessels, the factor of safety
is four, except that for non‑ASME Code constructed hydropneumatic storage
tanks containing water under pressure at ambient temperatures the factor of
safety is two.
History Note: Filed as a Temporary Amendment [(e)! Eff.
March 10, 1982, for a Period of 120 Days to
Expire on July 8, 1982;
Statutory Authority G.S. 95‑69.11; 95‑69.14;
Eff. May 29, 1981;
Amended Eff. June 1, 1982;
Readopted [(e) Eff. January 1, 1986];
Amended Eff. January 1, 1995.
SECTION .0600 ‑ HOT WATER VESSELS USED FOR HEATING OR
FOR STORAGE OF HOT WATER
13 NCAC 13 .0601 MINIMUM STANDARDS
13 NCAC 13 .0602 DISCHARGE LINES
13 NCAC 13 .0603 VESSELS HEATED INDIRECTLY BY STEAM
OR WATER
13 NCAC 13 .0604 PROHIBITION AGAINST USE
13 NCAC 13 .0605 VENT PIPES
13 NCAC 13 .0606 HEAT SOURCE STANDARDS
13 NCAC 13 .0607 ACCESS TO THE VESSEL
13 NCAC 13 .0608 PRESSURE‑REDUCING VALVES IN
CITY LINES
13 NCAC 13 .0609 SHUTOFF VALVES
History Note: Authority G.S. 95‑69.11; 95‑69.14;
Eff. May 29, 1981;
Amended Eff. February 1, 1985; January 1, 1982;
Repealed Eff. January 1, 1995.
SECTION .0700 ‑ NUCLEAR POWER SYSTEMS
13 NCAC 13 .0701 STANDARDS
(a) Nuclear power components and systems covered under the
scope of Section III of the ASME Code shall be designed, constructed, reworked,
stamped, and installed in accordance with Section III of the ASME Code.
Balance of plant items may be constructed under other ASME Code sections as
appropriate.
(b) All nuclear power systems falling under the scope of
the ASME Code, Section III, are inspected in service under the requirements of
Section XI of the ASME Code. The equipment is not required to be inspected
under this Chapter. Balance of plant pressure equipment not covered by Section
XI are required to be registered with a North Carolina identification number
and inspected in accordance with this Chapter.
(c) A vessel composed of two or more pressure retaining
compartments shall constitute one complete unit for the purpose of assigning
the North Carolina identification number.
(d) The design criteria for nuclear power systems shall be
certified as to compliance with Section III of the ASME Code by a registered
professional engineer with at least one year of experience in nuclear pressure
vessel design.
History Note: Authority G.S. 95‑69.9; 95‑69.11;
95-69.14;
Eff. May 29, 1981;
Amended Eff. October 1, 2008; July 1, 2006; June 1, 1982.
13 NCAC 13 .0702 INSPECTION DURING CONSTRUCTION
The constructor of a nuclear power plant shall have a
contract with an Authorized Inspection Agency who will be responsible for ASME
Code, Section III third party code inspections. It is the duty of the Authorized
Nuclear Inspector (ANI) to conduct all of the inspections specified by the
rules of the ASME Code, Section III and ASME QAI-1,in addition to such other
inspections and tests as in his judgment are necessary to verify that the
equipment is fabricated and installed in accordance with requirements of the
ASME Code and these Rules.
History Note: Authority G.S. 95‑69.11; 95‑69.14;
Eff. May 29, 1981;
Amended Eff. July 1, 2006.
13 NCAC 13 .0703 INSERVICE INSPECTION
The owner/operator of an operating nuclear power plant shall
have a contract with an Authorized Inspection Agency who will be responsible
for ASME Code, Section III and Section XI third party code inspections. It is the
duty of the ANI and Authorized Nuclear In-service Inspector (ANII), as
applicable, to make all of the inspections specified by the rules of the ASME
Code, Section III, Section XI and ASME QAI-1, and any other inspections and
tests necessary to verify that the equipment is inspected, examined, repaired
or replaced in accordance with requirements of the ASME Code.
History Note: Authority G.S. 95‑69.11; 95‑69.14;
Eff. May 29, 1981;
Amended Eff. July 1, 2006.
13 NCAC 13 .0704 INSPECTOR QUALIFICATIONS
History Note: Authority G.S. 95‑69.11; 95‑69.14;
95‑69.15;
Eff. May 29, 1981;
Repealed Eff. July 1, 2006.
13 NCAC 13 .0705 SEMI‑ANNUAL AUDIT OF NUCLEAR
INSPECTORS
The Authorized Inspection Agency shall maintain qualified
Authorized Nuclear Supervisors (ANIS) to monitor the performance of the ANI and
ANII and to audit the activities at the nuclear power plants for which
inspection agreements have been made. The ANIS shall conduct audits of all the
aspects of a ANI and ANII activities at the nuclear power plant.
History Note: Authority G.S. 95‑69.11; 95‑69.14;
Eff. May 29, 1981;
Amended Eff. July 1, 2006.
13 NCAC 13 .0706 CONSTRUCTION
History Note: Authority G.S. 95‑69.11; 95‑69.14;
Eff. May 29, 1981;
Repealed Eff. July 1, 2006.
SECTION .0800 ‑ FORMS
13 NCAC 13 .0801 INSPECTION CERTIFICATE
13 NCAC 13 .0802 APPLICATION FOR A NORTH CAROLINA
COMMISSION
13 NCAC 13 .0803 NORTH CAROLINA CERTIFICATE OF
COMPETENCY
13 NCAC 13 .0804 NORTH CAROLINA COMMISSION
13 NCAC 13 .0805 OWNER‑USER AGENCY APPLICATIONS
13 NCAC 13 .0806 OWNER‑USER INSPECTION AGENCY
STATEMENTS
13 NCAC 13 .0807 INSPECTION REQUEST
13 NCAC 13 .0808 INCIDENT REPORT
13 NCAC 13 .0809 INSPECTION REPORT
History Note: Authority G.S. 95‑69.11; 95‑69.13;
95‑69.14; 95‑69.15;
Eff. May 29, 1981;
Amended Eff. January 1, 1995; June 1, 1982;
Repealed Eff. July 1, 2006.
13 NCAC 13 .0810 REINSPECTION REPORT
History Note: Authority G.S. 95‑69.11;
Eff. May 29, 1981;
Repealed Eff. January 1, 1995.
13 NCAC 13 .0811 INSPECTION SERVICE AGREEMENT
13 NCAC 13 .0812 REPORT OF REPAIR OR ALTERATION
13 NCAC 13 .0813 AUDIT REPORT
History Note: Authority G.S. 95‑69.11;
Eff. May 29, 1981;
Amended Eff. January 1, 1995, June 1, 1982;
Repealed Eff. July 1, 2006.
13 NCAC 13 .0814 REPORT OF NUCLEAR INSPECTOR'S
ACTIVITIES
History Note: Authority G.S. 95‑69.11;
Eff. May 29, 1981;
Repealed Eff. January 1, 1995.
13 NCAC 13 .0815 REPAIR LETTER NOTICE OF
NONCOMPLIANCE
History Note: Authority G.S. 95‑69.11;
Eff. May 29, 1981;
Amended Eff. January 1, 1995;
Repealed Eff. July 1, 2006.
13 NCAC 13 .0816 MENACE TO PUBLIC SAFETY LETTER
History Note: Authority G.S. 95‑69.11;
Eff. May 29, 1981;
Repealed Eff. January 1, 1995.
13 NCAC 13 .0817 MENACE TO PUBLIC SAFETY NOTICE
History Note: Authority G.S. 95‑69.11; 95‑69.14;
Eff. May 29, 1981;
Repealed Eff. November 1, 2006.
13 NCAC 15 .0307 MAINTENANCE AND PERIODIC INSPECTIONS
AND TESTS
(a) Inspections and Tests. Devices and equipment shall be subject
to maintenance and periodic inspections and tests in accordance with the
requirements of the A17.1 - American National Standard, incorporated by
reference under Rule .0201 of this Chapter; and in accordance with the National
Electric Code, incorporated by reference under Rule .0206 of this Chapter.
Special equipment as defined by G.S. 95-110.4(n) shall be subject to periodic
and to maintenance inspections and tests in accordance with A17.1 of the ASME
Safety Code for Elevators and Escalators, the National Electric Code, and
manufacturers' specifications.
(b) Inspections.
(1) Advance Notice. Inspections shall be
accomplished without advance notice, except where the Director determines that
advance notice of an inspection is necessary to complete the inspection.
(2) Inspection Report Forms. The inspector
shall note findings of his inspection and tests on the inspection report form.
(c) Certificate of Operation Issuance.
(1) Closing Conference. After the inspections
and tests of the equipment prescribed in this Rule, the inspector shall, when
possible, hold a closing conference with the owner or his representative.
(2) Approval. When the inspector has determined
that the equipment is in compliance with the rules in this Chapter and G.S. 95
Article 14A, the inspector may reissue the certificate of operation.
(3) Violations creating unsafe conditions. When
the inspector has determined the equipment is not in compliance with the
regulations of this Chapter and all applicable law, and that the non-compliance
creates an unsafe condition that exposes the public to an unsafe condition
likely to result in serious personal injury or property damage, the inspector
shall immediately order, in writing, that the use of the equipment be stopped
until such time as it is determined that the equipment has been made safe for
use by the public. The inspector shall provide the owner or his representative
with a description of all violations and necessary repairs.
(A) Notice. After an inspector has issued a written
order which stops or limits the use of the equipment, the owner or his
representative shall notify the Division, in writing, when the equipment is
brought into compliance with the regulations of this Chapter and G.S. 95
Article 14A.
(B) Reinspection. After receipt of written notice from
the owner or his representative that the equipment has been brought into
compliance with the regulations of this Chapter and all applicable law, an
inspector shall reinspect to determine if all violations have been corrected
and necessary repairs have been made and the equipment is in compliance with
the rules in this Chapter and G.S. 95 Article 14A.
(4) Violations not creating unsafe conditions.
When the inspector has determined the equipment is not in compliance with the
regulations of this Chapter and G.S. 95 Article 14A, and that the
non-compliance does not create an unsafe condition which is exposing the public
to an unsafe condition likely to result in serious personal injury or property
damage, the inspector shall provide the owner or his representative with a
description of all violations and necessary repairs.
(A) Corrective action. The owner or his representative
shall have 60 calendar days from receipt of written notice of all violations
and necessary repairs to comply with the regulations of this Chapter and all
applicable law, correct violations and complete necessary repairs.
(B) Notice. The owner or his representative shall
notify the Division in writing within 60 calendar days of receiving written
notification of the violations and necessary repairs that the equipment has
been brought into compliance with the regulations of this Chapter and G.S. 95
Article 14A.
(C) Follow-up Inspection. If the owner or his
representative fails to provide notice of abatement as required by Part (B) of
this Subparagraph, and an inspection is required to determine status of
abatement, then the owner or his representative shall pay a follow-up
inspection fee of two hundred dollars ($200.00).
(d) Tests. Periodic tests required by the A17.1 - American
National Standard Safety Code for Elevators and Escalators shall be performed
in the presence of an elevator inspector whenever possible. In the absence of
an inspector, a signed copy of the test report shall be sent to the Director of
the Division without delay. The report shall be signed by the person conducting
such tests.
History Note: Authority G.S. 95-110.5;
Eff. August 1, 1987;
Amended Eff. March 1, 2015; December 1, 2004.
