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National Board Inspection Code (NBIC - Coggle Diagram
National Board Inspection Code (NBIC
I. National Board Inspection Code (NBIC)
A. Overview
Comprehensive standard for pressure-retaining equipment
Covers inspection, repair, and alteration
Ensures compliance with ASME BPVC and jurisdictional regulations
B. Scope of NBIC
Applies to:
a. Boilers (ASME Section I & IV)
b. Pressure Vessels (ASME Section VIII)
c. Piping Systems (ASME B31.1 & B31.3)
d. Pressure Relief Devices
Does NOT cover:
a. Non-code pressure vessels
b. Low-pressure air receivers or non-pressure storage tanks
Used alongside:
a. API 510 (Pressure Vessel Inspection)
b. API 570 (Piping Inspection)
c. ASME Section IX (Welding Qualifications)
C. Structure of the NBIC
Divided into four parts
a.
Part 1: Installation
b.
Part 2: Inspection
c.
Part 3: Repairs & Alterations
d.
Part 4: Pressure Relief Devices
Updated every three years to align with ASME BPVC changes
II. NBIC Part 1 – Installation Requirements
A. Covers proper installation
B. Key Installation Considerations:
Proper foundation and anchoring
Correct piping alignment
Ventilation and clearance requirements
Compliance with jurisdictional codes and permits
C. Inspection Requirement:
All newly installed equipment must be inspected by an authorized inspector
III. NBIC Part 2 – Inspection Requirements
A. Covers in-service inspections
B. Focus:
Damage mechanisms and fitness-for-service assessments
C. Types of NBIC Inspections:
External Inspection (Annual)
Internal Inspection (Every 3-5 years)
Fitness-for-Service (FFS) Evaluation (As needed)
D. Inspection Methods:
Visual Testing (VT)
Ultrasonic Thickness Testing (UTT)
Radiographic Testing (RT)
Magnetic Particle (MT) or Liquid Penetrant Testing (PT)
E. Reporting:
Findings must be documented
Reported to the jurisdiction
IV. NBIC Part 3 – Repairs & Alterations
A. Defines rules for repairs and alterations
B. Repair vs. Alteration Definitions:
Repair:
Restoring equipment to original design (e.g., weld overlay, nozzle replacement)
Alteration:
Modifying design or pressure rating (e.g., changing MAWP, adding new nozzles)
C. Repair & Alteration Requirements:
Must follow ASME Section IX welding procedures (WPS/PQR)
Qualified welders must perform all repairs
Post-repair inspections (RT, UT, or hydrostatic testing)
Documentation and approval by an NBIC-certified inspector
Rerating requires stress analysis and jurisdictional approval
Proper compliance prevents failures
V. NBIC Part 4 – Pressure Relief Devices
A. Covers inspection, testing, and repair of PRDs
B. Relief Device Inspection Intervals:
Power Boiler Safety Valves (Annually)
Pressure Vessel Relief Valves (Every 3-5 years)
Process Piping Relief Valves (Based on API 576 guidelines)
C. Testing Requirements:
Bench testing to verify set pressure and capacity
Inspection for corrosion, leaks, or spring failure
Replacement of damaged or worn components
Must be resealed after servicing
VI. Case Study: NBIC Repair Failure in a Refinery Boiler
A. Incident:
Tube rupture after a recent repair
B. Cause:
Improper welding procedures and lack of PWHT
Unqualified welder
Failure to meet NBIC Part 3 requirements
No post-repair hydrostatic test
C. Solution & Prevention:
Follow NBIC-approved WPS/PQR
Ensure inspection by NBIC-certified inspector
Conduct post-repair NDE and hydrostatic testing
Proper compliance with NBIC Part 3 would have prevented failure
VII. Summary of the National Board Inspection Code (NBIC)
A. Provides guidelines for installation, inspection, and repair
B. Supports ASME BPVC, API 510, and API 570
C. Defines repair and alteration procedures
D. Ensures proper relief device maintenance and testing
E. Prevents pressure equipment failures