I talk a lot about inspecting welds/flanges and then pressure testing and leak testing our piping. However, there is more to this story. Inspecting our piping actually begins before it is installed.
341.4.1 Examination – Normal Fluid Service
(a) Visual Examination. The following shall be examined in accordance with para. 344.2:
(1) sufficient materials and components selected at random to satisfy the examiner that they conform to specifications and are free from defects.
(2) at least 5% of fabrication, as defined in para. 300.2, selected at random.
344.7 In-Process Examination
344 .7.1 Definition. In-process examination comprises examination of the following, as applicable:
(a) joint preparation and clean lines
(b) preheating
(c) fit-up, joint clearance, and internal alignment prior to joining
(d) variables specified by the joining procedure, including filler material
(1) (for welding) position and electrode
(2) (for brazing) position, flux, brazing temperature, proper wetting, and capillary action
(e) (for welding) condition of the root pass after cleaning - external and, where accessible, internal - aided by liquid penetrant or magnetic particle examination when specified in the engineering design
(f) (for welding) slag removal and weld condition between passes
(g) the appearance of the finished joint