NOTE: If you’re in an INDUSTRIAL facility, especially one with a PSM/RMP-covered process, B31.9 is NOT your piping RAGAGEP!
IFC 5703.6.3 dictates that piping for flammable and combustible liquids must be hydrostatically tested to 150% of the maximum anticipated pressure (or pneumatically tested to 110%). However, it offers a carve-out:
“Unless tested in accordance with the applicable section of ASME B31.9…”
5703.6.3 Testing.
Unless tested in accordance with the applicable section of ASME B31.9, piping, before being covered, enclosed or placed in use, shall be hydrostatically tested to 150 percent of the maximum anticipated pressure of the system, or pneumatically tested to 110 percent of the maximum anticipated pressure of the system, but not less than 5 pounds per square inch gauge (psig) (34.47 kPa) at the highest point of the system. This test shall be maintained for a sufficient time period to complete visual inspection of joints and connections. For not less than 10 minutes, there shall be no leakage or permanent distortion. Care shall be exercised to ensure that these pressures are not applied to vented storage tanks. Such storage tanks shall be tested independently from the piping.
The IFC provides this B31.9 exception because B31.9 has its own well-established, safe testing parameters tailored specifically for building services. If the IFC were to reference B31.3 as the alternative, it would be directing typical commercial building contractors to use a standard meant for chemical plants.
While IFC Chapter 57 broadly regulates flammable liquids (and Table 5703.6.2 lists B31.3 for design in industrial contexts), Section 5703.6.3 focuses on practical field testing. Referencing ASME B31.9 ensures that everyday commercial building projects remain safe without forcing developers and contractors into the expensive, complex testing regimens required by ASME B31.3 for process manufacturing.
If the IFC mandated ASME B31.3 testing protocols for standard fuel lines, the construction costs for standard buildings would skyrocket.
B31.3 requires rigorous Quality Assurance/Quality Control (QA/QC), including Material Test Reports (MTRs) for all components, strict welder qualifications under ASME Section IX, and a minimum of 10% radiographic (X-ray) examination of welds.
B31.9 Testing & Inspections allows for reduced documentation, simplified welder qualifications, and primarily relies on visual inspections for routine welds.
By referencing B31.9, the IFC allows mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) contractors to install and test generator fuel lines using standard building-service protocols rather than paying heavy-industrial premiums for B31.3 testing.