Some processes have a relief system that includes a rupture disk below the relief valve. This is done for several reasons, but the two most common reasons are:
- The process is corrosive and can cause issues with the Relief Valve leading to failures and a shortened life span
- The process contains a Category M fluid and any leakage, ever how minor can lead to serious hazards
But whatever the reason is for this design, it comes with some very specific design requirements that MUST be incorporated into the RV Design Basis. Using ASME requirements, I hope to explain some of the items that we need to look for in the design basis to ensure a PROPERLY DESIGNED and FUNCTIONING relief system and to meet the minimums put forth by OSHA’s PSM and EPA’s RMP.
We start with ASME Section VIII, Division 1 code requirements…