FRP (Fiberglass Reinforced Plastic) pipe, as with other materials, is required to comply with the ASME B31.3 Pressure Process Piping Code. There are deficiencies in the Code relative to FRP. FRP is a unique material in that there are no established pressure-temperature ratings as there are for other materials, e.g. steel, PVC. The Code does provide rules for pressure design of components with no established ratings. However, the rules for FRP can be very confusing and ambiguous. The code provides rules for stress analysis of pipe systems but does not adequately address the unique properties of FRP. The installation and testing requirements for FRP also need to be updated. This paper will summarize the ASME Pressure Piping Code current requirements for the pressure design, stress analysis, and installation of FRP pipe in process applications (excluding gas pressure pipe and non-pressure applications). A Pipe Project Team is currently working under Task Group F of ASME B31.3 to review and revise the Code as it deals with FRP and the paper will also provide an update on the status of that review and recommended changes.
Post time: Jan-17-2022