Inspection Standard of API Valves

Inspection at the Valve Factory
The buyer will specify in the order that the valves are to be inspected at the valve manufacturer and that the inspection and testing of the valves be witnessed. During the execution of the purchase contract, the buyer’s inspectors may enter any department of the manufacturer related to the manufacture of the valves at any time.
Inspection outside the Valve Factory
When the buyer specifies that the inspection includes shell parts manufactured outside the valve manufacturer, these parts shall be subject to the buyer’s inspection at the place of manufacture.
Notice of inspection
When inspection by the buyer is specified, the valve manufacturer shall notify the buyer at the address listed in the order 5 working days in advance of the required valve tests and specified additional inspections or tests. If an off-site inspection is required, the valve manufacturer shall also notify the buyer 5 working days in advance of when and where the shell parts manufactured outside the valve manufacturer can be inspected.
Scope of inspection
The scope of inspection may be specified in the order. Unless otherwise specified, the inspection shall be limited to the following items:
1. Inspection of the valve during assembly to ensure compliance with the provisions of the order. The inspection may include the use of specified non-destructive testing methods.
2. On-site witnessing of required and specified optional pressure tests and inspections. C
Witness any supplementary inspections on site (see Section 2.6).
3. Review processing records and nondestructive inspection records (including specified radiographic inspection records).
Inspection
The valve manufacturer shall conduct visual inspections on all valve body, bonnet and seal castings to ensure compliance with the provisions of valve MSSSP-55.
The valve manufacturer shall conduct inspections on each valve to ensure compliance with this standard and the referenced optional standards (e.g., API600, see Section 1.2.2).
All inspections shall be conducted in accordance with written procedures compiled in accordance with the relevant standards.
Supplementary Inspections
Various supplementary inspections shall be conducted only when specified in the order and only within the specified scope. Magnetic particle inspection, radiographic inspection, liquid penetrant inspection and ultrasonic inspection of castings or forgings shall comply with ASME BI6.34 Chapter 8 or the buyer’s own procedures and acceptance criteria, if so specified. These inspections shall be conducted by the valve manufacturer under the witness of the buyer’s inspector.