Keyword: two commonly asme b16 34 and api 600
# Comparison of ASME B16.34 and API 600 Standards
## Introduction
When it comes to industrial valves, two commonly referenced standards are ASME B16.34 and API 600. While both standards address valve design and manufacturing, they serve different purposes and have distinct requirements. This article explores the key differences between these two important standards in the valve industry.
## Scope and Application
ASME B16.34
ASME B16.34 is a comprehensive standard that covers the design, materials, dimensions, and testing requirements for valves with flanged, threaded, and welding end connections. It applies to a wide range of valve types including gate, globe, check, ball, and butterfly valves.
API 600
API 600 specifically focuses on bolted bonnet steel gate valves for petroleum and natural gas industries. It’s more specialized than ASME B16.34 and includes additional requirements for materials, design, and testing that are specific to gate valves used in demanding service conditions.
## Key Differences
1. Valve Types Covered
ASME B16.34 is much broader in scope, covering multiple valve types, while API 600 is exclusively for steel gate valves with bolted bonnets.
2. Pressure-Temperature Ratings
Both standards provide pressure-temperature ratings, but API 600 includes additional requirements for severe service conditions commonly encountered in oil and gas applications.
3. Material Requirements
API 600 has more stringent material specifications, particularly for components like stems, wedges, and seats that are critical in gate valve operation.
4. Testing Requirements
While both standards require pressure testing, API 600 includes additional tests like backseat testing and high-pressure closure testing that are specific to gate valves.
## When to Use Each Standard
ASME B16.34 should be referenced when dealing with general valve applications across various industries. It provides the fundamental requirements that apply to most valves.
API 600 should be specified when designing or selecting bolted bonnet steel gate valves for petroleum or natural gas service, especially in high-pressure or critical applications where additional reliability is required.
## Conclusion
Understanding the differences between ASME B16.34 and API 600 is crucial for engineers and procurement specialists. While ASME B16.34 provides general valve requirements, API 600 offers specialized criteria for gate valves in demanding oil and gas applications. Many valves actually comply with both standards, combining the general requirements of ASME B16.34 with the specific gate valve provisions of API 600.
