ASME Code Tank: Is That Used Treating Cylinder Door Legal?

It’s been several years since the implementation of the new rules for creosote, penta, and cca, so it’s a good time to address this issue again.

While this blog is addressing autoclaves used for the preservation of wood products (or wood treating cylinders), take note that these guidelines will apply to any autoclave in your equipment that holds more than 15 psi of pressure.

While many used treating cylinder’s doors are on the market, are they legal for use in your company’s state?

Let’s take a look at some of the guidelines for your ASME Code tank.

Pressure vessel laws

Many states today have enacted pressure vessel laws.

While the laws differ from state to state, most require that any pressure vessel (aka treating cylinders) placed into service within the state must have the following:

• A Manufacturer’s Data Plate attached to the pressure vessel (tank) stating the vessel was built in accordance with the ASME Code.
• A copy of the manufacturer’s data report that matches the information found on the manufacturer’s data plate.
• The vessel is registered with the National Board of Pressure Vessel and Boiler Inspectors.

If one of the following items is not present on the used vessel, be very cautious about purchasing it.

Some states will make exceptions to the law, providing you contact the state prior to bringing the vessel into the state for use.

The insurance factor

Even though your state may not have any laws regarding pressure vessels, the insurance company insuring the vessel most likely will.

While this doesn’t seem like a big deal, keep in mind that, if the used vessel were to rupture while under pressure, catastrophic damage can occur, which the insurance company may not be liable for because you can’t prove the used vessel was built to withstand pressure.

So, how does this apply to the rules for creosote, penta, and cca that were passed in 2013?

A treating cylinder door is considered a pressure retaining item under the ASME Code.

Thus, the same rules apply to a used cylinder door.

If the door’s owner cannot produce the manufacturer’s data plate and the manufacturer’s data report for the door itself, consult with your state and insurance company before you purchase it.

If you don’t, you could land up with a 16,000 lb scrap of metal you can use for…?

Exactly.

Work with experts who know the laws

You’re taking a gamble when you don’t do the right research.

Don’t be afraid to reach out to a reputable ASME code tank service provider with questions before you make a costly error.

At Tank Fab, we have the know-how to guide you into making the right choices for your business.

How have the changes from 2013 affected you and your bottom line?