S T D - A S M E P T C 25 S P E C I A L A D D E N D A - E N G L 1778 m 0757b70 0604840 T73 m

Special Addenda
to
ASME PTC 25-1994
Pressure Relief Devices

This 1998 Special Addenda to ASMEPTC 25-1994, Pressure ReliefDevices,isissued to revise

portions of this Code as it pertains to the performance testingof rupture disk devices. It reflects the
current industry-accepted terms and performance characteristics of these devicesas used in ASME
accreditation programs. The American National Standards Institute approved this document on
March 19,1998.

Replace the pages listed. The pages not listed are the reverse sides of the listed pages and contain
no changes.

Page
viii vii, Contents Updated
Addenda
to reflect
7 10 7- Definition for flow resistance added
2.8 (1) Definitions for f and G revised
(2) Definitions for HL BC and L, deleted
(3) Definitions for KC.Dand KE+
redesignated as KEc and Kc.D,
respectively
(4) Definitions for Kpip Rc, Kpip E D , K R ,
KED, LRD,UA-B, UB-C, and MC-D
added
18 Fig. 4 Revised
19 Fig. 5 Revised
Fig 6 Revised
32 4.9 Title revised
4.9.1 First paragraph revised
33 Fig. 9 Revised
34 4.9.4 (1) Title revised
(2) Subparagraphs (a) and (b) revised
Subsubparagraphs (d)(l), (d)(2), and
(d)(6) through (d)(9) revised
4.9.5 Title revised
Subparagraphs (a) and (b) revised
Subsubparagraphs (d)(l), (d)(2), and
(d)(5) through (d)(8) revised
37 5.5.7 Title revised
Revised in its entirety
47, 48 Form 5.5.7 Subtitle revised
Step (6) revised
Steps (13) through (17) revised
Steps (34) and (35) revised
Step (37) deleted

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 S T D - A S M E P T C 2 5 S P E C I AALD D E N D A - E N G L L998 0759b70 Ob04841 90T

CONTENTS

...
Foreward ................................................................................................................................... 111
Committee Roster .................................................................................................................. V

O Introduction .................................................................................................................... 1
1 Object and Scope ......................................................................................................... 1
2 Definitions and Description of Terms ..................................................................... 3

Part I-Flow Capacity Testing

3 Guiding Principles ......................................................................................................... 11
4 Instruments and Methods of Measurements ....................................................... 15
5 Computations of Results ............................................................................................ 35
6 Test Summary Report Form ..................................................................................... 49

Part Il-ln-Service and Bench Testing

3 Guiding Principles ......................................................................................................... 55
4 Instruments and Methods of Measurements ....................................................... 57
5 Computations of Results ............................................................................................ 65
6 Test Summary Report Form ..................................................................................... 65

Figures
1 Typical Curtain Areas of Pressure Relief Valves .................................................
6
2 Recommended Arrangements for Testing Devices With Atmospheric Back
Pressure-Flow-Meter Test Arrangement ..........................................................
17
3 Recommended Arrangements for Testing Devices With Atmospheric Back
Pressure-Weighed-Condensate Test Arrangement .......................................
17
4 Recommended Arrangements for Testing Devices With Atmospheric Back
Pressure-Weighed-Water Test Arrangement ..................................................
18
5 Recommended Discharge Arrangements for Testing Devices With Super-
imposed Back Pressure ............................................................................................
19
6 Recommended Discharge Arrangements for Testing Devices With Built-up
BackPressure .............................................................................................................. 19
7 Recommended Internal Contours of Fittings. Adapter. and Reducers
Between Test Vessel and Test Device ................................................................
20
8 Recommended Arrangement for Testing Non-Reclosing Pressure Relief
Devices in Combination With Pressure Relief Valves ..................................... 21
9 Recommended Arrangements for Testing RuptureDisk Device Flow
Resistance .................................................................................................................... 33
10 Recommended Arrangement for Testing Valves With Compressible Fluids 60
11 Recommended Arrangement for TestingValves With IncompressibleFluids 61
12 Pilot Operated Pressure Relief Valve Field Test Accessory ............................. 62
vii

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 S T D - A S M E P T C 25 S P E C I A L A D D E N D A - E N G L L778 0757b70 Ob048q2 8qb m

Forms
5.5.1 Pressure Relief Device Tested With Steam and Water-Observed Data
and Computed Results-Weighed-Water Method ...................................... 38
5.5.2 Pressure Relief Device Tested With Steam-Observed Data and Com-
puted Results-Flow-Meter Method ............................................................... 39
5.5.3 Pressure Relief Device Tested With Liquids-Observed Data and
Computed Results-Flow-Meter Method ...................................................... 41
5.5.4 Pressure Relief Device Tested With Air or Gas-Observed Data and
Computed Results-Flow-Meter Method ...................................................... 42
5.5.5 Pressure Relief Device Tested With Air or Gas-Observed Data and
Computed Results-Weighed-Water Method .............................................. 44
5.5.6 Pressure Relief Device Tested With Fuel Gas-Observed Data and Com-
puted Results-Flow-Meter Method ............................................................... 45
5.5.7 Rupture Disk Device Tested With Air-Observed Data and Computed
Results-Flow Resistance ...........................................,...........................,.......... 47
6.5.1 Pressure and Relief Valve performance Test Report-Steam .......... 51
6.5.2 Pressure and Relief Valve Performance Test Report-Liquids and Water 52
6.5.3 Pressure and Relief Valve Performance Test Report-Air, Gas, or
Fuel Gas ................................................................................................................... 53
6.5.4 Rupture Disk Device Performance Test Report-Air, Gas, or Fuel Gas .. 54

Appendices
I SI (Metric)Units and Conversion Factors ............................................................... 67
II Examples ofDeterminingFlow Rate Uncertainties ............................................. 69
A References ....................................................................................................................... 74

Tables
IA .............................................................................................................
SI (Metric)Units 67
IB Commonly UsedConversion Factors ...................................................................... 68
11-1 TableofUncertainty Parameters ............................................................................. 71

viii

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 S T D - A S M E P T C Z5 S P E C I A L A D D E N D A - E N G L L778 m 0757b70 Ob04843 7 8 2
PRESSURE RELIEF DEVICES
built-up backpressure - pressureexisting at the
outlet ofa pressurerelief devicecaused by theflow
through that particular device into a discharge sys-
tem
burst pressure - the value of inlet static pressure
at which a rupture disk device functions
chatter - abnormal rapid reciprocating motion of
the movableparts of a pressurerelief valvein which
the disk contacts the seat
closing pressure - the value of decreasing inlet
disk reestablishes
static pressure at which the valve
contact withthe seat or atwhich lift becomes zero
coefficient of discharge - the ratio the
of measured
relieving capacity to the theoretical relieving ca-
pacity
colddifferential testpressure - the inletstatic pres-
sure at which a pressure relief valve is adjusted t o
open on the test stand. This test pressure includes
corrections for service conditions of superimposed
back pressure and/or temperature
constantbackpressure - asuperimposed back
pressure which is constant with time
cracking pressure - see opening pressure
flow capacity - see measured relieving capacity
flow-rating pressure - the inlet static pressure at
which the relieving capacity ofa pressure relief de-
vice i s measured
flow resistance - adimensionless term (such as
used in para. 5.5.7)which expresses the number of
velocity heads lost due to flow through a rupture
disk device (where velocity head is onehalf the v e
locity squared divided by the acceleration of grav-
ity)
flutter - abnormal, rapid reciprocating motion of
the movableparts of a pressurerelief valvein which
the disk does not contact the seat
leak pressure - see start-to-leak pressure
leak test pressure -the specified inlet static pres-
sure at which a quantitative seatleakage test is
performed in accordance with a standardprocedure
marked breaking pressure - the value of pressure
marked on a breaking pin or a shear pin device or
its nameplate
marked burst pressure - the value of pressure
marked on the rupture disk device or its nameplate
or on the tag of the rupture disk and indicates the
burst pressure at the coincident disk temperature
marked set pressure - the value or values of pres-
sure marked on a pressure relief device
7
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ASME PTC 25-1994
marked relieving capacity - see rated relieving ca-
pacity
measured relieving capacity - the relieving capac-
ity of a pressurerelief device measured at the flow-
rating pressure,expressed in gravimetricorvolu-
metric units
opening pressure - the value of increasing inlet
static pressure of a pressure relief valve at which
there is a measurable lift, or at which thedischarge
becomes continuous as determined by seeing, feel-
ing, or hearing
-
overpressure apressureincreaseover the set
pressure of a pressure
relief valve, usually expressed
as a percentage of set pressure
popping pressure - the value of increasing inlet
static pressure at which thedisk moves in the open-
ing direction at a faster rate as compared with cor-
responding movement at higher or lower pressures
primary pressure - the pressure at the inlet in a
pressure relief device
rated relieving capacity - that portion of the meas-
ured relieving capacity permitted by the applicable
codeor regulation t o be used as abasis for the
application of a pressure relief device
reference conditions - those conditions of a test
medium which are specified by either an applicable
standard or an agreement between the parties t o
the test, which may be used for uniform reporting
of measured flow test results
relieving pressure - set pressure plus overpressure
resealing pressure - the value of decreasing inlet
static pressure at which no further leakage is d e
tected after closing. The method of detection may
beaspecified water seal on the outlet or other
means appropriate for this application.
reseating pressure - see closing pressure
seal-off pressure - see resealing pressure
secondarypressure - the pressure existing in the
passage between the actual discharge area and the
valve outlet in a safety, safety relief, or relief valve
setpressure - the value of increasing inlet static
pressure at which a pressure relief device displays
oneofthe operational characteristics as defined
under opening pressure, popping pressure, start-te
leak pressure, burst pressure, or breaking pressure.
(The applicable operating characteristic for a spe-
cific device design is specified by the device man-
ufacturer.)
simmer - the audible or visibleescape of fluid b e
tween the seat and disk at an inlet static pressure
 STD.ASME PTC 25 S P E C I A L A D D E N D A - E N G L L778 m 0759b70 O b O q 8 4 4 bL7 m

ASME PTC 25-1994 PRESSURE RELIEF DEVICES

below the popping pressure and at no measurable /=Valvedisk lift, in.

capacity. It applies to safety or safety relief valves m=Mass flow rate, Ibm/hr
on compressible-fluid service. qb=Volumetric rate at base condition at
specified burst pressure (ofa rupture disk device) - the meter, cfm
the value of increasing inlet static pressure, at a q,=Valve capacity atreference inlet tem-
specified temperature, at which a rupture disk is perature, cfm
designed to function t=Length of test, min
start-todischarge pressure - see opening pressure v=Specific volume, ft3/lbm
start-toleak pressure - the value of increasing inlet w=Mass of wateror condensate, Ibm (W)
static pressure at whichthe first bubble occurs when
w,~ =Valvesteam leakage, Ibm/hr
a pressure relief valve is tested by means of air under
a specified waterseal on the outlet wl, =Condenser leakage, Ibm/hr
superimposed back pressure - the static pressure W&=Testdrum drainage, Ibm/hr
existing at the outlet of a pressure relief device at
the time the device is required t o operate. It is the C= Valve inlet temperature correction
result of pressure in thedischarge systemfrom other C= Discharge coefficient, dimensionless
sources. Ctap= Sonic velocity at pressure tap, ft/sec
-
test pressure see relieving pressure D=lnternal diameter of meter run pipe,
theoretical relieving capacity - the computed ca- in.
pacity expressed in gravimetric or volumetric units D=Test rig inside diameter, f t
of a theoretically perfect nozzle having a minimum D= Internal diameter of meter run pipe,
cross-sectional flow area equal to the actual dis- in.
charge area of a pressure relief valve or relief area E = Pipe roughness, in.
of a non-reclosing pressure relief device
F, = Thermal expansion number, dimen-
vapor-tight pressure - see resealing pressure sionless
variable back pressure - a superimposed back F, =Area factor for thermalexpansion, Fa
pressure that will vary with time
G= Mass velocity, Ibm/ft2-sec
warn - see simmer
C=Specific gravity with respect to dry
yield(me1t)ternperature - the temperature atwhich M
the fusible material of a fusible plug becomesdevice air, -
Ma
sufficiently soft to extrude from its holder and re-
K= Flow coefficient
lieve pressure
K,=Trial flow coefficient
KPiw R = Pipe resistance factor between pres-
2.8 DESCRIPTION OF TERMS sure taps B and C without the rupture
a = Actual discharge area, disk device
a=Minimum net flow area in.2 KPip ED= Pipe resistance factor between pres-
sure tapsB and D without the rupture
a, = Meter-bore area, in.2
disk device
p=Water density, Ibm per CU f t
KR= Individual flow resistance
d= Meter-bore diameter, in.
Ktap=Total resistance factor topressure tap
= Meter-bore diametersquared, in.*
KA-B= Resistance factor between pressure
db=Minimum holder bore diameter, in.
taps A and B
db= Bore diameter, in.
KR = Resistance factor between pressure
do=Diameter of orifice plate, in. taps B and C
d,= Seat diameter, in. KED= Resistance factor between pressure
f = Fanning friction factor, dimensionless taps B and D
h,= Differential pressure at the meter, KC-D= Resistance factor between pressure
inches of water taps C and D
k = Ratio of specific heats LA+= Length between tap A and B, f t
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 S T D - A S M E P T C 25 S P E C I A L A D D E N D A - E N G L
PRESSURE RELIEF DEVICES
L= = Length between tap B and C, f t
L BD = Length between tap B and D, f t
Lc.o= Length between tap C and D, f t
M=Molecular weight of gas
M, =Mach number at pipe entrance
M, = Molecular weight of air
M= , Molecular weight, M W
M,,,=Mach number at pressure tap
NR,= Reynolds number
P= Static pressure, psia
f, = Pressure at pipe entrance
Pb= Barometric pressure, psia
P,= Static pressure at the meter calori-
meter, psia
P,,, = Set pressure, psig
Pr= Flow rating pressure, psia
P,= Back pressure, psig
PB= Base pressure, psia
P,=Meter inlet stagnation pressure, psia
PUPA=Pressure Q tap A, psia
P,,,*= Pressure Q tap B, psia
PtapC= Pressure Q tap C, psia
PUpD= Pressure Q tap D, psia
Q= Relieving capacityin gpm of water at
reference condition, (US. gallons)
kpml
R= Gas constant, 1545.4/M, ft-lbf/lbm-"R
Rd=Throat Reynolds number
S,= Specific gravity (ideal)
T=Temperature, "R
T = Fluid temperature, "F
T, =Temperature at pipe entrance
Tb= Base temperature, absolute, "R
T,,,=Fluid temperature at the meter, "F
T,=Temperature upstream of the meter,
"F
T,= Base temperature, "R
T,= Fluid temperature, "F
T,= Meter inlet stagnation temperature,
absolute, "R
T,=Temperature at the valve inlet,
absolute, "R
T,=Reference temperature at the valve
inlet, absolute "R
Tc,,= Fluid temperature at theCalorimeter,
"F
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L778 0757b70 ObOq845 555
ASME .PTC .25-1994
Tc,,' Drum= Fluid temperature at the test drum
calorimeter, "F
TcaI,me,er = Fluid temperature at the meter
calorimeter, "F
Ttap=Temperature at pressure tap, "R
TB= Base temperature, "F
,V
,, = Specific volume at inlet conditions,
f t3/l
bm
Va,,# =Specific volume atinlet conditions,
ft3/lbm
Vact,meter= Specific volume at flowing conditions
at the meter, ft3/lbm
Vref=Specific volume at reference condi-
tion, ft3/lbm
,V, Drum = Specific volume at reference condi-
tion, ft3/lbm
Vref,meter= Specific volume at reference condi-
tions at the meter, ft3/lbm
V,,, = Specific volume at pressure tap,
f t3/lbm
W= Measured relieving capacity,
lbmlsec
W,=Measured relieving capacity adjusted
to the reference condition, lbmlhr
Wcal,drum=Test-drum calorimeter flow adjusted
to the reference condition, Ibm/hr
Weal, meter = Meter calorimeter flow adjusted to
the reference condition, Ibm/hr
Wdc=Test-drum calorimeter flow, Ibm/hr
Wh= Flow rate, lbm/hr
Wh=MeaSured relieving capacityadjusted
to the reference condition, Ibm/hr
W,,=Meter calorimeter flow, lbmlhr
W,= Relieving capacity adjusted t o water
at reference condition, Ibm/hr
N',=Trial flow rate, Ibm/hr
Y= Expansion factor
Ytap= Expansion factor at pressure tap
Z=Compressibility factor as defined in
the equation of state, PV=ZRT.
&= Base compressibility factor
0 = Beta ratio (B = &D)
p = Water density, Ibm per CU f t
pact= Density of water at inlet conditions,
Ibm/ft3
p m = Fluid density at meter inlet, Ibm/ft3
p m = Density, Ibm/ft3
 ASME PTC 25-1994 PRESSURE R E L I E F DEVICES

pref= Density of water at reference condi-

tion, lbm/ft3
ps= Density of dry air at 14.696 psia and
at the base temperature, Ibm/ft3
pstd = Density of dry air at14.696 psia and
reference temperature, Ibm/ft3, (pst&
pB= Density at base temperature and
pressure
p = Viscosity, Ibmlft-sec
p=Viscosity of air at TBand Ta
(centipoise)
AP= Differential pressure head across
meter, inches water
APA-,= Differential pressure between taps A
and B, psia
APec = Differential pressure between taps B
and C,psia
APC-, = Differential pressure between taps C
and D, psia
&= Ideal gas sonic-flow functions

10

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 S T D - A S M E P T C 25 S P E C I A L A D D E N D A - E N G L L978 m 0 7 5 9 b 7 0 Ob04847 328 m

PRESSURERELIEF DEVICES
PART I-FLOW CAPACITY TESTING ASME PTC 25-1994

Control valve

calorimeter

calorimeter
for control valve v

FIG. 2 RECOMMENDED ARRANGEMENTSFOR'TESTINGDEVICES WITH ATMOSPHERIC BACK

PRESSURE- FLOWMETER TEST ARRANGEMENT

7
Lift indicator

Test device
I
, 4 J /
Outlet piping should be level or
slopedownward, with provision

Vent

Steam Vessel
calorimeter
r
I
-l Condenser

Gage glass W
Scale 7
FIG. 3 RECOMMENDED ARRANGEMENTSFORTESTINGDEVICES WITH ATMOSPHERIC
BACK PRESSURE- WEIGHED-CONDENSATE TEST ARRANGEMENT
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 S T D - A S M E P T C 25 S P E C I A L A D D E N D A - E N G L L778 m 0757b700b048482bll m

PRESSURE RELIEF DEVICES

ASME PTC 25-1994 PART I-FLOW CAPACITY TESTING

x Lift indicator

Test
device

See Fig. 2 for inlet

arrangement

Weighing tank D!
FIG. 4 RECOMMENDED ARRANGEMENTS FOR TESTINGDEVICES WITH ATMOSPHERIC
BACK PRESSURE- WEIGHED-WATER TEST ARRANGEMENT

18

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 S T D - A S M E P T C 25 S P E C I A L A D D E N D A - E N G L L778 m 0757b70 Ob04847 L T O m

PRESSURE RELIEF DEVICES

PART I-FLOW CAPACITY TESTING ASME PTC 25-1994

Back pressure supply line

Quick-closing valve

Pressure

+To atmosphere,
receiver, or drain

FIG. 5 RECOMMENDED DISCHARGE ARRANGEMENTSFORTESTINGDEVICES WITH SUPER-

IMPOSED BACK PRESSURE

Lift indicator

Control valve
Test . Pressure
device

TO atmosphere,
receiver, or drain

See Fig. 2 for inlet

arrangement

FIG. 6 RECOMMENDED DISCHARGE ARRANGEMENTSFORTESTINGDEVICES WITH BUILT-UP

BACK PRESSURE

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 S T D - A S M E P T C 25 S P E C I A L A D D E N D A - E N G L L778 I0 7 5 9 b 7 0 Ob04850 712 m

PRESSURE RELIEF DEVICES

ASME PTC 25-1994 PART I-FLOW CAPACITY TESTING

For sketch (a) - If D g 30.75 DA, then RA 3 0.25 DA

I f DB < 0.75 DA, then R 3 0.25 Ds

For sketch (b) - If < 30 deg. and Dg < 0.75 DA, break all edges
For sketch (c) - If01 > 30 deg. and Dg < 0.75 DA, then R 30.25 DB
For sketch l d ) - If (Y < 30 deg. and DB 90.75 Da. then RA > 0.25 DA

GENERAL NOTE: In no case shall the size of the fitting exceed the size of the
connection onthe test vessel.

FIG. 7 RECOMMENDED INTERNAL CONTOURS OF FITTINGS, ADAPTER, AND REDUCERS

BETWEEN TEST VESSEL AND TEST DEVICE

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 PRESSURERELIEF DEVICES
PART I-FLOW CAPACITY TESTING
4.7.7 Observation of Mechanical Characteris-
tics. During the tests with superimposed or built-
up back pressure, mechanical characteristics shall
be observed by hearing, feeling, or seeing, and re-
corded during the flow test. If the valve chatters,
flutters, or does not reseat satisfactorily, such action
shall be recorded. Upon agreement of all interested
parties, the valve may be readjusted or repairedand
retested. When testing valves against back pressure,
any range in which the valve does not reach rated
lift at the flow-rating pressure shall be recorded.
4.7.8 Recording AdditionalData. Itmay be de-
sirable or a requirement to record pressures other
than, or in addition to, those listed in para. 4.3.4.
Wherepossible,suchrecordedpressuresshall be
identified in accordance withAppendix I. With
closed discharge systems, it is not possible to ob-
serve or record some characteristic pressures.
4.8 TESTING WITH LIQUIDS, WITH BACKPRES-
SURE ABOVE ATMOSPHERIC
4.8.1TestArrangements. Pressuresourcescanbe
a pump or an accumulator of liquid, in combination
with high-pressure compressed gas. Precautions shall psilsec, or whatever lesser rate of increase is nec-
be taken to ensure that pressure pulsations are re-
duced toa minimum.Figure 2 shows a recom-
mended test arrangement, up to and including the
test valve. Figures 5 and 6 show discharge arrange
ments, for testing with superimposed and built-up
backpressure,respectively. A flowmeter [para.
4.2.4(bX7)] shall be used in either case. Instrumen- tion of the valve. Graduallydecrease the inlet pres-
tation shall be suitably installed to indicate or re- sure until the valvecloses.Record
cord the following:
(a) liquid temperature;
(b) flow-meter differential pressure;
(c) valveinlet pressure;
(d) backpressure.
4.8.2 Preliminary Tests. Preliminary tests maybe
permitted for testing and adjusting operation of the
test apparatus and/or valve being tested (see para.
3.5). Such tests may be necessary to ensure the ab-
sence of leaks in the test apparatus and to ensure
that all gas or air has been vented from the com-
ponent parts of the system.
4.8.3 Details of Procedure for Flow Measurement
( a ) AtmosphericBack-PressureTest. Testsmay
be conducted to determine the performance of t h e
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ASME PTC 25-1994
valve when discharging at atmospheric back pres-
sure. The valve shall be equipped with an atmos-
pheric discharge, as shown in Fig. 2. Test procedure
shall be in accordance with paras. 4.5.3 (a) through
(n), performing such portions of the procedure and
recording such data as has been agreed upon.
NOTE: The objectives of this portionof the test may
be only to determine and record the set pressure
and closing pressureof the valve; andthe lift of the
valve at the flow-rating pressure, when the valve is
discharging to atmosphere. In this case, the portions
of paras. 4.5.3 (a) through (h) relating to capacity
determination may be eliminated.
(b) Back-Pressure Test. Following the atmos-
pheric back-pressure test, if performed, install the
discharge arrangement required byFig. 5 or 6, d e
pending on type of back pressure desired.
4.8.4 Testing With SuperimposedBack Pressure
[Fig. 5)
(a) Adjust the backpressure on the valveand
discharge piping to the required value. Increase the
pressure at the valve inlet. During the pressure in-
terval starting at 90% of the expected set pressure,
the rate of pressure increase shall not exceed 2.0
essary for the accurate reading of the pressure. Ob-
serve and record the set pressure of the valve, the
back pressure, and any other desired or pertinent
characteristics.
(b) Continue increasingthe pressure at the valve
inlet until the valve remains open. Observe the ac-
the reseating
pressure of the valve andthe back pressure.Observe
the action of the valve.
NOTE: During (a) and (b) above, care shall be ex-
ercised to maintain the back pressure at as uniform
a value as possible.
(c) Repeat (a)and (b),recording set and reseating
pressures,andbackpressure,untilall are estab-
lished and stabilized.
(cf) Establishandmaintainflow-ratingpressure
untilflowinstrumentsandbackpressure gage in-
dicate a steady-state condition.
(e) Record the following:
(7) valveinlet pressure;
(2) valvedisk lift;
(3) liquid-inlet temperature;
(4) flow-meter differential pressure;
(5) back pressure.
31
 S T D * A S M E P T C 25 S P E C I A L A D D E N D A - E N G L L998 m 0 7 5 9 b 7 0 Ob04852 795 m
ASME PTC 25-1994
( f l Decrease inlet pressure slowly and again re-
cord reseating pressureof valve and back pressure.
(g) In mostinstances, it is desirable, or a re-
quirement, that the valve be tested over a given
range of back pressure. In such cases, it is conven-
ient if the valueof back pressure chosenin (a) above
be either the lowest or highest of this range. Back
pressure may then be increased or decreased in in-
crements, repeating (a) through (h) above at each
incremental value.
4.8.5Testing With Built-up BackPressure(Fig.6)
(a) Increase the pressure at the valve inlet. Dur-
ing the pressure interval starting at 90% of the ex-
pected set pressure, the rate of pressure increase
shall not exceed 2.0 psibec, or whatever lesser rate
of increase is necessary for the accurate readingof
the pressure. Observe and record the set pressure
. of the valve andany other desired or pertinent char-
acteristics.
(b) Continue increasing the pressure at the valve
inlet until the valve remains open. Adjust built-up
back pressure to desired value. Observe the action
of the valve. Gradually decrease the inlet pressure
until the valve closes. Recordthe reseating pressure
of the valve and back pressure. Observe the action
of the valve.
(c) Repeatparas.(a)and(b), recording set and
reseating pressures, and back pressure, until all are
established and stabilized.
(d) Establish and maintain flow-rating pressure
until flow instruments and back-pressuregage in-
dicate a steady-state condition.
(e) Record thefollowing:
(7) valve-inlet pressure;
(2) valvedisklift;
(3) liquid-inlet temperature;
(4) flow-meterdifferential pressure;
(5) backpressure.
(g) Decrease inlet pressure slowly and again r e
cord reseating pressureof valve and back pressure.
. (h) In most instances, it is desirable, or re-
a in the following subparagraphs.
quirement, that the valve be testedoveragiven
range of back pressure. I n such cases, it is conven-
ient if the value of back pressure chosen in para.
4.8.4(a) be either the lowest or highest of this range.
Back pressure may then be increased or decreased
in increments,repeating (a) through (hl above at
each incremental value.
4.8.6Tests WithBuilt-up BackPressure With
Measuring Tank. The use of volumetric or gravi-
32
COPYRIGHT American Society of Mechanical Engineers
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PRESSURE RELIEF DEVICES
PART I-FLOW CAPACITY TESTING
metric determination of valvedischarge when test-
ing with built-up back pressure is permissible. In
such cases, the interested parties shall agree on a
test procedure prior t o conducting the tests.
4.8.7 Observation of Mechanical Characteris-
tics. During the tests with superimposed or built-
up back pressure, mechanical characteristics shall
be observed by hearing, feeling, or seeing, and r e
corded during the flow test. If the valve chatters,
flutters, or does not reseat satisfactorily, such action
shall be recorded. Upon agreement of all interested
parties, the valve may be readjusted and repaired
and retested. Whentesting valves againstback pres-
sure, any range in which the valve does not reach
rated lift at theflow-rating pressure shall be r e
corded.
4.8.8 Recording AdditionalData. During the tests
with superimposed or built-upback pressure, it may
be desirable, or a requirement, to record pressures
other than, or in addition to, those listed in para.
4.8.4 or 4.8.5. Where possible, such recorded pres-
sure shall be identified inaccordance with Appendix
I . With closed discharge systems, it is not possible
to observe or record some characteristic pressures.
4.9 TESTING WITH GAS OR AIR, RUPTURE DISK
DEVICE FLOW RESISTANCE METHOD
4.9.1Test Arrangement. A recommended test ar-
rangement is shown in the flow resistance test rig
arrangement, Fig. 9, which represents the testvessel
and test device of Fig. 2. Rupture disk device shall
have same nominal pipe size dimension as the test
rig. Differential pressure measurement instruments
or transducers shall be used between pressure taps
A&B, B&C, C&D. The primary element shall be either
a subsonic-inferential meter or sonic-inferential m e
ter as shown in Fig. 2 and described in para. 4.2.4(a).
Instrumentation for each type of meter is listed
(a) Subsonic-inferential Meters. Measure-
mentsassociated with subsonic-inferentialmeters
are:
(7) inlet static pressure;
(2) inlet temperature;
( 3 ) differential pressure.
(b) Sonic-lnferential Meters. Measurements
associated with sonic-inferential meters are:
(7) inlet total (stagnation)pressure;
(2) inlet total (stagnation)temperature.
 S T D - A S M E P T C i25 S P E C I A L A D D E N D A - E N G L L778 0759b70 ObRV853 h21 m

PRESSURERELIEF DEVICES
PART I-FLOW CAPACITY TESTING ASME PTC 25-1994

TEST RIG WTHOUT

STRAIGHTENING VANES
Standardbore
schedule 40 clean
commercial pipe
15 pipe
diameters

PRESSURE TAP DETAIL

30 pipe
diameters I

12 pipe dia. r Rupture

disk
device

I
2 pipe dia.

-%B
Size of
Exceeding
Not
pipe
than
less
lin.)

2
Not

2-3
4-a
A

(in.)

114
3/8
1R
A

(in.)

l/8
v8
1/8

'
-Pressure 10 and greater 314 1/8

I
30 pipe
tapB
'Edge of holemust be clean andsharp or slightly rounded.
free from burrs, wire edges, or other irregularities. Inno
case shall any fitting protrude inside thepipe.
diameters

--lis
Pressure TEST RIG WITH
tap A FLOW STRAIGHTENERS
Remainder of test rig
A- -
to be configuredsame
as the test rig wlout
straightening vanes

60 pipe
diameters
diameters Straightening
vanes

Temperature
'7
""_ "_

Test vessel
(See Fig. 2)

FIG. 9 RECOMMENDED ARRANGEMENTSFORTESTINGRUPTURE DISK DEVICE FLOW RESISTANCE

33

COPYRIGHT American Society of Mechanical Engineers

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 S T D - A S M E P T C 25 SPECIAL ADDENDA-ENGL
ASME PTC 25-1994
4.9.2PreliminaryTests. Preliminary tests may be
permitted for testingthe test apparatus. Such tests
may be necessary to ensure the absence of leaks in
the test apparatus and that all differentialpressure
measurement devices are functioning properlyand
within their pressure measurement range.
4.9.3BarometricPressure. Record the baromet-
ric pressure (see para. 4.2.1).
4.9.4Details of Procedure for Flow Resistance
Measurement UsingSubsonic-Inferential-Meter
Method
(a) Install rupture disk device into the flow re-
sistance test rig.
(b) Increase the pressure at pressure tap B. Dur-
ing the interval starting at 90% of the expected set
pressure, the rate of pressure increase shall not ex-
ceed 2.0psilsec, or whatever lesser rate of increase
is necessary for theaccurate reading of thepressure.
Observe and record the set pressure of the device
and any other desired or pertinent characteristics.
(c) Establishand maintainflow-rating pressure
until flow instruments indicate a steady-state con-
dition.
(d) Simultaneously record thefollowing meas-
urements (it is preferable to use a data acquisition
system for these measurements)
(7) test rig inlet pressure
(2) test rig inlet temperature
(3) flow meter inlet static pressure
(4) flow meter inlet total temperature
(5) flow meter differential pressure
(6) tap B pressure
(I) differential pressure tap A-B
(S) differential pressure tap B-C
(9) differential pressure tap C-D
34
COPYRIGHT American Society of Mechanical Engineers
Licensed by Information Handling Services
L778 0 7 5 9 b 7 0 Db04854 5bB
PRESSURE RELIEF DEVICES
PART I-FLOW CAPACITY TESTING
4.9.5 Details of Procedure for Flow Resistance
Measurement Using Sonic-Inferential-Meter Method
(a) Install rupture disk device into the flow re-
sistance test rig.
(b) Increase the pressure at pressure tap B. Dur-
ing the interval starting at 90% of the expected set
pressure, the rate of pressure increase shall not ex-
ceed 2.0 psilsec, or whatever lesser rate of increase
is necessary for the accurate readingtheofpressure.
Observe and record the set pressure of the device
and any other desired or pertinent characteristics.
(c) Establish andmaintainflow-rating pressure
until flow instruments indicate a steady-state con-
dition.
(d) Simultaneouslyrecord the following meas-
urements (it is preferable t o use a data acquisition
system for these measurements)
test rig inlet pressure
test rig inlet temperature
flow meter inlet total pressure
flow meter inlet total temperature
tap B pressure
differential pressure tap A-B
differential pressure tap B-C
differential pressure tap C-D
4.9.6 RecordingAdditionalData. During the sub-
sonic or sonic-inferential-meter method of test, it
may be desirable, or a requirement, to record pres-
sures other than, or in addition to, those listed in
para. 4.9.4 or 4.9.5. Where possible, such recorded
pressures shall be identified inaccordance with Ap-
pendix I .
 S T D - A S M E P T C 2 5 S P E C I A L A D D E N D A - E N G L L998 m 0 7 5 9 b 7 0 Ob04855 YTY 9
PRESSURE RELIEF DEVICES
PART I-FLOW CAPACITY TESTING
lation t o be able to evaluate the proper factors for
refinement,through the measured capacityin
pounds per hour (Item 25), and on to the flow rate
through the meter in cubic feetper minute atsome
prespecified base condition.
Items 35 through 40 then provide for the calcu-
lation of the flow through the valve in cubic feet
per minute at a reference inlet condition.
-
5.5.5 Air or Gas Sonic-FlowMethod. This either the flow-meter or sonic-flow meter methods
technique metersthe gas flow upstream of the valve
under test. Care must be taken that all the metered
gas passes through the valveor is accounted for in
the calculations.
The flow equations, flow functions,correction
factors, and procedures forcalculationincorpo-
rated in Form 5.5.5 are in accordance with PTC 19.5. Form 5.5.4 or 5.5.5. Care must be taken that all of
The use of Form 5.5.5 is recommended for either
air or gas and, with the addition of basic data and
valve identification, the form follows the procedure
of PTC 19.5.
This calculation follows through t o evaluate the established pressure taps. An individual flowresist-
flow through themeter (Item 23) in pounds perhour.
Items 24 through 30 are then used t o determine
the flow throughthe valve in cubic feet per minute
at a reference condition.
5.5.6 Fuel-GasFlow - Flow-MeterMethod.This
technique metersthe gas flow upstream of the valve
under test. Care must be taken that all of the m e
tered gas passes through the valveor i s accounted
for in the calculations.
The flow equations, correction factors, and pro-
cedures for calculation incorporated in Form 5.5.6
are in accordance with PTC 19.5.
Form 5.5.6 should be used for recording the data
and computing theresults. Thefirst twelve items on
this form are primarily for identification purposes.
Form 5.5.6 proceeds throughthe trial-flow cal-
culation to be able to evaluate the proper factors
for refinement, through the measured capacity in
cubic feet per hour at some prespecified base con-
COPYRIGHT American Society of Mechanical Engineers
Licensed by Information Handling Services
ASME PTC 25-1994
dition converted from the requiredpounds per hour
(Item 32).
Items 35 through 40 provide for the calculation
of the flow through the valve in cubic feetper min-
ute at a reference inlet condition.
5.5.7 Air or Gas Rupture Disk Device Flow Resist-
ance Method. This technique measures the resist-
ance due to the presence of a rupture disk device
in a piping system. It is used in conjunction with
described in paras. 5.5.4 or 5.5.5, respectively. ,
Form 5.5.7should be used for recording the data
and computing the results. The first seventeen (17)
items on this form are for identification purposes
and listing of the measured variables. Item 6, Meas-
uredRelievingCapacity, is obtainedfromeither
the metered gas passesthrough thetest arrangement
(see Fig. 9)or is accounted for in the calculations.
The remaining items on Form 5.5.7 are used t o
determine theresistance factor between each of the
ance associatedwith the rupturedisk device is then
calculated from these results.
Two test checks must be done to verify the test
results.
First, verify that the value KC.0 is within 3% of
the value KA+. If not, verify that the test arrange-
ment is properly set up. Next, run a calibration test
with no rupture disk device installed t o verify that
the value Kc-* is within 3% of the value KA+. If so,
calculate the resistance factor K ~ D K= D - KB and
the pipelength LED = LD - L B . Complete the rupture
disk device individual flow resistance calculation,
replacing KK, KPiwM,and Lw with KSD, KPiwED,
and LED, respectively, in equations 34 and 35. This
is done since the air turbulence caused by the r u p
ture disk deviceis affecting the true pressure reading
of tap C.
Second, verify that the calculated pipe roughness
fromequation 33 is withinthe range 0.0018 to
O.oooO6.This is the range for schedule 40 clean com-
mercial pipe.
37
 S T D - A S M E P T C 25 S P E C I A L A D D E N D A - E N L L L948 D 0 7 5 9 b 7 0 Ob0485b 3 3 0

PRESSURE RELIEF DEVICES

ASME PTC 251994 PART I-FLOW CAPACITY TESTING

TEST REPORT FORM 5.5.1 PRESSURE RELIEF DEVICE TESTED WITH STEAM AND WATER
Observed Data and Computed Results Weighed-Water Method -
(1) Test number
(2) Test date
(3) Manufacturer's name

Measured Device Dimensions

-Valve Non-reclosing Devices

-~
(41 Bore diameter, in. (dJ (4) Minimum holder bore diameter, in. (db)
(5) Seat diameter; in. (dJ (5) Minimum net flow area in?(a)
(6) Seat angle, deg.
(7)Valvedisk lift, in. (0
(8) Actual discharge area, in.' (a)

Observed Data

(9) Length of test, min ( t )

(10) Mass of water or condensate, Ibm ( W )
(11) Valvesteam leakage, Ibm/hr ( w ~ )
(12) Condenser leakage, Ibm/hr (W,,)

STEAM
Observed Data and Computed Results at the Device Inlet

(13) Set pressure, psig (F',)

(14) Flow rating pressure, psia (Pt)
(15) Back pressure, psig (PA
(16) Fluid temperature at the calorimeter, O F (Tca,)
(17) Percent quality or deg. superheat
(18) Specific volume at reference condition, f?/lbm, V,,
(19) Specific volume at inlet conditions, ft3/lbm, V,,,
(20) Measured relieving capacity adjusted to the reference condition, Ibm/hr

-
W, = 6o x
t
W& + W", - W,,

WATER
Observed Data and Computed Results at the Device Inlet

(21) Set pressure, psig (F',)

(22) Flow-rating pressure, psig (Pf)
(23)Back pressure, psig (P,)
(24) Fluid temperature, O F ( T )
(25) Density of water at inlet conditions, Ibrn/f?(p,,J
(26) Density of water at reference condition, Ibmlft? (Pd)
(27) Measured relieving capacity, lbmlhr

(28) Relieving capacity adjusted t o water at reference condition, Ibm/hr

r-

, (29) Relieving capacity in gpm of water at reference condition, (US. gallons) Q (gpm)
W,
Q = 0.1247 -
Prer

38

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 PRESSURE RELIEF DEVICES
PART I-FLOW CAPACITY TESTING ASMEPTC 25-1994

TEST REPORT FORM 5.5.7 RUPTURE DISK DEVICE TESTED WITH AIR
Observed Data and Computed Results Flow Resistance -
(1) Test number
(2) Test date
(3) Manufacturers name
(4) Ratio of specific heats, k
(5)Molecular weight, mw
(6)Measured relieving capacity, W,(Ibm/hr) (from Form 5.5.4 or 5.5.5)
(7) Base pressure, PS (psia)
(8) Base temperature, T, (R)
(9) Test rig inside diameter, D (ft)
(IO) Length between tap A and B, Lks (ft)
(11) Length between tap B and C, Lsc (ft)
(12) Length between tap C and D, 4.0(ft)
(13) Pressure @ tap B, PQPs(psial
(14) Differential pressure between taps A and B, A,.f (psia)
(15) Differential pressure between taps B and C,AP, (psia)
(16) Differential pressure between taps C and D, APc, (psia)

Flow Resistance Factor Calculation

(17) Mass velocity, G (Ib/ft2-sec)

c = Whl(3600x T x d / 4 )
(18) Mach number at pipe entrance, M,

Solve by iteration
(k - 1)X M:
Y, = 1 +
2
(19) Pressure at pipe entrance

Pl = PB
2 + ( k - 1)xM:
(20) Temperature at pipe entrance

Tl = T,, X (Pl/PB)ck - lYk

Calculating total resistance factor at each pressure tap A, B, C & D. Repeat steps (21) thru (26) for each tap.
(21) Temperature at pressure tap, Tt,, (OR)

(22) Sonic Velocity at pressure tap, Ctap(ftlsec)

Ctap= d ( 3 2 . 2 x k x1544 x Ttadmw

(23) Specific volume at pressure tap, Vtap(ft3/lbm)

,v, - (1544 x Ttapy(mwx 144PQ,)

-
(24) Mach number at pressure tap, Mtap

Mm, = C X VtadCtap
(25) Expansion factor at pressure tap, Y,,

47

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 S T D - A S M EP T C 25 SPECIALADDENDA-ENGL L998 m 0759b70 ObO'4858 L O 3

PRESSURE RELIEF DEVICES

ASME PTC 25-1994 PART I-FLOW CAPACITY TESTING

(26) Total resistance factor to pressure tap, Ktdp

&
P
. =
1/M: - 1/(MWp12- ((k + 11/2)X In[(&pX Y d M X Ytap)]
k
(27) Resistance factor between pressure taps A and B, KA.B
KA.8 = KB - KA
(28) Resistance factor between pressure taps B and C, KM
KM = Kc - KR

(29) Resistance factor between pressure taps C and D, Kc.0

Kc.0 = KO - Kc
(30) Friction factor, f

f = KA+ X Dl(4 X LA,.S)

(31) Obtain the viscosity of air at Ts and PS p (centipoise)
(32) Reynolds number, N R e

NRe = DX CI(d1488)
(33) Pipe roughness E (inch)
E = 44.4XDX[10"1"xfi - 1.256/(&x&]
(34) Pipe resistance factor between pressure taps B and C. Kpiw

4fLw
Kpiw BC = 7
(35) Test object individual flow resistance, KR,

KR = KSC - Kpipe M
GENERAL NOTE: Equations for calculationsare in accordance with Levenspiel paper, Lapple paper, Perry Handbook and
Colebrook equation.
Colebrook, "Perry's Chemical Engineer's Handbook," Sixth Ed., McGraw-Hill Book Co., NY (1984).
Green, P. W. (Ed.), "Perry's Chemical Engineer's Handbook," Sixth Ed., McCraw-Hill Book Co., NY (1984).
Lapple, C. E., "Isothermal and Adiabatic Flow of Compressible Fluids," Trans. AIChE, 39, pp. 385-432 (1943).
Levenspiel, O., "The Discharge of Gases from a Reservoir Through a Pipe," AlChE Journal 23(3), pp. 402-403 (May 1977).

48

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