Introduction – Through the testing, inspection, and certification service provider, TUV Rheinland Quality Services South Africa has ensured that the design and fabrication of a new 15-m long acid gas scrubber for one of the South Africa’s largest fuel refineries has met all the quality and safety requirements for pressure vessels.
TÜV Rheinland QC manufacturing inspection technical manager Hudson Ramakulukusha highlights that compliance with the specifications of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) boiler and pressure vessel code will ensure that the Secunda based operator can be used the highlight quality equipment within South Africa’s legal structure, along with the added surety that the required steps have been taken in counter to mitigate against the risk.
Origin – The column was assembled in Germiston and the inspection process gathered on the requirements based on the national pressure equipment regulations and international health and safety standards. There has been an independent design verification, which was handled by a professional engineer registered with the Engineering Council of South Africa and comprising a analysis and confirmation of the quality-control procedure and material certification, material identification and an examination of material cut edges and heat-affected zones.
Moreover, the welding procedure specification and welder performance qualification certificates were authenticated, and an scanning of the weld preparation, fit-up and welding quality was undertaken. A review and approval process of all nondestructive verification that was implemented and followed, incorporate radiographic, penetrant and ultrasonic verification, as well as an appraisal and ratification of heat treatment charts. Workshop hydrostatic pressure testing was also managed before the testing and signing of the certificate of manufacture.
Quality and Verification – Ramakulukusha notes that quality standards are vigorous, changing constantly as manufacturing and verification technologies and methods advance. He focuses out that, this year, ASME codes have been updated from the 2015 editions to the 2017 editions, affecting the mode of inspecting in the manufacturing industry, as well as in many in-service situations.
“Verification, inspection and certification bodies are necessary in ensuring that legal regulations are adhered to. Standards allow for uniformity in all industries, based on specific codes, while international recognition promotes easier importing and exporting practices, as well as international investment opportunities. It is the prerequisite of the verifying, inspection and certification body to adjust its mode of inspection to ensure that it suits the new revision of a standard to confirm manufacturers keep pace with quality and safety requirements”.
TÜV Rheinland Group South Africa proposes an extensive range of examination, inspection and certification facility and is a registered validated inspection authority with the Department of Labour. Ramakulukusha notes that examination, inspection and certification practices in South Africa contrast favorably. Globally, as the need for quality and safety in locally manufactured products has become outstanding for international acceptance.
