Engineering Standard

SAES-D-001 14 April 2012

Design Criteria for Pressure Vessels
Document Responsibility: Vessels Standards Committee

Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards

Table of Contents

1 Scope............................................................ 2
2 Conflicts and Deviations................................ 3
3 References.................................................... 3
4 Definitions...................................................... 5
5 Responsibilities.............................................. 7
6 Basis for Mechanical Design......................... 7
7 Nozzles, Manways and Gaskets................. 16
8 Internals....................................................... 21
9 Vessel Supports.......................................... 21
10 Clips and Attachments................................. 22
11 Material Selection........................................ 22
12 Coatings and Painting................................. 25
13 Insulation..................................................... 25
14 Refractory Lining......................................... 25
15 Fireproofing................................................. 25
16 Cathodic Protection..................................... 26
17 Drawings and Calculations.......................... 26

Table 1 Acceptable Materials for

Carbon and Low - Alloy Steels............ 27

Previous Issue: 22 May 2011 Next Planned Update: 23 February 2016

Revised paragraphs are indicated in the right margin Page 1 of 28
Primary contact: Naffaa, Mahmoud Youniss on 966-3-8809614

CopyrightSaudi Aramco 2012. All rights reserved.

Document Responsibility: Vessels Standards Committee SAES-D-001
Issue Date: 14 April 2012
Next Planned Update: 23 February 2016 Design Criteria for Pressure Vessels

1 Scope

1.1 This standard covers the minimum mandatory requirements for the design of
pressure vessels (referred to hereinafter also as vessels).

1.2 This standard is intended to establish basic guidelines of mechanical design and
to inform Design Engineers of preferred analytical design requirements.

1.3 Design Engineer, as defined in this standard, is the sole responsible party for the
completion of Saudi Aramco Vessel Data Sheet, based on the requirements of
this standard.

1.4 Vessels under the scope of this specification are purchased on a stand-alone
basis or as an integral part of a skid-mounted packaged equipment unit (e.g., air
dryers, portable air compressors, filtering unit, nitrogen generation, dehydration,
etc.).
Note: This is applicable irrespective of the party responsible for placing the relevent
purchase order (Saudi Aramco facility, LSTK contractor, sub-contractor, etc.).

1.5 This standard does not cover the following:

a) UM stamped pressure vessels per ASME SEC VIII D1.
b) In-service pressure vessels.
c) Devices used as an integral part of piping systems, made of what are
recognized as piping components (piping, fittings, etc.) and serve purposes
such as straining, filtering, mixing, separating, distributing, metering and
controlling flow.
d) Pressure vessels used as part of heating, ventilation and air conditioning
(HVAC) systems.
e) Compressed gas cylinders.

1.6 Low alloy steels for vessels intended for services within the scope of
API RP 934A, API RP 934C or API RP 934E shall meet all requirements of the
respective document of the aforementioned documents and this standard.

1.7 1 Cr- Mo and 1 Cr- Mo steels used for vessels not in hydrogen service
with design temperature below 440C, shall meet all requirements of
API RP 934C and this standard.

1.8 This standard shall not be attached to nor made a part of purchase orders.

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Document Responsibility: Vessels Standards Committee SAES-D-001
Issue Date: 14 April 2012
Next Planned Update: 23 February 2016 Design Criteria for Pressure Vessels

1.9 Where a requirement of a licensors or a relevant industry standard/specification

is more stringent than that of this standard, the most stringent requirement will
govern.

1.10 A vessel that is an integral part of a skid-mounted packaged equipment unit shall
be designed and manufactured by a manufacturer of such unit per the relevant
SAP database

2 Conflicts and Deviations

2.1 Any conflicts between this standard and other applicable Saudi Aramco
Engineering Standards (SAESs), Materials System Specifications (SAMSSs),
Standard Drawings (SASDs), or industry standards, codes, and forms shall be
resolved in writing by the Company or Buyer Representative through the
Manager, Consulting Services Department of Saudi Aramco, Dhahran.

2.2 Direct all requests to deviate from this standard in writing to the Company or
Buyer Representative, who shall follow internal company procedure SAEP-302
and forward such requests to the Manager, Consulting Services Department of
Saudi Aramco, Dhahran.

3 References

The selection of material and equipment, and the design and construction of pressure
vessels covered by this standard shall comply with the latest edition of the references
listed below, unless otherwise noted.

3.1 Saudi Aramco References

Saudi Aramco Engineering Procedure

SAEP-302 Instructions for Obtaining a Waiver of a Mandatory
Saudi Aramco Engineering Requirement

Saudi Aramco Engineering Standards

SAES-A-005 Safety Instruction Sheet
SAES-A-112 Meteorological and Seismic Design Data
SAES-B-006 Fireproofing in Onshore Facilities
SAES-C-001 Process Design of Trays and Packing
SAES-H-001 Coating Selection and Application Requirements for
Industrial Plants and Equipment
SAES-J-600 Pressure Relief Devices

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Document Responsibility: Vessels Standards Committee SAES-D-001
Issue Date: 14 April 2012
Next Planned Update: 23 February 2016 Design Criteria for Pressure Vessels

SAES-L-133 Corrosion Protection Requirements for Pipelines,

Piping and Process Equipment
SAES-N-001 Basic Criteria, Industrial Insulation
SAES-N-100 Refractory Systems
SAES-X-500 Cathodic Protection Vessels and Tank Internals

Saudi Aramco Materials Systems Specifications

01-SAMSS-016 Qualification of Storage Tanks and Pressured
Equipment for Resistance to Hydrogen-Induced
Cracking
32-SAMSS-004 Manufacture of Pressure Vessels
32-SAMSS-036 Manufacture of Small Pressure Vessels
32-SAMSS-020 Manufacture of Trays and Packing
32-SAMSS-031 Manufacture of Clad Vessels and Heat Exchangers

Saudi Aramco Forms and Data Sheets

Form SA 9527-ENG Pressure Vessel Data Sheet (herein after referred to
as data sheet)
Form SA 2694-ENG Safety Instruction Sheet-Vessels

Saudi Aramco Standard Drawings

AA-036322 Anchor Bolt Details

3.2 Industry Codes and Standards

American Petroleum Institute

API RP 934A Materials and Fabrication of 2Cr-1Mo, 2Cr-
1Mo-V, 3Cr-1Mo, and 3Cr-1Mo-V Steel
Heavy Wall Pressure Vessels for High-
temperature, High-pressure Hydrogen Service
API RP 934C Materials and Fabrication of 1Cr-Mo Steel
Heavy Wall Pressure Vessels for High-pressure
Hydrogen Service Operating at or below 825F
(441C)
API RP 934E Recommended Practice for Materials and
Fabrication of 1CR-Mo Steel Pressure
Vessels for Service above 825F (440C)

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Document Responsibility: Vessels Standards Committee SAES-D-001
Issue Date: 14 April 2012
Next Planned Update: 23 February 2016 Design Criteria for Pressure Vessels

API PUBL 941 Steels for Hydrogen Service at Elevated

Temperatures and Pressures in Petroleum
Refineries and Petrochemical Plants

American Society of Civil Engineers

ASCE 7 Minimum Design Loads for Buildings and Other
Structures

American Society of Mechanical Engineers Boiler and Pressure Vessel Codes

ASME B16.20 Metallic Gaskets for Pipe Flanges - Ring-Joint,
Spiral-Wound and Jacketed
ASME B16.21 Nonmetallic Gaskets for Pipe Flanges
ASME B16.47 Large-Diameter Steel Flanges NPS 26 inch through
NPS 60 inch
ASME B16.5 Pipe Flanges and Flanged Fittings
ASME SEC II Materials
ASME SEC VIII D1 Pressure Vessels
ASME SEC VIII D2 Pressure Vessels, Alternative Design

Process Industry Practices

VEFV1100 Vessels/S&T Heat Exchanger Standard Details

Welding Research Council

WRC 107 Welding Research Council Bulletin
WRC 297 Welding Research Council Bulletin

4 Definitions

Amine Services: All amine solutions including MEA, DGA and ADIP.

Auto-Refrigeration Temperature: Auto-refrigeration temperature is the adiabatic

vaporization temperature of the process fluid coincident with a pressure equal to 25% of
the maximum operating pressure.

Caustic Services: All sodium hydroxide solutions at all temperatures and concentrations.

Cyclic Services: Services that require fatigue analysis according to screening criteria
per 5.5.2 of ASME SEC VIII D2. This applies to Division 1 and Division 2 of
ASME SEC VIII.

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Document Responsibility: Vessels Standards Committee SAES-D-001
Issue Date: 14 April 2012
Next Planned Update: 23 February 2016 Design Criteria for Pressure Vessels

Design Engineer: The Engineering Company responsible for specifying on the data
sheet the mechanical design requirements for pressure vessels.

Design Thickness: Sum of thickness required to withstand all primary loads and
corrosion allowance.

Hydrogen Induced Cracking (HIC) Environment: Process streams that introduce

HIC according to SAES-L-133.

High - Alloy Steels: Steels with a total alloying content more than 5%.

Hydrogen Services: Process streams containing relatively pure hydrogen and process
streams containing hydrogen as a component with an absolute partial pressure of
350 kPa (50 psi) and higher.

Lethal Services: Process streams containing a concentration of hydrogen sulfide in

excess of 20% by volume shall be considered as lethal service. Other services as
determined by the project design may also be designated as lethal services.

LODMAT: The lowest one day mean temperature at a site or location.

Low - Alloy Steels: Steels with a total alloying content of less than 5% but more than
specified for carbon steels.

MDMT: Minimum design metal temperature, determined in accordance with this

standard.

Nominal Thickness: Thickness selected as commercially available, and supplied to the

Manufacturer. For plate material, the nominal thickness is the measured thickness of
the plate at the joint or location under consideration after forming.

P&ID: Piping & Instrument Diagram.

PFD: Process Flow Diagram.

Pressure Vessel and Vessel: As defined in the ASME Boiler & Pressure Vessel Codes.

Saudi Aramco Engineer: The Chairman of the Vessels Standards Committee.

Shock Chilling Effect: The rapid decrease in temperature of a vessel component

caused by a sudden flow of process stream colder than -20C and at a temperature lower
than the initial temperature of the component by 40C, regardless of pressure.

Skid-mounted packaged equipment unit: Self-contained units for process and utility
applications (e.g. air dryers, portable air compressors, filtering unit, nitrogen generation,
dehydration, etc.) fabricated and skid-mounted in one section. Such unit consists of
equipment (pressure vessels, compressors, pumps, storage tank, etc.), interconnecting

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Document Responsibility: Vessels Standards Committee SAES-D-001
Issue Date: 14 April 2012
Next Planned Update: 23 February 2016 Design Criteria for Pressure Vessels

piping, electrical and/ or instrument components, and support structures.

Sulfide Stress Cracking (SSC) Environment: Process streams that introduce SSC
according to SAES-L-133.

Unfired Steam Drums: As defined in ASME SEC VIII D1.

Utility Services: Water, air and nitrogen services.

Vessel Manufacturer: Company responsible for the manufacture of pressure vessels.

5 Responsibilities

5.1 The Design Engineer is responsible for specifying the mechanical design
requirements and completing the data sheet in accordance with this standard.

5.2 The Vessel Manufacturer is responsible for the manufacture of pressure vessels,
which includes the complete mechanical design, Code and structural
calculations, supply of all materials, fabrication, nondestructive examination,
inspection, testing, surface preparation, and preparation for shipment, in
accordance with the completed data sheet and the requirements of
32-SAMSS-004 or 32-SAMSS-036 and, as applicable, 32-SAMSS-031.

6 Basis for Mechanical Design

6.1 General

6.1.1 All pressure vessels, including unfired steam drums, shall be

mechanically designed in accordance with ASME SEC VIII D1 or
ASME SEC VIII D2 (herein referred to as the Codes), and the
requirements of 32-SAMSS-004 or 32-SAMSS-036 and, as applicable,
32-SAMSS-031.

6.1.2 The applicable Division and edition of the Codes to be used for the
design of pressure vessels shall be specified on the data sheet.

6.1.3 ASME SEC VIII D2 shall be specified when economically justified.

The following guidelines shall be used to determine when D2 should
be considered:
1) When the design thickness of the vessel shell or heads exceeds
50 mm, irrespective of design pressure, materials, or service.
2) When the erected weight of the vessel, (excluding removable
internal and external attachments) exceeds 90 Tonnes (100 Tons)

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Document Responsibility: Vessels Standards Committee SAES-D-001
Issue Date: 14 April 2012
Next Planned Update: 23 February 2016 Design Criteria for Pressure Vessels

3) For vessels with design pressures 6.9 MPa (1000 psi) and greater,
irrespective of service and materials of construction.

6.1.4 Certification of the Users Design Specification

1) It is the responsibility of the Design Engineer, as defined in this

standard, to prepare a detailed Users Design Specification (UDS)
for ASME SEC VIII D2 pressure vessels in accordance with
paragraph 2.2.2 of Division 2.

2) The vessel manufacturer shall neither prepare nor certify a UDS.

3) UDS shall be certified according to paragraph 2-A.2.1 (a) of

Division 2.

4) The engineer that signs and certifies a UDS shall meet

requirements of paragraphs 2-A.2.2 (a), 2-A.2.3 and 2-A.2.4 of
Division 2.

6.1.5 Stress analysis requirements according to this standard shall be

included in the data sheet.

6.1.6 The application of ASME Code Cases to the design of pressure vessels
requires the prior approval of the Saudi Aramco Engineer as defined in
this standard.

6.1.7 Trays and packing shall be designed in accordance with SAES-C-001.

6.1.8 Layered constructions are prohibited for all vessels.

6.1.9 For stacked vessels, each vessel shall have its own bottom and top heads.

6.2 Design Pressure

6.2.1 Pressure vessels shall be designed to withstand the maximum internal

and/or external pressure conditions which can occur during normal
operation, including startup, shutdown or any unusual operation as
shown on the PFD.
Commentary Note:

Design pressure is the maximum difference in pressure between the

inside and the outside of a vessel, or between the chambers of a
combination unit. The term internal design pressure is used when
the internal pressure is greater than the external pressure. However,
the term external design pressure is used when the internal pressure
is less than the external pressure.

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Document Responsibility: Vessels Standards Committee SAES-D-001
Issue Date: 14 April 2012
Next Planned Update: 23 February 2016 Design Criteria for Pressure Vessels

6.2.2 The values of normal operating pressure, maximum operating pressure,

and design pressure acting at the top of a vessel shall be specified on
the data sheet.

6.2.3 The internal design pressure shall be according to the following table:

Maximum Operating Pressure (MOP) Design Pressure

{MOP 15 psi}
Up to 1000 psi Greater of
{1.1 x MOP}

{1100 psi}
1000 psi and above Greater of
{1.05 x MOP}

Notes: (1) Maximum operating pressure values shall be as shown on the PFD.
(2) Higher design margin shall be used if the process designer anticipates
higher pressure surges because of the characteristics of the process.

6.2.4 Where there are differences in design pressures in different sections of

a vessel, the extremities of these sections shall be specified on the data
sheet.

6.2.5 For multi-compartment vessels, the differential design pressures

between compartments shall be specified on the data sheet. In all
cases, the design differential pressure shall be at least 1.1 times the
maximum operating differential that can occur. All pressure
differentials shall be considered.

6.2.6 Vessels in vacuum service, including those in which a vacuum may be

created inadvertently, shall be designed for a maximum external
pressure of 100 kPa (15 psi) or 125% of the maximum operating
external pressure, whichever is smaller.
Notes:

(1) Maximum operating external pressure values shall be as shown on the

PFD.

(2) Higher design margin shall be used if the process designer anticipates
based on the characteristics of the process.

6.2.7 Vessels that are not in vacuum service, but are subject to steam-out
conditions, shall be designed for an external pressure of 50 KPa
(7.5 psi) at 149C (300F).

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Document Responsibility: Vessels Standards Committee SAES-D-001
Issue Date: 14 April 2012
Next Planned Update: 23 February 2016 Design Criteria for Pressure Vessels

6.2.8 All vessels in steam services shall be designed for an external pressure
of 100 KPa (15 psi) at design temperature.

6.2.9 For vessels that contain packing, the following data shall be specified
on the data sheet for the design of packing bed supports:
1) The differential design pressure and temperature at the end-of-
process-run (fouled) condition.
2) The differential regeneration pressure and temperature.
3) The directions of the differential pressure corresponding to items
(1) and (2).

6.3 Design Temperature

6.3.1 The design temperature shall not be less than the maximum operating
temperature as shown on the PFD plus 28C (50F).

6.3.2 Where there are differences in the maximum operating temperature for
the different sections of a vessel, the extremities of these sections shall
be specified on the data sheet.

6.3.3 The design temperature for vessels which are refractory lined shall be
calculated using the insulating properties of the lining material.

6.4 Minimum Design Metal Temperature

The MDMT shall be specified on the data sheet and shall be equal to the lowest
of the following applicable conditions:
1) The LODMAT at the site location, unless a higher start-up temperature is
specified and approved by operations, and a suitable warm-up start-up
procedure has been developed.
2) The temperature of a process stream causing shock chilling condition as
defined in section 4 of this standard.
3) Auto-refrigeration condition as defined in section 4 of this standard.
4) The minimum operating temperature at an operating pressure greater than
25% of the design pressure.

6.5 Service and Description

1) The service of a vessel (e.g., lethal, hydrocarbon, hydrogen, caustic,
amine, wet sour, utility and cyclic) as defined in Section 4 of this standard
shall be specified on the data sheet.

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Document Responsibility: Vessels Standards Committee SAES-D-001
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Next Planned Update: 23 February 2016 Design Criteria for Pressure Vessels

2) The process description of the vessel (e.g., fractionator, regenerator,

separator, receiver, K.O. drum, deaerator, etc.) shall be specified on the
data sheet.

6.6 Joint Efficiency

A joint efficiency of 85% or higher shall be specified for the design of all
pressure containing components of ASME SEC VIII D1 pressure vessels.

6.7 Corrosion Resistance

Resistance to corrosion shall be provided according to the following:

6.7.1 Corrosion Allowance

6.7.1.1 Corrosion allowance shall be based on achieving a minimum

service life of twenty years.

6.7.1.2 The maximum amount of corrosion allowance shall be

6 mm. Should a higher corrosion allowance be required in
order to obtain a twenty year service life, the vessel shall be
integrally clad or weld overlayed with a corrosion resistant
metallic lining or as an alternative solid corrosion resistant
material shall be specified for the vessel. Selection of any of
the alternatives shall be based on cost effectiveness and a
proven history of satisfactory service in similar service
environments.

6.7.1.3 Minimum corrosion allowances shall be specified on the

data sheet as follows:
1) For all carbon and low-alloy steels, in all services,
except wet sour services, the minimum corrosion
allowance shall be specified as 1.6 mm.
2) For all carbon and low-alloy steels in wet sour services
the minimum corrosion allowance shall be specified as
3.2 mm.
3) All attachments welded to pressure boundary
components and intended to support internals, e.g., tray
support rings, brackets, etc., shall have the same
corrosion allowance as the pressure boundary
components. Corrosion allowance shall be provided to
all surfaces of the attachment that are exposed to the
process stream.

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Document Responsibility: Vessels Standards Committee SAES-D-001
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Next Planned Update: 23 February 2016 Design Criteria for Pressure Vessels

6.7.1.4 No reductions to corrosion allowances specified in paragraph

6.7.1.3 shall be given for vessels that are internally coated.

6.7.2 Cladding

6.7.2.1 For all integrally-bonded clad vessels, in all services, the

minimum thickness of cladding shall be 3.2 mm.

6.7.2.2 For all weld overlayed vessels, in all services, the minimum
thickness of undiluted weld overlay shall be 3.2 mm.

6.7.2.3 In partially clad vessels, cladding shall extend minimum

300 mm beyond each of the boundaries influenced by the
process design. An edge of cladding shall be minimum
50 mm from the closer side of any internal attachment welded
to vessels wall, within the vicinity of the cladding edge.

6.7.3 Corrosion allowances for tray assemblies, excluding tray supports

welded to pressure-retaining components, shall be specified in
accordance with the requirements of 32-SAMSS-020.

6.7.4 Corrosion resistant coating shall be applied to the inside surface of

vessels with refractory lining, if corrosion caused by flue gas
condensation is expected.

6.7.5 If corrosion resistant alloy cladding is specified to prevent HIC

damage, it is not mandatory to specify HIC resistant base material.

6.8 Heads

6.8.1 The types of heads shall be specified on the data sheet.

6.8.2 The type of heads for vessels shall be specified as ASME 2:1-
ellipsoidal or ASME hemispherical. ASME flanged and dished heads
(torispherical) may only be used for utility services up to a design
pressure of 690 KPa (100 psi).

6.8.3 For vessels with design thickness exceeding 50 mm, heads shall be
specified as hemispherical unless 2:1 ellipsoidal heads are deemed
economical. Torispherical heads shall not be used.

6.9 Loads

6.9.1 Wind and Earthquake Loads

1) The Design Engineer shall specify on the vessel data sheet design

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Document Responsibility: Vessels Standards Committee SAES-D-001
Issue Date: 14 April 2012
Next Planned Update: 23 February 2016 Design Criteria for Pressure Vessels

data related to wind and earthquake loads and corresponding to

the Saudi Aramco site location per SAES-A-112.
2) Wind and earthquake loads shall be determined by the Vessel
Manufacturer in accordance with the procedures detailed in
ASCE 7, based on relevant data in vessel data sheet, using
Occupancy Category IV.

6.9.2 Weight of Liquid Contents

The Design Engineer shall specify on the vessel data sheet the
maximum operating liquid level and density of liquid, as well as, full
hydrostatic test load for the vessel in the erected position.

6.9.3 Piping and Equipment Loads

1) Nozzles shall be designed for external piping loads (other than the
dead load), such as may be produced from thermal
expansion/contraction and weight.
2) Where such conditions exist, the Design Engineer shall specify
these loads on the data sheet.
3) For vessels supporting equipment (e.g., stab-in type heat
exchanger, reboilers, etc.), the equipment loads imposed on the
vessel are to be determined by the Design Engineer and specified
on the data sheet.

6.9.4 Dynamic Loads

Dynamic loads caused by the action of vibratory equipment

(e.g. agitators), liquid sloshing, sub-liquid surface jets, etc.

6.9.5 Thermal Load

Thermal Loads are loads caused by thermal transients and restraining

thermal expansion/ interaction of the vessel and/ or its support(s).

6.9.6 Refractory Lining

For vessels which are refractory lined, the extent and design density, of
the refractory lining shall be specified on the data sheet.

6.9.7 Insulation
For vessels which are insulated, the extent and design density, of the
insulation system shall be specified on the data sheet.

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Document Responsibility: Vessels Standards Committee SAES-D-001
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Next Planned Update: 23 February 2016 Design Criteria for Pressure Vessels

6.10 Postweld Heat Treatment (PWHT)

6.10.1 Apart from Code requirements of PWHT for carbon and low alloy
steels, the following process services require PWHT. Other process
conditions may also require PWHT, as determined during the project
design or as specified by the Saudi Aramco Engineer as defined in this
standard.
1) All caustic soda (NaOH) solutions, including conditions where
caustic carryover may occur (all temperatures).
2) All amine solutions, at all temperatures excepting the following:
a. Diglycol amine (DGA) solutions below 138C design
temperature
b. Rich amino di-isopropanol (ADIP) solutions below 90C
design temperature
c. Lean ADIP solutions below 60C design temperature.
3) Boiler deaerators above 80C design temperature
Commentary Note:

Vacuum deaerators operating at ambient temperature are exempt.

4) Vessels in hydrogen service at all temperatures manufactured

from P-No.3, 4, and 5A/B/C base materials
5) Vessels in HIC and SSC environments as defined in SAES-L-133.
6) Vessels in carbonate cracking environments.

6.10.2 Code exemptions for PWHT are not permitted if PWHT is specified
for process conditions in accordance with this standard.

6.11 Stress Analysis

6.11.1 Where applicable, the requirements for thermal stress and fatigue stress
analyses are to be specified in the data sheet by the Design Engineer in
accordance with this standard. Analysis methods and stress combination
limits presented in Division 2, section 5, shall be used for vessels under
scope of Division 1 and Division 2. However, allowable stress shall be
taken from the respective tables of ASME SEC II for each division for
the corresponding material and temperature.

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Document Responsibility: Vessels Standards Committee SAES-D-001
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6.11.2 The Design Engineer is responsible for specifying the heat transfer
coefficients to be used for all thermal stress analysis.

6.11.3 Thermal Analysis

1) A thermal stress analysis is required for a vessel, if a thermal
gradient (calculated under steady state operating conditions and,
if applicable, transient operating conditions) across any vessel
section exceeds 65C (150F), in a distance equal to the square
root of R times T, where:
- R is the radius of the vessel component under consideration and,
- T is the thickness of the component under consideration
- R and T have the same units.
2) As a minimum, the scope of the stress analysis shall include the
following junctures, as applicable:
- Head-to-shell
- Support-to-vessel
- Nozzle-to-shell, considering external piping loads
- Tray supports to vessel wall

3) Thermal analysis shall be based on gradients under steady state

design conditions and also, if applicable, transient design
conditions.
4) Thermal gradients may be reduced to within allowable limits
with the provision of:
a) Thermal sleeves in pressure-retaining components
b) Hot-box design at the skirt-to-vessel junction in skirt-
supported vessels with design temperatures greater than
260C (500F).

6.11.4 Fatigue Analysis

1) Scope of the required stress analysis shall be specified by the
Design Engineer in accordance with the rules of Division 2.
2) As a minimum, the scope of the stress analysis shall include the
following junctures, as applicable:
- Head-to-shell

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- Support-to-vessel
- Nozzle-to-shell, considering external piping loads
- Tray supports to vessel wall
3) Analysis shall be based on the calculated number of cycles for a
minimum 20 year service life, as determined in accordance with
the rules of Division 2, paragraph 5.5.2.
4) The number of cycles shall include the number of start-ups, shut-
downs, emergency shut-downs, and upset conditions.

6.11.5 Local Stress Analysis

Stress analysis due to piping, equipment, lifting, supports and other

external loads shall be completed in accordance with the procedures as
detailed in WRC 107, WRC 297 or a finite element analysis.

7 Nozzles, Manways and Gaskets

7.1 General

7.1.1 The quantity, types, sizes, elevations, orientations and pressure classes
of all nozzles and manways shall be specified on the data sheet.

7.1.2 The Design Engineer is responsible for ensuring that the facings, bolt
centers, number of bolts and size of bolts of vessel nozzles match the
mating piping flanges.

7.1.3 Design of bolted connections with stud bolts of diameter 1- inch and
above shall be such as to provide clearance to permit use of a stud and
bolt tensioner device.

7.1.4 The quantity and sizes of nozzles required for pressure relief valves
shall be determined in accordance with SAES-J-600 and specified on
the vessel data sheet.

7.1.5 The locations and sizes of nozzles shall be in accordance with the
P&IDs and this standard.

7.1.6 Nozzles with NPS of 2-, 3-, and 5 shall not be used.

7.1.7 Nozzles smaller than NPS 2 are not permissible.

7.1.8 Only flanged nozzles shall be used.

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Document Responsibility: Vessels Standards Committee SAES-D-001
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7.1.9 Unless provided on overhead piping, all vessels shall be provided with
vent and pressure relief connections.

7.1.10 All liquid level column instrument connections shall be located so as to

avoid turbulent areas (e.g., turbulence from impact of inlet streams).

7.1.11 For vertical skirt-supported vessels, no flange connection shall be

allowed inside the skirt.

7.1.12 For vessels with mechanical mixers, the Design Engineer shall specify
on the vessel data sheet: the torque, bending loads, and dimensional
tolerances (axial and angular) specified by the mixer manufacturer.

7.1.13 Anti-swirl baffles (vortex breakers) shall be provided on liquid outlet

nozzles upstream of a pump suction side.

7.1.14 Permissible types of flanges for nozzles and manways are according to
the following:
a) Forged steel long welding neck.
b) Forged steel welding neck flange. Such type of flange is welded
to seamless pipe, rolled plate with 100% radiography or an
integrally reinforced contour shaped forged nozzle or manway.
The bore of flange shall match the bore of nozzle and manway.
c) Studded nozzles and proprietary designs may be offered as
alternatives provided their design is in accordance with the
applicable Code and approved by the Saudi Aramco Engineer.
d) Slip-on type flange with seamless pipe nozzle necks or rolled
plate with 100% radiography is permissible for vessels, which are
integral parts of skid-mounted packaged equipment units, in only
non-cyclic air and water services with design temperature and
design pressure not exceeding 121C (250F) and 1.7 MPA
(245 psi), respectively. Slip-on flange shall be welded on the
front or face and at the back of the hub.

7.1.15 A body flange shall be constructed of a single-piece forging.

7.2 Ratings (ASME Pressure Classes) and Facings

7.2.1 The ASME pressure classes shall be specified on the data sheet.

7.2.2 ASME Pressure Class 400 shall not be used.

7.2.3 Pressure ratings shall be in accordance with the following:

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1) ASME B16.5 for flanges, NPS 24 and smaller.

2) ASME B16.47 - Series A for flanges larger than NPS 24.

7.2.4 The facings of flanges in bolted joints shall be identical and specified
as raised face or ring-type joint. Associated gaskets shall be per
ASME B16.20 requirements.

7.2.5 Flat face flanges are permissible for only water and air services.

7.2.6 Specifying different types of flange facing in a vessel is not permitted.

7.2.7 Unless otherwise specified in this standard, raised face flanges in

ratings up to Class 600 shall be used at design temperatures from
minus 100C to 425C.

7.2.8 Ring joint type shall be used for flanges in:

a) Class 900 and higher ratings,
b) Design temperatures in excess of 425C,
c) Hydrogen service in Class 300 and higher ratings.

7.2.9 Bolted joints specified with non-ASME flanges shall be designed to

meet all anticipated loading conditions of the vessel.

7.3 Manways

7.3.1 The location, quantity, size of manways shall be specified in

accordance with this standard and shall be specified to ensure that all
interior areas are accessible. Requirements of internal ladder rungs
shall be as specified in 32-SAMSS-004.

7.3.2 Manways in columns with trays shall be located as follows:

1) Manways are required at the top, at the bottom and at feed trays.
2) Intermediate manways shall have a maximum spacing of 10 trays.

7.3.3 The Design Engineer shall ensure that the size of manways are such
that all removable internals, including tray sections, piping, filters,
screens, etc., can pass through.

7.3.4 All vessels larger than 36 inches in diameter shall have manways with
20 inch minimum inside diameters. If replacement of internals is
necessary, the vessel (catalyst, packing, trays, etc.) shall be provided
with 24 inch minimum inside diameter manways.

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7.3.5 All vessels smaller than 36 inches in diameter shall be provided with
minimum two flanged NPS 4 openings. If replacement of internals is
necessary, one end of the vessel shall have a full diameter flange for
vessel sizes through 24-inch diameter. From 24-inch through 36-inch
vessel diameter, one of the following alternatives shall be considered:
a) A conical section and a 24-inch diameter flanged end.
b) Full diameter flanged end.
c) A 24-inch diameter shell or head manway.

7.3.6 Vessels with mixers shall be provided with at least one manway that
does not require removal of the mixer.

7.3.7 All manways shall be circular. The manway covers shall be hinged or
provided with handling davits as specified on the data sheet, according
to PIP VEFV1100.

7.4 Gaskets

7.4.1 The type of gaskets shall be specified on the data sheet.

7.4.2 The materials of construction for spiral wound gaskets shall be as

follows with flexible graphite filler suitable for the intended service.

Service Winding Guiding Ring(s)

Design Temperature Type 304 or 316 Solid outer ;Type 304

from -100C to 0C Stainless Steel (SS) or 316 (SS)
Design Temperature Solid outer; Carbon
Type 304 or 316 SS
above 0C to 425C Steel (CS)
Design Temperature Solid inner and outer;
Type 321 or 347 SS
above 425C Type 304 or 316 SS
Vacuum or with Per Temperature Solid inner; Type 304
Catalyst Range or 316 SS

7.4.3 Materials for ring joint gaskets must be chemically resistant and
mechanically suitable for the intended service conditions.

7.4.4 Gaskets for water and air services shall be specified as non-asbestos
conforming to ASME B16.21, and must be chemically resistant and
mechanically suitable for the service conditions.

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7.5 Attachment Details for Nozzles, Manways and their Connections

7.5.1 All nozzles and manway necks shall be attached by welding

completely through the total thickness of the vessel shell, head or
nozzle wall, including any reinforcement. Backing rings used in
attaching nozzles and manways to vessels shall be removed after
welding.

7.5.2 Permissible types of nozzles, manways and their connections shall be

according to the table below.

Figure Reference from indicated

Design Conditions / ASME Code Section VIII
Attachment
Services Group Division 1 Division 2
Vessels Vessels
Group I

a. Pressure-retaining vessels component (shell,

head, nozzle or manway) with design thickness
greater than 50 mm All nozzle sizes
and manway
b. Unfired steam boilers with design pressure
necks
exceeding 50 psi Figure UW-16.1,
Table 4.2.13,
details:
c. Lethal, hydrogen and cyclic services details: (1), (2),
(f-1), (f-2), (f-3) or
Connections (3), (4), (5) or (6)
(f-4)
d. Openings larger than 900 mm (Note 1)
attached to
nozzles and
e. Design temperature greater than 400C (Note 1)
manways
f. Low alloy steel vessels with design thickness
greater than 25 mm (Note 1)

g. Vessels that will undergo PWHT (Note 1)

Figure UW-16.1,
details: (a), (a-1), - Table 4.2.10,
NPS 4 and smaller details: (1), (2),
(b), (c), (d), (e), (f-1),
nozzles (3), (4), (6), (7) or
(f-2), (f-3), (f-4) or
Group II (g). (9)
Nozzles larger than - Table 4.2.11,
Design conditions and services other than those in NPS 4 and
Figure UW-16.1, detail (2)
group I of this table manway necks
details: (c), (d),
(e), (f-1), (f-2), (f- - Table 4.2.13,
Connections details: (1), (2),
attached to nozzles 3), (f-4) or (g)
(3), (4), (5) or (6)
and manways

Note 1: Alternatively, detail per Figure UW-16.1(g) may be used for Division 1 vessels provided that design
conditions/ services per a, b and/ or c of group I are not applicable.

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7.5.3 Integrally reinforced contour shaped attachments made partially or

completely of weld build up are prohibited.

8 Internals

8.1 The Design Engineer shall specify all design data required for the mechanical
design of internals, including their locations and dimensions for piping
distributors, anti-swirl baffles, screens, filters, packing supports, etc.

8.2 All design data required for the process design of trays and packing shall be
specified in accordance with SAES-C-001.

9 Vessel Supports

9.1 General

9.1.1 Each vessel shall be designed as a self-supporting unit.

9.1.2 The type of support required shall be specified by the Design Engineer
on the data sheet.

9.1.3 Anchor bolts shall all requirements of SASD AA-036322.

9.2 Supports for Vertical Vessels

9.2.1 Vertical vessels shall be supported by means of a skirt, legs or lugs.

9.2.2 The skirt height shall be specified on the data sheet.

9.2.3 The minimum number of legs or lugs shall be specified as four for
vessels above 24 inches in diameter.

9.2.4 The locations and orientations of legs and lugs shall be specified on the
data sheet.

9.3 Supports for Horizontal Vessels

9.3.1 Horizontal vessel shall be supported by two saddles with anchor bolts.
The vessel shall be fixed at one saddle and free to move in the
longitudinal direction, due to thermal and pressure differentials, at the
other saddle.

9.3.2 The data sheet shall specify locations of the fixed and sliding saddles
and dimension from vessel centerline to underside of saddle base plate.

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10 Clips and Attachments

10.1 General

The Design Engineer shall specify the orientations, elevations and details of
clips and attachments required for pipe supports, ladders, and platforms.

10.2 Equipment Davit

10.2.1 A davit for the lifting of equipment shall be specified for vessels
containing removable internals such as trays, packing and relief valves.

10.2.2 The davit shall be designed and manufactured in accordance with

VEFV1100.

10.3 Lifting Lugs

10.3.1 Lifting lugs or other attachments shall be specified for vessels to

facilitate shipping and handling purposes.

10.3.2 The davit shall be designed and manufactured in accordance with

VEFV1100.

11 Material Selection

11.1 General

11.1.1 Design Engineer shall specify materials of construction on the data

sheet, according to the Saudi Aramco approved materials selection
diagram and this standard.

11.1.2 Unless approved by the Saudi Aramco Engineer as defined in this

standard, materials of construction for carbon and low alloy steels
pressure vessels designed for different temperature ranges shall be in
accordance with Table 1. Alternative materials must comply with all
the requirements of the applicable Code and this standard.

11.1.3 Materials for hydrogen service shall be selected in accordance with

API PUBL 941 using the following:
1. A value for the hydrogen partial pressure not less than the greater
of the maximum operating pressure plus 350 kPa (50 psi)and
110% of the maximum operating pressure.
2. A value for temperature not less than 28C (50F) above the
maximum operating temperature.

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11.1.4 Materials selection for low alloy steels from Table 1 for vessels in
specific processes with design temperature between 351C to 645C
shall be as follows:
1. Reactors in hydrotreating processes such as hydrocracker, gas oil
hydrotreater, diesel hydrotreater, and naphtha hydrotreater shall
be made of 2 Cr-1Mo steels. Use of 2 Cr-1Mo- V,
3Cr-1Mo or 3Cr-1Mo- V steels requires prior approval of the
Saudi Aramco Engineer as defined in this standard.
2. Reactors in catalytic reforming processes, such as Platformer and
Continuous Catalytic Regeneration (CCR), shall be made of
1 Cr- Mo steels.
3. Coke drum shall be made of 1 Cr- Mo steels.

11.1.5 1 Cr- Mo and 1 Cr- Mo steels with thickness exceeding 100 mm

can be used for components (shell, head, integrally reinforced nozzles,
flanges, etc.) of vessels within scope of API RP 934C, API RP 934E and
paragraph 1.7 of this standard, provided that fracture toughness
requirements of the respective document of the aforementioned
documents and this standard can be met.

11.1.6 Use of different low alloy steels in vessels is not permitted.

For example, a vessel requiring 1 Cr- Mo materials shall have all
components manufactured from 1 Cr- Mo.

11.1.7 Use of solid high alloy steels, including austenitic stainless steels, shall
be on a case-by-case basis, with prior approval of the Saudi Aramco
Engineer as defined in this standard. Material selection shall be based
on the design temperature, minimum design metal temperature and
intended service.

11.1.8 Use of C- Mo steels in hydrogen services is prohibited.

11.1.9 Austenitic stainless steel clad plate (SA-264) shall be used in the
following:
1) Amine regenerator
2) Non-liquid filled amine absorber
3) Refinery Sour water stripper

11.2 Impact Testing

11.2.1 Impact test temperature for a pressure-retaining component of a vessel

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shall not be warmer than MDMT, determined in accordance with

paragraph 6.4 of this standard. Colder test temperature shall be used,
based on the lowest of the following applicable values:
a) As specified for vessels within scope of API RP 934A,
API RP 934C and API RP 934E
b) As specified by the licensor specification
c) As specified by API RP 934C for vessels constructed of
1 Cr- Mo and 1 Cr- Mo steels and used in services other
than hydrogen services with design temperature below 440C.

11.2.2 Minimum acceptable Charpy impact energy values for all materials of
construction (base and weld metals) shall not be less than the highest
of the following applicable values:
1) 40/32 Joules for carbon steels thicker than 50 mm
2) As specified by ASME SEC VIII D2, but not less than 34/27 Joules
3) As specified by the licensors specification, but not less than
34/27 Joules
4) 55/47 Joules for 1 Cr- Mo, 1Cr- Mo, 2Cr- 1 Mo, 2Cr-
1Mo- V, 3Cr- 1Mo and 3 Cr- 1Mo- V steels.
Commentary Notes:

a) The first number of required energy values is the minimum average

energy of three specimens and the second number is the minimum for
one specimen of the impact test results. The second number shall not
be less than 80% of the average value.

b) Minimum acceptable Charpy impact energy values are applicable to

Div. 1 and Div.2 vessels.

11.2.3 The Vessel Manufacturer is responsible, through coordination with the

Design Engineer, of determining the required Charpy impact value(s)
based on the test temperature specified on the data sheet and the
purchased vessel component thickness.

11.2.4 Impact test requirements, i.e., test temperature and Charpy impact
energy values shall be included in the vessel design data sheet by the
Design Engineer.

11.2.5 Impact testing is required, with no exception, for pressure vessels made
of low alloy steels.

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11.2.6 Impact test of materials and welding procedures are required when
impact test temperature is lower than -28C.

12 Coatings and Painting

12.1 The selection of the type of coating and painting required shall be in accordance
with SAES-H-001.

12.2 The Saudi Aramco Painting and Coating Specification (APCS) shall be selected
from SAES-H-001 and specified on the data sheet together with the applicable
Class 09 specification for the surface preparation and painting systems.

13 Insulation

13.1 For vessels which are insulated, the Design Engineer is responsible for the design
of insulation system according to SAES-N-001 and PIP VEFV1100.

13.2 Material type, thickness, extent and method of support of insulation system shall
be specified on the data sheet.

14 Refractory Lining

14.1 For vessels which are refractory lined, the Design Engineer is responsible for the
design of refractory lining according to SAES-N-100.

14.2 Material type, thickness, extent, design density and maximum design surface
temperature of the refractory lining shall be specified on the data sheet.

14.3 Design of refractory lining shall be such that temperature of vessel wall is at
least 28C warmer than the calculated dew point of the process stream to
prevent condensation corrosion.

15 Fireproofing

15.1 Design Engineer is responsible for the design of fireproofing.

15.2 The extent of fireproofing required on vessel skirts, lugs, legs, and saddles shall
be determined in accordance with the requirements of SAES-B-006 and
specified on the data sheet.

15.3 Vessel supports shall not be covered by fire proofing in the immediate vicinity
of anchor bolts and associated nuts to allow free accessibility for their
inspection.

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15.4 Fireproofing extent in insulated vertical vessels shall be according to PIP

VEFV1100, drawing VEFV1123.

16 Cathodic Protection

Vessels shall be cathodically protected when required by SAES-X-500.

17 Drawings and Calculations

17.1 The data sheet, drawings and forms are to be completed by the Design Engineer
to the extent as detailed in this standard.

17.2 The as built thicknesses of shells, heads, and supports shall be specified by the
Design Engineer on the Safety Instruction Sheet (SIS) after the completion of
fabrication.

17.3 All approved data sheets, drawings and forms are to be submitted to
EK&RD/Drawing Management Unit (DMU) for inclusion into Corporate
Drawings Management System.

17.4 The Design Engineer is responsible for the completion of the Safety Instruction
Sheet (Form SA 2694-ENG) for the vessel in accordance with SAES-A-005 and
the data on the Vessel Manufacturer's drawings.

Revision Summary
23 February 2011 Major revision.
22 May 2011 Editorial revision intended for clarifying some requirements of the document.
10 July 2011 Editorial revision to correct a typographical error.
13 December 2011 Minor revision to reflect requirements also included in 32-SAMSS-004.
14 April 2012 Editorial revision intended for clarifying some requirements of the document.

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Table 1 Acceptable Materials for Carbon and Low - Alloy Steels

[Note: The numbers in ( ) refer to the specific notes at the end of the table]

Design Temperature
Vessel
-100 to -45C -44 to 0C 1 to 425C 351 to 645C
Component
Shells, heads,
(1)
nozzle/manway SA-516 Grade 70
SA-516 SA-387 Grade 11,
necks, forged SA-537 Class 1 or
SA-203 Grade 70N, 12 or 22,
nozzles/ SA-537 Class 2
Grades D or E SA-537, Class 1 (6) SA-336 Grade F11
manways, special SA-266 Grade 2
or SA-537 Class 2 or F22
forgings and SA-765 Grade II
reinforcing pads
Pipe, Nozzle and SA-335 Grade P11
SA-333, Grade 3 SA-333 Grade 6 SA-106 Grade B
manway necks or 22
SA-105
(6) SA-182 Grade F11
Forged flanges SA-350 Grade LF3 SA-350 LF2 SA-266 Grade 2
or 22
SA-765 Grade II
SA-234 Grade
SA-420 Grade
Wrought fittings SA-420 WPL6 SA-234 WPB WP11,
WPL3
WP12 or WP22
Studs/nuts for SA-320 Grade SA-193 Grade B5,
SA-320, L7 w/ SA-193 Grade B7
pressure L43/SA-194 or Grade B16 w/
SA-194 Grade 2H w/SA-194 Grade 2H
connections Grade 4 or 7 SA-194 Grade 3
SA-516
SA-516, Grade 70,
Internal SA-203 Grade 70N, SA-387
(3) (4) SA-537 Class 1 or
attachment Grade D or E SA-537 Class 1 Grade 11, 12 or 22
SA-537 Class 2
or SA-537 Class 2
SA-516
SA-516, Grade 70,
External SA-203 Grade 70N, SA-387
(3) (4) SA-537 Class 1 or
attachment Grade D or E SA-537, Class 1 Grade 11, 12 or 22
SA-537 Class 2
or SA-537 Class 2
Vessel supports: SA-516
SA-516 Grade 70,
saddles, skirts, SA-203 Grade 70N, SA-387
SA-537 Class 1 or
legs, lugs and Grades D or E SA-537, Class 1 Grade 11, 12 or 22
(2) SA-537 Class 2
base rings or SA-537 Class 2
ASTM A193, ASTM A193, ASTM A193,
ASTM A193,
ASTM F1554 ASTM F1554 ASTM F1554
(5) ASTM F1554
Anchor bolts Grade 36 or Grade 36 or Grade 36 or
Grade 36 or ASTM
ASTM F1554 ASTM F1554 ASTM F1554
F1554 Grade 105
Grade 105 Grade 105 Grade 105

General Notes:
A) Materials for pressure vessels in amine service shall be selected in accordance with Table 1 and API RP945.
B) Materials for pressure vessels for de-aeration service shall be in accordance with Table 1 and NACE RP0590.

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C) Materials for vessels exposed to HIC environments shall be in accordance with Table 1, with the following
revisions:
i) Shells and heads formed from plate shall be manufactured from HIC resistant steels that meet the testing
requirements of 01-SAMSS-016.
ii) Piping components used in the manufacture of a pressure vessel within the scope of this standard shall be
manufactured from HIC resistant steels that meet the testing requirements of 01-SAMSS-016.
D) Materials for vessels exposed to SSC environments shall be in accordance with Table 1, with the following
revisions:
i) Forged flanges and forged fittings are restricted to: SA-350 LF1 or LF2 or SA-266 Grade 4.
Flanges above 24-inch diameter shall be SA-266 Grade 4.
ii) Studs are restricted to: SA-193 B7M or SA-320 L7M.
iii) Nuts are restricted to: SA-194 Grade 2HM.
iv) It shall satisfy the requirements of ISO 15156 and NACE RP0472.
E) Low alloy steels shall be specified in the normalized-and-tempered or quenched-and-tempered heat-treated
condition.
F) Mechanical properties of all materials shall be verified considering all heat treatment cycles that will be required
for the fabrication of the vessel and additional two PWHT cycles to account for future repairs and/or alterations.
G) The material for nameplate mounting bracket shall be of the same material as vessels part to which it is
welded.

Specific Notes:
(1) SA-36 and SA-285 Grade C materials may be used only for pressure retaining components of vessels in
water and air services with plate thickness not exceeding 19 mm.
(2) The materials of supports shall be as follows:
i) Lugs: same material as vessel wall base material.
ii) Legs: same material as vessel wall base material. Supports of vessels described in note 1 may be of the
same ASME material P No. as that of the vessel wall base material.
iii) Skirts: same material as the vessel wall base material for a minimum distance of 300 mm measured
below the vessel-to-skirt connection line, unless thermal calculations require additional length.
Remaining section of skirt shall be of the same material or same ASME material P No.
iv) Saddles: same material as the vessel wall base material.
(3) External attachments, other than those in Note 2, and internal attachments welded to the vessel shall be of
the same material as the vessel wall base material. With prior approval of Saudi Aramco Engineer as defined
in this standard, Stainless Steel (SS) internal attachments can be welded to carbon steel pressure-retaining
parts of vessels in non-sour services.
(4) Internal attachments to clad vessels shall be of the same material as that of the cladding. SS 321 and SS 347
can be used interchangeably.
(5) Corresponding material of construction for nuts according to SASD AA-036322 shall be used with material of
construction for bolts shown in the table.
(6) SA-266 Grade 2 shall be used for non-impact testing applications.

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