Comparison of ASME B16.34 and API 600 Standards

# Comparison of ASME B16.34 and API 600 Standards

## Introduction

When it comes to industrial valves, two commonly referenced standards are ASME B16.34 and API 600. These standards play crucial roles in ensuring the quality, safety, and performance of valves used in various industries. While they share some similarities, they also have distinct differences that engineers and procurement specialists need to understand.

## Overview of ASME B16.34

The ASME B16.34 standard is published by the American Society of Mechanical Engineers and covers the design, materials, dimensions, and testing requirements for valves. This standard applies to:

– Flanged, threaded, and welding end valves
– Valves made of steel, nickel-base alloys, and other alloys
– Pressure-temperature ratings for valve bodies

ASME B16.34 is widely recognized in the industry and serves as a foundation for many other valve standards.

## Overview of API 600

API 600 is a standard developed by the American Petroleum Institute specifically for bolted bonnet steel gate valves for petroleum and natural gas industries. Key aspects include:

– Focus on refinery and pipeline applications
– Requirements for fire-safe design
– Specific material and testing requirements
– Extended service life expectations

## Key Differences Between the Standards

### 1. Scope and Application

ASME B16.34 has a broader scope, covering various valve types and materials, while API 600 is specifically focused on bolted bonnet steel gate valves for the oil and gas industry.

### 2. Pressure-Temperature Ratings

ASME B16.34 provides comprehensive pressure-temperature ratings for valve bodies, while API 600 references these ratings but adds additional requirements specific to gate valves.

### 3. Material Requirements

ASME B16.34 Materials

Covers a wide range of materials including carbon steel, stainless steel, and nickel alloys

API 600 Materials

Focuses specifically on materials suitable for petroleum applications, with additional requirements for hardness and corrosion resistance

### 4. Testing Requirements

While both standards require pressure testing, API 600 includes more stringent requirements for fire testing and extended seat leakage tests.

## When to Use Each Standard

The choice between these standards depends on the application:

– ASME B16.34: General industrial applications, power plants, and when working with various valve types
– API 600: Specifically for oil and gas applications, particularly where fire safety is a concern

## Conclusion

Both ASME B16.34 and API 600 are essential standards in the valve industry, serving different but complementary purposes. Understanding their differences helps ensure proper valve selection and compliance with industry requirements. Many valves actually meet both standards, providing the broadest applicability across different industries and applications.