The introduction of the completely re-written ASME Section VIII, Division 2 Code makes this the ideal time to re-evaluate how Division 2 applies to your business.

Is the new Division 2 right for your application?
A wider range of pressure vessels and heat exchangers can now benefit from the application of Division 2. The primary areas contributing to cost savings are:

1. A lower design margin on UTS (2.4 instead of 3.0). Note that the design margin in Division 1 is 3.5. For elevated temperatures S_Y (yield strength at temperature) usually governs the allowable stress.
2. The new allowable compressive stress rules (external pressure design rules).
3. More accurate nozzle rules resulting in fewer reinforcing pads and thinner forgings.
4. An option to perform partial non-destructive examination (NDE).
5. Explicit rules for tubesheets (the ability to design Division 2 heat exchangers in COMPRESS is in its final testing phase and will soon be available to users with both the heat exchanger and Division 2 options).
6. Thinner formed heads.

As before, the application of Division 2 may involve additional overheads such as increased inspection and testing. In addition, under Division 1 you may specify partial penetration nozzle groove welds whereas Division 2 requires full penetration welds. The designer is also required to complete a user design specification sheet (UDS). However, in practice the abovementioned items are often included in the end-user's specification and may not involve additional expense.

The material and fabrication labor savings realized from points 1-6 above are now more likely to outweigh the additional overheads imposed by other paragraphs. Of course, your specific situation will dictate whether or not these benefits can be realized.

See Division 2 in Action
To see how the new (or old!) rules of Division 2 have been implemented in COMPRESS, please contact an Account Manager to arrange an online demonstration by emailing or calling (941) 927-2670, option 1.