Question:

Can ASME Section VIII Division 1 and COMPRESS be used at design pressures greater than 3000 psi?

Answer:

Yes. ASME Section VIII Div. 1 paragraph U-1(d) does not restrict design pressure to 3000 psi and below.

At CODEWARE, we have seen a number of vessels designed for greater than 3000 psi using Division 1. This practice seems fairly standard for certain vessel applications.

In classes/seminars taught by members of ASME Code Committees, it has also been said that Division 1 does not disallow pressures above 3000 psi. Use of Division 1 for high pressures may result in excessive thickness as compared to other design Codes. Use of Section VIII Divisions 2 and 3 could result in lesser required thickness, but they would also result in more extensive testing and QA requirements.