In severe cyclic service, what percentage of fabrication should be visually examined according to B31.3?

In severe cyclic service, what percentage of fabrication should be visually examined according to B31.3?

• A. 60%
• B. 100%
• C. 80%
• D. 90%

Answer: (B)

In severe cyclic service, the repeated loading and unloading put fatigue stress on welds and fabrication features, so any surface flaw or imperfect weld can grow into a crack over many cycles. To reliably catch these potential initiation points, the standard requires a full visual examination of all fabrication, ensuring every weld and fabrication detail is checked before the system goes into service. Partial coverage could miss flaws hidden in uninspected areas, increasing the risk of fatigue failure once in operation. Therefore, the correct approach is a complete, 100% visual examination of fabrication.

In severe cyclic service, the repeated loading and unloading put fatigue stress on welds and fabrication features, so any surface flaw or imperfect weld can grow into a crack over many cycles. To reliably catch these potential initiation points, the standard requires a full visual examination of all fabrication, ensuring every weld and fabrication detail is checked before the system goes into service. Partial coverage could miss flaws hidden in uninspected areas, increasing the risk of fatigue failure once in operation. Therefore, the correct approach is a complete, 100% visual examination of fabrication.