Question & AnswerQ&A (PRC BOARD OF MECHANICAL ENGINEERING BOARD Resolution NO. 17, S. 2000)
The purpose of the resolution is to adopt and promulgate the revised procedures on the hydrostatic testing and inspection of boilers as prescribed by the Philippine Society of Mechanical Engineers, Inc. (PSME).
The procedures reference the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) Boiler and Pressure Vessel and Natural Board Inspection Code, as well as boiler inspection codes from other industrialized countries like England, France, and Germany.
For new installations, hydrostatic test must be conducted at 1.5 times the Design pressure before operation.
Hydrostatic testing shall be conducted every 5 years thereafter.
The test pressure must not exceed 1.5 times, but must not be lower than 1.2 times the Maximum Allowable Working Pressure.
Hydrostatic testing may be conducted during shutdown for maintenance purposes at a test pressure not greater than the set pressure of the safety valve having the lowest setting.
Section 9(h), Article II of R.A. No. 8495, known as the Philippine Mechanical Engineering Act of 1998.
The resolution shall take effect fifteen (15) days after the completion of its full publication in the Official Gazette or any newspaper of general circulation, whichever comes earlier.
Copies are to be furnished to the President of PSME, the Secretary of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), and other concerned sectors.