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ASME B31.4-2022

Pipeline Transportation Systems for Liquids and Slurries
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ASME B31.4-2022

Pipeline Transportation Systems for Liquids and Slurries

PUBLISH DATE 2022
PAGES 134
ASME B31.4-2022

Purpose and Scope of ASME B31.4-2022

ASME B31.4, Pipeline Transportation Systems for Liquids and Slurries, is a key part of the ASME Code for Pressure Piping. Its main purpose is to ensure the integrity, safety, and reliable transportation of hazardous and non-hazardous liquids through extensive pipeline networks. The comprehensive nature of the standard means it applies to all phases of a liquid pipeline’s existence.

The scope of the standard covers pipelines and associated auxiliary facilities transporting a variety of liquid products, including:

  • Liquid Hydrocarbons: Crude oil, condensate, natural gas liquids (NGLs), refined petroleum products (e.g., gasoline, diesel, jet fuel), and liquid petroleum gas (LPG).
  • Other Liquids: Liquid anhydrous ammonia, liquid alcohol, and carbon dioxide (CO₂).
  • Aqueous Slurries: Mixtures of nonhazardous materials, such as coal, mineral ores, and other solid materials, suspended in water.

The components and facilities covered include:

  • The Pipeline: Pipe, flanges, valves, fittings, and their associated pressure-retaining parts and supports.
  • Facilities: Primary and auxiliary piping at pipeline terminals (marine, rail, and truck), tank farms, pump stations, pressure-reducing stations, and metering stations.
  • Offshore Piping: Requirements for offshore liquid pipeline systems are also included, recognizing the unique challenges of the marine environment.

Application and Use

ASME B31.4 is the foundational technical reference for companies operating in the liquid pipeline sector. It is used to govern the processes of the pipeline's entire life cycle:

  • Design and Engineering: Engineers use the formulas, stress limits, and design criteria within B31.4 to calculate required wall thickness, assess thermal expansion and flexibility, and specify materials for both the main pipeline and station piping.
  • Construction and Testing: Contractors rely on the code for welding procedures, pipe installation, and rigorous hydrostatic testing requirements to verify that the newly built pipeline can safely withstand its maximum operating pressure.
  • Operation and Maintenance (O&M): Pipeline operators use the code to develop O&M procedures, implement corrosion control programs, and outline emergency response plans. The code also dictates methods for defect assessment, pipeline repair, and qualifying a system for higher operating pressure.

In the U.S. and many other countries, this ASME code is often adopted or cited by government agencies (like PHMSA) to form the basis of mandatory safety regulations for the liquid transportation industry.

SDO ASME: American Society of Mechanical Engineers
Document Number B31.4
Publication Date Dec. 8, 2022
Language en - English
Page Count 134
Revision Level
Supercedes
Committee
Publish Date Document Id Type View
Dec. 8, 2022 ASME B31.4-2022 Revision