Refrigeration Piping and Heat Transfer Components
Purpose and Scope of ASME B31.5-2022
ASME B31.5, Refrigeration Piping and Heat Transfer Components, is one of the specialized sections of the ASME Code for Pressure Piping. Its main objective is to provide comprehensive, safety-focused rules for piping systems that operate at the extreme temperature ranges typical of refrigeration and climate control applications—from cryogenic lows (as low as -320°F [-196°C]) to elevated temperatures for heat rejection.
The standard ensures that piping carrying refrigerants (like ammonia, fluorocarbons, etc.) and secondary coolants (like glycol or brine) maintains mechanical integrity and prevents leakage, which can be critical for safety, environmental protection, and system efficiency. It is concerned with piping that is either erected on the premises or factory-assembled.
The scope of the standard covers:
The standard does not generally apply to: water piping, systems designed for external or internal gage pressure not exceeding 15 psi, or self-contained or unit systems covered by a nationally recognized testing laboratory like Underwriters Laboratories (UL).
Application and Use
ASME B31.5 is the authoritative guide for professionals in the Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration (HVAC&R) and industrial refrigeration sectors. It is primarily used by:
The code is essential in industries like food processing, cold storage, chemical manufacturing, and large-scale comfort cooling, where the safe and efficient containment of refrigerants is paramount.
| SDO | ASME: American Society of Mechanical Engineers |
| Document Number | B31.5 |
| Publication Date | Jan. 21, 2023 |
| Language | en - English |
| Page Count | 106 |
| Revision Level | |
| Supercedes | |
| Committee |