Which ASME BPVC Section Covers Nondestructive Examination?

ASME BPVC Section V is the nondestructive examination (NDE) reference used across the code. It defines NDE methods and procedure qualification; the construction codes (Section I, Section VIII, Section III, etc.) reference Section V to specify which methods apply and which acceptance criteria are used. Open the matching 2025 books directly below.

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• Define a radiographic, ultrasonic, or surface NDE method — Section V
• Acceptance criteria for a specific component — The construction section (e.g., Section VIII or Section I)
• Material specifications referenced by the examination — Section II Parts A–D
• Welding-procedure qualification used during fabrication — Section IX
• Pressure-vessel construction context — Section VIII Division 1 or Division 2

Questions and answers

Does Section V set acceptance criteria?

Section V defines methods and procedure qualification. Acceptance criteria typically come from the construction section that references Section V (for example, Section VIII Division 1 for pressure vessels).

Do I need Section II as well?

If your work involves materials referenced by the construction section, Section II (Parts A–D) is the materials reference. It is commonly used alongside Section V and the relevant construction code.

Does Section V cover all NDE methods?

Section V covers the NDE methods that are used in BPVC construction work, including radiographic, ultrasonic, magnetic particle, liquid penetrant, visual, eddy current, and acoustic emission examination, with procedure and personnel qualification rules.

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