Comparison of ASME B16.34 and API 600 Standards

# Comparison of ASME B16.34 and API 600 Standards

## Introduction

When it comes to industrial valves, two commonly referenced standards are ASME B16.34 and API 600. While both standards deal with valves used in various industries, they have distinct focuses and applications. Understanding the differences between these standards is crucial for engineers, procurement specialists, and maintenance personnel working with industrial valves.

## Scope and Application

ASME B16.34

The ASME B16.34 standard covers pressure-temperature ratings, dimensions, tolerances, materials, and testing requirements for valves with flanged, threaded, and welding end connections. It applies to a wide range of valve types including gate, globe, check, ball, and butterfly valves.

API 600

API 600 specifically focuses on bolted bonnet steel gate valves for petroleum and natural gas industries. This standard provides requirements for design, materials, face-to-face dimensions, pressure-temperature ratings, and testing of these specialized valves.

## Key Differences

1. Valve Types Covered

ASME B16.34 is more comprehensive, covering multiple valve types, while API 600 is exclusively for steel gate valves with bolted bonnets.

2. Industry Focus

API 600 is specifically tailored for the oil and gas industry, whereas ASME B16.34 has broader industrial applications.

3. Design Requirements

API 600 includes more detailed design specifications for gate valves, including stem design, backseat requirements, and stuffing box dimensions that aren’t covered in ASME B16.34.

4. Testing Requirements

While both standards require pressure testing, API 600 has more stringent testing protocols specifically for gate valves in hydrocarbon service.

## Material Considerations

ASME B16.34 Materials

The standard references materials listed in ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code Section II. It provides pressure-temperature ratings for various material groups.

API 600 Materials

This standard specifies requirements for carbon steel, alloy steel, and stainless steel materials specifically suitable for oil and gas applications, including sour service requirements.

## When to Use Each Standard

Choose ASME B16.34 when working with general industrial valves across various applications. API 600 should be specified when dealing with critical gate valves in petroleum refineries, chemical plants, or pipeline systems where reliability under harsh conditions is paramount.

## Conclusion

Both ASME B16.34 and API 600 play important roles in valve specification and manufacturing. While ASME B16.34 provides broad guidelines for various valve types, API 600 offers specialized requirements for gate valves in the oil and gas industry. Understanding these differences ensures proper valve selection for specific applications.