Standard Ed Section Question Answer

Standard Ed Section Question Answer

Spec 6A 15th VI1 E2d(14) Does Spec. 6A, Paragraphs VI1 E2d(14) and VI1 E23(11), which require that Yes, re-volumetric inspection is required. API Spec. 6A only excludes stress relief in VI1
& VI1 "each part" for PSL3 and PSL4 be "volumetrically inspected (radiography or E2d (14) in the requirement that volumetric NDE occur ' [ . . . after heat treatment for
E23(11) ultrasonic) after heat treatment for mechanical properties...and prior to machining mechanical properties .']
operations that limit effective interpretation of the results of the examination"
require re-volumetric inspection if re-tempering of the material is required to lower
hardness values?

Spec 6A 16th Marking Can subsea wellhead and Christmas tree equipment manufactured to the “intent” No. API Bulletin S1 states in Section 3.2 that “each individual item which bears the
of Specification 6A while not complying with some of the “standard” 6A monogram conformed, in every detail, with the API Specification applicable at the date of
requirements (flange geometry, end-to-end lengths, center spacings, and so forth) manufacture.
be monogrammed?

Spec 6A 16th Table 605.2 Does footnote i to Table 605.2 allow a manufacturer to elect to not UT an overlay No. The footnote reads “Measurement of overlay thickness, testing of bond integrity and
if it is not considered part of the manufacturer’s or API design criteria? ultrasonic examination shall be according to the manufacturer’s specification.” UT is
required, regardless of whether the overlay is considered part of the manufacturer’s or API
design criteria.
Footnote i to Table 605.2 references the UT requirements of 605.2~(14). What
thickness is to be used? The thickness to be used is the base metal plus overlay.

Table 605.2 footnote i requires bond integrity to be tested by UT. Can the bond be
tested by checking the base metal and total overlay, or must each individual fusion
line between each pass be tested? Specification 6A, Sixteenth Edition does not preclude either method.

Spec 6A 16th Table 605.2 Volumetric NDE, as specified in Section 605.2c(14) for Materials: Where overlay If a weld overlay for corrosion resistance is considered as part of the design, then the total
Footnote "I" NDE is required, is the volumetric NDE to be based on the thickness of the "as wall thickness to be inspected volumetrically will equal the base material thickness plus the
forged/cast" volumetric NDE criteria, or the wall thickness Si - B) of the overlaid weld overlay thickness.
flange being examined?
Spec 6A 19th 7.4.9.5.8 & There is a conflict between 7.4.9.5.8. and Table 20. Does a PSL 3G valve require Yes. It does appear that there is a conflict between the wording in Clause 7.4.9.5.8 and the
Table 20 both a Hydrostatic Seat Test (extended) and a Gas Seat Test? information listed in Table 20. The intent of the subcommittee was to have the
requirements for gas seat testing (PSL 3G) be additive to the requirements for hydrostatic
seat testing (PSL 3), just as they are for the body tests. The information listed in the table is
correct, thus API Spec 6A does require hydrostatic seat testing (extended) for all PSL 3G
rated valves.

Spec 6A 19th Table 7 Table 7 of API 6A, 19th Edition, implies that Charpy impact specimens of sizes 6.7 Yes. ASTM A370 standard sub-sizes not specifically referenced in 6A are permissible
x 10 mm and 3.3 x 10 mm (ASTM A370 standard sub-sizes) are not permitted. provided that the adjustment factor approved in 6A Table 7 for the next larger standard size
Are specimens of this size acceptable for conducting impact testing? is applied and satisfied.

Spec 6A 19th Table 7 If specimens of sizes 6.7 x 10 mm and 3.3 x 10 mm are allowable, may an Yes. Table 7 uses a “safety factor” of 1.333 for ¼ and ½ size adjustment factors; ¼ x
adjustment factor of 0.444 be used for a 3.3 x 10 mm specimen size? 1.333 = .333, ½ x 1.333 = .667. By extension, 1/3 x 1.333 = .444.

Spec 6A 19th 7.3.1 & Is it the intent of API Spec 6A paragraphs 7.3.1 and 7.4.2.1.5 to require QC No. Subclause 7.3.1 addresses requirements for NDE personnel, Subclause 7.3.2
7.4.2.1.5 personnel, machinists, welders and any other personnel performing dimensional addresses requirements for visual examination personnel, and Subclause 7.4.2.1.5
inspections, visual inspections/examinations and material evaluations to be addresses actual performance of a specific type of visual examination.
qualified as Level I, II, or III in accordance with SNT-TC1A?
Standard Ed Section Question Answer

Standard Ed Section Question Answer

Spec 6A 19th 7.3.1 & Is it the intent of API Specification 6A paragraphs 7.3.1 and 7.4.2.1.5 to apply only Yes. Activities described in API Spec 6A as NDE are classified as either Surface NDE or
7.4.2.1.5 to personnel performing what is traditionally considered NDE methods, including, Volumetric NDE. Spec 6A describes Surface NDE (MPI or LPI) and Volumetric NDE
but not limited to, Magnetic Particle, Magnetic Flux Leakage, Liquid Penetrant, (Radiography or UT) separately from Visual examination. Visual examination is described in
Radiography, and Ultrasonic inspections? separate Subclauses such as 7.4.2.1.5 and it is not considered to be Surface NDE.

Spec 6A 19th 7.3.2 Is it the intent of API Spec 6A paragraph 7.3.2 to require personnel performing Yes. Activities described in API Spec 6A as NDE are classified as either Surface NDE or
dimensional inspections, visual inspections/examinations and material Volumetric NDE. Spec 6A describes Surface NDE (MPI or LPI) and Volumetric NDE
evaluations to ONLY have annual eye examinations? (Radiography or UT) separately from Visual examination. Visual examination is described in
separate Subclauses such as 7.4.2.1.5 and it is not considered to be Surface NDE.

Spec 6A 19th 7.3.1 Is it the intent of API Spec 6A paragraph 7.3.1 to require the procedures that No. Subclause 7.3 only covers qualification of personnel, not qualification of procedures.
control these visual inspection methods to be approved by a SNT-TC1A Level III? Subclause 7.4.1.3 specifically addresses only the requirement for NDE instructions to be
approved by a Level III Examiner.

Spec 6A 19th 10.5.3.6 Is 10.5.3.6 to be interpreted literally that the only requirement for this repacking No. API Spec 6A intends that the stem backseat or other means of contingency sealing be
condition be at the maximum working pressure of the valve? We think this is the functional over the operating pressure range of the valve, not just at maximum rated
easy case. The hard case is at low pressures (in the order of 5% and less of rated pressure. However, this is not an actuator design requirement. It is the valve manufacturer's
working pressures ). Or should it be interpreted as requiring a back seat that will responsibility to specify the minimum spring force required from the actuator, if that is a
seal over the entire working pressure range of the valve? valve design consideration.

Spec 6A 19th Tables 4, 5 Where both actual product and a QTC have been used to determined material No. API Spec 6A provides for the option of taking test coupons from either a sacrificial part
and 6 properties, does one govern? or a separate QTC. It recognizes the possibility of obtaining different numerical answers of
properties from the two methods but does not answer the question, "Which one governs?" If
the QTC passed, and all other requirements of 6A were also met, then the part would be
Monogrammable per the specification. This subcommittee cannot assess the effectiveness
of the part with the material properties given in the inquiry. It is the manufacturer's
responsibility to assess the working stresses in the part and the hardenability of the material
in order to achieve the properties required by the design at critical areas. This subcommittee
likewise cannot comment on any additional requirements that may have been introduced by
the contractual relationship between the manufacturer and the user.

Spec 6A 19th Annex L Is a deviation allowed to manufacture plugs with a 1⅛" head to accommodate a No. The dimensions for both VR plugs and the VR plug running and retrieval tools are
smaller, stronger socket? presented in Annex L, including sufficient torque available with these dimensions to
install/remove the VR plug. However, API provides only the dimensional interface
information for the running tool to the VR plug. The manufacturer of the tool is responsible
for the design and operation of the tool.
Spec 6A 19th 5.4.1 Do flanges designed by API and specified in API 6A require that standard or non- No. Assumptions concerning material properties throughout the cross section of
standard material properties, in clause 5.4.1 a) & b), are achieved throughout the production parts are outside the scope of Spec 6A. API Spec 6A requires that the specified
cross section? If not, what criterion was applied for API designed Flanges? material properties are satisfied by testing of specimens taken from a QTC or a
prolongation, and that the specified hardness testing of both QTC and production parts
meet the specified acceptance criteria.
Spec 6A 19th 5.4.1 Can a manufacturer's design for Bodies, Bonnets and other End Connections use Yes. For large parts of varying cross-section, it may not be possible to achieve the
materials or processes that possess properties not meeting the minimum specified minimum properties throughout, especially when it is necessary to meet hardness
requirements of standard or non-standard materials in clause 5.4.1 a) & b) restrictions defined by ISO 15156/NACE MR0175 for low alloy steel.
throughout the cross section (Figure 2 (B),?
Standard Ed Section Question Answer

Standard Ed Section Question Answer

Spec 6A 19th 5.4.1 If a manufacturer's design for Bodies, Bonnets and other End Connections uses No. Not necessarily - depending on the shape and loading of the part, it may not be
materials or processes that possess properties not meeting the minimum required. It is not intended that Specification 6A neither define all facets of design practice,
requirements of standard or non-standard materials in clause 5.4.1 a) & b), should nor that it replace the expertise of the designer. The manufacturer has the responsibility to
design documentation substantiate assumptions for the center "core" material determine what design methods are appropriate; and what level of detail is required in the
requirements as a result of thermal response across the cross-section? design analysis.

Spec 6A 19th 4.3 Does the design methodology of clause 4.3 apply to designs when the actual Yes. The manufacturer has the responsibility to determine what design methods of
"core" material strength, toughness and/or impact value (15 ft*lb) is less than what Subclause 4.3 are applied, what locations/sections of the part are analyzed, and whether
is defined for a standard material? reduced material properties and acceptance criteria are applicable at a given location.

Spec 6A 19th Table 5 All Bodies and Bonnets will have an integral End Connection. However, Table 5 Yes. Where the size and configuration of the part and thermal response of the material
treats material designations for Bodies separately from integral End Connections. would typically result in non-homogeneous properties, the design should take that into
Consider a Body with integral End Connections in Figure 3. Can it be assumed consideration. However, it is intended that a part manufactured from a single piece of
that component design takes into account the predictability of thermal response of material would have only one material designation.
a specified material only locally achieving the material designation properties for
each region of the product?
Spec 6A 19th Table 5 Must the design utilize homogeneous properties based on the critical function of No.
the part, as shown in (B)?
Spec 6A 19th Section 5 There are several possible combinations of material designations and depth to No. Specification 6A does not address combinations of material designation in a single part,
which properties are designed. What combinations of material designation and except where weldment construction is employed (e.g., a 60k body section with 45k weld-
material properties through a cross-section are required? neck flanges attached).
Spec 6A 19th Annex L Is it permissible to apply the API Monogram to Tubing Heads or Casing Heads No.
with VR Plug Preparations threaded in a manner other than specified in Annex L?

Spec 6A 19th Annex L Referring to Annex L – L.2, is it permissible to use a stub acme thread in higher The HPVR plug with a stub acme thread is rated for a maximum working pressure of 20,000
pressure rated equipment, i.e., 15,000 psi working pressure equipment and still psi. The VR plug with a tapered vee thread is rated for a maximum working pressure of
apply the API Monogram? Could you comment on any pressure limitations on the 10,000 psi. The VR prep can be used in casing/tubing heads rated for 2000, 3000, 5000 or
thread profiles identified in Annex L? 10,000 psi. The HPVR prep can be used in casing/tubing heads rated for 15,000 or 20,000
psi.
Spec 6A 19th Annex L Is it permissible to apply the API Monogram to VR Plugs threaded in a manner No.
other than specified in Annex L?
Spec 6A 19th 10.16 Given the lowest rate valve in API 6A has a 2,000 PSIG working pressure, can a No. A retained fluid power actuator as covered in API Spec 6A clause 10.16 is an actuator
low pressure pneumatic actuator (less than 375 PSIG) be classified as a Retained designed to operate with retained fluid used at the full rated valve pressure. As such, it
Fluid Powered Actuator? cannot be designed at a lower operating pressure.

Note: API Spec 6A does allow (clause 10.16.3.2) pneumatic actuators to be operated with
well fluids so long as they are designed for both pressure and fluid compatibility. As such,
the manufacturer should have the documentation to show that the materials of the pressure-
containing parts and seals used in the actuator are compatible with the fluid and consistent
with the materials class and temperature rating of the valve.

Spec 6A 19th Table 12 Is it the intent of API Specification 6A, Table 12 that when applying “corrosion No. The requirements for "Weld Metal Overlay" for bodies, bonnets or end connections
resistant overlay” by welding to a body, bonnet or end and outlet connection with apply when the overlay is limited to the ring grooves. "Weld Metal Corrosion-Resistant Alloy
ring grooves, that you would apply the requirements of the line “Weld metal Overlay" requirements apply when the entire wetted surface is overlaid, including the ring
corrosion-resistant overlay (bodies, bonnets and end and outlet connections)” and grooves. The requirements of both do not apply to the same part.
the line “Weld metal overlay (ring grooves, stems, valve-bore sealing mechanisms
and choke trim)”?
Standard Ed Section Question Answer

Standard Ed Section Question Answer

Spec 6A 19th Scope Can the API Spec 6A, 19th Edition standard be interpreted to apply to wellheads Yes. To the extent that the new technology meets the requirements of the product
incorporating technologies not invented at the time the standard was originally specification.
developed?

Spec 6A 19th Scope Is a wellhead compliant with API Spec 6A, 19th Edition when all components are Equipment that meets the requirements of API Spec 6A is compliant with API Spec 6A. The
designed and tested in accordance with API Spec 6A, 19th Edition, and when the design of the feature used to suspend, retain and seal mandrel hangers are not specified in
friction-grip method of engineering is used to energize annular seals and to API Spec 6A.
lock the mandrel hanger down in the wellhead?

Spec 6A 19th Design Is a wellhead compliant with API Spec 6A, 19th Edition, when all components are The API subcommittee does not evaluate specific designs. It remains the responsibility of
designed and tested in accordance with API Spec 6A, 19th Edition, and when the the user of the document to demonstrate how conformance with the requirements of the
friction-grip method of engineering is used to energize annular seals, to document is being satisfied. It is possible for designs, other than examples shown or
lock the mandrel hanger down in the wellhead, and to provide the primary inferred, to be compliant with API Spec 6A. This specification is not intended to inhibit a
load support mechanism for both casing weight and pressure induced load on the vendor from offering, or the purchaser from accepting, alternative equipment or engineering
mandrel casing hanger? solutions for the individual application. API standards are published to facilitate the broad
availability of proven, sound engineering and operating practices. These standards are not
intended to obviate the need for applying sound engineering judgment regarding when and
where these standards should be utilized. Furthermore, this API committee response
should not be taken as an endorsement or validation of any particular design, practice or
operation.

Spec 6A 19th Table 12 The reference back to 7.4.2.3.15 led an auditor to conclude that the entire part The volumetric examination would depend on the design and manufacturing sequence, in
would have to be volumetrically examined as noted in 7.4.2.3.15 (a). We have regards to heat treatment.
always interpreted the reference in 7.4.2.3.15 (i) to “methods and acceptance
criteria” as being covered by 7.4.2.3.15 (b). Due to the part condition as finished
machine at this stage, volumetric examination of the entire part is not practical.
Does the reference to volumetric examination in this requirement apply to the
volumetric examination of the corrosion resistant overly or the entire part?

6A-2011-02 20th Section 8 & Background information: 1) In Annex P.4.2, there is a requirement to mark “API Response 1: Yes
Annex P Spec 6A” in addition to or in place of “ISO 10423”. 2) In the prior edition (19th) of
API 6A (Section 8), there has been a requirement to mark “API 6A” in addition to Response 2: Yes As long as the additional requirements (or limitations) of Annex O
or in place of “ISO 10423” when marking the product specification. "API Regional Annex" are met then "API 6A" or "API Spec 6A" can be marked in addition to
or in place of “ISO 10423.
Question 1: Is marking “API 6A” considered equivalent to marking “API Spec 6A”?

Question 2: Is marking “API 6A” in place of “ISO 10423” considered equivalent to

marking “ISO 10423”?
Standard Ed Section Question Answer

Standard Ed Section Question Answer

6A-2011-03 20th 7.4.2.14 Background information: Response: Yes. Clause 10.2 applies to Back Pressure Valves utilizing API Spec 5B in
Spec 6A, Back Pressure Valves the design. Other threads or retention features may be utilized in monogrammed Back
Clause 10.24.2 states design in accordance with 10.21.2 Pressure Valve designs.
Clause 10.21.2.2 states threads shall conform to 10.2
Clause 10.2 states threads meet API 5B
Clause 10.2.2.1 states threads can also be to ASME B1.20.1 (tapered threads
similar to API 5B)

Clause 7.4.11.5 refers to 7.4.2.1.4 for dimensional inspection

Clause 7.4.2.1.4 states connections shall be in accordance with API 5B or ASME
B1.1, 1.2 & 1.3 (UN and UNR thread forms which I believe to be non-tapered
threads.

Question): If a Back Pressure Valve has a modified straight thread form end and
outlet connection, is it a monogrammable product?

6A-2011-04 20th 7.5.3.2 & Question 1: Would bullplugs and valve-removal plugs be considered Response 1: Bullplugs and valve removal plugs are categorized as Loose Connectors in
10.21.1 encompassed in “body” or “end and outlet connections”? API Spec 6A, Clause 1.2 e)". Valve removal plugs and bullplugs have end connections.

Question 2: Clause 10.21.1 would appear to support bullplugs under the “end and Response 2: Valve removal plugs and bullplugs requirements are defined separately from
outlet connections” classification. However, requirements for valve-removal plugs other equipment. Specific requirements for bullplugs and valve-removal plugs are given in
would appear to be more aligned with bodies (Reference 10.22.4). 10.21 and 10.22, respectively.

Question 3: Since PSL’s are not applicable to back-pressure valves, Clause Response 3: Yes, back-pressure valve records are not required to be furnished to
7.5.3.2 is ambiguous. Literally interpreted, records would never be applicable to purchaser under section 7.5.3.2.
back-pressure valves under this PSL scheme.

6A-2012-01 20th Figure 3c Background: We believe there is an error in Figure 3 c) “Keel block configuration” Response: The subcommittee has considered your question and it is being addressed in
on page 45 of API 6A / ISO 10423. The “Envelope for test specimen removal” per API Ballot 2713. Any change resulting from the ballot will be issued in the form of an
annotation “f” is defined in Figure 3 c) as “0,25 R”. We believe this should read addendum. Addenda and errata are available at no cost from the API website at:
“0,25 T”. We offer the following justifications for our belief. Section 5.6.4.1 (and http://www.api.org/Publications-Standards-and-Statistics/Standards-Addenda-and-
5.7.4.1) contains the following text: Test specimens shall be removed from the TC Errata/Standards-Addenda-and-Errata/Exploration-and-Production-Addenda-Errata.aspx.
(QTC) such that their longitudinal centerline axis is wholly within the centre core
1/4T envelop.

Question: To be consistent with the above sections, Figure 3 c) should indicate

“0,25 T” instead of “0,25 R”. The dashed line as drawn has a radius more than
twice 0,25 R. It is consistent with a radius of approximately ¼ T. We have reviewed
the 15th, 16th and 17th editions of API 6A and all of these editions
specify a “1/4 T envelope for specimen removal” in the figures showing a keel
block. For reference, part of Figure 5.1 from the 17th Edition is reproduced below.
The change from “1/4 T” to “0,25 R” appears to have been introduced with the 18th
Edition of API 6A which was subsequently withdrawn. We believe this change
was introduced in error but has remained in subsequent editions. We request that
you review the above and advise if our interpretation is correct – i.e. that Figure 3
c) should specify “0,25 T” for the envelope for test specimen removal instead of
“0,25 R”.
Standard Ed Section Question Answer

Standard Ed Section Question Answer

6A-2012-02 20th Thread One of the dimensions listed is for the outside diameter of the ring gage. The Annex O L 6.1 and Clause 10.22.3 require dimensional inspection of VR plugs and profiles.
Gauges specifications given do not leave enough material on the ring (the 1½” ring would Clause L 6.1 does not limit inspection method to Tables L.7 and L8 and Figures L.12 and
have a wall thickness of approximately ¼”). It doesn’t appear that there would be L.13.
any interference issue if the ODs were larger. I believe that this specification
should be removed from the standard and left to the manufacturers to make it
functional, as it is for the line pipe rings in Spec 5B.

Another inconsistency I see is the specification for the ring for the 1¼” thread. The
1¼” valve removal thread is a line pipe, but the ring specified is not the same as
the 1¼ line pipe ring. Is there really a need to make a separate 1¼ line pipe ring to
check this thread instead of just using the standard ring from Spec 5B? It would
seem to me to make sense to just point to Spec 5B for these specs.

6A-2012-03 20th 6.3.4.2.3 Section states that hardness testing carried out on a PQR for a cross section Response 1: no, Figures indicate the required hardness punches described by Sedition
greater and 13 mm: "six hardness tests shall be made in each of the base 6.3.4.2.3.
material(s), the weld and HAZ. Figure 4 shows 3 base metal and 3 HAZ punches
per side of the weld joint. Resopnse 2: Figure 4 would be applicable for joining both a single base material and
different base materials.
Question 1) If qualifying a joint with 2 different alloys, is the requirement to have 6
base metal hardness tests PER alloy and 6 HAZ hardness tests PER alloy? Response 3: See Response 2

Question 2) Would figure 4 not be applicable to a PQR joining different alloys?

Question 3) Or in the case of a PQR with 2 different alloys, would only 3 hardness
tests be needed for each alloy in the base metal and 3 hardness tests in the HAZ
of each alloy giving a total of 6 base metal tests and 6 HAZ test for both alloys
combined as per figure 4?
Standard Ed Section Question Answer

6A-2012-04 20th 5.4.2 Background: Scope of supply is an API 6A Class 10.000 valve in cast 22 Cr Response: All alloy and stainless steels lose some strength at 250 °F. The fact that
duplex material. specification tests to 1.5 times working pressure and normally design for test conditions
According to the standard we need 60K yield strength (we use integral flanges) compensates for this. The tenet is that the properties can be considered to be constant up
which is easily achieved by the material as 22Cr has a yield of 65K. Our example to 250 °F, but at 251 °F or higher the manufacturer should consider the effect of
has a temperature classification "U" which is -18 to 121 °C or 0 to 250 °F. temperature on the material properties.

Question: API 6A does not derate the pressure in its classifications. If pressure is Your statements are accurate and engineering in nature, not deemed a problem with the
not derated (like in ASME B16.34) this means the 10.000 psi maximum working specification. The American Petroleum Institute (API) cannot provide consulting advice on
pressure can also be applied at 121 °C or 250 °F. The required 60K yield however specific engineering problems or on the general understanding of its documents. Answers to
is asked for on room temperature. The problem with duplex is the fact that the these types of questions should be sought with the assistance of a consultant or engineering
yield strength of the material drops below the required 60K at approximately 85 °C company familiar with the requirements of the standard.
or 185 °F.
In addition, API does not approve, recommend, or endorse any proprietary or specific
Ultimately this leads to the dilemma if we can we use 22Cr duplex as body design; nor does it limit the method of design or form of construction that might be used to
material for API 6A valve in temperature rating "U"? In other words; conform to an API Standard

• is the 60K limit only applicable at room temperature as stated in the standard
under paragraph 5.4.2?
or
• is the 60K yield strength requirement in the standard also applicable at the upper
temperature limit of the classification range?

6A-2012-05 20th 4.4 Background: The valve produced is a bolted configuration and API 6A section 4.4 Response: The design of the feature used on a body to connect an end closure (bonnet)
states that the end and outlet connections are to be an integral part of the body. or other wellhead and Christmas tree equipment is an end connection. According to API
The body of the valve produced has a bolted plate that closes the body off on each 6A definition 3.1.9 a body must have more than one end connection. End Connections are
end and then optional end connections can be bolted on after. defined in API 6A. Equipment that meets the requirements of API Spec 6A may be identified
as conforming to API Spec 6A.
Question: Does this meet API 6A – the valve would not be tested with the end
connections themselves because the customer buys whatever they need and bolts
them on later?
Standard Ed Section Question Answer

Standard Ed Section Question Answer

6A-2012-06 20th 10.7.4 Background: Clause 10.7 is for Casing and Tubing Hangers. Clause 10.7.4 Response 1: Yes
states “All materials shall meet the requirements of Clause 5.” Response 2: No
Clause 5.1 (General) states “Clause 5 describes the material performance,
processing, and compositional requirements for bodies, bonnets, end and outlet
connections, clamp hub end connectors, hangers, wear bushings, pressure-
boundary penetrations, and ring gaskets. Other pressure-containing and pressure-
controlling parts shall be made of materials that satisfy 5.2 and the design
requirements of Clause 4.”

Clause 5.2.1 (General) states “All metallic and non-metallic pressure-containing or

pressure-controlling parts shall require a written material specification.”
Clause 5.2.2 (Metallic Requirements) states “The manufacturer’s written specified
requirements for metallic materials for bodies, bonnets, end and outlet
connections, stems, valve bore sealing mechanisms, and mandrel hangers shall
define the following, along with accept/reject criteria:” The balance of Clause 5.2.2
details the requirements for materials for these specific parts.

Clause 5.3 is for “Mandrel Tubing and Casing Hangers.”

There is no other clause or sub-clause in Clause 5 that deals with the materials for
slip hangers.
Question 1: Do the materials of construction for slip hangers have to meet the
requirements of Clause 5.2.1? Question 2: Do the materials of construction for
slip hangers have to meet the requirements of Clause 5.2.2 or 5.3?

6A-2012-07 20th Tables 67-72 Background: Tables 67-72 (and B.67-B.72) list the face to face valve lengths for Response 1: No
(and B.67- various sizes and pressure ratings of valves. Response 2: No
B.72)
Question1: If a particular size and pressure rating of a valve is not listed in those
tables, can a valve of that size and pressure rating be identified as a 6A product?

Question2: If a particular size and pressure rating of a valve is listed in those

tables, but no face to face valve length is specified, can a valve of that size and
pressure rating be identified as a 6A product?

6A-2012-08 20th 4.2.3.2 IS H2S Partial Pressure rating required to be marked in addition to the material Yes, Material Class Marking required by Section 8.1.1 and Table 39 requires H2S partial
class for a blind flange? For example, is "EE" sufficient or would the marking on pressure rating for loose connectors.
the blind flange need to be "EE-NL".
Standard Ed Section Question Answer

Standard Ed Section Question Answer

6A-2012-09 20th Table B.57 Background: The 10K/15K layout does not look right, if J3 were to be very long, Wall thickness of B.57 would same as weld neck flange in table B.55. IN both tables wall
for argument’s sake, and the 1.25 were held then the wall thickness would get thickness meets design criteria of Clause 4.3.
very thin as J3 tapers.

The two figures (B.57 and B.58) are not consistent. I have checked with earlier
editions, i.e. 14th and 15th, and the same inconsistency is present. I believe the
10,000 and 15,000 psi flanges should be dimensioned like the 20,000 psi flange,
with the 2.50 max dimension being replaced with a 1.25 max dimension, measured
from the flange face, not the outer end.

6A-2013-01 20th 8.10 Background: Referring to API 6A, 20th Edition (ISO 10423:2009), Section 8.10 on Response: “Nominal Size” referenced in API Spec 6A, Section 8.10 is the “Nominal Outlet
page 114, it is stated that "Valve-removal plugs shall be marked with "ISO 10423" Size” identified in Table L.1 and Table L.2.
followed by the nominal size and ..."..

Question: Please clarify: Is the nominal size stated in Spec 6A, Section 8.10
referring to the nominal outlet connection size, or the nominal thread size of valve
removal plug? For instance, a valve removal plug that is defined under Annex L,
last item in Table L.2 on page 399, it has a nominal outlet size of 4-1/16 inch, and
a nominal thread OD size of 3-1/2 inch. Please clarify which is the nominal size
that intended to be marked for such a case.

6A-2013-02 20th 4.3.4 Background: The maximum allowable tensile stress, SA, for closure bolting shall Response: Yes Stress is based on the root (minor diameter) area if there is no smaller
be determined considering initial bolt-up, rated working pressure and hydrostatic area, and should not include stress concentrations, bending, or torsion.
test pressure conditions. Bolting stresses, based on the root area of the thread,
shall not exceed the limit given in Equation (9):

SA =0,83 SY (9)

where SY is the bolting material-specified minimum yield strength.

Bolting stresses shall be determined considering all loading on the closure,

including pressure acting over the seal area, gasket loads and any additional
mechanical and thermal loads.

Question: Is bolting stress the tensile stress averaged across the minimum bolt
cross sectional area resulting from direct tension without bending and neglecting
stress concentrations, determined considering initial bolt-up, rated working
pressure and hydrostatic test pressure conditions?
Standard Ed Section Question Answer

Standard Ed Section Question Answer

6A-2013-03 20th Table 3 Background: The applicable requirements of Section 4 are as follows: Response: No S41000 does not qualify under ISO 15156, part 1, clause 3 as a carbon
• “Equipment shall be designed with materials, including metallics that meet the or low alloy steel. However, API 6A, Table 3 - Material requirements and Clause 4.2.3 do
requirements set forth in Table 3.” not prohibit the use of stainless steel valve seats in DD valves. Determination of the
• Table 3 stipulates a minimum material requirement for pressure-controlling parts suitability between materials is outside the scope of the specification.
used in material class DD of “Carbon or low-alloy steel”
• The note b specifies “In accordance with ISO 15156 (all parts)”
• ISO 15156, part 1, clause 3 defines carbon and low-alloy steel. Low-alloy steel is
defined as “steel with a total alloying content of less than about 5% mass fraction,
but more than specified for carbon steel”.
410SS seats used in the valve clearly exceed the maximum 5% alloying content
and therefore do not meet the minimum material requirements of Table 3.
However 410SS seats in a gate valve classified as DD is being proposed.

The company feels that the requirement of a “carbon and low-alloy steel” by using
a “stainless steel (CRA Part 3 as classified in NACE MR-01-75)” is exceeded.

Question: Is it accurate to qualify the stainless steel under the quoted area of
NACE?

6A-2014-01 20th Flanges In the API 6A, we noticed that some dimensions have been changed and these Yes, this was an intentional change and no correction is required.
changes may cause serial problems in assembling of different components: In the
twentieth edition of API 6A, the outside diameters of flanges have been changed in
regard to former editions. Some are smaller and some are bigger than before.
Some component parts, for example valves, are flanged to the external contour of
another, bigger part, where just this diameter is countersunk. If this valve has to
be replaced, the new one would be manufactured according to the new standard,
hence it would have a bigger outside diameter and would not fit into the existing
countersink. Please check, if the modification of outside diameters of flanges is
really intended - or if a correction is necessary.
Standard Ed Section Question Answer

Standard Ed Section Question Answer

6A-2014-02 20th 7.4.2.2.8 a) API 6A Section 7.4.2.2.8 (a) and (b) state the following for surface NDE of No, acceptable methods, for PSL2 ferromagnetic materials, are specified in document and
and b) ferromagnetic materials for PSL 2 applications: accessible wetted surfaces are defined in 3.1.2.
a) sampling:
All accessible wetted surfaces and all accessible sealing surfaces of each finished
part shall be examined by liquid-penetrant or magnetic-particle methods after final
heat treatment and final machining operations.
b) test method:
All ferromagnetic materials shall be examined in accordance with procedures
specified in ASTM E709 (MT) or ASTM E165 (PT). Prods are not permitted on
well-fluid surfaces or sealing surfaces.

Are there any restrictions on acceptable inspection methods based on accessibility

of wetted / sealing surfaces other than those specified in Section 7.4.2.2.8 (b)?

6A-2014-03 20th Annex J Background: API in clause J.5.3 - Repair equipment, sub-paragraph e) refers to Response 1: Yes, repaired equipment may include remanufactured parts except for those
the replacement or remanufacture the parts needed to return the equipment to its listed in J.5.3 (bodies, bonnets and end and outlet connections, stems and valve bore
condition work. Moreover, Clause 3 - Terms, definitions and abbreviations, sealing mechanisms).
paragraph 3.1.94 states that the repair does not include manufacturing operations,
while the remanufacturing does include these operations. Question 1: Do the Response 2: These terms are defined in the document. See API Spec 6A, Section 3.1.93
repair includes remanufacturing of components other than bodies? Question 2: If for remanufacture and Section 3.1.94 for repair. The NOTES associated with these
the above answer is yes, what is the difference between repair and definitions provide additional guidance.
remanufacturing?

6A-2014-04 20th 10.19 Background: In clause 10.19 - Top Connectors, paragraph 10.19.9, requires that Response 1: No, a bleeder plug is not required as indicated in 10.19.9 (an erratum to this
the top connectors are equipped with a bleeder plug. API specification 6A does statement has been issued by API). The only requirement is that the cap be capable of
not specify any requirement, however it is important to clarify the bleeder plug venting prior to top connector release. Any such mechanism shall meet the requirements
material, the purpose of the bleeder plug, the design (or bleed plug blind plug). for pressure-boundary penetration.

Question1: How are the requirements for this bleeder plug? Response 2: API only addresses questions that reference specific sections of the document
and that in the form where the reply will be either "yes" or "no". Therefore, API cannot
Question 2: I would like to delve into the reason why the material requirements for provide a reply. For additional guidance, see: http://www.api.org/publications-standards-and-
bullplugs and valve-removal plugs are PSL3 requirements and the type of material statistics/faqs-and-inquiries/faqs/technical-question/guidelines-for-submission
must be DD, EE, FF.
Standard Ed Section Question Answer

Standard Ed Section Question Answer

6A-2014-05 20th Annex F Background: To give a little background on the situation, this question is related to Response: Yes
a load shoulder being tested in accordance with API 6A Annex F PR2
requirements. This load shoulder is used to support the downward force
generated by a mandrel hanger.

The load shoulder is being tested independently of a mandrel hanger. However,

since the mandrel hanger that will be used in this application with this load
shoulder will be a group 4 hanger we are using the group 4 mandrel hanger testing
requirements as the driver for required testing on the load shoulder. The load
shoulder does not have any pressure retaining capability and contains no seals of
any kind and therefore the only applicable test from table F.17 (Design Validation
for Group 4 Mandrel Hangers) is the load testing.

Question: The load testing requirements in section F.2.25 point back to PR2
Group 3 requirements which then points back to F.2.11. Section F.2.11
specifically states “The pressure/temperature cycles of F.1.11 are not required”.
Based on this fact it appears that thermal cycling is not a requirement of Annex F
as part of load testing. Is this a correct application of the requirements?

6A-2014-06 20th 5.7.2.3 Background: I am trying to verify an interpretation of API 6A specification Response: No, however, the sizes are correct for batch type heat treatment, not for
requirements for QTC size mentioned in the paragraph 5.7.2.3. Paragraph 5.7.2.3 continuous furnace heat treatment.
specifies: "The ER of the QTC shall be equal to or greater than the dimensions of
the part it qualifies, except as follows: a) for PSL 2: 1) forging: size not required to
exceed 63 mm (2.5") ER....", the interpretation used in the industry is that the size
of the QTC of forged bar products does not have to be larger than 2.5" diameter
ER regardless of diameter of the forged bar stock.

Example of the above scenario: a 20" diameter forged bar stock can be qualified
by a 2" square QTC for PSL 2 and a 4" square QTC for PSL 3-4 as long as they
are heat treated together and they are from the same mill heat.

Question: Is it a correct interpretation? Pls. advise if it is or if it is not. If it is not

then pls. explain why not.

6A-2014-07 20th 10.16.4 Background: As per section 10.16.4 Materials can be material class AA provided Response: Yes, if the actuator is a retained fluid powered actuator.
written specifications can define Chemical, Mechanical and Heat treatment No, if the actuator is not a retained fluid powered actuator, i.e. powered by hydraulic control
procedure. Question: Does the pressure containing components of the Hydraulic fluid.
actuator (Cylinder, Piston) be of FF material class when the Actuator assembly is
FF-1.5?
6A-2014-08 20th Table 15 Background: With regard to API Spec 6A, Table 15… Response: API only addresses questions that reference specific sections of the document
and that in the form where the reply will be either "yes" or "no". Therefore, API cannot
Question: Why are two classes given when this is not mentioned anywhere else provide a reply. For additional guidance, see: http://www.api.org/publications-standards-and-
in the standard? Why not just say a max of 10 percent? Obviously the 5 percent statistics/faqs-and-inquiries/faqs/technical-question/guidelines-for-submission
max is better but there is no way to determine what you get?
Standard Ed Section Question Answer

Standard Ed Section Question Answer

6A-2014-09 20th 6.5.1.2.2 Background: UNS N06625 filler wire is used to deposit an overlay with Response: No, API Spec 6A, 20th Edition does not require that a UNS N06625 overlay
requirements of either Fe 5 or Fe 10 per Table 15. Question: Does the overlay meet the full composition limits of UNS N06625. Section 6.5.1.2.2 specifies the qualification
chemistry have to meet the composition limits of UNS N06625? requirements and Table 15 requires that the iron composition meet either 5% max or 10%
max.

6A-2014-10 20th Annex K Background: Found in table K.5, for top connector size 4in 15,000psi, use o-ring Response: API only addresses questions that reference specific sections of the document
SAE AS568-436-90 FKM. It means gland for o-ring have dimension OD range and that in the form where the reply will be either "yes" or "no". Therefore, API cannot
5.782 - 5.776 (legend S as per fig K.2) and o-ring ID (as per AS568-436) 5.850 ID provide a reply. For additional guidance, see: http://www.api.org/publications-standards-and-
and .275 CS. Means this o-ring ID bigger than gland OD. statistics/faqs-and-inquiries/faqs/technical-question/guidelines-for-submission

Question: In this situation how can this o-ring seat properly and 'bite' in gland? However, please be advised that an erratum will be issued to change “SAE AS568-436-90
FKM” in table K.5 and replace “SAE AS568-435-90 FKM.

6A-2014-11 20th VR Threads Question: Do you know if API 6A, API 5-series or any other API standard No, thread type is specified by connection and pressure rating of the equipment not the
specifies which thread type is preferred for the VR profile for gas lifted wells? Or, service.
do you know if any standard states that conical threads are not gas tight?

6A-2014-12 20th 10.6.3 6A 10.6.3 requires designs to consider thermal tubular loads. Almost without Response: The manufacture shall consider loads provided by the user. The Data Sheet
exception the packages that I have seen (P-U) state that such loads are minimal provides input for casing hanging weight and clause A.2 states “The effects of external
and can be ignored. I find it hard to believe that the committee would have stated loads (i.e. bending moments, tensions, etc.) on the assembly of components are not
the requirement as it is if such is really the case. explicitly addressed by this International Standard (see 4.2.1.3). The purchaser should
specify any exceptional loading configuration”
Similarly, external axial and bending loads are usually discounted. Any comment
on where they ARE significant in the view of the committee.

Question: My question is along the lines of what did they have in mind? ... are
there are specifics where we would consider that such loads ARE significant?
Standard Ed Section Question Answer

Standard Ed Section Question Answer

6A-2014-13 20th 8 Marking Background: Per API 6A 8.3 and 8.6, adapters and adapter connectors are
required to be marked in accordance with Table 39. Table 39 requires the
connectors to be marked on each connector OD with the end and outlet connector
size, the rated working pressure, the ring gasket type and number, and other
information. Per 10.15.2 a), the rated working pressure of an adapter spool shall
be the lowest rating of the end and outlet connectors on the adapter. Depending
on how these requirements are interpreted, this could require a flanged adapter
spool to be marked with its rated working pressure (per Table B.53, B.54, etc.) in
addition to the spool working pressure. It is understood that the rated working
pressure of the equipment is based on the spool rated working pressure, but the
flange rated working pressure is useful for identifying the correct mating flange.

Question 1: Is it required to mark the flange rated working pressure (per Table
B.53) in addition to the spool rated working pressure?

Question 2: Is it permissible to mark “2 1/16 10,000 BX152 2LP 5000 PSI MAX
WP” (along with the other requirements from Table 39 for temperature class,
material class, etc.)?
Response 1: Yes, on the OD according to API Spec 6A, Table 39 for “Connectors and
Fittings”. NOTE: Additional marking such as temperature derating in API Spec 6A, Annex G,
could also apply, as appropriate.

Response 2: Yes. NOTE: API Spec 6A currently does not address the issue of additional
product markings (i.e., beyond those that are specified in API Spec 6A, Section 8 and the
applicable product requirements of API Spec 6A, Section 10).
6A-2014-14 20th General Background: The terms “manufacturer” is used in multiple places throughout API
Spec 6A to define responsibilities or specific actions/requirements.

Question: Is the intent of the use of this term applicable to the “manufacturer of
the API Spec 6A equipment” vs. the manufacturer of a forging, casting or other Response: No, “Manufacturer” is to be read only as “Manufacturer of the API Specification
component supplied in accordance with this specification? Specifically, in the 6A Equipment.” It does not apply to the supplier who manufactures the material.
materials section, does this term apply to the equipment manufacturer or the
supplier who manufactures the material?
Standard Ed Section Question Answer

Standard Ed Section Question Answer

6A-2015-01 20th Annex L Background: Within API 6A, Annex L there are the following requirements: Response: No, It would not be permissible to use HPVR preps in casing head housings,
casing head spools or tubing heads rated from 13,8 MPa (2 000 psi) through 69,0 MPa (10
L.3 Dimensions 000 psi) working pressures.
L.3.1 Valve-removal preparation dimensions for 13,8 MPa (2 000 psi) through 69,0
MPa (10 000 psi) working pressures shall be in accordance with Table L.1 and
Figures L.1 and L.2.

and

L.3.3 Valve-removal preparation dimensions for 103,5 MPa (15 000 psi) through
138,0 MPa (20 000 psi) working pressure shall be in accordance with Tables L.3
and L.4 and Figures L.6 and L.7.

Question: From the above wording, it may be presumed that high pressure VR
Plugs (15 000 psi and 20 000 psi) cannot be used in equipment rated from 2 000
psi and 10 000 psi. Please clarify if Valve-removal preparation dimensions for
103,5 MPa (15 000 psi) through 138,0 MPa (20 000 psi) working pressures can be
used, and API Monogramed, in equipment rated from 13,8 MPa (2 000 psi) through
69,0 MPa (10 000 psi) working pressures.

Standard Ed Section Question Answer

Standard Ed Section Question Answer

6A-2015-02 20th 8.1.8 Background: API 6A 8.1.8 states “If hardness tests are required for bodies, Response 1: Yes, It is sufficient to mark the numerical value only.
bonnets or end and outlet connectors, the actual value of the hardness test shall
be stamped on the part adjacent to the test location.” Response 2: No, It is sufficient to mark the numerical value only.

API 6A 7.5.2.1 c) 5) requires a hardness test record with the actual hardness for Response 3: No, API 6A does not address specific requirements for portable Brinell hardness
PSL 3 bodies. records.

API 6A 7.4.2.1.3 requires that hardness testing be performed i9/5/14n accordance

with the procedures in ASTM E10 (Brinell) or ASTM E18 (Rockwell) (or their ISO
equivalents). It also permits the use of portable hardness testers that meet the
requirements of ASTM E110. It does not state any requirements for how hardness
is reported/recorded or marked.

ASTM E10 5.6.1 and 5.6.2 state “Brinell hardness values shall not be designated
by a number alone because it is necessary to indicate which indenter and which
force has been employed in making the test (see Table 3). Brinell hardness
numbers shall be followed by the symbol HBW, and be supplemented by an index
indicating the test conditions in the following order… The only exception to the
above requirement is for the HBW 10/3000 scale when a 10 s to 15 s dwell time is
used. Only in the case of this one Brinell hardness scale may the designation be
reported simply as HBW.” Brinell testing performed for API 6A commonly uses the
10/3000 scale, which is therefore required to be followed by the HBW designation.
ASTM E110 for portable hardness testing has recently been revised and now has
the following requirement in section 8.3: “The measured hardness number shall be
reported in accordance with the standard methods and appended with a /P to
indicate that it was determined by a portable hardness tester.”

The ASTM E110 requirement for the /P appears to only be applicable to the
report, because E110 does not have any marking section. Furthermore, API 6A
only refers to the procedures in E10 / E18 and the testers in E10 / E18 / E110, not
reporting or marking requirements. The requirement in API 6A 8.1.8 is for the
actual value of the hardness test to be marked and it us unclear as to whether the
value also includes the hardness scale.

Question 1: Does it meet the API 6A 8.1.8 requirements to mark solely the
numerical value of the hardness (for example, “237”) adjacent to the test location?

Question 2: When a portable Brinell hardness tester in accordance with ASTM

E110 is used, does API 6A require “HBW/P” to be included in the stamping of the
hardness test value (for example, “237 HBW/P”)?

Question 3: When a portable Brinell hardness tester in accordance with ASTM

E110 is used, does API 6A require “HBW/P” to be included in the records of the
hardness test values (for example, “237 HBW/P”)?
Standard Ed Section Question Answer

Standard Ed Section Question Answer

6A-2015-03 20th 10.2 Background: In several cases for threaded companion flanges, I have found that Response: Yes, The maximum bore diameter shall not exceed dimension B at the flange
when using the proper counter bore, angle, and MFT of the given thread via API face.
6A and 5B, there is not enough length to return to the proper thru bore dimension
of the respective flange due to the length restriction of the hub. (Tables 49, 50, However, there is no requirement for a straight unthreaded bore between the threads and
and 51: Dim. LL and LC). the flange face. The minimum value of B is not specified for threaded flanges.

Question: For threaded companion flanges, does the bore at face of the flange
still have to comply with Tables 49, 50, 51 Dimension B?

Standard Ed Section Question Answer

6A-2015-04 20th 7.4.2.2.8 & Background: API 6A which is minimum requirement of design Clause 7.4.2.2.8 Response 1: No.
7.4.2.2.9 Surface NDE- ferromagnetic materials a) Sampling: All accessible wetted surfaces
and all accessible sealing surfaces of each finished part shall be examined by Response 2: Yes, after final heat treatment and machining
liquid-penetrant or magnetic-particle methods after final heat treatment and final .
machining operations. Also for Non –ferromagnetic materials: Clause 7.4.2.2.9 Response 3: This is a contractual issue. API does not comment on contractual agreements
Surface NDE — Non-ferromagnetic materials a) Sampling: All accessible wetted needed to meet specification requirements.
surfaces and all accessible sealing surfaces of each finished part shall be liquid
penetrant inspected after final heat treatment and final machining operations.

Question 1: Is MT after forging which has heat treated (Austenitizing, Quench,

and temper) mandatory?

Question 2: Is MT after forging which has heat treated & machined (Austenitizing,
Quench, temper, Machined) mandatory?

Question 3: Parts after forging and Heat treatment ((Austenitizing, Quench,

temper) has oxide and has to clean and remove oxide then shall perform MT and
Forging supplier complains about this and wants to skip MT this step of work.

6A-2015-05 20th 5.2.2 Background: The manufacturer's written specifications for Body shall specify NDE Response: No. NDE is not required by API 6A for PSL 1, unless specified by the
requirements for PSL 1. manufacturer.

Question: Is it required to carry out surface NDE at the raw material stage for PSL
1?
Standard Ed Section Question Answer

6A-2015-06 20th 8.5 Background: My company sells VPAs consisting of only the Body, Seats, and Response: Equipment shall be marked in accordance with API 6A Clause 8 as appropriate
Gates; and does not include the stem or bonnet (these are supplied by the for the components or equipment supplied.
customer/actuator company). According to Clause 8 Table 39 we should be
marking the Material Class for which our VPA is rated.

Question: The VPAs that we sell all conform to an EE-NL material class. The
actuator company then uses a stem and/or bonnet that would make the valve as
an assembly only EE-0,5. Because we are not always told about the usage or
intensions and the actuator company is ordering our VPA for their "stock" whose
responsibility would it be to mark the assembly correctly? Or should we not mark
the Material Class for the VPA since it is not a completed assembly?

Standard Ed Section Question Answer

6A-2015-07 20th 7.4.2.3.13 Background: There are doubts whether the sentence in question is applicable for Response: All parts must be hardness tested after welding, in both the weld and in the
duplex/super duplex stainless steel materials, since duplex and super duplex adjacent unaffected base metal, whether post-weld heat treatment is performed or is not
stainless steel materials do not allow heat treatment after welding. required by the manufacturer.

Question: Statement in API 6A: “At least one hardness test shall be performed in Clarification Note Added 3/15/2019: Hardness is required on any product weld. Hardness is
both the weld and in the adjacent unaffected base metals after all heat treatment performed on the weld and unaffected base metal if PWHT is performed in conjunction with
and machining operations.” In my opinion there are 2 ways to interpret this any production weld. Hardness is required on the weld but not required on the unaffected
statement: 1. At least one hardness test shall be performed in both the weld and in base metal if PWHT is not performed in conjunction with any production weld.
the adjacent unaffected base metals "only" after all heat treatment and machining
operations. 2. At least one hardness test shall be performed in both the weld and
in the adjacent unaffected base metals "and if heat treatment and machining
operations are performed then hardness testing shall be performed afterwards".
Which is the correct one?
Standard Ed Section Question Answer

6A-2015-08 20th Table 12 Background: I have read the API 6A interpretation question and response (below) Response: The current version of API 6A is the 20th Edition, and it has Errata 1-7 plus
on the API website. The question/ answer quoted refers to the 19th Edition. Can Addenda 1-3. Your question refers to an interpretation of a superseded version.
you please clarify the following?
Question: “Is it the intent of API Specification 6A, Table 12 that when applying The revised Table 18 included in Annex O, for API 6A 20th Edition containing errata 7,
‘corrosion resistant overlay’ by welding to a body, bonnet or end and outlet delineates the quality control requirements that apply to “Weld metal overlay – partial
connection with ring grooves, that you would apply the requirements of the line overlay” and “Weld metal overlay – full overlay”.
‘Weld metal corrosion-resistant overlay (bodies, bonnets and end and outlet
connections)’ and the line ‘Weld metal overlay (ring grooves, stems, valve-bore
sealing mechanisms and choke trim)’?”
Answer: “No. The requirements for ‘Weld Metal Overlay’ for bodies, bonnets or end
connections apply when the overlay is limited to the ring grooves. ‘Weld Metal
Corrosion-Resistant Alloy Overlay’ requirements apply when the entire wetted
surface is overlaid, including the ring grooves. The requirements of both do not
apply to the same part.”
Question: Shall valves that are overlaid only in the ring grooves and seat pocket
sealing surfaces (not the entire wetted surface) be inspected to “Weld Metal
Overlay” criterion because it is not all wetted areas; Or shall they be inspected to
“Weld Metal Corrosion- Resistant Overlay” because the weld is not only limited to
the ring grooves? It would seem the in-between case is most similar to welding
ring grooves only in terms of scope of application. Also, when comparing the Weld
Examination-Visual (7.4.2.2.11) with Weld NDE-Surface (7.4.2.2.12), is it the
intent of the API 6A Specification to demand more stringent Visual Inspection
acceptance criteria than Surface Penetrant Inspection in regards to sealing
surfaces?
Standard Ed Section Question Answer

Standard Ed Section Question Answer

6A-2015-09 20th 6.3.2.3c Background: There are several manufacturers of plunger lifts/well head lubricators Response 1: Yes.
that are manufacturing in accordance with API 6A and they are not PWHT their
production welds. ASME Section IX does not specify when PWHT must be done, Response 2: Yes.
only that it is an essential variable whe it is required by another code.

Question 1: If the welding procedure qualification (PQR) requires PWHT (as

stated in 6.3.2.3.c), is it required that any production weld made in accordance
with that qualification must also receive PWHT?

Question 2: Because this is a requirement for PSL-1, does it follow that PSL-2
and PSL-3 also require PWHT of the PQR?

6A-2015-10 20th Figure 3a Background: Figure 3 shows what is meant by T/2 for a round. However, based Response: For a solid round bar, T/2 is simply the diameter divided by 2 and T/4 is simply
on who you ask, the interpretation of where T/2 and T/4 are in a solid bar is not the diameter divided by 4.
clear. For instance, Section 5.7.4.1 states testing to be done at T/4. Some say T/2
is closer to the center than T/4. I would say that T/4 is closer to the center based For a solid round bar, a test specimen taken at the T/2 location is at the center of the bar. A
on Figure 3. test specimen taken from within the T/4 envelop may be anywhere from the mid-radius in to
the center of the bar.
Question: Is T/4 closer to the center on a solid bar than T/2?

6A-2015-11 20th 5.7.3.3 Background: Currently we the heat treatment (batch type) with the product but It Response 1: For parts heat-treated in batch furnaces, it is not required that the QTC be
is difficult to satisfy. So we find the standard I would like to know more about the heat-treated with the parts it qualifies.
following sentence (API 6A 5.7.3.3) "if the QTC is not heat-treated as part of the
Response 2: API specifications do not address product warranty or manufacturers’
sam℃e heat-treatment load as the part(s) it qualifies, the austenizing, solution-
treating or age hardening(as applicable) temperatures for the QTC shall be within guarantees.
14 of those for the parts.".

Question 1: In the context of the above, each product in the production (each
lots), QTC don't need to heat treatment with the product?

Question 2: After the heat treatment in the QTC (alone), is it possible to

guarantee the product?

6A-2015-12 20th Table 39 & Background: We have had a practice in place for over 20 years for marking Response: No, however all requirements of the dual rated product must be satisfied.
4.2.1 equipment suitable for dual rated working pressures with a dual rated working
pressure. For example: A 2-9/16 5000 valve has the same flange and end to end Example: API 6A Clause 7.4.9.3.5 Hydrostatic seat test — Valves states that the seat test
dimensions as a 2-9/16” 3000 valve. A 2-9/16” 5000 valve would be suitable for pressure is to be “equal to the rated working pressure”. So, for a dual 3000/5000 rating,
use in a 2-9/16 3000 application. For these applications, the marking practice has the seat testing must be done at both working pressures.
been to mark the valve as a 2-9/16” 3000/5000 valve rather than design and set
up a valve based solely on the materials criteria for a 3000 PSI application.

Question: Is it a violation of Table 39 and Clause 4.2.1 to mark a piece of

equipment with a dual rated working pressure when the equipment has been
designed for the higher rated working pressure and is suitable for both rated
working pressures?
Standard Ed Section Question Answer

Standard Ed Section Question Answer

6A-2015-36 20th 10.5 Background: For a valve with the following configuration:
a) Nominal Size: The 2-1/16 inch nominal size is listed in Tables 70 and B.70 for
10,000-psi working pressure. Therefore 10.5.3.1.a) is satisfied.
b) End Connections: The studded connectors are the design of the purchaser, a
6A licensee, and are certified as meeting requirements of API 6A for Other End
Connectors (OEC’s). On that basis, the use of OEC’s is in conformance to 6A.
c) Face-to-face Dimension: Per 10.5.3.1.b)4), there are no required lengths for
valves with OEC end connectors. On that basis, the non-standard length of 11.00
is in conformance to 6A.
d) Bore: 6A gate valves must meet the requirements either for a full-bore valve or
for a reduced-opening valve. But, a full-bore valve must have a bore dimension as
specified in Tables 67-72/B.67-B.72, and be able to pass a drift as dimensions in
Table 30 of 6A. The valve in question cannot satisfy these requirements, and
therefore cannot be considered a full-bore valve for purposes of conformance with
API Spec 6A. So the question of whether a valve with a 1.5 inch minimum bore at
the end connection, 2.09 inch bore at the end closure mechanism and 2.099 inch
bore at the closure mechanism meets the requirements for a reduced-opening
valve is posed.
Question 1a: Is it required as a condition of conformance to API 6A that a
“reduced-opening valve” have an opening through the valve bore sealing
mechanism that is smaller in area than the circular bore dimension in Tables 67-
72/B.67-B.72?
Response 1a: Yes. Per the definition of a reduced-opening valve (see API 6A, 3.1.91), it
must have either a regular or Venturi-type opening, either circular or non-circular, through
the closure mechanism. And further, by definition, a Venturi-type opening is one in which the
transformation from the full-opening ends to the reduced-closure area is well streamlined
to reduce pressure loss. The configuration of the valve described in the query is the
reverse of this requirement.

Question 1b: Is it required as a condition of conformance to API 6A that a Response 1b: Yes. The end connections are a component of the mechanism used for
“reduced-opening valve” bore at the end connections conform to the bore sizing the valve and only those end connection sizes identified in Tables 67-72/B.67-B.72
dimension of those same tables? are acceptable. Furthermore, it is not clear if the valve meets the requirements for OEC
since per API 6A, 10.18.3b, OECs shall be designed with the same nominal sizes and
pressure rating s shown in 10.1…” Therefore 1.5 inches is not an acceptable end
connection size for 10,000 psi valve per the Tables identified in Spec 6A, Section 10.1.

Response 2: No. Reduced-opening valves are subject to the requirements in the

Question 2: Does the valve described above conform to the requirements of API requirements identified in responses 1a and 1b. Therefore the valve would not conform to
Spec 6A, for reduced-opening valves? API Spec 6A requirements.

6A-2016-01 20th 7.4.9.3.3 Background: Hydrostatic body test — Single-equipment units: "The hydrostatic Response: No For products that include both pressure containing and pressure
body test shall be the first pressure test performed. controlling parts, the equipment must be pressure tested as assembled equipment. The
hydrostatic body test must be performed before pressure controlling parts are tested.
Question: Is correct to consider that this item is referent to Hydro test to be
performed in pressure containing parts, and in this understanding the "first test"
meaning that the first test pressure in this pressure containing bore?

And considering assembled equipment, is acceptable perform test pressure in

pressure controlling parts before the Hydrostatic Body test on the pressure
containing parts bore?
Standard Ed Section Question Answer

Standard Ed Section Question Answer

6A-2016-02 20th 6.3.2.2b Background: API 6A/16A for Welding Procedure Qualification states that Response 1: Yes Per ASME Section IX, QW-153.1d, 2013
deposited weld metal mechanical properties shall meet or exceed the minimum
specified mechanical properties of the material. Response 2: No See above.

Question 1: Can this statement be proven by performing a full sized tensile

specimen that has a ductile fracture in the base material above and beyond the
base metal; and subsequent Charpy impacts, hardness, etc. that meet all of the
requirements for the base material?

Question 2: Or does this mean that an all weld metal tensile specimen is
necessary for qualification?

6A-2016-03 20th 7.3.1 Background: We qualify our NDT personnel to ASNT SNT-TC-1A in areas of the Response: No Per 7.3.1, personnel performing NDE shall be qualified in accordance
world where this standard is accepted. During a recent audit, the Lead Auditor with the manufacturer's documented training program that is based on the requirements
interpreted this to require the NDT Level III to hold certification from American specified in ISO 9712, EN 473 or ASNT SNT-TC-1A.
Society for Nondestructive Testing (ASNT).

Question: Is it a requirement of API Spec 6A, Clause 7.3.1 that NDT personnel be
certified by American Society for Nondestructive Testing (ASNT)?

6A-2016-04 20th 7.4.8 Background: Where required, we require the elastomer manufacturer/supplier to Response: No As previously interpreted, Manufacturer is to be read only as
provide us with batch traceability, cure date certification and physical property “Manufacturer of the API Specification 6A Equipment.” It does not apply to the non-metallic
data. As part of our storage and age control program we calculate the shelf life seal manufacturer/supplier. Therefore it would be the responsibility of the user of the Spec
expiration date using a published industry standard (SAE ARP 5316) consistent 6A document to determine the expiration.
with our storage methods. Our method of determining shelf-life expiration is based
on tracking from the cure date. During a recent audit, the Lead auditor insisted
that we must obtain this information from the manufacturer and that it be marked on
the packaging in storage.

Question: Is it a requirement of API Spec 6A, Table 28, that the shelf-life
expiration be provided by the non-metallic seal manufacturer/supplier and that this
information be marked on the packaging?

6A-2016-05 20th 7.4 Background: I need clarification regarding UT bond check for PSL 3 product. Response 1: Yes This is required where accessible and practicable.

Question 1: Is it 100% required to check? Response 2: Yes Per Annex O, Table 18 note: “Completion” refers to after all welding,
post-weld heat treat and machining, except for volumetric NDE which shall be done prior to
Question 2: Is it mandatory check UT bond after only PWHT? machining that would limit effective interpretation of results”.

Question 3: Can check UT bond after final machining? If yes, how? Question 3: Yes, If final machining does not inhibit the ability to check, it is performed.
See Annex O, Section 7.4.2.1.7a
Question 4: If UT bond to check 100% and after only PWHT, so what will the
process for welded spacer spool and buffer chamber? Response 4: See Above.
Standard Ed Section Question Answer

Standard Ed Section Question Answer

6A-2016-06 20th Table 23 & Background: As per definition of Valve Bore Sealing Mechanism, it consists of Response 1: No There are no requirements for non- metallic seats in API 6A. It is the
7.4.9.5.8 closure member (ball in case of ball valve) and respective seat (metallic or responsibility of the manufacturer to address these requirements.
nonmetallic seat).
Response 2: Yes It is intended for nonmetallic.
Question 1: Does requirement in API 6A Table 23 Quality control requirements for
Valve bore mechanism for PSL3 applies to soft seat(s) of a ball valve? Response 3: No It does not prohibit soft seated valves.

Question 2: Does pressure-controlling seals referred in Clause 5.2.3 of API 6A Response 4: Yes Per definition, 3.1.78, a ball is a plug.
includes soft seat(s) of a Ball Valve or only seals like O-rings, lip seals of valves
addressed by this clause?

Question 3: Does API 6A prohibit or does not include requirements for soft-seated
ball valves for API 10000 PSL 3 or 3G application?

Question 4: Under Clause 7.4.9.5.8, PSL 3G gas seat test — Valves , the term
"plug" refers to closure member of plug valve only or also includes ball valves? If
the term does not include ball, then the entire clause is not applicable for ball
valves?

6A-2016-07 20th 7.4.2.2.11 Background: Our client has interpreted "100% of all welds shall be visual Response: Yes But only if the root is accessible; visual examination applies to all
examined..." as meaning that both crown and root of the weld is required to be accessible parts of the completed weld. The sampling rate of 100% requires that all welds
visually examined. This requires a full penetration weld to be performed. As our be examined.
welds are partial penetration, we interpret this as 100% of all visual parts of the
weld should be visually examined, i.e. crown only.

Question: Do both crown and root of the weld need to be visually examined or
does the visual examination only apply to the parts of the weld that is exposed, i.e.
the crown?

6A-2016-08 20th 7.4.2.28 Background: The criteria state “No relevant indication with a major dimension Response: Yes It does apply to linear indications.
equal to or greater than 5mm (3/16”);”
No ASME VIII Div 1 is not used for NDT acceptance criteria.
Question: Does this apply to linear indications? I ask as similar criteria within our
industry specifications e.g ASME VIII Division 1, state relevant indications as being
any (true) indication greater than 1.5mm (1/16”) and that relevant linear indications
shall not exceed this size. Only relevant rounded indications are typically permitted
<5mm (3/16”).
Standard Ed Section Question Answer

Standard Ed Section Question Answer

6A-2016-09 20th 8.1.8 Background: The below interpretations appear to directly conflict with the Response: No The purpose is to cover the requirements not identified in the product
referenced document and could be perceived to set a precedence of negating any spec. In this case, marking is addressed in the product spec so those requirements in the
requirements of the referenced documents unless they are explicitly reiterated in referenced spec are not applicable. Please note differences between marking and reporting
API’s Standards. If this is the intent, what is the purpose of referencing another in that the reference document only requires reporting.
document?

Question: Does it meet the API 6A 8.1.8 requirements to mark solely the numerical
value of the hardness (for example, “237”) adjacent to the test location?
Response: Yes, It is sufficient to mark the numerical value only.
Question: When a portable Brinell hardness tester in accordance with ASTM E110
is used, does API 6A require “HBW/P” to be included in the stamping of the
hardness test value (for example, “237 HBW/P”)?
Response: No, It is sufficient to mark the numerical value only.

Noted Conflict Citations:

API Spec 6A Clause 7.4.2.1.3 b) states “Hardness testing shall be performed in
accordance with procedures specified in ISO 6506, parts 1 through 4 or ASTM
E10 (Brinell), or ISO 6508, parts 1 through 3 or ASTM E18 (Rockwell).

ASTM E10 Clause 5.6.1 states Brinell hardness values shall not be designated by
a number alone because it is necessary to indicate which indenter and which force
has been employed in making the test (see FIG. 1 Principle of Test Table 3).
Brinell hardness numbers shall be followed by the symbol HBW, and be
supplemented by an index indicating the test conditions in the following order:
5.6.1.1 Diameter of the ball, mm
5.6.1.2 A value representing the test force, kgf, (see Table 3) and,
5.6.1.3 The applied force dwell time, s, if other than 10 s to 15 s.
5.6.2 The only exception to the above requirement is for the HBW 10/3000 scale
when a 10 s to 15 s dwell time is used.
Only in the case of this one Brinell hardness scale may the designation be
reported simply as HBW.”
ASTM E110 Clause 8.3 states “The measured hardness number shall be reported
in accordance with the standard methods and appended with a /P to indicate that it
was determined by a portable hardness tester.”
Standard Ed Section Question Answer

Standard Ed Section Question Answer

6A-2016-10 20th Annex F Background: Section F.1.14.3.1 Design validation to pressure rating. "The test Response 1: Yes The sizes are coved in the same product family.
product may be used to validate products of the same family having equal or lower
pressure ratings." F.1.14.3.2 Design validation by size "Testing of one size of a Response 2: Yes The sizes are coved in the same product family.
product family shall validate products one nominal size larger and one nominal
size smaller than the tested size.". Response 3: This cannot be answered. Product family is determined by manufacturer
using design criteria, per F.1.14.2.
Question 1: For a valve size of 2-9/16" 10K, based on Sect. F.1.14.3.1 and Sect
F.1.14.3.2, the qualification based on scaling is applicable to 2-1/16" 10K and 3- Response 4: Yes It qualifies all in the same product family.
1/16" 10K for validation by size. It is also applicable to 2-9/16" 5K for validation by
pressure? Note: Scaling by size and scaling by pressure rating are independent of each other.

Question 2: Does the guidelines for Annex F scaling covers 2-1/16" 5K and 3-1/8"
5K.

Question 3: Are these two sizes with a lower pressure rating define as the same
family?

Question 4: If the tested valves are 2-1/16" 10K and 7-1/16" 10K, does it qualify
the all the sizes between 2-1/16" and 7-1/16" along the 5Ksi range based on
scaling?

6A-2016-11 20th 10 Background: Equipment such as valves, chokes, and fittings with OECs (namely, Response 1: Yes There are no face to face length requirements for valves with OEC’s.
hammer unions) are commonly used as surface wellhead equipment for operations However, note that 10.5.3.1 does not exempt valves with OEC end connections from
generally addressed in full or part by API 16A, API 16C, or API RP 16ST. In each meeting the bore dimensions specified in tables 67 through 72 or the drift test specified in
of those Specifications or the Recommended Practice, API 6A and/or ISO 10423 10.5.3.12a.
is invoked for said equipment. Users of this equipment are requiring with increased
frequency that said equipment bear the API monogram for 6A equipment. It is my
desire to obtain confirmation of my interpretation of what equipment with hammer
unions can or cannot be monogrammed per API 6A.

Question 1: Section 10.5.3.1 b) 3) [Valves] It is stated that a valve is permitted to

have OECs and in which case the valve has no requisite face-to-face dimensions.
Does this statement imply that a valve with OECs (for ex., hammer unions), that
has an arbitrary face-to-face length, and meets all other requirements of 6A; is
monogrammable. An interesting observation of 10.5.3.1 is that other end
connectors are recognized, but 10.18 is not invoked or even mentioned, why is
this? A RFI was identified that appears related to the subject of face-to-face
length, it is provided below:
Spec 6A 20th Tables 67-72 (and B.67-B.72) Question1: If a particular size and
pressure rating of a valve is not listed in those tables, can a valve of that size and
pressure rating be identified as a 6A product? Reply 1: No
Question2: If a particular size and pressure rating of a valve is listed in those
tables, but no face to face valve length is specified, can a valve of that size and
pressure rating be identified as a 6A product? Reply 2: No
Standard Ed Section Question Answer

Standard Ed Section Question Answer

Assume the valve in question 2 is a 2 1/16 nominal size, with 2.06 bore, 15,000 psi
rated working pressure, and utilizes OECs; and does not comply with the face-to-
face length of 19.00 per Table B.71. Per 10.5.3.1 b) 3) this valve would have no
requirement for face-to-face length due to the use of OECs and thus could be
monogrammed at a length other than 19.00 The response above seems to
contradict this.
Question 2: Section 10.9.3.2 & Figures 17-18 [Chokes] It is stated that end
connectors shall conform to 10.1, 10.2, or 10.18; and that the A and B dimensions
are as agreed between the manufacturer and purchaser. If a choke is supplied
with OECs (e.g., hammer unions), and has arbitrary but agreed upon A and B Response 2: This task group cannot address the eligibility of applying a monogram to a
dimensions, and meets all other requirements of 6A, is it monogrammable? Note product. With respect to question, the equipment conforms with API 6A.
that the A and B dimensions of the choke are essentially face-to-bore dimensions
as described below for tees and crosses.
Question 3: Section 10.10.2.2 & 10.10.2.3 [Tees & Crosses] It is stated that end
connectors shall conform to 10.1 or 10.18 and that bore and center-to-face
dimensions shall conform to those shown in Tables 87 and 88. There is no
provision for tees and crosses to have face-to-bore dimensions other than what is
listed in Tables 87-88. If valves and chokes utilizing hammer union connectors per
10.18 are permitted to be monogrammed with face-to-face or face-to-bore lengths Response 3: This cannot be answered. All inquiry questions must be worded form such
as decided between the manufacturer and purchaser, then why does 10.10 not that the answer is either “yes’ or “no”.
provide a similar provision for tees and crosses with OECs (for ex., hammer
unions) to either have no requisite center-to-face dimensions or permit those
dimensions to be as agreed between the manufacturer and purchaser?

Question 4: Is it intended that elbows be excluded from the scope of 6A (n elbow Response 4: Yes
being a variant of a tee or cross but with only two openings)? It is suggested that
the 6A committee consider harmonizing the face-to-face or face-to-bore
allowances between valves, choke, and fittings (crosses, tees, elbows) and that
elbows be explicitly permitted.
Standard Ed Section Question Answer

Standard Ed Section Question Answer

6A-2016-12 20th 7.4.9.3.3 Background: If tubing head spools are used as cross-over spools (example figure Response: No As a tubing head spool, this is outside the scope of API 6A because the
20)，the rated working pressure of the upper connector of the spool is 103.5MPa outlet must be rated to the upper connection
，The rated working pressure of the lower connector of the spool is 69MPa，The
rated working pressure of the outlet connector of the spool is
69MPa（The required of API 6A 20TH standard 10.6.3.3 that the rated working
pressure of outlet connector shall be consistent with that of the upper end
connector, but the required of the client is 69MPa for field pressure condition.

According to “10.1.4 loose flanges do not require a hydrostatic test prior to final
acceptance” and “7.4.9.3.3 a) loose connector, bullplug, and valve-removal plugs
do not require a hydrostatic test ”, So, the hydrostatic test of body are mainly test
the connect area of body where don’t have standard size requirement of API , so
here mentioned connect area of body is the place of tubing spool where except for
the upper and lower connector.

According to “7.4.9.3.3 b) Test a cross-over connector at a test pressure based on

the pressure rating for the upper connection. Apply test pressure inside and above
the restricted-area pack-off of the lower connection. The lower connection shall be
tested below the restricted-area pack-off to a level based on its pressure rating.

Question: The upper connector rating pressure is 103.5Mpa, and the lower
connector rating pressure is 69Mpa, the side outlet rating pressure is 69mpa, we
want to consult with you weather the tubing spool body hydrostatic test pressure to
be 103.5Mpa?

6A-2016-13 20th F.14.3 Background: F.14.3.1 Design validation by pressure rating: The test product may Response 1: No A 4-1/16” 20ksi valve is not within the scope of API 6A.
be used to validate products of the same family having equal or lower pressure
ratings. F.14.3.2 Design validation by size: Testing of one size of a product family
shall validate products one nominal size larger and one nominal size smaller than
the tested size. Testing of two sizes also validates all nominal sizes between the Response 2: No
two sizes tested. In API 6A, 20th edition the standard for the valve of 4 1/16＂
*138 MPa, there is basic flange dimensions (in Table 54~55), but there is no
face-to-face valve length (in Table 72). Response 3: No
Question 1: We have finished the PR2 test on the 4-1/16” 20000psi Gate Valve,
we want to know if this PR2 test certificate could cover this two sizes of 7-1/16” &
3-1/16” gate valve which with working pressure lower than 20000 psi?

Question 2: Is there API Standard on the 5-1/8” 20000PSI gate valve’s end flange
basic dimension and face to face valve length of full bore valve or any other
recommend standard on this?

Question 3: If we design it as per the API 6A design standard, could we use the
API monogram on the product?
Standard Ed Section Question Answer

Standard Ed Section Question Answer

6A-2016-14 20th 7.4.2.3 Question: Per API 6A licensing agreements, are we required to volumetric test Response: No A licensing agreement is not a requirement of API Spec 6A, therefore it is
raw barstock for components being manufactured for PSL 3 choke parts and not relevant. Conformance to API 6A requires the volumetric examination to be performed
assemblies (at the stage of sawing the bar into individual pieces) if the MTR before any operation that would inhibit the results of the examination. This would be
shows that UT was done at the mill? acceptable provided the UT performed by the mill meets the requirements of API Spec 6A
and the mill has provided the manufacturer with records to show NDT personnel meet the
requirements of either SNT-TC-1A or ISO 9712.

6A-20116-15 20th 10.5 Background: We have a requirement of API 6A (10000PSI) Angle globe Valve Response: The valve type identified in the question is outside the scope of API 6A.
(B564 Alloy 625) of Size 4-1/16” with integral Flange. As confirmed, Vendor can
provide the MTC which ensures 60K requirements. If the Angle Valve is
manufactured from forged bar, because of Grain structure orientation in one
direction, only one flange of the Valve will meet the requirements of 60K. The
other flange of the valve does not meet API 60K requirements. The vendor is
insisting that Forged Bar required to manufacture this angle type should have ‘L’
Shaped grain structure so that both the Valve flanges will meet 60K requirements.
.
Question: Is this needed?

6A-2016-16 20th F.1.10b Background: Section F.1.10b. States pressure shall be considered stabilized Response: No
when the rate change is no more than 5% of test pressure per hour.

Question: If I lose 5% in 15 min vs in an hour, is that still considered stable?

6A-2016-17 20th 7.4.2.3.15 & Background: I have some questions related to the volumetric testing requirements Response: See 7.4.2.1.7 and Table 18 which was revised in Annex O to clarify the issue.
Table 18 for weld metal corrosion resistant alloy overlay referred to in Table 18, page 70 and
section 7.4.2.3.15, page 74. Table 18, subnote i, states "...If the overlay is
considered part of the manufacturer's design criteria or of the design criteria of this
International Standard, volumetric examinations shall be in accordance with the
methods and acceptance criteria of 7.4.2.3.15."

Question: Our current interpretation: Section 7.4.2.3.15 states criteria for

volumetric NDE for base material and for overlay welding part of design criteria. Is
this correct?

6A-2016-18 20th 10.15 Background: One customer is continually telling us he thinks any spacer spool Response: This task group does not address monogramming questions. However, there is
over 7-1/16" need to be monogrammed with 16A, and do not fall in the scope of no minimum or maximum bore size requirement in order to conform to the requirements of
6A. We as an organization see this differently as 6A specifically talks about spacer 6A.
spools and give the dimensions for the end connection that are higher in size.

Question: Can a 6A manufacturing facility monogram spacer spools with a bore

size over 7-1/16"?
Standard Ed Section Question Answer

Standard Ed Section Question Answer

6A-2016-19 20th Table D.1 Background: I would like to seek clarification regarding what appears to be a Response: Requirements in API 6A are informative and provide a convenient value for
contradiction between API 6A and API 17D with respect to the required stud bolt torque. Design acceptance criteria is given in section 4.3.4 and states that the bolt stress
preload to be applied in flanged connections. According to API 17D, Section cannot exceed 83% of yield. Therefore the requirements in 17D, section 5.1.3.5 do not
5.1.3.5 (in Addendum 1), the closure bolting preload shall be 67% of the bolt´s violate these requirements.
yield strength. Annex G of API 17D still states the range of 67% to 73% that
existed in Section 5.1.3.5 prior to Addendum 1, although I am now only
considering the 67% in accordance with the change made in the Addendum. The
opening paragraph of Annex G states that it applies both to type 6BX flanges as
defined in ISO 10423 (API 6A) and type 17SS flanges as defined in ISO 13628
(API 17D). However, Table D.1 in Annex D of API 6A implies a bolt preload of
50% of yield strength. So, for a type 17SS flange it seems straightforward that the
bolt preload should be 67% of yield. But for a type 6BX flange it is not so clear as
there is a contradiction between the two documents.

Question: Could you please clarify if the bolt preload for a type 6BX flange should
be 50% of the bolt´s yield strength as implied in API 6A, Table D.1 or 67% as
stated in API 17D, Section 5.1.3.5 (Addendum 1)?

6A-2016-20 20th 10.5.7.2.2 Background: API 6A para 10.5.7.2.2 given rules on full bore diameter for check Response: Yes
valve. Valve bore dimensions are given on Table 76, but this is not clear if this is
the minimum diameter of the bore; and so, there are no limits for maximum
diameter.

Question: The tolerance given on table (1,6 mm) must be respected as maximum
diameter?
6A-2016-21 20th Table 75, 76, Background: The reference tables only address regular and full opening flanged Response: API 6A does not address closure mechanism requirements for a check valve.
77, 78 & 79 swing and lift check valves, There are nozzle check valve that are used as API 6A All requirements per Section 10.5.7 for check valves apply.
equipment.

Question: Can Nozzle check be used for the listed RWP in Tables75, 76, 77, 78 &
79?
6A-2016-22 20th 7.4.9.3.3 Background: Reference paragraph 7.4.9.3.3 and Table 35. Response: No API 6A only addresses that the API 6A manufacturer of the equipment
that fully meets all requirements of 6A have a hydrotest; the manufacturer of a body (alone)
Question: Are these requirements for hydrotesting applicable to a manufacturer is not meeting full requirements of API 6A.
who only makes the bodies for crosses, tees, tubing heads, or spools? The
manufacturer does not provide the final assembly for any of these products, but
ships them to other users who may do the further (final) machining.

6A-2016-23 20th 6.5.2.3 Background: A fabricated component (included PWHT, due the overlay welding Response: Yes The rules for aggregate times and temperature in ASME Section IX
procedure) needs to be repaired. The repair procedure ask another PWHT apply
(second), totally 2 cycles of PWHT.

Question: Is it necessary to qualify a PQR with 2 PWHT cycles to comply

6.5.2.3?
Standard Ed Section Question Answer

Standard Ed Section Question Answer

6A-2016-24 20th Annex I Background: There is no reference to mandatory use of test agency present in Response 1: Yes API 6A, Section 10.20.4.3 c) requires that testing be performed by a test
API 6A Annex I for sand slurry flow test. agency as defined in API 6A, Section 3.1.119.

Question 1: If a valve design is requested to be validated according to ISO Response 2: No See the definition of a test agency (API 6A, Section 3.1.119).
10423, Annex I - sandy service (class II), is it mandatory to perform the sand slurry
test at an independent third party test agency? NOTE: API can only issue interpretations against API Specification 6A. If you require a
specific interpretation against ISO 10423, you must contact ISO organization directly
Question 2: Would a valve design which is tested in-house (i.e. at valve
manufacturer test facility) according to ISO 10423 (API 6A), Annex I - sandy
service (class II) and witnessed by any third-party inspection agency considered
validated in front of API?

6A-2016-25 20th 5.2.2 Background: The manufacturer's written specifications for bodies, bonnets, end Response 1: No NDE requirements are identified in API 6A, Section 7 for the specified
and outlet connections, stems, valve bore sealing mechanisms and mandrel PSL level. The manufacturer must determine whether the required examinations can be
hangers shall define NDE requirements along with accept/reject criteria for PSL 1, performed in conformance to the requirements on raw materials, semi-finished (in-process)
2 to 4. . equipment, or finished equipment.

Question 1: There are no specific NDE requirements on raw materials in API Response 2: No
Spec 6A, Clause 5. Is it the intent of API Spec 6A that NDE requirements of raw
materials are left to the manufacturers with respect to type of NDE, extent of NDE Response 3: Yes However all of API 6A, Table 17 may not apply to raw material. API 6A,
& acceptance criteria? Table 17 is used in conjunction with the text sections referenced in the table that contain the
detailed requirements, including the point(s) in the manufacturing process at which the
Question 2: Are NDE requirements specified in Table 17 of Cl 7.4.2 meant for inspection is required.
only in-process inspection stages?

Question 3: Or are the requirements of Table 17 applicable to raw materials

also?

6A-2016-26 20th Tables 5 & 6 Question: If a required flange material is stated as 316 St-St, regardless of Table Response: Yes The mechanical properties specified in API 6A, Tables 5 and 6 must be
3 material requirements i.e. AA, CC etc must the material meet the mechanical satisfied for any integral or loose 6B or 6BX flange. NOTE This may affect the choice of
properties of tables 5 & 6 in all circumstances i.e. for a weld neck flange to be alloys that can be used.
supplied as 5K must the material meet the minimum yield of 310 MPa and the UTS
of 483 MPa (for example both material classes of AA (replacing C/St or low alloy)
and say, CC or FF?

6A-2016-27 20th F.1.14 Background: An API 6A 3-1/16" 10K Gate Valve is tested and qualified to Response: Yes A test of a 3-1/16” 10-ksi valve qualifies a 2-9/16" 5-ksi and 4-1/8" 5-ksi
Appendix F PR2. The sizes qualified under the same product family are 2-1/16" valve, provided they are of the same design family as specified in F.1.14.2. For the scaling
and 4-1/16" 10K and 3-1/8" 5K. provisions of F.1.14, 3-1/8” and 3-1/16” may be treated as one nominal size, and 4-1/8” and
4-1/16” may be treated as one nominal size. NOTE A test of a 3-1/16” valve does not
Question: Under design validation by pressure rating and size, does this product qualify a 2-1/16” valve as stated in the inquiry.
family on scaling covers 2-9/16" 5K and 4-1/8" 5K?
Standard Ed Section Question Answer

Standard Ed Section Question Answer

6A-2016-28 20th Section 4 Background: Please can we have a written clarification on material class in API Response: Yes The carbon steel spool and cross you described meets the requirements
6A. Our customer is requesting Class EE material for a spool and cross. However, for AA, BB, DD and EE.
they actually require carbon steel body with overlaid ring grooves only. • For a spool or cross there is no difference between Material Classes DD and EE because
there are no pressure-controlling parts, see Table 3
Question: Our interpretation of the standard is that this product would be classed • Weld overlay of ring grooves with either stainless steel or CRA does not change the
as DD as not ALL wetted parts are stainless steel lined. Is this correct? material class.

6A-2016-29 20th 7.4.2.1.3b Background: Hardness testing shall be performed in accordance with procedures Response: ASTM E-10 is a normative reference. API does not provide interpretations of
specifies in ISO 6506 or ASTM E10 (Brinell) or ISO 6508 or ASTM E 18." We use normative references that are maintained by standards organizations other than API.
hardness equipment calibrated and which complies to ASTM E10 clause Annex
A.1.4. The method of hardness test performed as specified in ASTM E 10 clause 5
& 6. However, we don’t conduct daily verification of hardness equipment as
specified in ASTM E 10 Annex A.1.5. We don’t conduct daily verification because
we don’t use hardness equipment daily, sure that equipment in good condition &
storage in proper environment. .

Question: Does API 6A clause 7.4.2.1.3.b also required to conduct daily

verification of hardness equipment as specified in ASTM E-10?

6A-2016-30 20th 10.5.2 & Question 1: Does it mean that the manufacturer shall open and close valves at Response`1: No An operating cycle for a valve includes fully opening a previously closed
Table 66 both maximum and minimum temperature and the rating pressure? valve and returning it to the fully closed position. Table 66 provides general design
requirements, which are not necessarily validation test requirements. Table 66 does not
Question 2: If the methods specified in Annex F has not been specified address temperature rating or testing.
(consequently the manufacturer will not performed that test), then would it be
possible to conclude PR2 rating by evaluating design and cumulative past Response 2: API does not provide review and approval or advice on manufacturer-
performance of other components of the valves (for instance, by looking at FEA specified requirements.
confirm the suitability of design, by testing material confirming suitability of material
and so on)?

6A-2016-31 20th 10.6.3.3a Background: Clause is not clear what the requirements for end connections with Response: Yes
consistent pressure rating means. It is logical that end connections cannot have a
pressure rating less than the top end connection as the head cannot be tested to
the FAT requirements. The outlet marked with a pressure rating greater than the
top connection cannot be tested with the standard API FAT test pressure for the
outlet if the end connection “size” (example 2-1/16 5k) is upgraded. In order to
achieve higher external load capacity or commonality of either equipment on a
wellhead it is desirable to use a side outlet on a head that has an upgraded flange
size. Example of this would be Casing head with a 2 ksi outlets could be provided
with 3ksi outlets and valves. Outlet could be marked Connector Size: 2-1/16 3ksi
Rated Working Pressure: 2ksi (derated) Ring Gasket: R 24 Other outlet
connections such as test fittings and downhole control line terminations often have
a upgraded pressure rating but their service is limited by the rating of the head.
Question: Would a head with an upgraded outlet connection (connection size
having and equal or greater pressure rating) be conforming to API 6A if all other
aspects of API 6A were met?
Standard Ed Section Question Answer

Standard Ed Section Question Answer

6A-2016-32 20th 6.5 Background: We currently purchase PSL-3 Valve Bore Sealing Mechanisms with
tungsten carbide overlaid sealing surfaces. The supplier applies the tungsten
carbide overlay by utilizing a High Velocity Oxygen Fuel (HVOF) thermal spray
method. ASME Sect IX, Article II, QW-216 addresses Spray Fuse methods of hard
facing using Oxyfuel and Plasma Arc as welding processes to prevent wear and/or
abrasion. The as-welded tungsten carbide surfaces are then further processed by
grinding and lapping to the final overall dimension, required flatness, and surface
finish.

Question 1: Is HVOF thermal spray considered a welding process within the

scope of API Spec 6A, Section 6.5?
Response 1: No, API 6A does not consider HVOF thermal spray a weld process.
Question 2: Does surface NDE performed on the VBSM base metal; prior to
application of tungsten carbide hard facing utilizing the HVOF method and Response 2: API cannot comment on manufacturing using the HVOF process since it falls
completion of grinding/lapping operations, meet the requirements of API Spec 6A, outside the scope of Spec 6A (see Response 1).
Section 7.4.2.3.8 or 7.4.2.3.11 for PSL-3 VBSMs?

6A-2016-33 20th F.1.6.3b Background: API Spec 6A, Annex F.1.6.3.b states: b) gas test at room Response: The rate acceptance criterion is the accumulated leakage over the specified
temperature: Prior to design validation, all production testing requirements shall hold period.
have been met. The gas test at room temperature shall be acceptable if no
sustained bubbles are observed. If leakage is observed, the rate shall be less than
the rates shown in API Spec 6A, Table F.1, measured at atmospheric pressure,
during specified pressure-hold periods.

Question: Are the allowable leakage rates in API Spec 6A, Table F.1 and
instantaneous rate or an average rate (cumulative total volume over the hold
period) over the specified hold period?

6A-2016-34 20th F.1.6.3 Background: API Spec 6A, Annex F.1.6.3 states: a) hydrostatic test at room Response: The 5% pressure change is neither a rate nor an average. The change in
temperature: The hydrostatic test at room temperature is passed if no visible pressure must be less than 5%of the test pressure or 3,45 MPa (500 psi), whichever is less,
leakage occurs during the specified pressure hold periods of the test. The at any time during the hold period.
pressure change observed on the pressure-measuring device during the hold
period shall be less than 5 % of the test pressure or 3,45 MPa (500 psi),
whichever is less..

Question: Is the 5% pressure change during the hold period a rate or an

average? A rate would mean you could leak 5% early on in the 1 hour hold period
but it stops, or it could mean that the 5% drop in pressure could occur in the final
few minutes of the hour long hold and still be acceptable.

6A-2016-35 20th F.1.6.3 Background: There is a lack of understanding of the intent behind the Response: No. The word “sustained” is not necessary text for the requirements. Therefore
requirements for leakage in API Spec 6A, Section F.1.6.3. it is not the intent to require a decreasing trend or to require zero leakage.

Question: Request clarification on the meaning of "The gas test at room

temperature shall be acceptable if NO SUSTAINED BUBBLES are observed." Is
the intent to require a decreasing trend of leakage, or test resulting in eventually
no leakage?
Standard Ed Section Question Answer

Standard Ed Section Question Answer

6A-2016-36 20th G.5.2.1 Background: This is regarding API Spec 6A, Section G.5, Design of Equipment Response: Yes. API Spec 6A, Annex G does not specify that material testing G.5.2.2 is
for use at Elevated Temperature: performed in addition to reference sources G.5.2.3.
1) Referring to clause G.5.2.1.2 “Derated Yield strength may be determined by
one of the methods given in G.5.2.2 or G.5.2.3. NOTE: API Spec 6A, Annex G is informative and does not alleviate the user from
2) G.5.2.2 = Testing at elevated temperature. determining the appropriate requirements for an individual application.
3) G.5.2.3 = Reference sources, per Table G3 and or G4.

Question: Per API Spec 6A, G.5.2.1.2, we interpret that for Designing of
Equipment for full rated pressure at elevated Temperature, the Material may be
derated using derating factor “Yr” per table G.3 or G.4, and hence the Material
Grade qualification Testing API Spec 6A, G.5.2.2.2 at elevated temperature is not
mandatory. Is this correct?

6A-2016-37 20th Table 18 Background: Surface NDE and Weld NDE for "weld metal overlay" surface Response 1: Yes. Visual inspection may be classified as a form of surface NDE but visual
preparation. examination is treated separately from surface NDE in the context of API Spec 6A.

Question 1: API Spec 6A, Table 18 shows that visual inspection must be NOTE: Requirements for inspections methods are specified in that revised API Spec 6A,
performed for PSL 3 weld metal corrosion-resistant alloy overlay preparation Table 18 per Annex O.
surfaces. API Spec 6A, Section 7.4.2.3.8 requires surface NDE weld metal
overlay surface preparation for PSL 3. May I conclude that visual inspection is a Response 2: As phrased your question cannot be answered. Please refer to API Spec 6A,
type of Surface NDE? Annex O for the latest version of Table 18. Required inspections are stated in the table and
related text of API Spec 6A, Section 7.
Question 2: Or is liquid-penetrant (or magnetic-particle) testing required in the
preparation surface?

6A-2016-38 20th 10.4 Background: I have a flanged joint RTJ with dissimilar materials or cathodic Response: No. Only API ring gaskets (API Spec 6A, Section 10.4) can be used in
protection system is necessary to install insulation gasket between the flanges for assembled equipment with 6B and 6BX flanged connections.
to mitigate corrosion risk or to assurance normal operate System. .
NOTE: End connectors other than those specified in 10.1 and 10.2 are considered other
Question: Is permitted to install insulation gasket shaped disc in RTJ face? end connectors (OEC) and must meet specified requirements (see API Spec 6A, Section
10.18).
Standard Ed Section Question Answer

Standard Ed Section Question Answer

6A-2016-39 20th F.1.2 & Background: The following query has been raised regarding the qualification Question: For a ball valve with both a Single Piston Effect (SPE)/Self-relieving (SR) seat
F.2.3.2 testing requirements to API 6A, Annex F PR2 of a trunnion mounted, bidirectional and Double Piston Effect (DPE) seat design, does API Spec 6A, Annex F PR2 require as a
ball valve that has both a Single Piston Effect (SPE)/Self-relieving (SR) Seat and a minimum the SPE/SR seat and the back-side of the DPE seat to each be subjected
Double Piston Effect (DPE) Seat design. Referring to clause F.1.2, it states any individually to the full number and sequence of tests as outlined in API Spec 6A, Annex F
change in design that affect the performance of the product requires validation. PR2?
Given the DPE and SPE seats are different and perform differently in the valve our
interpretation is that they both need to be subjected to qualification testing. On a
more detailed assessment of the seat design it can be accepted the performance
of both seats when in the upstream sealing condition is essentially the same and
therefore the minimum testing requirement is to qualify one of the seats in the
upstream sealing condition and qualify the DPE seat in the downstream sealing
condition. Referring to Clauses F.2.3.2, F.2.2.2.2.1.b), F.2.2.2.3.2 each clause
requires one of the seats to be subjected to the full number of cycles. Our
understanding of these clauses is they have been written specifically for gate or
plug valves that are downstream sealing and that either have the same seat design
on both sides of the valve or are unidirectional. However the intent of these clauses
is to ensure each seat design is subjected to full qualification testing, i.e.
the full number of cycles as required by API Spec 6A, Annex F PR2 validation
testing. .
Question: For a ball valve with both a Single Piston Effect (SPE)/Self-relieving
(SR) seat and Double Piston Effect (DPE) seat design, does API Spec 6A, Annex
F PR2 require as a minimum the SPE/SR seat and the back-side of the DPE seat
to each be subjected individually to the full number and sequence of tests as
outlined in API Spec 6A, Annex F PR2?

6A-2016-40 20th Table K.2 Background: API Spec 6A, Table K.2 specifies maximum bore sizes for nominal Response: No. In API Spec 6A, Annex K, the maximum bore is specified by sizes
size tree caps which are not consistent with the requirements of Section 10.1, stipulated in API Spec 6A, Table K.2 or API Spec 6A, Section 10.1 (as specified in API
Flanged end and outlet connections. API Spec 6A, Figure K.1 refers to a Note 6: Spec 6A, Figure K.1, Key 6).
ID in accordance with Table K.2 or with 10.1. .

Question: Are the maximum bores indicated in API Spec 6A, Table K.2 to be
used as a reference only and the actual bore dimensions are to be as required by
Section 10.1?

6A-2016-41 20th 10.12 Background: We have a request to design and manufacture a ring-shaped spacer Response: No. Based on information provided, this does not meet all the requirements of
connector that will connect between two flanged ends of wellhead equipment, and API Spec 6A, Section 10.12.
has a standard nominal bore size and pressure rating; and includes a fluid-access
function via a 1” N.P.T. threaded port. This ring does not have a flange body, and
its outside diameter sits within the made-up bolt circle of mating flanges, therefore
it does not have bolt holes.

Question: Can this item be classified as a Fluid-Sampling Device per API Spec
6A, section 10.12?
Standard Ed Section Question Answer

Standard Ed Section Question Answer

6A-2016-42 20th Table 57 Background: Our client is asking for 1-13/16 & 4-1/16 10 ksi blind flanges. These
two sizes are not listed in API Spec 6A, Table 59, however, they are listed in Table
57 as "blind and test flanges". The discussion with the client is if the 1-13/16" and
4-1/16" 10ksi blind flanges are API 6A standard products.

Question 1: Can "Blind and test flanges" listed in API Spec 6A, Table 57 be
delivered without the hole which accommodate the 1/2" line-pipe (note "g")? In the
standard it is not written that this hole is optional as it is mentioned for dimension Response 1: No. For API Spec 6A, Table 57, there is no allowance to provide blind
"B" flanges without a test port.

Question 2: Are 1-13/16" and 4-1/16" 10ksi "blind flanges" API Spec 6A standard
products? If yes, please mention what figure/table is applicable.
Response 2: Yes. API Spec 6A, Table 57 provides dimensions for blind and test flange;
however the flanges contain a test port.

6A-2016-43 20th 3.1.140 Background: API Spec 6A, Section 3.1.140 defines wetted surface as any surface Response: Yes. For HH equipment, if the surface adjacent to the test ports, lockdown
that has contact with pressurized well bore fluid, either by design of because of screws holes and VR plug prep is required to be inlay, then the test ports, lockdown screws
internal seal leakage. We seek clarification to if we need to inlay test ports, holes and VR plug prep is required to be inlayed as well.
lockdown screws holes and VR plugs when making HH-NL equipment with inlay. .

Question: Does that includes test ports, lockdown screws and VR plug
preparations?

6A-2017-01 20th We do not use a chart recorder as pressure measuring devise to record our Response: No, The pressure test chart required for PSL 3, 3G & 4 (ref. 7.4.9.5.3) is a plot
pressure tests. We have an electronic data acquisition system with a calibrated of pressure against time; some indication of elapsed time must be on the chart. The time of
pressure transducer that records that test data day is not required. The pressure test record required for PSL 2, 3, 3G & 4 must conform
7.4.9.5.3 Records of press. tests with 7.5.2.6.b.
a) A chart recorder shall be used on all hydrostatic tests. The record shall identify
the recording device, shall be
dated, and shall be signed.
c) If the chart recorder is not qualified as a pressure-measuring device in
accordance with 7.2.2, it shall be used in parallel with a calibrated pressure-
measuring device, and the pressure-measuring device readings at the start and
stop of each hold period shall be written on the chart as part of the record.
Question: Do we have to record start and stop time on our pressure test record
with our pressure transducer and electronic data acquisition system?

7.4.9.5.3 c
Standard Ed Section Question Answer

Standard Ed Section Question Answer

6A-2017-02 20th M.4.3 M.4.3 Calibration Response 1: Yes, Thermocouples must be calibrated within three months of use.
"Temperature-controlling instruments and -recording Shall be calibrated at least
once every three months." Response 2: Yes, Thermocouples must be calibrated within three months of use.
It is understood that should be applied to the production, by being widely used. If
applicable to the calibration of thermocouples, because this frequency as the oven
calibration should be performed every 12 months.
M.4.2 Accuracy
The controlling and recording instruments used for the heat-treatment processes
shall be accurate to ± 1 % of
their full-scale range
7.2.2.3 Calibration intervals Calibration intervals shall be a maximum of three
months until recorded calibration history can be established by the manufacturer
and new longer intervals (three months maximum increment) established.
Question 1: Is this requirement is applicable for thermocouple calibration oven?
Question 2: Is this requirement applicable to just the production?

6A-2017-03 20th Table 38 Question: Shall my material be hardness-tested according to 7.4.1.5 (per table Response: No, Testing and sampling must be accordance with both sections. The testing
38), or not according to 7.4.2.1.3? of each part per 7.4.1.5 is required. Since it exceeds the minimum requirement of
7.4.2.1.3, part (a), there is no conflict. Parts (b) and (c) of 7.4.2.1.3 specify the test method
and acceptance criteria, which are not covered by 7.4.1.5.

6A-2017-04 20th F.1.14 Question 1: If I have qualified Elastomeric Seals, one with a smaller size Response 1: Yes, Provided requirements of F.1.14.2 and API product requirements are
(diameter) & cross section to Annex FPR2 as well as one with a larger size and met.
larger cross section to the same pressure, temperature range and also made from
the same compound, can I qualify by scaling sizes in between where the cross Response 2: No; the elastomeric material (polymer type, durometer and physical
section of the seal could be based on the smaller or bigger cross section? properties) must be the same.
Question 2: Can we procure from another vendor & claimed it's PR-2 qualified if
its adhere to the same size, dimensions, cross section, pressure & temp range as
the one qualified through the test?
Standard Ed Section Question Answer

Standard Ed Section Question Answer

6A-2017-05 20th Annex G Background: For Equipment under Classification X, operating temperature range Response 1: Yes
of 0-350 Deg F. Using Annex G, paragraph G.5.2.2.2, Table G.4 as an example,
Material AISI 4130 has a Derating Factor Yr of 0.90 at 350 Deg F. If I were to Response 2: Yes if the material yield strength at elevated temperature meets the SMYS of
manufacture a blind flange of 15000psi rating, Under Paragraph 5.4.2, Table 5 & 6 75000 psi, de-rating is not required. Alternatively, the design methods of G.5 may be used
states that 75K material designation is required. Its 0.2% offset yield strength shall to determine de-rating of working pressure or the required SMYS.
be minimum of 75000psi.
Question 1: Does the material yield strength requirements have to meet the Response 3: See above responses for question 1 and 2.
minimum 75000psi rating BEFORE or AFTER the 0.9 Derating Factor,Yr, is
applied?
Question 2:… Does the material yield strength requirements have to meet the
minimum 75000psi rating AFTER the 0.9 Derating Factor,Yr, is applied?
Question 3: If AFTER, this effectively means the minimum yield strength of the
material at room temperature has to be at least 83500psi to meet the 75000psi
minimum yield strength requirement after derating. Is my assumption correct?

6A-2017-06 20th 6.3.3.4 Background: Local post-weld heat treatment shall consist of heating a Response: API does not provide technical assistance. However, repair welds are
circumferential band around the weld at a temperature within the range specified in addressed in 6.4.
the
qualified WPS. The minimum width of the controlled band at each side of the weld
on the face of the greatest weld
width shall be the thickness of the weld or 50 mm (2 in) from the weld edge,
whichever is less. Heating by direct
flame impingement on the material shall not be permitted.
Question: Based on this, the local pwht cannot “consist of a circumferential band
around the weld” like a girth joint.
We can place resistance band above the spot repair, like the example below. Do
you see any problem to perform this kind of local PWHT?

6A-2017-07 20th Section 8 Background: API Spec 6A, 20th Edition specifies R and RX ring gaskets/grooves. Response 1: No, R and/or RX marking is allowed according to Table 39.
Interestingly the Specification has a Table B.63 titled “Type R ring gaskets,” and a
Table B.64 titled “Type RX pressure energized ring gaskets.” These tables provide Response 2: Yes, Manufacturer can mark a product connection with either gasket type,
dimensions for both ring gaskets and grooves. The existence of these two specific however the grooves are interchangeable with R and RX type of gaskets.
tables might lead a person to believe that there are different dimensions for the
ring grooves that accept R or RX ring gaskets, when in fact the grooves in the
tables are identical.
Question 1: Since the ring grove R or RX is identical, does the manufacturer apply
marking ring gasket type at flange connection with R type only?
Question 2: Is the correct marking of “Ring Gasket Type and Number” at flange
connection (Table 39)….
• An identification of the ring gasket to be installed into the ring grooves?
• Or an identification of the ring groove at flange connection?

6A-2017-08 20th 10.1 Background: I am considering an API 6A 18-3/4" (10k) Blind Flange which clients Response: No, The described drill pipe connection and function are not consistent with
require a 7-5/8" reg box cut into the rear to put a drill stem into and use as a requirements for a Blind Flange.
running tool (running tool to be compliant with API 8C).
Question: Could you tell me if cutting a threaded portion into the rear of a blind
flange would be acceptable for code (6A)?
Standard Ed Section Question Answer

Standard Ed Section Question Answer

6A-2017-09 20th 7.4.2.2.8 Question: Should the intent of the document be: "All accessible surfaces and all Response: No. For PSL 2, the minimum surface NDE required by 7.4.2.2.8 only includes the
accessible sealing surfaces of each finished part shall be examined by liquid- accessible wetted surfaces and sealing surfaces.
penetrant or magnetic-particle methods after final heat treatment and final
machining operations test method:"?

6A-2017-10 20th 5.2.3 & 7.4.8 Does the graphite sealing is subjected to API 6A requirements for non-metallic Response 1: Yes
seals such as API 6A §5.2.3, API 6A §7.4.8 and table 28?
Response 2: Yes, See requirements of 5.2.1 and 5.2.3. The reference therein to generic
Question 1: Need written material specification? base polymer does not apply to the graphite material.

Question 2: If yes according to what requirements?

6A-2017-11 20th Background: Some people say that we should use rubber coated ring gaskets to Response: API does not provide technical guidance. API 6A does not specify type of
hydro test the valves in order to protect the ring grooves while others insist that we gasket to be used during FAT of API products.
must use the steel ring gaskets to test the integrity of the equipment. The ring
grooves are always 100% dimensionally inspected, the designs are per 6A designs
so the argument is that if the dimensions are checked and the designs are
per 6A then rubber coated ring gaskets should be acceptable to perform the hydro
test. There is nothing definitive in 6A that specifies which to use for testing
purposes.
Question: What is the preferred method? (Rubber coated gaskets in order to
protect the grooves, or steel gaskets to verify groove integrity)

6A-2017-12 20th 7.4.2.3.15 Question: Do we need to conduct full body volumetric examination as stated on Response: No. It is required, but only once. It is not required that a complete volumetric
table 17? [What we did is stress relieved treatment and it shows that for the inspection be repeated after overlay welding and stress relief. (See, API 6A, Section
clause 7.4.2.3.15, it is for hot worked parts.] Do we need to verify it again 7.4.2.3.15 a)
volumetrically for PSL 3?

6A-2017-13 20th Table 35 Question: Is it permissible for a hydrostatic body test pressure to be isolated by Response: No. No. In the case of entry bores that would isolate the end connectors from
6A-2018-01 means of a suitable seal fixture to the entry bores or on the faces of the end and test pressure; the intent of the body test is to verify the structural integrity of the entire
outlet connections? pressure-containing envelope to the extent that is practical. Yes, in the case of fixtures with
seals on the faces of connector, if the test fixture configuration does not prevent testing of
the pressure-containing envelope at the end or outlet connection.

6A-2017-14 20th Question 1: Are the flanges figures detailed in page 122-125-128-137-140 Response 1: Yes.
considered loose connector WN flanges?
Question 2: Are the flanges figures detailed in page 120-123-126-131-134 Response 2: No. There is no method of attaching that is stated or implied.
considered integral WN flanges?

6A-2017-15 20th 10.3.2 Question: The manufacturing process of alternative material meets the ASTM Response: Yes. API 6A, Section 10.3.3.1 allows for the use of alloys or material
specification, but chemical component of alternative material may not be in composition other than those in the referenced ASTM bolting standards, provided the
conformity with ASTM specification fully, for example, we choose the Chinese required mechanical properties of Table 62 are satisfied, as a minimum.
Standard material 42CrMo as the alternative material. Is this allowed?
Standard Ed Section Question Answer

Standard Ed Section Question Answer

6A-2017-16 20th F.1.9 Question1: Section 4.2.2.1 states that the lower end temperature range is the for Response 1: No. Measurement of the bore temperature is not a requirement. However, to
the ambient and the high end of the temperature range is for the process fluid. claim conformance to Annex F satisfying the measurement location, defined in API 6A,
While Annex F1.9 b) states that the bore shall reach or exceed the high-end Section F.1.9 a), is required.
temperature Annex F.1.9 provides no acceptance criteria but merely states that
the low end of the temperature range shall be applied externally. Figure F.1
describes a pressure and temperature cycling scheme including both Tmax and
Tmin. Heat may be applied both externally and internally while cooling shall only
be applied externally. Is it the intent that the bore shall be found to also reach the
low end of the temperature range (e.g. -46°C for a L-rated flange) at the cold end
of the temperature cycling?

Question 2: When heat is applied via the fluid, shall the external temperature be
kept constant and the fluid temperature be cycled between Tmax and Tmin? Response 2: No. As stated in API 6A, Section F.1.9.a) and F.1.9.b), the external surface
shall be not artificially cooled when heat is applied from the bore. However, the ambient
temperature shall be maintained at room temperature (between 40F and 120F see API 6A,
Section 3.1.100).

6A-2017-17 20th 7.4.9.4.5 Question 1: As per clause 7.4.9.4.5, (a) paragraph 2, "After the pressure has been Response 1: This cannot be answered. A pressure drop criterion is not defined for the test.
applied to one side of the gate or plug, hold the pressure and monitor for a Acceptance criterion for a hydrostatic test is “no visible leakage”. For API 6A, Section
minimum of 3 min". Does the term HOLD PRESSURE mean, during the hold 7.4.9.4.5, the test pressure applied during the test is equal to the working pressure of the
period, pressure drop is unacceptable? equipment.
Question 2: Clause F.1.10 (b) states "Pressure shall be considered stabilized
when the rate of change is no more than 5 % of the test pressure per hour or 3,45 Response 2: No. The requirements of Annex F are independent the PSL of a product
MPa/h (500 psi/h), whichever is less. Pressure shall remain within 5 % of the test Annex F requirements are not applicable to Factory Acceptance testing.
pressure or within 3,45 MPa (500 psi), whichever is less, during the hold period.".
Is this applicable for PSL3 and 3G production testing?
Question 3: As per API 6A, for PSL3 or 3G hydrostatic body, seat test, NO Response 3: This cannot be answered. Pressure drop is not defined as an acceptance
VISIBLE LEAKAGE DURING HOLD PERIOD alone is stated, this means pressure criterion or control parameter for the test.
drop during hold period is acceptable or permitted or not acceptable / not
permitted? Response 4: No. API 6A, Section F.1.6.3 is only applicable to Annex F testing.
Question 4: API 6A clause F.1.6.3 (a) is applicable for PSL3 or PSL3G NOTE: Production testing requirements are in API 6A, Section 7.4.9.
hydrostatic body, seat production testing or only for PR 1 & 2 testing?

6A-2017-18 20th 10.17.1 Question: API 6A, clause 10.17.1 states “This International Standard is not Response: Yes. A relationship to lock screws is not defined for API material classes.
applicable to lock screws, alignment pins and retainer screws.” Does this mean NOTE: The partial pressure marked in association to the material class could be affected
lock down pin material does not impact the trim definition for the assembly? by the lock screw’s exposure.

6A-2017-19 20th 7.4.2.3.3 Question: Hardness testing requirements for PSL 3 shall be identical to the Response: Yes. The phrase “additional tests on each end connection face” is not intended
requirements for PSL 2, except that one hardness test shall be performed on each to require more than one test on any end connector. Where all end and outlet connector
finished part (body, bonnet, and end connections) with additional tests on each faces are hardness tested, the PSL 3 requirement is satisfied.
end connection face at locations specified in the manufacturer's design documents”
However, for PSL2 we locate the hardness test at the top end
connection face of the casing spool (According to API 6A 20th Edition 7.4.2.1.3 b),
it is up to the manufacturer to determine the location of the hardness test).
Therefore, according to the above requirement for PSL3, we do three (3) more
hardness tests at the two-side outlet faces and the bottom end connection face.
Resulting in total of four (4) hardness tests located at all of end connection faces
for that spool. Is that enough to comply with PSL3 hardness test requirement?
Standard Ed Section Question Answer

Standard Ed Section Question Answer

6A-2017-20 20th 4.2.3.3 Question: Is there an approved list of acceptable alloys that satisfy the HH class? Response: No. There is no approved list. Alloys for material class HH must satisfy the
following criteria as a minimum:
• API 6A, Section 3.1.31
• API 6A and manufacturer’s minimum mechanical properties,
• NACE MR0175 / ISO 15156 (Parts 1 and 3)
NOTE: The 6A definition for CRA (API 6A, Section 3.1.31) is more restrictive than the
definition in NACE MR0175. Stainless steels, including duplex stainless steels, do not meet
the chemical composition requirements in API 6A for a CRA and are not acceptable for
pressure-containing or pressure-controlling parts in Material Class HH.

6A-2017-21 20th 3.1.80 & Question: Referring to API 6A, paragraph 3.1.80 and paragraph F.1.6.3: can the Response: Yes
F.1.6.3 definition of the pressure integrity be applied also to the valve internal parts (i.e.
seats and gates)?
6A-2017-22 20th Table 5 Question 1: As mentioned the requirement of materials for equipment in standard Response 1: No The requirements of API 6A, Table 5 for integral end connections apply
and non-standard material table (Table 5) body and bonnet can be 36K up to 75K. regardless of the method of manufacture. The valve bonnet design is the manufacturer’s
For example, in 5000 class but also indicated that integral end connection flanged responsibility, and the material type and material properties are specified by the
shall be only 60K, 75K. If we want to select valve with flanged end and manufacturer based on design criteria.
manufacture by forging or casting integrally, do we have to use 60K for body and
bonnet too? Response 2: No. 36K material does not meet the design criteria for API 6B or API 6BX
flanges. API 6A, Table 5 permits the use of lower strength material for the body than is
Question 2: Or flanges are from the body parts and we can use 36K for 5000 and required for the flanges, but this is to allow for welded body construction, where the flanges
below classes? and body are not manufactured from the same piece of material. API Type 6B and Type
6BX integral flanges must be constructed of 60K or 75K material, as specified in API 6A,
Table 5, regardless of the method of construction for a body.

6A-2018-01 20th Table 35 Question: Is it permissible for a hydrostatic body test pressure to be isolated by Response: No. In the case of entry bores that would isolate the end connectors from test
means of a suitable seal fixture to the entry bores or on the faces of the end and pressure; the intent of the body test is to verify the structural integrity of the entire pressure-
outlet connections? containing envelope to the extent that is practical. Yes, in the case of fixtures with seals on
the faces of connector, if the test fixture configuration does not prevent testing of the
pressure-containing envelope at the end or outlet connection.
Standard Ed Section Question Answer

Standard Ed Section Question Answer

6A-2018-02 20th 7.4.2.1.3 Question 1: Our company is holding 6A Monogram for OEC Other End Response 1: Yes. That is correct for material classes AA, BB or CC only: The statement in
Connectors. In the specific, we produce a Clamped Hub connection which is 7.4.2.1.3 is supported by the last sentence of 10.18.5, “It is not necessary to test loose
different from the API Clamp Hub, dimensionally specified in the ISO 13533 Our OECs.” Neither of these statements include any reference to PSL or implication that it is
product, being a connection used to joining pressure-containing or pressure- limited to PSL-1 OECs. I.e., 7.4.2.1.3 does not say “PSL-1 Loose connectors do not require
controlling equipment and whose dimensions are not specified in the API6A hardness testing,”
international standard, is considered as an Other End Connector OEC (Ref. API6A No. However, for material classes DD, EE, FF or HH, subclause 7.4.1.5 applies: “Each
Para 10.18.1 General) The product is delivered to clients loose, it will be than pressure-containing or pressure-controlling part for use in H2S service shall be hardness-
installed and connected by client in their equipment by welding. Equipment tested individually to confirm that the ISO 15156 (all parts) (NACE MR0175; see Clause 2)
Marking is performed following the requirements of the Para 8 Equipment Marking hardness values have been satisfied (except for ring gaskets, which may be sampled in
including: Ref. API6A Para 8.1.9 Other end connector – a) marked “OEC” following accordance with 7.4.6.3). If the other requirements of 7.4.1 satisfy this requirement,
the size/pressure rating. If the product is considered a Loose connector: additional testing or examination is not required.”
As per API6A Para 7.4.2.1.3 Hardness Test – Loose connectors do not require
hardness testing (PSL1) As per API6A Para 7.4.2.2.3 Hardness Test – PSL 2 shall Response 2: This is essentially the same question as Question 1, and the same responses
be Identical to the requirements for PSL1, except …. this means that Loose and explanations apply. The phrase “…on each finished part,” includes hardness testing
connectors do not require hardness testing? performed after heat treating in an area which is not machined afterward.
Question 2: As per API6A Para 7.4.2.3.3 Hardness Test – "PSL 3/3G shall be
identical to the requirements for PSL2, except that one hardness test shall be Response 3: No. That is not necessarily correct. Subclause 7.4.2.3.3 is part of clause
performed on each finished part (body, bonnet, and end connections)" this means 7.4.2, so it applies to the equipment types listed in the title: “7.4.2 Bodies, bonnets, end and
that Loose connectors do not require hardness testing on each finished part? outlet connections and clamp hub end connectors.” In addition, reference to 7.4.2.3.3 is
Question 3: Is this section applicable only to specified products (body, bonnet, not limited to 7.4.2; normative reference in another part of 6A may be made to any part of
and end connections)? clause 7.4.2 to define the same requirement for other parts or equipment.

6A-2018-03 20th 5.1.2 Question: Referring to API 6A at 5.12 "Material requirements for clamp hubs, Response: No. That is not correct. For an API 16B or 16BX clamp hub, the material
specified dimensionally in ISO 13533, shall be equal to the material requirements requirements shall be as specified in API Spec 16A, based on the pressure rating of the
of the equipment to which the clamp hub is connected. Minimum requirements are hub.
those for PSL 2 bodies, bonnets and end and outlet connections (see 5.4)." Am I
right on my interpretation: this apply to Clamp Hubs used as an end connector
(definition of end connector is :used to joint together equipment that contains or
controls pressure) When an ISO 13533 Clamp Hub is used as an end connector
on equipment specified by the API 6A International Standard (i.e. connecting a
10K Valve to the pipeline) the requirements that apply to the clamp-Hub are based
on the equipment to which the clamp hub is connected?

6A-2018-04 20th General Question: Does API 6A allow the material to be 3D printed and if the Response: No. 3D-printing is outside the scope of API 6A. The specification addresses the
manufacturing process is acceptable what kind of quality controls are applied? use of wrought, cast and HIP for metallic materials. At this time, the industry has not
recognized 3D-printing as an acceptable equivalence for processing of materials.
Furthermore, NACE MR0175 does not recognize 3D-printed or additive manufactured
materials as an approved processing method for use in sour service. Since API normatively
references MR0175, this would preclude use of this process for any such product.

6A-2018-05 20th 4.3.2, 5.10, This RFI requests clarification on the following sections: 4.3.2; 5.10; and 10.6.4 b. Response: Your question cannot be answered as written. The specific material
10.6.4b Do lock screws, tie-down screws, and alignment pins need to meet the requirements for lock screws (tie-down screws) and alignment pins is not addressed in the
requirements of NACE MR-01-75, when they are installed in casing-head materials sections (API 6A, Section 4.2.3 or API 6A, Section 5). Therefore, determination of
housings, casing-head spools, tubing-head spools, cross-over spools, and multi- the applicability of NACE MR0175 to these components would fall to the manufacturer or
stage head housings and spools that are rated for material class DD, EE, FF, or purchaser.
HH?
NOTE This topic is addressed in the next edition of API 6A (21st) and therefore this
interpretation may not apply to that document.
Standard Ed Section Question Answer

Standard Ed Section Question Answer

6A-2018-06 20th 6.5.2.3 6.5.2.3 Mechanical properties The base material shall retain the minimum Response No. API 20th Edition, Section 6.5.2.3 applies to weld overlay for corrosion
mechanical property requirements after post-weld heat treatment. The resistance and for hard-facing.
manufacturer shall specify the methods to assure these mechanical properties and Section 6.5 applies to “Weld overlay for corrosion resistance and/or hard-facing and other
record the results as part of the PQR. Our understanding that clause 6.5.2.3 is material surface property controls”
applicable to corrosion resistent weld overlay and this clause is not applicable to 6.5.1 covers “PSL 1”
hard facing PQR ( No need to prove the minimum mechanical property with PQR). 6.5.2 covers “PSL 2”
Is this correct? 6.5.2.2 states, “Qualification shall be in accordance with ASME, BPVC:2004, Section IX,
Articles II and III, for weld overlay, hard facing or other types of overlay, as applicable.

6A-2018-07 20th Weld Neck Please note while using API 6A for 10,000 psi type BX weld neck flanges, there is a Response: Yes, Dimension J2 applies at the length J3. A 6BX weld-neck flange with an
requirement stated to use the J2 minimum diameter, this is understandable when OD taper that exceeds that obtained with the J1, J2, and J3 dimensions is outside the scope
the bore size B is at the stated maximum size and the bore is parallel. When using of Spec 6A.
a reduced weld prep size on a weldneck flange, for example on a 5-1/8" 10,000 psi
weldneck flange, and reducing to a 4" sch XXS pipe size, if we maintain the J2
minimum size, then reduce at 45 degrees from the J2 diameter to the pipe
schedule diameter this results in excessive flange length and an unnecessary
heavy profile of the flange. As the internal bore reduces toward the 4" sch XXS
weld preparation, is there a need to still use the J2 minimum diameter when we
are not using the maximum allowable flange bore all the way through the flange?

6A-2018-08 20th Table 5 Question 1: Regarding the higher strength material designations specified in Response 1: No, It is not unavoidable. For example, the body section can be lower in
Table 5 for End Connections in comparison with Bodies, does it constitute that (for hardness/strength than the integral end connectors.
example) for an integral flanged valve the material designation for the flange (of
higher strength than body) shall be the governing material, and therefore the Response 2: Yes. The material designation of 6A end connectors is established by API 6A,
whole valve will be of the higher material designation? (i.e. valve body will while the material designation of the body section is established by the manufacturer for his
unavoidably be of the same material designation as of the integral end flanges). design.

Question 2: If so, does this difference between material designation of Bodies and
End Connections permit a manufacturer to (for example) select valve body of a
lower material designation and to weld a pair of flanged end connections (as per
footnote a of Table 5) to make a valve having body and end flanges of different
material designations? (e.g. a class 10000 valve made of 36K body and 60K end
flanges)

6A-2018-09 20th Loose API Spec. 6A contains three separate definitions for “End & Outlet Connection”, Response: Yes; a loose flange is a type of loose connector.
Connector “Loose Connector”, and “Loose Flange” in Clauses 3.1.39, 3.1.65, and 3.1.66
respectively. Is “Loose Flange” to be considered as a subcategory of “Loose
Connector”?

If not, then does it imply that (for example) material designation for a welding neck
flange (as a Loose Flange) is not specifically addressed in Table 5, and in other
words, it is to be considered as “other pressure containing parts”, as specified in
Clause 5.1 and footnote c of Table 5?
Standard Ed Section Question Answer

Standard Ed Section Question Answer

6A-2018-10 20th 5.7.2.3 A maximum Equivalent Round of 5" is required for PSL 3 parts. This may be Response 1: API does not determine if a manufacturer’s specific production process is
interpreted that any size of solid bar can be represented by this QTC (for example acceptable for the intended service.
a 25" bar) and any part can be cut from this (for example a crossover from a 24"
OD flange to a much smaller union of OD 9"). If a material with low hardenability is The QTC size specifications are minimum requirements and may be exceeded. Clause
used, it is feasible that the QTC will have "good" properties, but the small end of 5.7.1 states, “The properties exhibited by the QTC shall represent the properties of the
the part will not have good properties (or even known properties as no testing has thermal response of the material comprising the production parts it qualifies. Depending
been conducted at that area). My understanding is that a large amount of the part upon the hardenability of a given material, the QTC results might not always correspond to
will be made of material with inferior properties and the physical part will not be the properties of the actual components at all locations throughout their cross-section.“
represented by the calculations performed during the design phase, which is not
acceptable, but does comply with the 5" QTC. Response 2: API does not determine whether a production part should be rough machined
Question 1. Is it acceptable to make the part as described above? prior to heat treatment or to what configuration. That is the responsibility of the
manufacturer.
Question 2. Should the part be roughed-in to near net shape, then heat treated?

If it is expected that parts are roughed and heat treated, I would like to see a
reference to API 6HT and clarity on when it should be used.

6A-2018-11 20th 10.6.6 Our company underwent a re-audit where design package validation for Casing and Response 1: No. Clause 10.6.3.8 states, “If casing-head spools or tubing-head spools are
Tubing Heads were not available. API 6A Sec. 10.6.6 requires all heads to used as cross-over spools, they shall satisfy the requirements of
successfully pass the tests required and described in Sec. 7.4.9. We then used a 10.14” (cross-over connectors). For cross-over connectors, clause 7.4.9.3.3.b requires that
Tubing Head Body (TUBING HEAD BODY, TCM, 11" 5K FLANGED BOTTOM X 7- the lower (5000-psi) flange be isolated and the upper (10-ksi) flange be tested at 15 ksi.
1/16" 10K FLANGED TOP, W/ TWO 1-13/16" 10K SSO, W/ 5-1/2" DOUBLE P
SEAL BOTTOM PREP, K-U, EE-NL, PSL 3, PR1) to undergo Hydro-testing per Response 2: No. Clause F.2.8 provides recommended validation test procedures for PR1
API 6A 20th Edition Sec. 10.6.6 PSL 3 (REF Sec. 7.4.9.5.4) and Annex F. We tubing head spools, and F.2.9 provides recommended validation test procedures for PR2
received a report with only one chart. Although Sec. 7.4.9.3.3 specifies special tubing head spools. Table F.24 is a summary only.
considerations for equipment with different working pressures, we believe two
charts are necessary for each working pressure (the 5K flange @ 7500 psi and the
10K flange @ 15,000 psi).
Question 1) Is a 7500 psi chart sufficient to meet the design validation requirement
of a Tubing Head Body (TUBING HEAD BODY, TCM, 11" 5K FLANGED
BOTTOM X 7-1/16" 10K FLANGED TOP, W/ TWO 1-13/16" 10K SSO, W/ 5-1/2"
DOUBLE P SEAL BOTTOM PREP, K-U, EE-NL, PSL 3, PR1) to API 6A 20th
Edition Sec. 10.6.6 for PSL 3 (REF: Sec. 7.4.9.5.4) and Annex F?

Question 2) According to API 6A 20th Edition Table F.24, Tubing Head Bodies
don't need design validation. Is this correct?
Standard Ed Section Question Answer

Standard Ed Section Question Answer

6A-2018-12 20th 7.4.2.1.4.b API 6A Section 10 Equipment-specific requirements specifies: 10.2.1 General The Response: No. The minimum requirement is specified in 7.4.2.1.4.b: “Threaded end and
requirements for integral equipment end and outlet connections, including tubing outlet connections shall be gauged for stand-off at hand-tight assembly by use of the
and casing hangers, apply only to those which are threaded according to API Spec gauges and gauging practices illustrated in Figures 10, 11 and 12.” Additional inspection
5B. Other loose threaded end and outlet connections are not covered by this methods may be used but are not required by API 6A.
International Standard. 10.2.3 Testing (gauging) Thread gauges shall comply with
the requirements for working gauges as stipulated in API Spec 5B. Threads shall
be gauged for stand-off at hand-tight assembly. For threads manufactured in
accordance with this International Standard, use gauging practices as illustrated in
Figures 10, 11 and 12. For threads manufactured in accordance with API Spec 5B,
use gauging practices as specified in API Spec 5B. And the same standard
Section 7, Quality Control, specifies that the requirements of dimensional
inspection are: 7.4.2.1.4 Dimensional inspection (PSL 1) Dimensional inspection
shall be performed on components manufactured to this PSL. The manufacturer
shall specify critical dimensions. The following apply: a) sampling: Sampling shall
be in accordance with ISO 2859-1:1999, level II, 1,5 AQL. End and outlet
connection threads on all components shall be gauged. Critical dimensions on all
components shall be verified. b) test method: Threaded end and outlet
connections shall be gauged for stand-off at hand-tight assembly by use of the
gauges and gauging practices illustrated in Figures 10, 11 and 12. c) acceptance
criteria: The end and outlet connection threads shall be in accordance with Tables
48 and B.48, API Spec 5B or ASME B1.1, ASME B1.2, and ASME B1.3, as
applicable. Acceptance criteria for critical dimensions shall be as required by the
manufacturer's written specification. 7.4.2.2.4 Dimensional inspection (PSL 2)
Dimensional inspection requirements for PSL 2 shall be identical to the
requirements for PSL 1. 7.4.2.3.4 Dimensional inspection (PSL 3) Dimensional
inspection requirements for PSL 3 shall be identical to the requirements for PSL 1.
Additionally, inspection shall be performed on all parts.

And 7.4.2.4.4 Dimensional inspection Dimensional inspection requirements for

PSL 4 shall be identical to the requirements for PSL 3.

For API 6A, is it mandatory to perform additional threads dimensional inspection

(for example as thread taper, thread load, thread height and addendum, angle of
thread form, etc) different than "Threaded end and outlet connections" gauged
inspection for stand-off at hand-tight assembly by use of the gauges and gauging
practices illustrated in API 6A Figures 10, 11 and 12?
Standard Ed Section Question Answer

Standard Ed Section Question Answer

6A-2018-13 20th 7.4.2.3.13.b Finished PSL 3 pressure containing components require hardness testing after all Response: Yes; base material which has been hardness tested prior to welding, is
thermal processing and cutting/final machining. The heat-affected zone HAZ of a unaffected by the welding, and has not been subjected to heat-treatment or machining
weld is the portion of the base metal that has not been melted, but whose afterward does not require additional hardness testing.
mechanical properties or microstructure has been altered by the heat of welding or
cutting. This means that the unaffected base metal is the material outside the HAZ
which is not altered by the heat of welding. The affected base metal (HAZ) is not
hardness tested after welding, but only in weld qualification. If PWHT/stress relief
is not applied to the weld, the unaffected base metal has been hardness tested,
documented, and confirmed compliant to requirements prior to welding. If
PWHT/stress relief is applied, the earlier base metal hardness test is now negated
by additional thermal processing, and a hardness test of the base metal subjected
to PWHT must be repeated and found to still be within requirements to complete
the PSL 3 requirements. Do you agree that the hardness test of unaffected base
metal that has already been hardness tested, confirmed compliant to requirements,
and documented does not need to be retested unless PWHT/stress relief
or further thermal process is applied as a result of the WPS? When
PWHT/stress relief is not applied, only the weld metal and HAZ (affected base
metal) has seen thermal processing?

6A-2018-14 20th 7.4.2.2.3 7.4.2.1.3 (PSL1) states that Loose connectors do not require hardness testing. Response 1: No. Clause 7.4.2.1.3 specifies sampling for PSL 1, it does not define products
7.4.2.2.3 (PSL2) states that hardness testing requirements for PSL 2 shall be or sampling applicable to hardness testing for other PSLs.
identical to the requirements for PSL 1, except that all parts shall be tested.
Question 1: Is the statement under 7.4.2.2.3 (PSL2) that "all parts shall be Response 2: No. PSL 2 loose connectors shall be hardness tested. (See answer 1.)
tested." referring only to the sampling requirements in 7.4.2.1.3 for applicable
products?

Question 2: Is it meant to also include loose connectors for PSL2, as well?

6A-2018-15 20th 7.4.3.2 Question 1: API 6A 20th Ed. 7.4.3.2 Volumetric NDE examination (PSL 3 and PSL Response 1: Yes, bar stock may be UT tested if the UT procedure conforms to all
4) For valve stems, the code states: Each stem, or bar from which stems are requirements of 7.4.3.2. Spec 6A does not specify a maximum length of barstock for UT.
machined, shall be volumetrically inspected using ultrasonic or radiographic
techniques. The inspection shall be conducted after final heat treatment (exclusive Response 2: No; see answer 1.
of stress relief treatments) and prior to machining operations that limit effective
interpretation of the results of the examination. Is it acceptable to carry out UT on
bar stock (i.e. 6-meter lengths) ?

Question 2: Must the bar be cut into individual pieces that the stems would then be
machined out of?

6A-2018-16 20th J.7.6.3.2 API 6A 20th Ed. Subsea Valves to PSL 3G Serialization J.7.6.3.2 Traceability Response: No, parts may not be re-serialized. However, if marking was removed but
Parts shall not be reused if the serialization markings in accordance with traceability is maintained, the marking may be reapplied in accordance with 7.4.2.2.5.
7.4.2.3.14 are no longer legible or otherwise traceable to the part. If serialization
was lost prior to valves being leaving the manufacturers premises due to shot
blasting prior to painting, could these components be re-serialized?
Standard Ed Section Question Answer

Standard Ed Section Question Answer

6A-2018-17 20th 6.5.1.2.2 Question 1: API 6A Clause 6.5.1.1.2 a) required chemical analysis at 3 mm (0.125 Response: Yes. Testing at 0.125 in. meets the minimum 0.12 in. requirement.
in.) or less from the original base metal surface. 2018 edition of API 6A clause
7.5.1.2.2 requires minimum overlay thickness to be 3 mm (0.12 in.). Traditionally NOTE The minimum clad thickness must meet the qualified thickness as stipulated in the
chemical analysis in the US were carried out at 0.125 in. dropping the 0.005 in applicable WPS. While 0.125 would meet the requirements for a 0.12 in. minimum, the
from the required thickness is causing confusion regarding the chemical analysis. converse would not be the case.
The composition gradient over 0.005 in. thickness will be exceedingly small and
well beyond the capability of the commercial chemical analysis lab equipment.
Need clarification regarding the older WOSs which record chemical analysis
thickness at 0.125 in. Is this acceptable or new chemical analysis have to be
carried out. There is confusion as some of the customers and third party
inspectors are asking for new chemical composition at 0.12 in. thickness, which I
think is not necessary (0.005 inch difference is about the machine tolerance and
marking accuracy for machining and also the chemical composition variation over
0.2 mm or 0.005 in. will be insignificant, none of the conventional chemical
analysis machines will be able to tell the difference). Are the chemical analyses
carried out at 0.125 in. thickness for the older WPSs acceptable?

6A-2018-18 20th 10.1.2.3.2a Question 1: Spec 6A specifies dimensions for 6BX flanges in millimeters (e.g., Response 1: Yes. If the flange conforms to either Table 55 or Table B.55, and to the
Table 55) and in inches (e.g., Table B.55). The physical configuration (tolerance manufacturer’s specified dimensions, it is in conformance with the dimensional requirements
range) defined by the mm dimensions is not identical to that defined by the inch of the specification. Spec 6A does not dictate which units of measurement must be used in
dimensions, and the two may differ significantly due to the conversion and manufacturing processes. However, if the dimensions specified by the manufacturer prior to
rounding rules documented in Annex B. For example, consider the flange OD for a machining were based on Table 55 (SI units), acceptance cannot be based on Table B.55
3-1/16” 15,000-psi flange: - The OD specified in Table 55 is 290 mm ±2 mm, a (USC units), and vice versa; it is not acceptable to switch from one set of requirements to the
range of 288 to 292 mm. - The OD specified in Tables B.55 is 11.31 in. ±0.06, a other in order to accept a non-conformance to the originally-specified requirement.
range of 11.25 to 11.37 in. - The inch equivalent of the OD range specified in
Table 55 is 11.34 to 11.50 in. The striking difference in the specified dimensions is
presented graphically in the attachment. The normative requirement stated in
10.1.2.3.2 a) is as follows: The following apply: a) standard dimensions:
Dimensions for 6BX integral flanges shall conform to Table 53* or Table 54*, as
applicable. Dimensions for 6BX welding neck flanges shall conform to Table 55* or
Table 56*, as applicable. In addition, the last sentence of 1.2 states, “All parts
whose physical dimensions conform to the metric tables incorporated into the body
of this International Standard or to the tables in USC units in Annex B are
acceptable; see Introduction.” As a multi-national manufacturer, we have licensed
facilities that do machining and inspection in inches, and other facilities that work
in mm. But we want to make equipment that is completely interchangeable in both
function and appearance. To that end, in accordance with the cited statement in
1.2, our facility that works in millimeters uses exact conversions of the original inch
dimensions, to produce equipment that conforms to the inch dimensions specified
in Annex B. This is done without consideration of the millimeter dimensions
specified in Section 10; i.e., we do not combine inch and mm tables to increase the
tolerance range. If a 6BX integral or weld-neck flange is manufactured using
millimeter dimensions derived and specified by the manufacturer intentionally to
conform to the inch dimensions specified in Annex B, irrespective of the mm
dimensions in 6A, does the flange satisfy the dimensional requirements of Spec
6A?
Standard Ed Section Question Answer

Standard Ed Section Question Answer

Question 2: Does the answer to question 1 apply to all equipment with dimensional Response 2: Yes, in general (in accordance with the response to Question 1). However,
requirements specified in Spec 6A? some problems have been noted when changing from set of measurement units to another,
specifically as applied to drift measurements. While it is generally acceptable to switch
between units, in the case of drift testing, it is recommended that drifts be used based on
the unit of measure that was used in the original design.

6A-2018-19 20th 5.2.3 Question: Spec 6A specifies the minimum parameters required to be covered in a Response: No. The manufacturer is not required to specify acceptance criteria for material
manufacturer’s material specification. Metallic material specs are covered in 5.2.2, properties for which Spec 6A neither specifies acceptance criteria nor requires verification
and non-metallic material specs are covered in 5.2.3. Clause 5.2.2 requires that (testing or measurement).
the material spec “…define the following, along with accept/reject criteria.” In
addition, 5.2.2 requires that tolerances be specified for chemical composition and
heat treat parameters. In contrast, 5.2.3 does not require acceptance criteria or
tolerances for any of the required parameters. Clause 5.2.2 lists the specific
physical properties to be included. In contrast, 5.2.3 says only, “physical
properties,” with no specifics or examples identified. These differences are
consistent with the quality control requirements of Section 7. For metallic parts,
material testing is required to verify the physical and chemical properties listed in
5.2.2, in some degree, for all PSLs, 1 - 4. For non-metallic seal materials, testing of
physical properties other than hardness is only required for PSL 4. For non-
metallic seal materials used in PSL 1, PSL 2, and PSL 3 equipment, where no
properties are defined and no testing required, is it required that the
manufacturer’s material specification include accept/reject criteria for physical
properties specified?

6A-2018-20 20th Annex M Question: The key part of the 20th edition wording is below and our mill audits did Response: This question cannot be answered as posed. API does not provide opinions as
look at this specific topic we found almost without exception that "each mill to the efficacy or impact of stated requirements.
developed their own approach" . The current wording in the 21st edition is simply
to prescriptive. FYI API 20H met last week and are now recommending different
wording with respect to thermocouple positioning. "Controlling thermocouples shall
be located in the furnace at the same location and orientation specified during the
last TUS". Adopting this or similar wording would remove the thermocouple
position issue. In terms of a solution to the 3 monthly calibration problem I can only
see 2 solutions; ether making 3 monthly calibration a recommendation or give
out to say the interval can be increased based on satisfactory calibration history.
With modern instruments do we consider a 3-months calibration to be excessive?
Standard Ed Section Question Answer

6A-2019-01 21st 6.2.3 Question: Spec 6A specifies the minimum parameters required to be covered in a Response: No. The manufacturer is not required to specify acceptance criteria for material
manufacturer’s material specification. Metallic material specs are covered in 6.2.2, properties for which Spec 6A neither specifies acceptance criteria nor requires verification
and non-metallic material specs are covered in 6.2.3. Clause 6.2.2 requires that (testing or measurement).
the material spec “…define the following, along with accept/reject criteria.” In
addition, 6.2.2 requires that tolerances be specified for chemical composition and
heat treat parameters. In contrast, 6.2.3 does not require acceptance criteria or
tolerances for any of the required parameters. Clause 6.2.2 lists the specific
physical properties to be included. In contrast, 6.2.3 says only, “physical
properties,” with no specifics or examples identified. These differences are
consistent with the quality control requirements of Section 10. For metallic parts,
material testing is required to verify the physical and chemical properties listed in
6.2.2, in some degree, for all PSLs, 1-4. For non-metallic seal materials, testing of
physical properties other than hardness is only required for PSL 4. For non-
metallic seal materials used in PSL 1, PSL 2, and PSL 3 equipment, where no
properties are defined and no testing is required, is it required that the
manufacturer’s material specification include accept/reject criteria for physical
properties specified?

6A-2019-02 21st 6.3.3.1 Question: 6.3.3.1 Casting Practices for PSL 1, all castings used for bodies, Response: No. The requirement does not mean that only a certified [licensed] supplier of
bonnets, and end and outlet connectors shall meet the applicable requirements of 20A product can be used. It simply means that the product must mean the requirements of
Section 6 and Section 10. The casting practices shall be qualified to casting 20A and that product can come from any supplier. It is the responsibility of the
specification level (CSL) 2 foundry qualification requirements in API 20A, as a manufacturer of 6A equipment to be able to demonstrate that the material conforms to API
minimum. Does this requirement mean the casting supplier must be certified with 20A, when applicable. How that is done, is up to the manufacturer.
API 20A? NOTED This applies to 20E and 20F requirements for applicable products as well.

6A-2019-03 21st 6.4.4.2 Question: The 21st edition is silent on the QTC hardness test location. Given with Response: Yes.
low alloy steels such as AISI 4130 tested on a 5” ER QTC the location the test is
taken does affect the hardness result obtained- is this intentional? Previous
editions of API 6A are also silent on this point suggesting the omission of the test
location is intentional. If this is the case this would leave this point open to
manufacturers to amplify should they wish to do so. Should manufacturers choose
not to amplify then the choice of test location is left for the heat treater to decide.
Does a Rockwell or Brinell hardness test result obtained from a 1/4T test location
of the QTC adjacent to the tensile specimen, satisfy clause 6.4.4.2 hardness test
requirement?

6A-2019-04 21st 6.5.1 Question: The 21st edition introduces a new requirement for thermocouples to be Response: No. An erratum will not be issued. The requirements are as stated
placed in the working zone per paragraph 5 of 6.5.1. Many heat treaters do not NOTE The intent of this requirement applies only to the thermocouples used in the
currently comply with this because the working zones are determined by the temperature uniformity survey. This has been brought to the attention of 6A task group for
maximum charge volume loaded to the furnace. Frames are used to determine the the development of additional clarification language, if needed.
volume during the temperature uniformity survey. If the controlling thermocouples
are within the working zone then the potential for impact with the working load will
exist and should the controlling thermocouples be moved from the position fix
during the temperature uniformity survey, then the temperature uniformity will
become invalid. The wording of the paragraph could also be interpreted to cover all
thermocouples in the furnaces and not just furnace atmosphere controlling. To
comply with paragraph 5, the thermocouples referred to must be contact or heat
sink, which are rarely used except where API 6A CRA or API 6A PSL 4 is required.
As paragraph 5 of section 6.5.1, cannot be complied with as written, will
an erratum be issued to either remove the paragraph?
Standard Ed Section Question Answer

6A-2019-05 21st 6.5.3 Question: Historically continuous furnaces had no normative requirements to have Response: Yes. API 6A, section 6.5.3 applies to both continuous- and batch-type furnaces.
the temperature-controlling and recording instruments calibrated every 3 months. It [no erratum is required].
is expected that many mills that operate continuous type production furnaces do not
calibrate temperature-controlling and recording instruments every 3 months.
Within the structure of section 6.5, clause 6.5.3 is interpreted as to apply to clause
6.5.4 Production type equipment–Batch-type Furnaces, and to 6.5.5 Production
type equipment–Continuous-type Furnaces. Do continuous-type furnaces require
their controlling and recording instruments to be calibrated once every 3 months
as required by 6.5.3? If it is not the intent for section 6.5.3 to apply to continuous
heat treatment, will and an erratum be issued?

6A-2019-06 21st 7.4.4 Question: Section 7.4.4 establishes the requirements for the repair of the bolt Response: This question cannot be answered as posed. Other than by welding, repair of
hole, the threaded hole and the machined blind hole is applicable for PSL2 and bolt holes in conjunction with manufacturing activities is not addressed by this specification.
PSL3 and indicates some considerations that must be met. According to the NOTE Dimensional requirements of bolt holes are specified in the applicable sections
above, the repair of the bolt hole and tapped hole for the equipment PSL1 are throughout the document and apply for any bolt hole that has been repaired.
defined by the manufacturer, that is, can another repair method other than welding
be used? For example, if it is required to repair a tapped hole (studded) of PSL 1
equipment by means of a threaded insert that avoids welding filler, is this method
valid?

6A-2019-07 21st 7.5.1 Question 1: In the 20th edition of this standard, corrosion-resistant ring groove Response 1: Yes. Stainless steel is no longer specified as a material for corrosion resistant
was defined as "ring groove lined with a CRA or an austenitic stainless steel to overlay of ring grooves on API 6A flanges.
resist metal-loss corrosion" (see 6A 20th Edition 3.1.32) it was permitted to use
stainless steel for corrosion-resistant overlay. There was a requirement to mark Response 2: See reply to No. 1. Other than CRA, any other overlay is outside the scope of
"SST" in this case. (6A 20th Edition 8.1.7). But the 6A 21st Edition has changes in this specification. Marking requirements are not provide for items outside of the scope of
this regard. Corrosion-resistant ring groove is now defined as "Ring groove lined the document.
with a CRA to resist metal-loss corrosion" (6A 21st Edition 3.1.23). Section 7.5.1
[Welding / Corrosion-resistant Overlay (Including Ring Grooves)] & section 12.9 (f)
[Equipment marking / Ring grooves] only states requirements while using CRA. Do
the changes in above referenced sections of API 6A (21st edition) imply that it is
no longer permitted to use stainless steel for corrosion-resistant overlay?
Question 2: If stainless steel or other material compositions (other than CRA) are
used for corrosion-resistant overlay, no specific marking is required after the ring
groove type & number?

6A-2019-08 21st 7.5.1.2.3 Question: Comparing the 20th edition with 21st edition the section Ring grooves Response: Yes. The 300-series stainless steel was removed as an alternative overlay.
under Weld overlay in now removed in 21st edition and is combined under Section 7.5.1.2.3 applies to both 625 and other CRA’s. Note that the API definition of CRA
Corrosion resistant overlays. While doing so the chemical composition for 300 would apply to all weld overlays (see definitions 3.1.22 and 3.1.23).
series Stainless steel requirement is removed and only Nickel based alloy
chemical composition is specified. But under clause 7.5.1.2.3 mentions for other
compositions for NACE conformance to refer NACE. In the 21st edition is 300
series Stainless steel weld overlay is no longer acceptable? And the clause
7.5.1.2.3 is applicable for other Nickel based alloys only.

6A-2019-09 21st 10.2.2.3 Question 1: We consider calibration an important activity to maintain the Response 1: No. Calibration by comparison of one gauge to another does not exist and
equipment adequacy but in the same time, we need to support production during therefore is not allowed for conformance to API 6A, unless there is some way the
the testing activities; we have decided to establish that “calibration history” can be comparison gauge is qualified as a master. The specification states that “Pressure-
performed not only by calibration but also by comparison. Can we consider the measuring devices shall be periodically calibrated with a master pressure-measuring device
calibration history the comparison of gauge place on the test bench (one digital or a dead-weight tester to at least three equidistant points of full scale (excluding zero and
gauge and the other one is analogic – No master gauge is used)? full scale as required points of calibration) .” So, if the comparison gauge is not a master
gauge and maintained as such, the comparison is not a valid process for calibration.
Question 2: Can we consider the calibration history the comparison of gauge
place on the test bench (one digital gauge and the other one is analogic -master Response 2: No. See Response 1.
gauge is used more accuracy / full scale)?
Standard Ed Section Question Answer

6A-2019-10 21st 10.2.2.3 Question: When we calibrate a gauge, dial pressure gauge that is liquid filled, are Response: No. The calibration interval starts from the date of the calibration reflected in the
we able to securely store it when received, calibrated, and start our three month calibration paperwork or on the identification tag. Using your example, a gauge calibrated in
interval when we put the gauge into service. Example: Gauge is calibrated on March and stored until April for use, would have 2 months of actual use (the calibration date
March 1, 2018 and put in service April 1, 2018 and will be used for three months less the time it was stored). So, the time of storage of a device would count as part of the
from April 1 versus three months from March 1. Is this acceptable? established calibration interval for that device and effectively shorten the time it could be
used.

6A-2019-11 21st 10.4.1.2 Question: API 6A 21st Edition 10.4.1.2 has a new requirement: “NDE procedures Response: No. If the referenced standard does not require a documented qualification
shall be supported with a documented qualification record as required by the record, it is not required.
specified normative reference standard (such as API 20D or other applicable NOTE Even if the reference standard does not required records, the quality management
standard) to demonstrate the procedure effectiveness .” API 20D is not system requirements, independent of API 6A, may require such qualification records.
normatively referenced in API 6A. The “normative reference standards” specified
for NDE in API 6A (such as ASTM E165 and ASTM E709) do not require
documented qualification records. As such, this requirement appears to be
requiring something as required by a standard which does not require it, which
doesn’t make any sense. For NDE procedures where the normative reference
standard specified by API 6A does not require a documented qualification record,
is a documented qualification record required?

6A-2019-12 21st 10.4.2.4 Question 1: For tees and crosses, is API 6A §10.4.2.4 Hardness testing Response 1: Yes. The Tees and Crosses all have bodies so the quality requirements for
applicable? bodies apply to these products, and specifically for hardness testing, that would be 10.4.2.4.

Question 2: Does use of a Leeb Hardness Tester be considered consistent to API Response 2: No. A Leeb hardness tester is not recognized as an acceptable test for
6A requirements? hardness under API 6A. The test method for using a Leeb tester is ASTM A956 and that
method is not normative to API 6A.

6A-2019-13 21st 10.4.2.5.2 Question: Section 10.4.2.5.2 "The end and outlet connector threads shall be in Response: No. This is applicable to the different thread types used.
accordance with Table D.29/Table E.29 and Table D.30/Table E.30, API 5B or
ASME B1.20.1, as applicable" Is "ASME B1.1, ASME B1.2, and ASME B1.3" in
10.4.8.5.2 wrong?

6A-2019-14 21st 10.4.2.16.6 Question: Section 10.4.2.16.6 is asking for volumetric inspection of major weld Response: Yes.
repairs. Do you agree that 10.4.2.16.6 only applies to repair welding of pressure
containing welds and that volumetric examination of major weld repairs does not
apply to initial (major) weld repairs of a casting?

6A-2019-15 21st 10.4.5 Question: Section 10.4.5 contains Quality requirements for Ring Gaskets and Non- Response: A nonintegral seal can be either a metallic or non-metallic seal. For 6A
Integral seals. There is no definition for Non-Integral seals In Section 3 of this equipment, the common uses of nonintegral seals are [this is NOT an exhaustive list]:
specification. Does the reference to Non-integral seals mean the connection seals ―DBetween valve or choke body and bonnet (extremely common)
like gaskets? ―DBetween choke seat or positive choke bean and body
―DBetween valve or choke stem and bonnet (rare)
―DBetween two components with other end connectors (OECs)
―DBetween Individual bores of multi-bore equipment (inside the ring gasket of a large 6B or
6BX flange)
―DBetween casing hanger and casing OD
―DBetween tubing hanger and tubing head/spool
―DTubing hanger could have a non-integral seal sleeve installed in the neck which would
make up with the hanger on its lower end and the tubing head adapter on its upper end
―DTubing hanger could have a non-integral seal bridging between the tubing head and the
tubing hanger outside diameter (very common)
Standard Ed Section Question Answer

6A-2019-16 21st 12.8 Question: Section 12.8 Hardness Tests If hardness tests are required for bodies, Response: Yes.
bonnets, or end and outlet connectors, the actual value of the hardness test shall NOTE The reference to “test certificate” is not a requirement of API 6A, section 12.8.
be stamped on the part adjacent to the test location or documented by the
manufacturer. The sentence "or documented by the manufacturer" means that the
marking of the actual value can be avoided if the same is duly documented in a
test certificate issued which include detailed hardness readings for each serialized
component?

6A-2019-17 21st 14.1.2.2.2 Question 1: Spec 6A specifies dimensions for 6BX flanges in millimeters (e.g., Response 1: Yes. If the flange conforms to either Table D.5 or Table E.5, and to the
Table D.4, Table D.5) and in inches (e.g., Table E.4 and E.5). The physical manufacturer’s specified dimensions, it is in conformance with the dimensional requirements
configuration (tolerance range) defined by the mm dimensions is not identical to of the specification. Spec 6A does not dictate which units of measurement must be used in
that defined by the inch dimensions, and the two may differ due to conversion and manufacturing processes. However, if the dimensions specified by the manufacturer prior to
rounding. The normative requirement stated in 14.1.2.2is as follows: machining were based on Table D.5 (SI units), acceptance cannot be based on Table E.5
The following shall apply: a) standard dimensions: Dimensions for Type 6B (USC units), and vice versa; it is not acceptable to switch from one set of requirements to the
integral, blind, and threaded flanges shall be in accordance with Table D.1 (13.8 other in order to accept a non-conformance to the originally-specified requirement.
MPa)/Table E.1 (2000 psi), Table D.2 (20.7 MPa)/Table E.2 (3000 psi), Table D.3
(34.5 MPa)/Table E.3 (5000 psi) .In addition, the last sentence of 1.2 of the 20th
edition stated, “All parts whose physical dimensions conform to the metric tables
incorporated into the body of this International Standard or to the tables in USC
units in Annex B are acceptable; see Introduction.” As a multi-national
manufacturer, we have licensed facilities that do machining and inspection in
Response 2: Yes.
inches, and other facilities that work in mm. But we want to make equipment that
is completely interchangeable in both function and appearance. To that end, our
facility that works in millimeters uses exact conversions of the original inch
dimensions, to produce equipment that conforms to the inch dimensions specified
in Annex E. This is done without consideration of the millimeter dimensions
specified in Annex D; i.e., we do not combine inch and mm tables to increase the
tolerance range. If a 6BX integral or weld-neck flange is manufactured using
millimeter dimensions derived and specified by the manufacturer intentionally to
conform to the inch dimensions specified in 6A, Annex E, irrespective of the mm
dimensions in 6A, Annex D, does the flange satisfy the dimensional requirements
of Spec 6A?

Question 2: Does the answer to question 1 apply to all dimensional requirements

specified in API Spec 6A?

6A-2019-18 21st 14.11.2 Question: In API 6A Edition 20th - Section 10.5 (Valves) - 10.5.3.1 (Dimensions), Response: Yes. Dimensional requirements for plug valves are not specified in API 6A, 21st
face-to-face according to manufacturer standard were not listed. Being that Edition.
reduced opening plug valves not included in Table D.23 (API 6A 21st Edition), NOTE This does not differ from what is specified in API 6A, 20th edition.
does that mean that reduced opening plug valves can be produced with face-to-
face as per manufacturer requirements according to para. 14.11.2.2.1, part b) sub-
section 2) provided that all Design requirement (section 14.11.2) are met, including
section 14.11.2.11 (Reduced opening valves)?

6A-2019-19 21st 14.11.2 Question: I have gotten enquiries for valves with buttweld ends monogrammed Response: No. See note 2 in API Spec 6A, Definition 3.1.28.
per API 6A. Besides the difficulty of testing such a connection I am curious if a
buttweld qualifies for 6A as a valve end connector. 14.11.2.3 allows flanged,
14.11.2.4 allows threads, and 14.11.2.5 allows OECs. Would an OEC allow
buttwelds? Since the buttweld would be welded by the end user per their weld
procedure I am not sure if I would have proper design requirements to then fulfill
14.9.2.1. Is a buttweld end connection allowed on an API 6A monogrammed gate
valve?
Standard Ed Section Question Answer

6A-2019-20 21st 14.11.2.2.1 Question: In this section and throughout the document, the specifications refers to Response: No. There is no requirement for two seats. The use of the plural term “seats” is
valve “seats” (plural). This occurs in many locations. Does API 6A require a valve not intended to prohibit a single-seat design. This applies regardless of whether the valve is
to have two seats? unidirectional-sealing or bidirectional-sealing.

6A-2019-21 21st 15.2.1 Question: Section 15.2.1 clearly states that a pressure recording device shall be Response: Yes. A pressure recording device is required for hydrostatic seats tests of a
used for PSL 3 and PSL 4 testing. PSL 3 and PSL 4 seat testing undergoes longer valve during a PSL 3G FAT because it applies to PSL 3 and PSL 3G since PSL 3G is a
hold times during hydrostatic testing when compared to PSL 3G. Section 15.2.1 supplemental designation of PSL 3. Section 4.3.4.1 states that a supplemental designation
also states, in NOTE 1, that pressure recording of gas testing is not required. of PSL 3G shall apply to PSL 3 products that have satisfied PSL 3 requirements in addition
Section 15.2.1 does not address the requirement for pressure recording devices to the requirements of gas testing.
for PSL 3G. The hydrostatic seat testing times of valves for PSL 3G are the same
as PSL 2. Pressure chart recording devices are not required for PSL 2. Is a
pressure recording device required for hydrostatic seats tests of a valve during a
PSL 3G FAT?

6A-2019-22 21st Table 1 Question 1: According to table 1, NPT plug for threaded connectors are limited to Response 1: No. The table only applies to those connector threads of API design specified
½" for 10k rated pressure. For 5k rated pressure, NPT can be used from ¾ " to in API 5L or API 5CT, plus ASME B 2.1. (It lists NPT threads, but only as an alternate to
1½ ". In case of blind OEC, shall this requirement be maintained, or it depends on line pipe in a few small sizes.).
location where OEC is used?

Question 2: Is it also applicable for valve outlet and/or body valve bleed Response 2: See response 1.
connections?

6A-2019-23 21st Annex C Question: For the conversion of ½ in., API 6A 21st, Response: Yes. Based on the background provided, regarding API 6A, section 10.4.2.13,
10.4.2.12.5/10.4.2.14/10.4.2.18.3/10.4.2.19/10.4.8.11/ is 13 mm (½ in), 10.4.2.13 use of 13 mm is allowed since 12.7 mm is a stated minimum.
is 12.7 mm (½ in.), 6.4.4.1 is 12.5 mm (0.500 in.), 10.4.2.14 and 10.4.2.13. When
the size is used to inspection area range, can we use the larger range 13 mm
instead of 12.7 mm?

6A-2019-24 21st F.2.2.2.2.1 Question: It is not stated in API 6A F2.2.2.2.1 the test medium required for the Response: No. The requirements for the test medium are discussed in F.1.7 (Hydrostatic
Gate valve dynamic test at ambient temperature. Is there a control to the type of Testing) and F.1.8 (Gas Testing). These requirements effectively allow the manufacturer to
test medium for section API 6A F.2.2.2.2.1, the 160 dynamic test at ambient choose the specific medium based on test conditions that would provide the most reliable
temperature? Is the type of test medium required depending on the test pressure answer. Final selection of the medium is the responsibility of the manufacturer based on
<10K psi and >10K psi? these two sections.

6A-2020-01 21st 10.4.2.16.2 Question 1: Clause 10.4.2.16.2 refers minimum sensitivity shall be 2%(2-2T), is it wire Response 1: No
sensitivity shall be 2%?
Response 2: No
Question 2: And hole type shall be 2-2T?
Response 3: Yes
Question 3: Or both 2% & 2-2T (equivalent sensitivity calculated as per E-747 from Hole
sensitivity to wire sensitivity)? Addendum 1 will provide clarification once published.

6A-2020-02 21st 6.4.2.3.1 Question: Shall the Equivalent round of the QTC for PSL2 castings as per API Spec Response: No. Maximum ER requirements for castings are not specified in API 6A. Casting shall
6A 21st edition be limited to 5 inch even for production castings in line with API 20A meet requirements of API 20A
requirement?

6A-2020-03 21st 10.4.8.4.1 Question 1: As per third paragraph of the section 10.4.8.4.1 "each part shall be Response 1: Yes. Each part shall be hardness tested
hardness tested", does this means PSL 1, PSL 2, PSL 3, and PSL 4 hangers or each
component of the Mandrel-type Hanger if it is having assembly of components? Response 2: No

Question2: Is the fourth paragraph of section 10.4.8.4.1 a repetitive requirement?

6A-2020-04 21st Table 22 Question 1: Is cladding on a BX groove considered a pressure containing weld? Response 1: No. An overlay on a BX groove is different than a pressure containing weld

Question 2: Since rough-out grooves are no longer defined, is the cladding in the Response 2: No. Ring grooves that conform to this specification are not considered part of the
grooves considered to be part of the design criteria (i.e. do the WPS/PQR’s need to be design criteria.
qualified with higher properties than the base material)?
6A-2020-05 21st 7.5.2 Question: Is it permitted to use Stainless steel for "Weld Overlay for Other Than Response: Please review 6A-2019-07 in the list of published RFI
Corrosion Resistance" on API 6A equipment?
Standard Ed Section Question Answer

6A-2020-06 21st Annex I Table I.1: Stud Bolt Length Table for 6B Flange Connectors with "R" and "RX" Gaskets. Response: No. Tables I.1 and I.3 apply to R and RX gaskets.
We think that it should apply to “RX” gaskets only

Table I.3: Tap End Stud Length Table for 6B Studded Flange Connectors with "R" and
"RX" Gaskets. We think that it should apply to “RX” gaskets only.

Question: Should reference to “R” Gaskets be removed from tables I.1 and I.3?

6A-2020-07 21st 14.15.2.9 Question: Equal areas in the trim of choke will result in varying flow rates depending on Response: Yes. The adjustable choke indicating mechanism shall include the equivalent circular
its internal geometry. Clarification is requested to assure that the intent of this section is orifice diameter.
that any bean size on an “indicating mechanism” better represents the same flow rate
across any choke design or geometry. Are manufactures to calculate and label this
mechanism with the equivalent bean sizes, to the minimum flow areas at any adjustable
choke setting for their respective choke design?
6A-2020-08 21st 6.5.4.1 Question 1: As clause 6.5.4.1.2 does not state “the temperature at any point in the Response 1: No. 6.5.4.1 applies to temperature survey in accordance with Annex M. This will be
furnace working zone”, does this imply the use of the “average of all thermocouple clarified upon publication of Addendum 1.
readings”, to determine the actual furnace working zone temperature?
Response 2: No.
Question 2: If the “average” furnace working zone temperature is within the
required +/- 15 degrees F, from the furnace set-point temperature, does this imply
that the furnace has passed the Temperature Uniformity Survey, even if a reading
from an individual thermocouple exceeded the stated tolerance?

6A-2020-09 21st 6.4.1 Question: 6.4.1 states that QTC can be either trepanned core or prolongation removed Response: No.
from a production part and the section does not provide clarity on the use separate QTC
for batch type heat treatment. Is it the intent of the standard to restrict the use of
separate QTC neither prolongation nor a trepanned core (having ER equals or greater
than ER of the production part) for batch type heat treatment?
6A-2020-10 21st 6.5.1.2 Question: Can we do SS 316 inlay process on Ring Groove to avoid wear & tear? Response: Please review 6A-2019-07 in the list of published RFI

6A-2020-11 21st 11.2.4.1(b) Question: For dual pressure rated valves (e.g., 2-9/16” 3M / 5M), does using a 5000 psi Response: No. Dual pressure rated valves are outside the scope of API 6A. See definition 3.1.72
test pressure satisfy the requirements of sections 11.2.4.1 (b) and 11.2.4.2 (b)?

6A-2020-12 21st 14.1.5 Question 1: Does this requirement apply to blind and test flanges utilized as in-house Response 1: No. API 6A does not specify requirements for marking in-house test fixtures.
test fixtures for pressure testing saleable products?
Response 2: Yes.
Question 2: Does this requirement apply only to saleable Blind and Test Flanges?

6A-2020-13 21st 4.1 Question: We have studied the API 6A spec in detailed and are unable to find a table or Response: No. API 6A does not address reduced-bore ball valves. However, the term “reduced-
a reference in the API 6A spec that covers reduced bore ball valves. opening valve” (see 3.1.73) is addressed and there are multiple requirements found throughout
the document that are applicable to such valves.
Does API 6A reference or have a table covering reduced bore ball valves?

6A-2020-14 21st 7.5.2 Question 1: Is it allowed to use Stainless steel overlay on API 6A equipment for Response 1: Yes. See 7.5.2
purposes other than Corrosion Resistance, as per section 7.5.2?
Response 2: No. Stainless steel overlay for API 6A Ring Grooves is not allowed. For questions on
Question 2: When Stainless steel overlay for purposes other than Corrosion Resistance Monogram Program eligibility contact [email protected]
is used on flange ring grooves of an API 6A equipment; Can a licensed manufacturer
apply API monogram on this equipment?

6A-2020-15 21st Annex F1.13 Question 1: For valves (PR2F) which require nonmetallic component - Graphite with Response 1: Yes. Test on graphite is mandatory and products rated at PR2F shall meet the
corrosive gas service EE/DD (no use of fluid). When there is no fluid but gas, is the test applicable requirements of Annex F.
on graphite mandatory?
Response 2: No. If a product is to be marked as PR2F, then the use of API 6DSS does not meet
the requirements of API 6A.
Question 2: If the test on graphite is applicable, “Testing of Nometallic Seals has to be
performed according to Annex F”. Can we use the API 6SS rules instead of API 6A
since the service fluid is gas and not liquid?
Standard Ed Section Question Answer

6A-2020-16 21st 14.2.2.1 Section 14.2.2.1 states: "Ring gaskets shall conform to the dimensions and tolerances Response 1: Yes. The specification is silent on the specific location to measure the outer diameter
specified in Table D.9/Table E.9, Table D.10/Table E.10, and Table D.12/Table E.12..." of the ring gasket. Therefore, the requirement is that any outer diameter value must conform to the
stated value within tolerance, regardless of where they are measured. If multiple measurements
Table E.12 for BX Ring Gaskets states that the allowable tolerance on the OD is +0 / - are taken, the results of each measurement must be within tolerance per the specification.
0.006; however, no tolerance is given for "out of roundness"
Response 2: A qualified Yes/No, as follows.
Question 1: Yes: There may be instances, where the measured values of the OD around the ring vary, but still
If multiple measurements are taken on a single BX ring gasket, must all of them be fall within the allowable tolerances for each individual measurement taken. In that instance, the
within the stated tolerance given in Table D.12? manufacturer may wish to provide an averaged value for the OD, again, as long as the stated
value remains within the published tolerance. Therefore the ring gasket may be considered as
Question 2: conforming to the specification.
If multiple measurements are taken on a single BX ring gasket, can they be averaged No: If any single OD value is determined to be out of tolerance, it would not meet the response
and then the average be used as the value for verifying if the ring gasket dimension is provided for question 1 and therefore, it could not be included in any averaging attempt since the
within the stated tolerance given in Table D.12? overall the ring gasket therefore would be considered as nonconforming to the specification.

6A-2020-17 21st Table 16 In errata 1 Grade L7 bolting was removed from the 95 KSI yield strength column of table Yes, As of the release of Errata 2, this is permitted. (Be advised that this requirement is under
16. discussion for potential removal under a future addendum)
In errata 2, table 16 changed to include A320 GR L7 (>2.5") in the column of 95 KSI
materials, but in ASTM A320/320M materials with 95 KSI minimum yield strength are
not qualified as grade L7, there is actually no grade specified in ASTM 320/320M with
such characteristics.
Is material with a minimum yield strength 95 KSI allowed to be used in non exposed
bolting with diameter greater than 2.5 in for API applications?

6A-2020-18 21st 10.4.2.12.1 Steel mills providing pre-material e.g. in the form of bars often carry out heat-treatment Yes, provided the UT inspection meets the requirements of 6A. Bars may be subjected to the UT
on the mill floor, i.e. UT after final heat-treatment seems to be possible. However, the examination conforming to API 6A at the steel mill if the heat treatment performed by the mill is the
bar itself will never be used as an actual part without further machining in any final heat treatment performed for mechanical properties.
application, meaning the final surfaces are unknown and not prepared at that stage. Is it
the intent of Clause 10.4.2.12.1 that UT is carried out on pre-material on the mill floor Alternately, the product machined from the bars may be subjected to the UT examination after the
despite the fact that API 6A is an equipment specification or does the final part have to final heat treatment performed for mechanical properties and prior to machining operation that limit
be inspected? the effective interpretation of the results of the examination.

6A-2020-19 21st 10.4.2.12.3 Referenced UT requirements and related parameters from ASTM A388/A388M are No. The requirement states “For PSL 4 only, in addition, no continuous cluster of indications on
explicit. However, the additional requirement on PSL 4 in 10.4.2.12.3 is rather the same plane, regardless of amplitude, shall be found over an area twice the diameter of the
unspecific. Does the addition on PSL 4 refer to defects which exceed 50 % (or any search unit"
other percentage) of reference DAC as defined per the parameters in 10.4.2.12.2?

6A-2020-20 21st 14.16.4.1 Diaphragm actuator API 6A 14.16.4.1 require a shell test at 1.5 time the supply rating Answer 1: Yes. The shell test of 14.16.4.1 is not required for the non-metallic diaphragm element.
pressure with no visible leakage during each holding period. Non-metallic seals may be replaced after the shell test.
Question 1: Is it possible to use dummy diaphragm?
Question 2: Is the purpose of the test to prove that diaphragm cases are ok with 1.5 Answer 2: Yes. The intent of the shell test of is to prove structural integrity of the pressure-
supply pressure? boundary components listed in the first sentence of 14.16.4.1, not including the flexible diaphragm.

6A-2020-21 21st Annex M To my understanding, Annex M requires “continuous-type” ovens to be validated per No. (a) All heat-treatment equipment shall be surveyed. Subclause M.1 is required for batch-
AMS 2750, so this would mean the oven survey records are needed in addition to the type furnaces and subclause M.2 is required for continuous-type furnaces.
actual MTR, when we review material. (b) Records of equipment and instrument calibration are not material test records or heat-
treatment records required by Section 15. Spec 6A does not specify records to be maintained of
In contrast, for “batch-type” ovens, a simple MTR review would be sufficient to accept heat treat equipment surveys, and 6A does not specify at what point in the production process
the material, and no additional furnace qualification records would be needed since compliance is verified. It is the responsibility of the manufacturer to establish requirements that are
Annex M does not specify validation for this type of oven. sufficient to show compliance with 6.3.4.1 and 6.5.4.1.
Is this a correct interpretation?

6A-2020-22 21st 10.4.6 Section 10.4.6 lists different requirements for nonmetallic seals depending on the PSL Yes. See 10.4.6.
selected. However, nonmetallic seals are not listed as a product of which PSL shall be
applied to per Table 4.
Do nonmetallic seals require their own PSL?
Standard Ed Section Question Answer

6A-2020-23 21st 14.1 3.1.50 defines instrument flanges. Figure 3 shows a location of an installed instrument Answer 1: Yes, in section 4.1, Figure 3, Item 14 is identified as an instrument flange.
flange. Figure B.7 references instrument flanges on a form. Answer 2: No, the definition in 3.1.50 of an instrument flange does not meet the requirements for
an integral flange, blind flange or test flange.
Question 1: Are instrument flanges covered under section 4.1? Answer 3: Yes. It is defined as a spacer flange with a through-bore and gauge connection(s), but
Question 2: If so, are instrument flanges considered integral, blind, and test flanges per no requirements for instrument flanges or spacer flanges are provided in Spec 6A.
14.1? Answer 4: No. An instrument flange meets the definition of a loose connector in 3.1.54. Per
Question 3: Since there is no guidance on a test port from the OD of the flange is design 11.1.1 and Table 30, pressure testing is not required.
required?
Question 4: Is pressure testing required?

6A-2020-24 21st Annex M Clause M.1 reads: "After insertion of the temperature-sensing devices, readings shall be No. The requirement says to take readings every 3 minutes after insertion.
taken at least once every three minutes to determine when the temperature of the
furnace working zone approaches the bottom of the temperature range being surveyed".
Does the manufacturer decide when to start temperature measurement after insertion?
For example, the set-point temperature of the tempering furnace is 600°C. In order to
prevent the temperature from rising too fast to exceed 608°C, we measure the
temperature every 3 minutes from 500°C.

6A-2020-25 21st 10.4.9.2 Clause 10.4.9.2 does not require tensile test and hardness testing of slip segments, No. The requirements of Section 10.4.9.2 are correct as written.
where as clause 15.2.2.1 record requirements for slip segments under material test
records chemical analysis , tensile test, impact test(if required) and hardness test
records are to be maintained for slip segments.

Is it the intent of the standard to test the raw materials used for slip segments for, tensile
test and hard testing? Even though exclusive requirements are not specified as part of
clause 10.4.9.2.

6A-2020-26 21st Table 57 If a product range is validated by performing PR2F test which allows scaling, then do we No. There is no need to perform additional testing for products that are already qualified per
need to additionally perform PR1 and PR2 tests as stated in Table 57 of API 6A? Annex F.

6A-2020-27 21st Annex M Some heat treat mills use induction furnaces with pyrometers measuring the No. API 6A only addresses batch and continuous type furnaces that have been surveyed in
temperature. accordance with Annex M.. Induction heat treatment processes are not covered. See Section
Can mills use induction furnaces to make API 6A product? 6.5.

6A-2020-28 21st 8.2.2 The requirements for closure bolting are shown in Table 16, Table 17, and Table 18. No. Only inch-sized bolting shall be used in 6A flanged and studded connectors. The bolting sizes
Closure bolting nominal sizes are shown in inches. are specified in 6A only in inches. (See Table 18, Tables D1 through D.7, Tables E.1 through E.7,
Our customer is requesting nominal sizes for Flanged and Studded End and Outlet Table H.1, and Table H.2.)
Connectors in millimeters. Is this allowed?

6A-2020-29 21st Annex I "Annex I" is classified as an Informative annex. Clarity is required on whether Response 1: Yes
requirements in "Annex I" are mandatory for a product to be considered conforming to Response 2: Yes
API 6A (21st Ed.)"
Question 1: For Bolt Lengths, Is the Manufacture allowed to use dimensions other than
what is specified in Annex I ?
Question 2: For Tap end & Nut End Lengths, Is the Manufacture allowed to use
dimensions other than what is specified in Annex I ?

6A-2020-30 21st 10.4.4.1 Quality requirements for Choke Trim stated on Section 10.4.4.1 and Note "c" on Table Response 1: No, however manufacturer may establish requirements for PSL 1 & 2
26 need clarification. Response 2: Yes, unless otherwise established by manufacturer for PSL 1 & 2.
Question1: Generic Statement given as "For choke trim, only the surface NDE and
serialization shall apply". Is this applicable to all PSLs (PSL 1, 2, 3 & 4) of Choke Trim
Parts?
Question2: Table 26 describes the Choke Trim requirements (Surface NDE &
Serialization) is applicable only for PSL 3 & 4. Shall we consider No Quality Control
Requirements is applicable for PSL 1 & 2 Choke Trim Parts?
Standard Ed Section Question Answer

6A-2020-31 21st 9.3.3.2.3 Section 9.3.3.2.3 states “For material class HH, retained fluid-wetted surfaces up to and Yes. When the applicable definitions apply.
including the seal area of test ports shall be manufactured with CRA materials.”. Also,
3.1.112 defines wetted surface as “Any surface that has contact with pressurized well
fluid, either by design or because of internal seal leakage.” and 3.1.77 defines retained
fluid as “Actual fluid produced by a well or injected into a well.”
With an HH-trim level tubing head adapter, the tubing hanger has a metal-to-metal seal
on the neck. There is a test port in the gallery area, space between the tubing hanger
body seal on the tubing head spool and the metal-to-metal seal of tubing head
adapter/tubing hanger neck seal. Due to section 9.3.3.2.3 and the definitions 3.1.77 and
3.1.112, does the test port require CRA material up to and including the sealing area?

6A-2020-32 21st Table 47 As per Annex F, Clause F.1.14 scaling is allowed. No. Subclause 14.11.2.1 and Table 47 specify the design requirement for valve performance, not
Is same scaling (Clause F.1.14) applicable to the PR2 performed as per Clause test requirements. Scaling of F.1.14 is only applicable to testing conducted in accordance with
14.11.2.1 and Table 47? Annex F.

6A-2020-33 21st 8.1 Does the closure bolt requirement specified in the section is applicable to all the Yes, if the bolting meets the definition of 3.1.21.
products mentioned in section 4.1?

6A-2020-34 21st 14.1 Do the products manufactured or supplied as per section 14.1 of this standard need to Yes, if the bolting meets the definition of 3.1.21.
consider requirements specified in 8.1?
i.e. whether the bolts need to be qualified and manufactured in accordance with API
20E or API 20F. Especially the product mentioned under section 14.1.2.5 Studded outlet
connectors.
6A-2020-35 21st 12.8 12.8 of API-6A states "If hardness tests are required for bodies, bonnets, or end and No.
outlet connectors, the actual value of the hardness test shall be stamped on the part
adjacent to the test location or documented by the manufacturer".
Can hardness testing done on flange face (Front or back) and punched on the flange
OD for the API-6A flanges be considered as meeting the clause 12.8 of API-6A
requirement of punching the hardness test values adjacent to test location?
6A-2020-36 21st 10.4.7.2 Reference to dual bore Xmas tree blocks with multiple valve cavities. Question is in No. Where the same traceable part is used in more than one location in a piece of equipment,
reference to the following: there is no requirement for traceability by location installed.
Sections 10.4.2.9 Serialization
Section 10.4.7.2 Traceability Record
Section 10.4.7.3 Assembly Serialization

For PSL 3 and 4 equipment does API require bonnets, stems, gates, seats be traceable
to individual valve cavities for dual bore bodies with multiple valve cavities?
6A-2020-37 21st 6.4.2.3.1 No. Additional requirements still apply, where applicable.
6A does not provide a specific QTC size. It states "For PSL 1 , PSL 2, and PSL 3, the
ER of the QTC shall be equal to or greater than the dimensions of the part it qualifies as
determined by using the actual dimensions of the part in the “as-heat-treated”
condition". We believe complying the requirements given in API 20A, Clause 4.4.2, "An
equivalent round is not required to exceed 5 in. (125 mm) for CSL-1, CSL-2, and CSL-3
material groups A, B, and C castings" considered meeting the requirements of 6.4.2.3.1
of API 6A.
Is an ER of 5 in. (125 mm) maximum considered complying with the requirements of
API 6A clause 6.4.2.3.1 for PSL1, PSL2 and PSL 3 even the actual ER is exceeding 5
in. (125 mm)?
6A-2020-38 21st 7.3.4.4 Yes, the hardness requirement matters and is not an approximation.
In ASTM E140, there are both tables and conversion equations. We have an issue with
our microhardness tester and I was curious if it is because of round off error. For
example, 708HV is converted to 60.5HRC by the tester which would round up to 61.
When converting by the tables in E140 708HV should be 60.478HRC, which rounds
down to 60HRC... on the other hand, the equations would give 60.575HRC and that
would clearly round up to 61HRC.
The understanding is that, if the spec limit was 60HRC, you would be obliged to test the
material with a Rockwell 'C' tester to determine conformance. Any conversion is an
approximation, so if you tested the material in HV to meet a requirement stated in HRC,
at best you could say you APPROXIMATELY meet the requirement. If all you are trying
to do is approximately meet the requirement, then does it really matter if your result is
60 or 61?
Standard Ed Section Question Answer

6A-2020-39 21st 10.4.2.12.3 10.4.2.12.3 reads "For PSL 2, PSL 3, and PSL 4, the following shall apply: - no single Yes, minimum requirements are provided. It is manufacturers responsibility for supply chain
indication exceeding reference DAC; - no multiple indications exceeding 50 % of parameters to ensure consistency.
reference DAC; multiple indications are defined as two or more indications (each
exceeding 50 % of the reference DAC) within 13 mm (1/2") of each other in any
direction. For PSL 4 only, in addition, no continuous cluster of indications on the same
plane, regardless of amplitude, shall be found over an area twice the diameter of the
search unit." Referenced UT requirements and related parameters from ASTM
A388/A388M are explicit. However, the additional requirement on PSL 4 in 10.4.2.12.3
is rather unspecific. You could thus use a UT setup that is considerably different from
the one used by another party in the supply chain, e.g. a steel mill, and prove PSL 4
wrong. Since 10.4.2.12.3 does not refer to any parameters (diameter of the search unit,
frequency, etc.) this procedure might be considered correct even though not part of the
original contract (because it was unknown to the supplier).

Are there any minimum parameters to be followed to meet PSL4 to have a common
basis throughout the supply chain that everyone can refer to?

6A-2020-40 21st Table 27 In API 6A 21st edition, section 6.1 it is mentioned that other alloy systems (including No, the requirements of table 27 are applicable to ring gaskets covered in section 14.2. For other
precipitation-hardening stainless steels) shall satisfy the applicable requirements of applications, the requirements of section 10.4.5, for non-integral metal seals, apply.
Section 4, Section 5, and Section 6. In section 4.3.3.2 Material Classes for Sour Service
states “For Material Classes DD, EE, FF and HH, the manufacturer shall meet the
requirements of NACE MR0175/ISO 15156 for material processing and material
properties (eg. Hardness). In table A.27 / ISO 15156-2015 for UNS S17400 it specifies
in note (a) that UNS S17400 shall have a maximum hardness of 33 HRC / 107 HRB

Maximum hardness of ring gasket are specified in table 27 for some materials, is table
27 applicable for nonstandard ring gasket made of precipitation-hardening stainless
steels (UNS S17400)?
6A-2021-01 21st 10.2.2 We use an electronic system with pressure transducer to read the pressure chart. Response 1: No, the requirement to use a pressure gauge only between 20% and 80% of full
Pressure transducer is used as both pressure measuring and pressure recording range does not apply to electronic measurement equipment (transducers).
device. The transducer is calibrated and has accuracy within 2% FS. Per API 6A 21ST Response 2: See response 1.
edition, section 10.2.2.1 "Test pressure-measuring devices shall be accurate to at least
± 2 % of full-scale range. If pressure gauges are used in lieu of pressure transducers,
they shall be selected such that the test pressure is indicated within 20 % and 80 % of
the full-scale value."
Question 1: Is the "20 % and 80 % of the full-scale value" requirement applicable to the
transducer we used?
Question 2: Do we need to ensure the test pressure within 20-80% of the full scale of
the pressure transducer?

6A-2021-02 21st J.2.3 Per Section J.2.3.1: "Hub dimensions on equipment for which reduced bores are Response 1: Yes, provided that the hub conforms to all applicable requirements of J.2.3.
permitted (for example, chokes, check valves) shall be established by the manufacturer Response 2: Yes, provided that the flange is used on 6A equipment meeting the condition quoted
in conformance with Section 5." from J.2.3.1, i.e., where the reduced bore is permitted.
Question 1: Does this mean that if we have weldneck flange design with bore ID smaller
than the maximum permissible flange ID per Table D/E, we do not need to follow the J2
and J3 requirements per Table D/E if it meets section 5?
Question 2: If yes, does it apply to integral flange as well?

6A-2021-03 21st 8.1.2 Our products include double-studded adapters (DSA) that include an API studded Yes, for end connectors identified and marked as conforming to API 6A, all applicable
connection X ASME studded connection, and this product is supplied with studs and requirements must be satisfied, including use of studs and nuts that conform to API 20E or API
nuts. To my understanding, this product is not considered an API 6A product and this 20F.
product may not be monogrammed.

Must the API portion of the aforementioned DSA be supplied with studs and nuts per
API 20E?
Standard Ed Section Question Answer

6A-2021-04 21st 14.14 We are trying to determine whether or not all equipment defined as “casing heads or Response 1: Yes, the marking required for tubing heads and casing heads includes PR. (There
tubing heads” have an API 6A-21st edition requirement for a PR rating (either PR1 or are no differences between PR1 and PR2 for these products.)
PR2 or PR2F) (and thus attendant validation testing to support the claimed PR in the Response 2: Not applicable
design). And, if only some configurations of casing or tubing heads require a PR rating,
which design features trigger the requirement for a PR rating.
Annex F section F2.5 provides validation testing requirements for casing and tubing
heads for a PR2F rating.
Table 55 lists a marking requirement for the categories of casing and tubing heads and
tubing head adapters. A footnote says that the set of allowable markings is PR1, PR2 or
PR2F. Section 14.14 does not provide a list of specific requirements for PR testing of
casing and tubing heads.

Question 1: Do all design configurations of products designated as casing heads and

tubing heads, as per the API 6A definition of casing and tubing heads, always have a
requirement to have a PR (Performance Requirement) rating assigned (and hence
marked on the body)?
Question 2: If the answer to question 1 is “No”, then would you please provide a list of
design-features for casing heads and tubing heads that cause casing or tubing head
designs to have a requirement for a PR rating, if any?”

6A-2021-05 21st Annex F Question 1: Are the requirements of Annex F mandatory for conformance with PR2 Response 1: No, provided that design validation conforms to sections 4.2 and 5.5, and the quality
requirements? management system requirements.
Question 2: Can an organization Perform PR2 Testing as per their documented Response 2: Yes, provided that design validation conforms to sections 4.2 and 5.5, and the quality
procedure which meets the design requirements of API 6A 21st Ed? management system requirements.
Question 3a: If a product is validated based on Annex F (i.e. PR2F). Does the Response 3a: Yes. Design analysis, review, verification and documentation is required for all
organization need to maintain design documents (design input, output, calculations, final equipment, and is not subject to scaling.
review and verification, etc.) for each member that lies in the product family Validated?, Response 3b: There is not enough information to answer this question.
or
Question 3b: can use the original design package to justify other members of the
Product Family?
6A-2021-06 21st 8.2.3.1 Per section 8.2.3.1, bolting that is identified as exposed bolting by the purchaser or used Response 1: No
on the equipment with material class DD,EE,FF, or HH, assembled by the manufacturer Response 2: The question as asked cannot be answered.
with insulated flanges, shall satisfied the requirements of 8.2.3.2 or 8.2.3.3,in addition to Response 3: The question as asked cannot be answered.
8.2.3.5.
Question 1: Are the closure bolting , exposed directly to open atmosphere or open Note: If the insulation on the flanges denies the bolting direct exposure to the surrounding
seawater, subject to the requirements of exposed bolting? Note:the closure bolting is atmosphere (air or seawater), then the bolting is classified as exposed bolting from the standpoint
used to the sour environment equipment but not exposed directly to a sour environment. of H2S exposure.
Question 2: Is the insulated flanges same as the 6B flanges or 6BX flanges that
exposed directly to open atmosphere or open seawater and not equipped with the
protectors?
Question 3: Is the insulated flanges same as the flanges that is buried, insulated,
equipped with flange protectors, or otherwise denied direct atmospheric exposure?

6A-2021-07 21st 10.4.3.2.2 Per 10.4.2.12.2 Ultrasonic Examination Test Method: Response 1: Requests for interpretation must be presented in the form of a yes or no question,
Calibration: The distance amplitude curve (DAC) shall be based on a maximum 1.6 mm and questions about the factual content of a document are not interpretations. API only issues
(1/16 in.) flatbottom hole (straight-beam technique) for metal thicknesses through 38 interpretations in response to questions concerning the meaning of its standards. API does not
mm (11/2 in.), on a maximum 3.2 mm (1/8 in.) flat-bottom hole for metal thicknesses issue interpretations in response to questions seeking the rationale behind the requirements or the
from 38 mm (11/2 in.) through 150 mm (6 in.), and on a maximum 6.4 mm (1/4 in.) flat- general application of its standards. These requirements are based upon consideration of
bottom hole for metal thicknesses exceeding 150 mm (6 in.). technical data and the judgment and skill of experienced subject matter experts who serve on the
Per 10.4.3.2.2 Test Method and Acceptance Criteria: standards development committees.
The DAC shall be based on a maximum 3.2 mm (1/8 in.) flat-bottom hole (straight-beam
technique) and a maximum 1.6 mm (1/16 in.) side-drilled hole, 25 mm (1 in.) deep Response 2: No, per 10.4.3.2 for straight beam technique the DAC shall be established using a
(angle-beam technique). 1/8" flat-bottomed hole.

Question 1: Why does the Volumetric NDE of Bodies, Bonnets, End and Outlet
Connectors, and Clamp Hub End Connectors specify the use of 1.6mm (through 38
mm), 3.2mm (from 38 mm through 150 mm), 6.4mm (exceeding 150 mm) flat-bottomed
holes When drawing DAC, the Volumetric NDE of the valve stem only stipulates the use
of a flat-bottomed hole with a maximum diameter of 3.2mm to draw DAC?
Question 2: When using straight-beam technique to test the axial direction of the valve
stem from the end, the thickness of the metal far exceeds 150mm. Should a 6.4mm flat-
bottomed hole be used to draw the DAC?
Standard Ed Section Question Answer

6A-2021-08 21st 10.4.2.12.2 API 6A 21ST section 10.4.2.12.2 Ultrasonic Examination Test Method No, NDE shall be conducted in accordance with ASTM A388 and E428. These require the
For PSL 3 and PSL 4 forgings, ultrasonic examination of hot worked parts shall be Calibration blocks to be comparable but no better than the parts it is being used to examine.
performed in accordance with the flat-bottom hole procedures specified in ASTM
A388/388M (except that the immersion method may be used) and ASTM E428.

ASTM A388-2018 section 9.2.2.2 Reference-Block Calibration

The test surface roughness on the calibration standard shall be comparable to, but no
better than, the item to be examined.

Question: Table 6 of ASTM E127-2019 (instead of ASTM E428) requires the maximum
entry surface finish of the reference-block to be 0.8μm. In fact, the surface roughness of
the workpiece cannot meet the requirements. So can we adopt the method of surface
coupling compensate for the workpiece?

6A-2021-09 21st 10.4.2.10 API 6A 21st specifies the Test Method and Acceptance Criteria of NDE, but it does not Response 1: Yes. Per 10.4.12.2: "ultrasonic examination of hot worked parts shall be performed
specify the record of Indications and the reference standard of record of Indications. The in accordance with the flat-bottom hole procedures specified in ASTM A388/388M (except that the
Test Method and Acceptance Criteria refer to ASTM A388. immersion method may be used) and ASTM E428." As the normative reference is to A388
Question 1: Does the record of Indications also refer to ASTM A388? Or without citing specific clauses or a specific edition, all applicable requirements of A388 apply.
Question 2: is the record of Indications specified by the manufacturer? Response 2: No. See response to Question 1.

6A-2021-10 21st 10.4.4.1 Sec.10.4.1.4 requires "Each pressure-containing or pressure-controlling part for use in Yes. The intent of API 6A is to limit to surface NDE and serialization.
material classes DD, EE, FF, and HH shall be hardness tested individually to confirm
that the NACE MR0175/ISO 15156 hardness values have been satisfied (except for ring
gaskets, which may be sampled in accordance with 10.4.5.5)". However, in
Sec.10.4.4.1 "For choke trim, only the surface NDE and serialization shall apply",

Is the intent of API 6A to limit surface NDE and serialization only and not hardness
testing for choke trim (choke beam)?

6A-2021-11 21st F.2.16 1. The requirements for PR2 testing of a group one tubing head adapter in section Yes, compliance with Annex F to PR2F requirements is considered to meet PR2.
14.14.2.1 specify 3 cycles for pressure integrity.
2. The requirements in Annex F section F.2.16 for a group one tubing head adapter
specify hydrostatic pressure testing as per section 11.2 for which the product is
manufactured. For PSL 1 through 3 equipment this requires 2 hydrostatic shell tests.
3. As per F.1.1.1, testing conforming to Annex F validates to level PR2.

These requirements appear in conflict as the cycles performed in hydrostatic pressure

tests of 11.2 (2 cycles) have not met the minimum number of cycles per 14.14.2.1 (3
cycles)

Does PR2F validation testing in compliance to section F.2.16 (in which 2 cycles at
hydrostatic test pressure are performed) meet the requirements of PR2 validation in
compliance to section 14.14.2.1 (in which 3 cycles to rated working pressure are
required)?

6A-2021-12 21st 5.4 Design documentation shall be reviewed and verified by any "qualified individual" Response 1: Yes, the criteria for qualification of personnel for design and development
other than the individual who created the original design. verification must be established by the manufacturer.

Question 1: Is there any criteria for qualified individual? Response 2: API 6A does not address the requirements for competency. Any competency
Question 2: Can competent person review and verify the design documentation? requirements need to be in conformance with the manufacturer's requirements and the
applicable QMS competency requirements.
Standard Ed Section Question Answer

6A-2021-13 21st 4.3.2 Question 1: As per note in Table 2, minimum temperature is the lowest ambient Response 1: This cannot be answered with the information provided. See the NOTE in Table
temperature to which the equipment can be subjected, if the process fluid is in 2 - the low temperature rating is an ambient service condition. Equipment rated for
negative side(i.e -60°C) can we classify the temperature class as K as per Table 2? Temperature Class K must be designed for operation in an external environment of -60°C.

Question 2: If the temperature exceeds -60°C(i.e. -60, -70etc) ,how can we classify Response 2: Yes. As stated in 4.3.2, temperature ratings other than those listed in Table 2
the temperature class as table 2 contains classification only up to -60°? Is that the may be established by the manufacturer with the agreement of the purchaser.
responsibility of the manufacturer to classify the temperature that has not listed in the
table?

6A-2021-14 21st 14.2.3.1.1 Material requirement which was there at 5.5 of API 6A:20th edition are transferred to the Yes. Section 6.2.1 requires a written material specification for ring gaskets. Other material
section 14.2.3.1.1 Gasket Material of API 6A:21st Edn , Ring gasket material shall requirements are specified in section 14.2.3.
meet the requirements of Section 6, And 6.1 General of API 6A:21st states that ,Bodies,
bonnets, end and outlet connectors, clamp hub end connectors, hangers, pressure
boundary penetrations, and ring gaskets shall meet the requirements of Section 6.

Since there is no specific requirements in section 6.0 other than general requirement, it
means entire 6.0 is appliable for Ring Joint gasket . But it seems that this is not correct
for Ring joint gasket (If this is incorrect , the cross reference of Section 6.0 given at
14.2.3.1.1 shall be removed as well as name of “Ring Gasket” shall be removed from
6.1, or, If cross reference are correct, the it will be helpful for define which are the
section of 6.0 applicable for Ring Joint gasket)

Question: Is Section 6.0 of API 6A:21st Edition applicable to Ring gasket ?

6A-2021-15 21st 4.3.4.2 Section 4.3.4.2 declares that "minimum PSL required for material class and rated Response 1: Section 4.3.4.2 is worded as intended.
working pressure combinations shall conform to Table 5". "Shall" implies a requirement
and mandrel hangers are listed in Table 5 so they are clearly relevant to the Response 2: Yes
requirement. In the section just below the note, it says "For mandrel hangers, the PSL
should be based on the pressure rating and material class of the spool or tubing head
adapter placed over the suspended hanger." This section uses the term "should",
which, as defined in the forward, merely denotes a recommendation and not a
requirement. So it is made clear that mandrel hangers "shall" be required to meet
certain minimum PSL requirements but it is only a recommendation that those
requirements be determined based on the equipment above the hanger. This allows
room for API 6A manufacturers to choose a different basis for minimum PSL level.

Question 1: In the section below the note, is "should" the correct and intentional wording
or does API 6A actually intend for it to be a requirement that mandrel hanger minimum
PSL levels are based on equipment above the hanger?

Question 2: If "should" is intentional, does this mean that API 6A manufacturers are
allowed to use an alternative PSL level basis?
6A-2021-16 21st 14.14 Question 1: Do PR1/PR2 requirements apply to “Tubing-head Adapters” per Tables 53 Response 1: Yes
& 54 and do not apply to "Casing-head housings and spools" and "Tubing-head
spools"? Response 2: Yes

Question 2: If Casing-head spools and Tubing-head spools are used as crossover

spools, to satisfy the requirements of 14.8 (table 43), are PR1 and PR2 levels
applicable?
Standard Ed Section Question Answer

6A-2021-17 21st Table H.2 Table H.2 states the torque values for API connections. Yet, it is not confirmed whether Response 1: No. The text of H.3 provides a thorough explanation of the principles and
the bolting torque values cater for effect of vibration. calculations used to obtain the recommended make-up torques in Tables H.1 and H.2. Vibration
was not considered.
Question 1: Do torque values specified in table H.2 consider effects of vibration on API
connections? Response 2: This question does not meet the requirements for an interpretation request. The
effects of vibration on 6B and 6BX connections are outside the scope of Spec 6A.
Question 2: If it does not, what will be the recommended standard or guideline to be
followed in order to maintain the integrity of the connections under such conditions?

6A-2021-18 21st F.1.6.2.2 Section F1.6.2.2 table F.1 specifies the allowable leak rates for gas testing, based on Response 1: Your question does not meet the requirements for submission of an RFI (see
the equipment being testes. http://rfi.api.org/). However, the test medium requirements are addressed in F.1.8.1.

Question 1: what is the test medium the leak rates are defined for? Response 2: API does not review a manufacturer's specific validation procedures or alternate
units of measure for conformance to 6A Annex F.
Question 2: Can the defined leak rates be expressed in SI units mbal L / s, simply by
taking the cc/h value, divinding it by 3600 s and multiplying by 1.01? Response 3: No, except as the volume is related to nominal size, and size determines the
acceptable through-bore leakage in Table F.1.
Question 3: is the enclosed volume affecting the allowable leak rates defined in table
F.1? Response 4: Yes. See F.1.6.2.3.

Question 4: based on the requirements of section F1.6.2.2, the acceptance criteria is no

bubble during the hold period or, if any bubble, the leak rate shall be within the values
defined in table F.1. Is there any pressure drop value to be respected over the hold
period (i.e. 5% as defined for max /min temperature at following section)?

6A-2021-19 21st Table 47 Table 47- Operating Cycle Requirements for Valves (for PR2 -200 cycles) No.

For each size of Gate valve we have different material classes like AA, DD, EE and FF.

Is it required to conduct PR2 operating cycles for each material class?

(Design Configuration - Dimensions, design principles of physical configuration,
functional operation are same and meeting requirements of Cl. No 4 and 5)

6A-2021-20 21st 11.2.1 During the hydrostatic testing of the valve, test flanges are used to secure pressure in Response 1: No. Hydraulic clamps that apply a compressive load across the body cannot be
the vessel. used. See API 6A, Section 11.2.1., 3rd Bullet.

Question 1: Does API 6A allow the usage of a hydraulic clamping of the test flanges? Response 2: Yes. However, API does not review or approve a manufacturer's specific test fixture
Such fixtures would apply a compressive load across the valve body. design.

Question 2: If not, are hydraulic clamps allowed to be used? The loading is similar to
bolting loading of the flange with no transmitted load across the body.

6A-2021-21 21st 11.2.3.1 Suppliers interpretation of the API requirement to have the valve partial open is to No. As currently written, the hydrostatic shell test of a valve or choke shall be performed with the
ensure body cavity and stem seals are fully exposed to test pressure during shell tests. valve partially open, and there is no provision for alternate methods.
Above interpretation is also supported by a similar test requirement in section 9.1 of API
6D as stated below:
"All hydrostatic and gas shell tests specified shall be performed with the valve unseated
and partially open and may also be performed with the valve fully open, provided the
body cavity is simultaneously filled and pressurized through a cavity connection."

Question: Does shell testing of a valve in fully open position meet the requirements of
partial open valve testing per 11.2.3.1, provided the body cavity and stem seals are fully
exposed to test pressure during the tests?
Standard Ed Section Question Answer

6A-2021-22 21st Table 5 During the audit an auditor said the working pressure are design base on the PSL level No. Because PSL 1 listed in the table is the minimum level. Equipment of material class DD, EE,
as per Table 5. When design package for PSL 3 Material Type DD, the working or FF, with any pressure rating from 2,000 to 20,000 psi, can be manufactured and certified to
pressure shall be 15k or 20k instead below 15k are not acceptable. PSL 3.
Example: we have design the material type DD, tested under working pressure 3k and
design package are stated for PSL3. The auditor indicated the design did not meet to
PSL 3 requirement.
Our interpretation are from Table 5 pressure rating for 3K are minimum certified for
PSL1 and also up to PSL3, so the design still met to the minimum PSL level
requirement.

Question: is it correct the minimum of PSL level stated in Table 5 only apply for those
product PSL level been stated where others level does not identified are not
acceptable?

6A-2021-23 21st 10.4.2.15.1. Section 10.4.2.15.1, "100% of all pressure-containing fabrication welds and weld overlay Response 1: Yes.
shall be examined by either magnetic particle (in the case of ferromagnetic materials) or Response 2: No.
liquid penetrant (in the case of ferromagnetic or nonferromagnetic materials) methods
after all welding, post-weld heat-treatment, and machining operations."
Kindly advise if the statement "after all welding, post-weld heat-treatment, and
machining operations." refers to

Question 1. One NDE operation after all the mentioned activities completed? or

Question 2. NDE to be performed every time after each of the activities (weld, post weld
heat treatment, and machining) respectively, i.e. in this case three times NDE in total?

6A-2021-24 21st 14.11.2.1 Table 47 requires 3 operating cycles for PR1 and 200 operating cycles for PR2. Response 1: No. The PR cycles of Table 47 are design requirements and apply to performance
requirements only. They are not FAT requirements.
Question 1: Supposing a purchase order of several API 6A valves (same size/pressure
rating) and contract requirement of Performance Requirement Level PR2, shall we Response 2: N/A (See Response 1)
perform 200 operating cycles as production test on each valve?
Question 2: if answer is yes, for a bidirectional valve, are 200 operating cycles required Response 3: The question is not clear. However, the FAT requirements are independent of the
for each side or cumulative number is enough? product validation testing.
Question 3: does existing validation per PR2F full Annex F allows to perform only FAT
according to section 11 and still certifying the complete batch of valves PR2?

6A-2021-25 21st Table 48 according to table 48, ring groove type and number shall be marked near each Response 1: No. As currently written, the end connector size, RWP, and ring gasket shall be
connector. Such marking is typically performed on each connector prior to sand-blast marked on each connector OD and also on either the body or a nameplate, and there is no
and paint. As a consequence, such markings are no longer visible for final inspection / provision for alternate methods.
after shipment.
Response 2: No. The marking method must conform to clause 12.2.
Question 1: is enough to report such information on valve body nameplate?

Question 2: if no, can be this information reported on glued sticks (no metallic
nameplate)?

6A-2021-26 21st 10.4.2.5.2 10.4.2.5.2, states "If a thread gauge is used for inspection, it shall conform to the Response 1: No, other methods may be used.
requirements for working gauges as stipulated in API 5B. Threads shall be inspected for Response 2: This question can't be answered. API does not provide interpretations on Notes
standoff at hand-tight assembly.
Question 1: Is it a minimum requirement to inspect standoff by use of working gauges
as basis of acceptance for end and outlet connector threads?
Question 2: Note 2 in Sec. 10.4.2.5.2, states "may be inspected for standoff at hand-
tight assembly". Is it acceptable to inspect and confirm all thread elements(for example
as thread taper, thread lead, crest dia., thread height and addendum, angle of thread
form, etc) as per API 5B except the standoff inspection by working thread gauges, as
basis of acceptance for end and outlet connector threads?
Standard Ed Section Question Answer

6A-2021-27 21st 4.3.4.2 Clause 4.3.4.2 Response 1: Yes

The minimum PSL required for material class and rated working pressure combinations Response 2: Yes
shall conform to Response 3: Yes
Table 5. NOTE Annex B provides guidelines (not requirements) for selecting an
acceptable PSL.
Table 5 - Minimum PSL
Table 7 - Standard and Nonstandard Material Applications for Bodies, Bonnets, and
End and Outlet Connectors
Scenario: We have Adjustable Choke, 2-1/16" 2K X 2-1/16" 2K, EE-1.5, P+X, PSL3,
Material Designation Used is 60K.

Question 1: As per API 6A, 21st Edition, the minimum PSL required for the above
scenario considering Material EE-1.5 and 2K pressure Rating is PSL1, however if facility
qualifies all quality, and subsequent testing requirements to higher Product Specification
Level i.e. PSL3 in this case is acceptable?
Question 2: Could facility choose to opt for higher PSL if subsequent Quality
requirements are qualified with respect to selected PSL?
Question 3: Does this apply to all products under API 6A which are having PSL level?

6A-2021-28 21st M.2 Furnaces used for continuous heat-treatment shall be validated in accordance with Response 1: Yes, however the requirements of 6.5 also apply which includes use of calibrated
procedures specified in SAE AMS2750 or SAE AMS-H-6875. The word “validated” has instruments.
replaced the word “calibrated” from the 20th edition of this specification. This change Response 2: Yes. Annex M is titled "Survey" and requires validation.
has raised questions. I believe the standard recognizes by this change that it may not Response 3: No
be possible to directly calibrate a continuous heat treatment furnace. Therefore, if Response 4: Yes. See 10.1
instruments cannot be used to directly confirm the furnace is working properly, then it
must be validated; for example through confirmation that material which is heat treated
with the furnace meets the defined acceptance criteria.

Question 1: Is the intent of clause M.2 that the validation of the heat treating furnace is
through confirmation that material which is heat treated with the furnace meets the
defined acceptance criteria?
Question 2: If, as required by 6.5, furnaces shall be surveyed according to Annex M, is
the intent of clause M.2 that the entity that is responsible for the heat treatment furnace
is also responsible for the validation?
Question 3: If, as required by 6.5, the equipment manufacturer’s specification requires
the supplier of the heat treated material to comply with Annex M, is it the intent of clause
M.2 that the equipment manufacturer perform the validation?
Question 4: If, as required by 6.5, the equipment manufacturer’s specification requires
the supplier of the heat treated material to comply with Annex M, is it the intent of clause
M.2 that the supplier of the heat treated material to provide records of the validation?

6A-2021-29 21st 10.4.9 Section 10.4.9.1 about Slip Bowls does not define the record requirements that should No, Records requirements for Slip Bowls are found in 15.2.
be formed, and 10.4.9.2.7 Records Control is for section 10.4.9.2.Slip Segments.
Question: Should Slip Bowls record requirements be implemented in accordance with
10.4.9.2?
Standard Ed Section Question Answer

6A-2021-30 21st 11.2.3.3 3.1.13 defines a Casing Head Spool as an Equipment attached to another casing head Response 1: Yes
that serves to suspend and seal a secondary casing string. 3.1.26 defines crossover Response 2: Yes
connector as Product with a restricted-area sealing means and with a top connector See 14.14.2.10.5
pressure rating above that of the lower connector. As per Sec. 11.2.3.3 a) For
equipment with end or outlet connectors having different rated working pressures, the
lowest working pressure rating shall be used to determine the hydrostatic shell test
pressure (except for crossover connectors and chokes).
Question 1: Is it the intent of API6A to treat a Casing Head spool with end connectors
having different rated working pressures as a cross over spool?
Question 2: If Yes, Does the hydrostatic shell test pressure determination for these
casing head spools follows API 6A Section 11.2.3.3 b) as required for cross over
connector?

6A-2021-31 21st Table 5 4.3.4.2 Minimum PSL states "The minimum PSL required for material class and rated Response 1: Yes
working pressure combinations shall conform to Table 5". Table 5 stablished MINIMUM Response 2: Yes
PSL level based on trim and working pressure.
Question 1: Can we have a part EE,DD or FF trim and 10,000 psi working pressure with
higher PSL level such as PSL3?
Question 2: Should Table 5 be interpreted as MINIMUM PSL requirement and any PSL
level above the minimum is allowed as per customer’s request?

6A-2021-32 21st 3.1.31 If the bolting is not completely covered and only a portion of the bolt is in contact with Yes. API 6A 3.1.31 does not qualify the extent of exposure, so any portion of the bolt that meets
the insulation material (e.g. in between raised face of two API flanges), is the bolting still this definition would result in the entire bolt being called exposed bolting.
considered as exposed bolting since it is not completed denied direct atmospheric
exposure?

6A-2021-33 21st 14.11.2.2.1 This section points to table E.22 and E.23 for End to End dimensions for valves and No, they are not the same. A length listed as "PMR" indicates that the size and pressure is a valid
states if a value is not given it shall be per Manufacturer requirements. 6A valve configuration, but there is no standard length established, and it is left to the manufacture
In table E.22 there are 3 possibilities, 1) a value is given 2) PMR (per manufacturer to specify the length. A cell with "-" entered indicates that the size and pressure combination are
requirement) is given 3) "-" is given. not a valid 6A valve configuration, regardless of length.
Question: Does PMR and "-" mean the same thing that the manufacturer can assign an
end to end value?
As 14.11.2.2.1.b.2 states in the absence of a value the manufacturer can specify one,
however since PMR is an option for certain sizes, "-" implies to me you cannot have that
option. For instance is an 11" 2k gate valve with a "-" monogrammable

6A-2021-34 21st 6.4.2.3.2 Section 6.4.2.3.2 says Forgings, and there is some question as to the validity of Yes, it can be considered a forging
applying hot rolled wrought Bar products in this category.
Section 6.3.3.2 "forging Practices" states That "all wrought materials shall be formed
using hot working practices that produce a wrought structure throughout". Hot rolled
wrought bars are not technically castings, so there is really no other option under 6.4.2.3
"Size Requirement".
Question: Based on the data above, can hot rolled wrought bar products be considered
to fall under 6.4.2.3.2 "Forging"?

6A-2021-35 21st 5.1.3 In section 5.1.3.1 there 3 methods specified for calculation of bodies and bonnets and Response 1: Yes
other connectors. and it is mentioned that if stress levels calculated by methods in Response 2: This question cannot be answered. It is out of the scope of 6A
5.1.3.2, 5.1.3.3, and 5.1.3.4 exceed the allowable stresses, other methods identified by
the manufacturer shall be used to justify these stresses.
Question 1: Do those methods apply for bodies and bonnets made of nonstandard
materials?
Question 2: Are calculations methods mentioned in API17G 3rd edition considered
acceptable methods for bodies?
Standard Ed Section Question Answer

6A-2021-36 21st Annex F Design Validation according to appendix F might be followed also for not Response 1: No.
monogrammable valves (for example, valve ID different from what stated on tables D.22 Response 2: No.
- D.23 or D.24). There is no 45 mm size in Table F.3. For a rating of PR2, the manufacturer shall document his
Assuming a 10k ball valve, designed with 45 mm (so with dimensions not in line with scaling criteria.
Table D.23) and validated according to Annex F.
Question 1: Can the same valve (same sealing diameters and tollerances), machined
with 46 mm ID (so fully complying to table D.23) and following all other API 6A
mandatory requirements for 1.13/16" 10k, be monogrammed without any further
validation?
Question 2: Can a 2.1/16" 10k be covered by scaling on Annex F performed on 45 mm
bore ID?

6A-2021-37 21st 10.4.2.4.1 e We have manufactured an Integral Spool for some specific size, with the integral Response 1: No. It is not the intent for PSL 3 and PSL 4 to require hardness tests in locations
Flanges at both the ends per Table E.4, and per Material Class of “DD” and PSL 3. Per other than the end connectors.
section 10.4.2.4.1 (e), for this equipment, additional hardness tests shall be performed Response 2: No
at the locations of
a) “Each End connector face” – This instruction is very clear, that one each hardness
test must be performed at each flange face.
b) “Body” – But API does not specify the location of the hardness test on the ”body” and
hence this RFI.

Going by section 3.1.8, for definition of “body”, which defines it as “Any portion of
wellhead and tree equipment that includes one or more end connectors and is designed
to be exposed to and contain well bore pressure and fluid”; Our Quality Control
Engineer picks a point here that “Any portion of the equipment” means of his discretion,
to choose and perform the hardness test location, that is convenient for him. Thus, he
chooses only the option (a), from the below listed 3 options:
a) On one of the end Flange faces again: Being an already a machined flat surface,
extra grinding is not required for performing the hardness test and hence this is his
preferred location.
b) On one of the Flange ODs:Due to circumferential diameter, extra grinding flat is
required, to perform the hardness test and so not willing to pursue with this location.
c) On the smallest sectional Diameter J2, per Table E.4, of Integral Flange:
i) Due to circumferential diameter, extra grinding flat is required, to perform the hardness
test and so not willing to pursue with this location.
ii) Also, when flat grinding is done at this smallest sectional diameter J2, some of our
customers also object that this grinding, reduces the wall thickness at this portion.

Question 1: Is the understanding of our Quality Control Engineer to perform the

additional 3rd hardness test again on the end flange face is correct, with his justification
of applying the definition of the “body” per section 3.1.8?
Question 2: Is it the intent of API, just to perform the additional hardness test only on the
smallest sectional diameter J2, to ensure the suitability of the equipment?