# Comparison of ASME B16.34 and API 600 Standards
Introduction
When it comes to industrial valves, two commonly referenced standards are ASME B16.34 and API 600. While both standards address valve design and manufacturing, they serve different purposes and apply to different types of valves. Understanding the differences between these standards is crucial for engineers, procurement specialists, and quality control professionals working in the oil and gas, power generation, and process industries.
Scope and Application
ASME B16.34
The ASME B16.34 standard covers the design, materials, dimensions, testing, and inspection requirements for valves with flanged, threaded, and welding end connections. It applies to a wide range of valve types including gate, globe, check, ball, and butterfly valves. This standard is particularly important for power plant applications and general industrial use.
API 600
API 600 is specifically focused on bolted bonnet steel gate valves for petroleum and natural gas industries. It provides more stringent requirements than ASME B16.34 for this specific valve type, particularly in terms of materials, testing, and quality control. API 600 valves are typically used in more demanding service conditions.
Key Differences
1. Valve Types Covered
ASME B16.34 has a broader scope covering multiple valve types, while API 600 is exclusively for bolted bonnet steel gate valves.
2. Pressure-Temperature Ratings
Both standards provide pressure-temperature ratings, but API 600 includes additional requirements for extreme service conditions common in oil and gas applications.
3. Material Requirements
API 600 specifies more detailed material requirements and additional testing for the harsh environments encountered in petroleum service.
4. Testing Requirements
API 600 generally has more rigorous testing requirements, including extended shell test durations and more comprehensive quality control procedures.
5. End Connections
While ASME B16.34 covers various end connections, API 600 primarily focuses on flanged end connections suitable for pipeline service.
When to Use Each Standard
Choose ASME B16.34 when:
- Working with various valve types beyond gate valves
- Applications are in general industrial or power plant service
- Cost considerations are important
Choose API 600 when:
- Specifically requiring bolted bonnet steel gate valves
- Applications involve petroleum or natural gas service
- More stringent quality and performance requirements are needed
Conclusion
While there is some overlap between ASME B16.34 and API 600, they serve different purposes in the valve industry. ASME B16.34 provides general requirements for a wide variety of valves, while API 600 offers specialized, more rigorous standards for specific valve types in demanding petroleum applications. Understanding these differences helps ensure proper valve selection for each application’s specific requirements.
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