This code recommends the use of golden welds if hydrostatic or pneumatic tests will have an adverse effect on the piping or operating fluid. The recommendation is that the weld should pass 100% radiographic examination or 100% ultrasonic examination per standard. This helps ensure that weld discontinuities meet acceptance standards in API 1104. Essentially, the method should accurately interpret and quantify potential defects. The most common are radiographic and ultrasonic non-destructive methods. According to the code, the NDT shall consist of a visual inspection, supplemented by at least one other method. However, the condition for using this type of weld is extensive NDT. The code permits the use of golden welds for tie-ins because it is often necessary to divide pipelines into test sections and install them separately. These guidelines are in sections B31.3 (Process Piping), and B31.4 (Pipeline Transportation System for Liquids and Slurries). The ASME code for pressure piping, B31, provides guidance for the use of golden welds. In any case, various codes have made recommendations on how best to deploy them. The absence of pressure tests makes the use of golden welds a delicate procedure. Predominantly, welders use golden welds in securing the hot tap joint because it is not possible to pressure test it while the existing pipeline remains in operation. This ensures the continuous operation of the existing infrastructure and minimizes production downtime. Hot tapping, or pressure tapping, is the method of making a connection to an existing pressure vessel, process system, or pipeline without putting it out of service. In practice, these joints occur often in the following applications. Thus, the use of golden welds on such joints. However, an exemption from the test is possible if it is not technically feasible. Pressure testing is a prerequisite to putting welded joints into service. This article gives an overview of golden weld applications, their code applicability, methods of validating the weld suitability, and measures to take when executing welds. Such welds go through extensive non-destructive testing (NDT) to ensure they are defect-free in line with standards. A golden weld, or closure weld, is simply a welded joint that does not undergo pressure tests.
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