Boilers are used in applications ranging from manufacturing processes to power generation. When dealing with these devices, safety is of utmost importance.
A large vessel containing heated water under high pressure is a recipe for disaster if not maintained properly. Boilers must be used properly and inspected regularly to ensure safe operation.
Boiler nameplates provide crucial information to for operators and inspectors servicing boilers.
Regulations
Boilers are subject to a fair amount of scrutiny from regulators. Industry-wide authorities have developed agreed upon standards. While there are widespread guidelines, each state sets forth their own legislation as well. Make sure your boilers match up with all pertinent requirements.
ASME
The American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) has set forth their own rulesets for the operation and identification of boilers and other pressure vessels.
One of the fundamental elements of ASME certification is the use of a metal nameplate. This plate must be permanently attached to the boiler vessel.
Organizations which comply with these standards typically include an ASME certification stamp on the nameplate itself. This mark indicates the equipment is compliant with all relevant ASME standards.
National Board
The National Board of Boiler and Pressure Vessel Inspectors was created in the early 20th century to help create a standardized set of guidelines for the operation and safety of boilers and other pressure vessels.
National Board guidelines state that the boiler nameplate must be kept original. If the plate needs to be replaced, there is protocol to follow. This includes prominently distinguishing “replacement” on the new nameplate, as well as filling out the proper paperwork (form NB-136).
In addition, if the vessel is registered with the National Board, the number must be included on the nameplate.
What Information is Included?
While the specific information on the plate may vary by industry or organization, there are some items found on most plates.
The main elements commonly included on boiler nameplates include:
- Serial Number
- Manufacturer Information
- Maximum Allowable Working Pressure (MAWP) (Measured in PSI)
- Minimum Design Metal Temperature (MDMT) (Measured in Degrees)
- ASME Symbol
- National Board Seal
- National Board Registration Number
- Date(s) Tested
- Year of Installation
How Are They Attached?
Identification nameplates are typically attached to the front of the boiler vessel. They must be prominently shown in an easily accessible and visible area.
Boiler safety relief valves are also often labeled with their own nameplate containing pertinent information.
Regulations state the nameplate must be attached in a very secure manner so it doesn’t become dislodged or lost.
In order to accommodate this type of secure hold, many organizations choose to directly weld their plates to the boiler vessel in some capacity. This must be done without compromising any structural integrity of the pressure retaining vessel itself.
Nameplates can also be attached via industrial grade adhesive backing or bolted on with hardware.
Marking Processes
Photo Anodization
One of the most versatile nameplate marking solutions, photo anodization is used for a wide range of applications.
Photo anodization embeds a custom design beneath a sealed layer of anodized aluminum. These metal name plates provide high durability in industrial type environments. This process offers 20+ years of longevity, with corrosion resistant properties.
In many of the guidelines for these identification plates, stamping is called out as a permanent marking solution for the information. Elements such as dates and certification approvals are meant to be stamped into the metal substrate.
Photo anodized nameplates can be produced with blank spaces to later stamp information into. This means information for a large quantity of these plates can remain the same.
Etching
The etching process utilizes a chemical process to produce the impression of a custom design on a metal plate.
Similarly to photo anodizing, etched nameplates often include spaces to mark future information and approvals. Etching often incorporates a color fill into the indentations.
Etch plates can be very thick, enabling them to weld easily to a pressure vessel.
While this process is effective, it is not quite as durable. The etched design will only be slightly indented in the material. Any color fill is highly susceptible to fading and wear.
Wrap-Up
Boiler nameplates provide an effective method for providing information to operators and inspectors regarding the usage and maintenance of pressure vessels.
Organizations which use these vessels are required to utilize custom identification plates to meet ASME and National Board guidelines.
Need help on ordering metal nameplates? Contact Metal Marker at 1-800-428-0095 and a member of our team would be happy to help!