# 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 have distinct requirements. Understanding these differences is crucial for engineers, procurement specialists, and quality control professionals working with valves in various industrial applications.
Scope and Application
ASME B16.34
ASME B16.34 is a comprehensive standard that covers the design, materials, dimensions, and testing requirements for valves with flanged, threaded, and welding end connections. It applies to a wide range of valve types including gate, globe, check, ball, and butterfly valves.
API 600
API 600, on the other hand, specifically focuses on bolted bonnet steel gate valves for petroleum and natural gas industries. It’s more specialized than ASME B16.34 and includes additional requirements specific to gate valves used in demanding hydrocarbon service.
Key Differences
Valve Types Covered
ASME B16.34 is broader in scope, covering multiple valve types, while API 600 is limited to bolted bonnet steel gate valves.
Pressure-Temperature Ratings
Both standards reference pressure-temperature ratings, but API 600 includes more stringent requirements for hydrocarbon service applications.
Material Requirements
API 600 has more specific material requirements, particularly for trim components, to ensure durability in harsh oil and gas environments.
Testing Requirements
Keyword: two commonly asme b16 34 and api 600
While both standards include testing protocols, API 600 typically requires more rigorous testing, especially for fugitive emissions and extended seat testing.
When to Use Each Standard
ASME B16.34 is appropriate for general industrial applications across various valve types, while API 600 should be specified when dealing specifically with steel gate valves in petroleum or natural gas service where higher reliability and performance are required.
Conclusion
Both ASME B16.34 and API 600 play important roles in valve standardization, but they serve different purposes. ASME B16.34 provides a broad foundation for valve design and manufacturing, while API 600 offers specialized requirements for critical gate valve applications in the oil and gas industry. Understanding these differences helps ensure proper valve selection and application in various industrial settings.