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NBBI Inservice Inspector (IS) study materials
NBBI Inservice Inspector (IS) study resources

NBBI Inservice Inspector (IS): NBIC Part 1 - Installation of Boilers and Pressure Vessels

NBBI Inservice Inspector (IS) · Work through your exam, one topic at a time.

All guide sections

NBIC Part 1 - Installation of Boilers and Pressure Vessels

What Part 1 covers

NBIC Part 1 governs installation: placing a new boiler or pressure vessel on its foundation, making the connections, mounting the appurtenances, and putting the item into service. It also applies when used equipment is relocated and reinstalled. Design and fabrication belong to the code of construction (ASME Section I or Section VIII); Part 1 is about everything that happens after the item leaves the shop.

Core requirements

  • Verify stamping (S, M, U, and so on), the manufacturer's data report (NB-1 for boilers, NB-2 for vessels), and the National Board registration number before the item is set.
  • Foundations and supports are sized for the loaded weight plus thermal movement; connected piping is independently supported so it imposes no strain on the shell.
  • Keep manways, inspection openings, and the space needed to remove the relief valve accessible. Insulation must not cover nameplates or conceal leaks.
  • Safety valves: no shutoff valve may be installed between a boiler and its safety valve; the valve mounts vertically with the spindle upright, and the discharge is piped, drained, and independently supported.
  • Boilers: verify gauge glass location (lowest visible water level), water column, try cocks, and pressure gauge before firing.
  • Record the installation inspection; the completed record belongs to the owner and the jurisdiction.

Worked example

A used Section VIII vessel is moved to a new plant. The U stamp is legible but the data report is missing. The inspector does not simply accept the item: the National Board number lets the report be traced through the original manufacturer or the National Board. The saddles are checked for the new foundation, connected piping is checked for imposed strain, and the relief valve - unknown history - is bench tested and resealed before startup.

Traps

Confusing Part 1 (installation) with Part 2 (in-service). Assuming an inspector may waive missing stamping. Overlooking support of the relief valve discharge piping.