API RP 578

The purpose of this recommended practice (RP) is to provide the guidelines for a material and quality assurance system to verify that the nominal composition of alloy components within the pressure envelope of a piping system is consistent with the selected or specified construction materials to minimize the potential for catastrophic release of toxic or hazardous liquids or vapors.

This RP provides the guidelines for material control and material verification programs on ferrous and nonferrous alloys during the construction, installation, maintenance, and inspection of new and existing process piping systems covered by the ASME B31.3 and API 570 piping codes. This RP applies to metallic alloy materials purchased for use either directly by the owner/user or indirectly through vendors, fabricators, or contractors and includes the supply, fabrication, and erection of these materials. Carbon steel components specified in new or existing piping systems are not specifically covered under the scope of this document unless minor/trace alloying elements are critical to component corrosion resistance or similar degradation.