# 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. These standards play crucial roles in ensuring the safety, reliability, and performance of valves used in various industries. While they share some similarities, they also have distinct differences that engineers and procurement specialists should understand.

## Overview of ASME B16.34

The ASME B16.34 standard is developed by the American Society of Mechanical Engineers and covers pressure-temperature ratings, dimensions, tolerances, materials, and testing requirements for valves. Key aspects include:

– Applies to flanged, threaded, and welding end valves
– Covers various valve types including gate, globe, check, ball, and butterfly valves
– Provides pressure-temperature ratings for different materials
– Includes requirements for wall thickness calculations

## Overview of API 600

API 600 is a standard developed by the American Petroleum Institute specifically for bolted bonnet steel gate valves for petroleum and natural gas industries. Its main features include:

– Focuses exclusively on steel gate valves
– Includes requirements for design, materials, face-to-face dimensions, and testing
– Contains more stringent requirements for critical service applications
– Often referenced in oil and gas projects

## Key Differences Between the Standards

### Scope and Application

While ASME B16.34 is a broader standard covering multiple valve types, API 600 is specifically focused on steel gate valves. ASME B16.34 is widely used across various industries, whereas API 600 is primarily used in the oil and gas sector.

### Design Requirements

API 600 includes more detailed design specifications for gate valves, such as minimum stem diameter requirements and specific guidance on sealing surfaces. ASME B16.34 provides more general design parameters applicable to multiple valve types.

### Testing Requirements

Pressure Testing

Both standards require shell and seat tests, but API 600 typically has more stringent requirements, especially for high-pressure applications in the petroleum industry.

Material Testing

API 600 includes additional material testing requirements to ensure suitability for harsh oil and gas environments.

## When to Use Each Standard

The choice between these standards depends on several factors:

• Use ASME B16.34 for general industrial applications with various valve types
• Specify API 600 when dealing with critical service steel gate valves in oil and gas operations
• Many projects require compliance with both standards for different aspects of valve design and manufacturing

## Conclusion

Understanding the differences between ASME B16.34 and API 600 is essential for proper valve selection and specification. While ASME B16.34 provides comprehensive coverage of various valve types, API 600 offers specialized requirements for steel gate valves in demanding petroleum applications. Engineers should carefully consider project requirements when deciding which standard to reference.