Process Piping Practice Exam: 200
Questions & Answers,Explanation (2024
Study Guide
1. Which ASME B31 code is specifically titled "Process Piping"?
A) ASME B31.1
B) ASME B31.3
C) ASME B31.8
D) ASME Section VIII
Answer: B
Rationale: ASME B31.3 governs process piping in refineries,
chemical plants, pharmaceutical, and textile plants. B31.1 is
power piping; B31.8 is gas transmission.
2. Under ASME B31.3, a "Category M Fluid Service" is defined
as:
,Page 2 of 46
A) A fluid that is non-flammable and non-toxic
B) A fluid that is highly toxic, so that a single exposure can
cause serious harm
C) A fluid that is above 300°F
D) Any fluid classified as Class 1 liquid
Answer: B
Rationale: Category M fluids are highly toxic; they require
stringent examination and leak testing beyond normal fluid
service.
3. The B31.3 requirement for a piping material re-rating after a
change in operating conditions requires:
A) Only the owner's verbal approval
B) Re-calculation of MAWP and verification of existing
components
C) Automatic 50% reduction in pressure
,Page 3 of 46
D) Replacement of all flanges
Answer: B
Rationale: Re-rating requires documented engineering review of
original MAWP and compliance with applicable para. 302.2.4.
4. Which ASME B31.3 fluid service has the most stringent NDE
requirements?
A) Normal Fluid Service
B) Category D Fluid Service
C) Category M Fluid Service
D) High Pressure Fluid Service (>Class 2500)
Answer: C
Rationale: Category M (toxic) demands 100% radiography of
certain welds and enhanced leak testing.
5. According to B31.3, the design life of a piping system is
typically assumed to be:
, Page 4 of 46
A) 5 years
B) 10 years
C) 20 years
D) Not specified; depends on corrosion allowance
Answer: D
Rationale: B31.3 does not mandate a specific design life; it
depends on corrosion allowance and cyclic service.
6. A piping system operating at 150 psi steam, 400°F, non-toxic,
non-flammable is classified as:
A) Category M
B) Normal Fluid Service
C) Category D
D) High Pressure