# 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, particularly in oil and gas, petrochemical, and power generation sectors. While both standards address valve design and manufacturing, they have distinct focuses and applications.

## Scope and Purpose

ASME B16.34

The ASME B16.34 standard covers the design, materials, dimensions, testing, and inspection 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 specifically focuses on bolted bonnet steel gate valves for petroleum and natural gas industries. This standard provides more detailed requirements for gate valve design, materials, and testing, making it more specialized than ASME B16.34.

## Key Differences

1. Valve Types Covered

ASME B16.34 is more comprehensive, covering multiple valve types, while API 600 is exclusively for steel gate valves.

2. Pressure-Temperature Ratings

Both standards provide pressure-temperature ratings, but API 600 includes additional requirements for extreme service conditions common in oil and gas applications.

3. Material Requirements

API 600 has more stringent material specifications, particularly for components like stems, seats, and wedges that face harsh operating conditions.

4. Testing Requirements

API 600 mandates more rigorous testing procedures, including extended duration shell tests and more comprehensive seat leakage tests.

## Application Considerations

When selecting between these standards, engineers should consider:

• Industry requirements (API standards are often mandated in oil and gas)
• Valve type and application
• Operating conditions (pressure, temperature, media)
• Regulatory and customer specifications

## Conclusion

While ASME B16.34 provides a broad foundation for valve design and manufacturing, API 600 offers specialized requirements for steel gate valves in demanding petroleum industry applications. Many valves are designed to meet both standards, ensuring they can be used across various industries and applications. Understanding the differences between these standards helps in selecting the appropriate valves for specific operational needs.