ASTM E2863-17
(Practice)Standard Practice for Acoustic Emission Examination of Welded Steel Sphere Pressure Vessels Using Thermal Pressurization
Standard Practice for Acoustic Emission Examination of Welded Steel Sphere Pressure Vessels Using Thermal Pressurization
SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
5.1 Because of safety considerations, regulatory agencies (for example, U.S. Department of Transportation) require periodic tests of pressurized vessels used in commercial aviation. (see Section 49, Code of Federal Regulations). AE testing has become accepted as an alternative to the common hydrostatic proof test.
5.2 An AE test should not be conducted for a period of one year after a common hydrostatic test. See Note 1.
Note 1: The Kaiser effect relates to the irreversibility of acoustic emission which results in decreased emission during a second pressurization. Common hydrostatic tests use a relatively high test pressure (200 % of normal service pressure). (See Section 49, Code of Federal Regulations.) If an AE test is performed too soon after such a hydrostatic pressurization, the AE results will be insensitive below the previous maximum test pressure.
5.3 Acoustic Emission is produced when an increasing stress level in a material causes crack growth in the material or stress related effects in a corroded surface (for example, crack growth in or between metal crystallites or spalling and cracking of oxides and other corrosion products).
5.4 While background noise may distort AE data or render it useless, heating the vessels inside an industrial oven is an almost noise free method of pressurization. Further, source location algorithms using over-determined data sets will often allow valid tests in the presence of otherwise interfering noise sources. Background noise should be reduced or controlled but the sudden occurrence of such noise does not necessarily invalidate a test.
SCOPE
1.1 This practice is commonly used for periodic inspection and testing of welded steel gaseous spheres (bottles) is the acoustic emission (AE) method. AE is used in place of hydrostatic volumetric expansion testing. The periodic inspection and testing of bottles by AE testing is achieved without depressurization or contamination as is required for hydrostatic volumetric expansion testing.
1.2 The required test pressurization is achieved by heating the bottle in an industrial oven designed for this purpose. The maximum temperature needed to achieve the AE test pressure is ≤250°F (121°C).
1.3 AE monitoring of the bottle is performed with multiple sensors during the thermal pressurization.
1.4 This practice was developed for periodic inspection and testing of pressure vessels containing Halon (UN 1044), which is commonly used aboard commercial aircraft for fire suppression. In commercial aircraft, these bottles are hermetically sealed by welding in the fill port. Exit ports are opened by explosively activated burst disks. The usage of these pressure vessels in transportation is regulated under US Department of Transportation (DOT), Code of Federal Regulations CFR 49. A DOT special permit authorizes the use of AE testing for periodic inspection and testing in place of volumetric expansion and visual inspection. These bottles are spherical with diameters ranging from 5 to 16 in. (127 to 406 mm).
1.5 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as the standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical conversions to SI units that are provided for information only and are not considered standard.
1.6 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. Specific precautionary statements are given in Section 8.
1.7 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
General Information
- Status
- Published
- Publication Date
- 31-May-2017
- Technical Committee
- E07 - Nondestructive Testing
- Drafting Committee
- E07.04 - Acoustic Emission Method
Relations
- Effective Date
- 01-Jun-2017
- Effective Date
- 01-Feb-2024
- Effective Date
- 01-Dec-2019
- Effective Date
- 01-Mar-2019
- Effective Date
- 01-Jan-2018
- Effective Date
- 15-Jun-2017
- Effective Date
- 01-Feb-2017
- Effective Date
- 01-Aug-2016
- Effective Date
- 01-Feb-2016
- Effective Date
- 01-Dec-2015
- Effective Date
- 01-Sep-2015
- Effective Date
- 01-Jun-2014
- Effective Date
- 01-Jun-2014
- Effective Date
- 01-Dec-2013
- Effective Date
- 15-Jun-2013
Overview
ASTM E2863-17 is the standard practice for examining welded steel sphere pressure vessels using acoustic emission (AE) testing with thermal pressurization. This method is primarily used for periodic inspection of welded steel gaseous spheres-often referred to as bottles-such as those used to store Halon 1301 fire suppression agent on commercial aircraft. AE testing under this standard offers an effective, non-invasive alternative to conventional hydrostatic proof tests, thereby minimizing contamination risks and eliminating the need for depressurization.
Regulatory agencies, including the U.S. Department of Transportation, recognize AE testing as a valid method for periodic inspection in accordance with 49 CFR for specific pressure vessels used in aviation and hazardous material transport.
Key Topics
- Acoustic Emission Testing: AE testing detects the high-frequency waves released from localized sources within a material, such as weld defects or corrosion, while the vessel is under stress from internal gas pressure.
- Thermal Pressurization: Instead of pressurizing with water, the bottle is placed in a specialized industrial oven. Heating increases the internal pressure, simulating service conditions without introducing fluids.
- Sensor Application: Multiple AE sensors are attached to the vessel to continuously monitor for emissions, allowing real-time assessment of vessel integrity.
- Safety and Regulatory Compliance: The method meets safety requirements set by regulatory bodies and is permitted for use by DOT under special permit, replacing hydrostatic and visual inspection for eligible spherical vessels.
- Noise Control: Testing in an oven ensures a quiet environment, reducing background noise that could interfere with AE results. Advanced location algorithms further help differentiate actual flaws from spurious signals.
Applications
- Aviation Fire Suppression Bottles: Especially effective for Halon 1301 bottles (UN 1044) installed in commercial aircraft, which require stringent inspection due to their role in onboard fire safety systems.
- Inspection Without Depressurization: AE testing allows vessels to be inspected in-service, without removing or depressurizing, maintaining bottle cleanliness and reducing downtime.
- Corrosion and Damage Detection: Sensitive to early-stage cracking, weld failures, and corrosion that may not be visible during external visual inspection.
- Regulated Transport Applications: Ensures compliance for pressure vessels in hazardous materials transport as required by U.S. DOT regulations.
Related Standards
ASTM E2863-17 is closely associated with several key standards that help ensure accurate, consistent, and safe AE testing practices:
- ASTM E543 - Specification for Agencies Performing Nondestructive Testing
- ASTM E1106 - Test Method for Primary Calibration of Acoustic Emission Sensors
- ASTM E1781 - Practice for Secondary Calibration of Acoustic Emission Sensors
- ASTM E1316 - Terminology for Nondestructive Examinations
- ASTM E2075 - Practice for Verifying Consistency of AE-Sensor Response
- ASNT SNT-TC-1A and ANSI/ASNT CP-189 - Qualification and Certification of Nondestructive Testing Personnel
- ISO 9712 - Non-Destructive Qualification and Certification of NDT Personnel
- 49 CFR (Code of Federal Regulations) - DOT regulations for hazardous materials and pressurized containers
Practical Value
Implementing ASTM E2863-17 enables operators and inspectors to:
- Increase safety and compliance by detecting flaws before catastrophic failure.
- Extend vessel service life through early detection of corrosion and cracks.
- Minimize operational interruptions as AE avoids the need to depressurize and refill vessels.
- Fulfill regulatory requirements with a proven, widely recognized inspection method.
Use of this standard is especially valuable for aviation maintenance programs and operators overseeing regulated pressure vessels, ensuring both safety and compliance with international inspection practices.
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Frequently Asked Questions
ASTM E2863-17 is a standard published by ASTM International. Its full title is "Standard Practice for Acoustic Emission Examination of Welded Steel Sphere Pressure Vessels Using Thermal Pressurization". This standard covers: SIGNIFICANCE AND USE 5.1 Because of safety considerations, regulatory agencies (for example, U.S. Department of Transportation) require periodic tests of pressurized vessels used in commercial aviation. (see Section 49, Code of Federal Regulations). AE testing has become accepted as an alternative to the common hydrostatic proof test. 5.2 An AE test should not be conducted for a period of one year after a common hydrostatic test. See Note 1. Note 1: The Kaiser effect relates to the irreversibility of acoustic emission which results in decreased emission during a second pressurization. Common hydrostatic tests use a relatively high test pressure (200 % of normal service pressure). (See Section 49, Code of Federal Regulations.) If an AE test is performed too soon after such a hydrostatic pressurization, the AE results will be insensitive below the previous maximum test pressure. 5.3 Acoustic Emission is produced when an increasing stress level in a material causes crack growth in the material or stress related effects in a corroded surface (for example, crack growth in or between metal crystallites or spalling and cracking of oxides and other corrosion products). 5.4 While background noise may distort AE data or render it useless, heating the vessels inside an industrial oven is an almost noise free method of pressurization. Further, source location algorithms using over-determined data sets will often allow valid tests in the presence of otherwise interfering noise sources. Background noise should be reduced or controlled but the sudden occurrence of such noise does not necessarily invalidate a test. SCOPE 1.1 This practice is commonly used for periodic inspection and testing of welded steel gaseous spheres (bottles) is the acoustic emission (AE) method. AE is used in place of hydrostatic volumetric expansion testing. The periodic inspection and testing of bottles by AE testing is achieved without depressurization or contamination as is required for hydrostatic volumetric expansion testing. 1.2 The required test pressurization is achieved by heating the bottle in an industrial oven designed for this purpose. The maximum temperature needed to achieve the AE test pressure is ≤250°F (121°C). 1.3 AE monitoring of the bottle is performed with multiple sensors during the thermal pressurization. 1.4 This practice was developed for periodic inspection and testing of pressure vessels containing Halon (UN 1044), which is commonly used aboard commercial aircraft for fire suppression. In commercial aircraft, these bottles are hermetically sealed by welding in the fill port. Exit ports are opened by explosively activated burst disks. The usage of these pressure vessels in transportation is regulated under US Department of Transportation (DOT), Code of Federal Regulations CFR 49. A DOT special permit authorizes the use of AE testing for periodic inspection and testing in place of volumetric expansion and visual inspection. These bottles are spherical with diameters ranging from 5 to 16 in. (127 to 406 mm). 1.5 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as the standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical conversions to SI units that are provided for information only and are not considered standard. 1.6 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. Specific precautionary statements are given in Section 8. 1.7 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
SIGNIFICANCE AND USE 5.1 Because of safety considerations, regulatory agencies (for example, U.S. Department of Transportation) require periodic tests of pressurized vessels used in commercial aviation. (see Section 49, Code of Federal Regulations). AE testing has become accepted as an alternative to the common hydrostatic proof test. 5.2 An AE test should not be conducted for a period of one year after a common hydrostatic test. See Note 1. Note 1: The Kaiser effect relates to the irreversibility of acoustic emission which results in decreased emission during a second pressurization. Common hydrostatic tests use a relatively high test pressure (200 % of normal service pressure). (See Section 49, Code of Federal Regulations.) If an AE test is performed too soon after such a hydrostatic pressurization, the AE results will be insensitive below the previous maximum test pressure. 5.3 Acoustic Emission is produced when an increasing stress level in a material causes crack growth in the material or stress related effects in a corroded surface (for example, crack growth in or between metal crystallites or spalling and cracking of oxides and other corrosion products). 5.4 While background noise may distort AE data or render it useless, heating the vessels inside an industrial oven is an almost noise free method of pressurization. Further, source location algorithms using over-determined data sets will often allow valid tests in the presence of otherwise interfering noise sources. Background noise should be reduced or controlled but the sudden occurrence of such noise does not necessarily invalidate a test. SCOPE 1.1 This practice is commonly used for periodic inspection and testing of welded steel gaseous spheres (bottles) is the acoustic emission (AE) method. AE is used in place of hydrostatic volumetric expansion testing. The periodic inspection and testing of bottles by AE testing is achieved without depressurization or contamination as is required for hydrostatic volumetric expansion testing. 1.2 The required test pressurization is achieved by heating the bottle in an industrial oven designed for this purpose. The maximum temperature needed to achieve the AE test pressure is ≤250°F (121°C). 1.3 AE monitoring of the bottle is performed with multiple sensors during the thermal pressurization. 1.4 This practice was developed for periodic inspection and testing of pressure vessels containing Halon (UN 1044), which is commonly used aboard commercial aircraft for fire suppression. In commercial aircraft, these bottles are hermetically sealed by welding in the fill port. Exit ports are opened by explosively activated burst disks. The usage of these pressure vessels in transportation is regulated under US Department of Transportation (DOT), Code of Federal Regulations CFR 49. A DOT special permit authorizes the use of AE testing for periodic inspection and testing in place of volumetric expansion and visual inspection. These bottles are spherical with diameters ranging from 5 to 16 in. (127 to 406 mm). 1.5 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as the standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical conversions to SI units that are provided for information only and are not considered standard. 1.6 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. Specific precautionary statements are given in Section 8. 1.7 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
ASTM E2863-17 is classified under the following ICS (International Classification for Standards) categories: 17.140.20 - Noise emitted by machines and equipment; 23.020.30 - Pressure vessels, gas cylinders. The ICS classification helps identify the subject area and facilitates finding related standards.
ASTM E2863-17 has the following relationships with other standards: It is inter standard links to ASTM E2863-12, ASTM E1316-24, ASTM E1316-19b, ASTM E1316-19, ASTM E1316-18, ASTM E1316-17a, ASTM E1316-17, ASTM E1316-16a, ASTM E1316-16, ASTM E1316-15a, ASTM E1316-15, ASTM E1316-14, ASTM E1316-14e1, ASTM E1316-13d, ASTM E1316-13c. Understanding these relationships helps ensure you are using the most current and applicable version of the standard.
ASTM E2863-17 is available in PDF format for immediate download after purchase. The document can be added to your cart and obtained through the secure checkout process. Digital delivery ensures instant access to the complete standard document.
Standards Content (Sample)
This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
Designation: E2863 − 17
Standard Practice for
Acoustic Emission Examination of Welded Steel Sphere
Pressure Vessels Using Thermal Pressurization
This standard is issued under the fixed designation E2863; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
1. Scope* bility of regulatory limitations prior to use. Specific precau-
tionary statements are given in Section 8.
1.1 This practice is commonly used for periodic inspection
1.7 This international standard was developed in accor-
and testing of welded steel gaseous spheres (bottles) is the
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
acoustic emission (AE) method. AE is used in place of
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
hydrostatic volumetric expansion testing. The periodic inspec-
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
tion and testing of bottles by AE testing is achieved without
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
depressurizationorcontaminationasisrequiredforhydrostatic
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
volumetric expansion testing.
1.2 The required test pressurization is achieved by heating
2. Referenced Documents
the bottle in an industrial oven designed for this purpose. The
2.1 ASTM Standards:
maximum temperature needed to achieve the AE test pressure
E543 Specification forAgencies Performing Nondestructive
is ≤250°F (121°C).
Testing
1.3 AE monitoring of the bottle is performed with multiple
E1106 Test Method for Primary Calibration of Acoustic
sensors during the thermal pressurization.
Emission Sensors
E1316 Terminology for Nondestructive Examinations
1.4 This practice was developed for periodic inspection and
E1781 Practice for Secondary Calibration ofAcoustic Emis-
testing of pressure vessels containing Halon (UN 1044), which
sion Sensors
is commonly used aboard commercial aircraft for fire suppres-
E2075 Practice for Verifying the Consistency of AE-Sensor
sion. In commercial aircraft, these bottles are hermetically
Response Using an Acrylic Rod
sealed by welding in the fill port. Exit ports are opened by
2.2 ASNT Standards:
explosively activated burst disks. The usage of these pressure
SNT-TC-1A Recommended Practice for Nondestructive
vessels in transportation is regulated under US Department of
Testing Personnel Qualification and Certification
Transportation(DOT),CodeofFederalRegulationsCFR 49.A
ANSI/ASNT CP-189 Standard for Qualification and Certifi-
DOT special permit authorizes the use of AE testing for
cation of Nondestructive Testing Personnel
periodic inspection and testing in place of volumetric expan-
sion and visual inspection. These bottles are spherical with 2.3 Code of Federal Regulations:
Section 49 Code of Federal Regulations, Hazardous Materi-
diameters ranging from 5 to 16 in. (127 to 406 mm).
als Regulations of the Department of Transportation,
1.5 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded
Paragraphs 173.34, 173.301, 178.36, 178.37, and 178.45
asthestandard.Thevaluesgiveninparenthesesaremathemati-
2.4 Compressed Gas Association Standard:
cal conversions to SI units that are provided for information
Pamphlet C-5 Service Life, Seamless High Pressure Cylin-
only and are not considered standard.
ders
1.6 This standard does not purport to address all of the
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
contact ASTM Customer Service at service@astm.org. For Annual Book of ASTM
priate safety and health practices and determine the applica-
Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
the ASTM website.
AvailablefromAmericanSocietyforNondestructiveTesting(ASNT),P.O.Box
This practice is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee E07 on Nonde- 28518, 1711 Arlingate Ln., Columbus, OH 43228-0518, http://www.asnt.org.
structive Testing and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee E07.04 on AvailablefromU.S.GovernmentPrintingOfficeSuperintendentofDocuments,
Acoustic Emission Method. 732 N. Capitol St., NW, Mail Stop: SDE, Washington, DC 20401, http://
Current edition approved June 1, 2017. Published June 2017. Originally www.access.gpo.gov.
approved in 2011. Last previous edition approved in 2012 as E2863 - 12. Available from Compressed Gas Association (CGA), 4221 Walney Rd., 5th
DOI:10.1520/E2863-17. Floor, Chantilly, VA 20151-2923, http://www.cganet.com.
*A Summary of Changes section appears at the end of this standard
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
E2863 − 17
emission which results in decreased emission during a second pressuriza-
2.5 ISO Standard
tion. Common hydrostatic tests use a relatively high test pressure (200 %
ISO 9712 Non-Destructive Qualification and Certification of
of normal service pressure). (See Section 49, Code of Federal Regula-
NDT Personnel
tions.) If an AE test is performed too soon after such a hydrostatic
pressurization, the AE results will be insensitive below the previous
3. Terminology
maximum test pressure.
3.1 Definitions—See Terminology E1316 for general termi-
5.3 Acoustic Emission is produced when an increasing
nology applicable to this test method.
stress level in a material causes crack growth in the material or
stress related effects in a corroded surface (for example, crack
3.2 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
growthinorbetweenmetalcrystallitesorspallingandcracking
3.2.1 marked service pressure—pressure for which a vessel
of oxides and other corrosion products).
is rated. Normally, this value is stamped on the vessel
5.4 While background noise may distort AE data or render
4. Summary of Practice
it useless, heating the vessels inside an industrial oven is an
4.1 Acoustic emission (AE) sensors are mounted on a almost noise free method of pressurization. Further, source
location algorithms using over-determined data sets will often
pressure vessel, and emission is monitored while the pressure
vessel is heated to a pre-determined temperature for achieving allow valid tests in the presence of otherwise interfering noise
sources. Background noise should be reduced or controlled but
the desired AE test pressure. The elevated temperature results
inexpansionofthegaseouscomponentandcausestheincrease the sudden occurrence of such noise does not necessarily
invalidate a test.
of the internal pressure. This increasing pressure applies stress
in the pressure vessel wall. The ultimate pressure is calculated
6. Basis of Application
based on the contents of the pressure vessel (bottle) and
6.1 The following items are subject to contractual agree-
maximum operating temperature that bottle has been exposed
ment between the parties using or referencing this standard.
(for example, during fast filling).
6.2 Personnel Qualification:
4.2 Sensors are mounted in at least six positions on the
6.2.1 If specified in the contractual agreement, personnel
vessel and are connected to an acoustic emission signal
performing examinations to this standard shall be qualified in
processor. The signal processor uses measured times of arrival
accordance with a nationally or internationally recognized
of emission bursts to determine the location of emission
NDT personnel qualification practice or standard such as
sources on the vessels surface. The locations are continually
ANSI/ASNT-CP-189, SNT-TC-1A, NAS-410, ISO 9712, or a
checked for clustering. If a cluster grows large enough (refer to
similar documented and certified by the employer or certifying
Appendix X1), and/or its behavior with increasing temperature
agency, as applicable. The practice or standard used and its
(pressure) departs significantly from a linear increase (refer to
applicable revision shall be identified in the contractual agree-
Appendix X1), the vessel is declared unsatisfactory for con-
ment between the using parties.
tinued service.
6.2.2 The NDT personnel shall be qualified in accordance
4.3 Bottles that fail this AE examination procedure cannot
with a nationally recognized NDT personnel qualification
be subjected to a secondary examination (for example, hydro-
practice or standard such as ANSI/ASNT CP-189, SNT-TC-
static volumetric expansion test) because the AE test is the
1A, or a similar document. The practice or standard used and
more sensitive test. When a bottle has been rejected by an AE
its applicable revision shall be specified in the contractual
test, it should be rendered unserviceable.
agreement between the using parties.
4.4 Once a bottle has reached a temperature of 110°F
6.3 Qualification of Nondestructive Testing Agencies—If
(43.3°C) during anAE examination, it may not be re-examined
specified in the contractual agreement, NDT agencies shall be
foraperiodofsixmonthsunlessthephysicalstateofthebottle
qualifiedandevaluatedasdescribedinSpecificationE543.The
has been changed by refilling or external damage.
applicable edition of Specification E543 shall be specified in
the contractual agreement.
5. Significance and Use
6.4 Procedures and Techniques—The procedures and tech-
5.1 Because of safety considerations, regulatory agencies
niques to be utilized shall be as specified in the contractual
(for example, U.S. Department of Transportation) require
agreement.
periodic tests of pressurized vessels used in commercial
6.5 Surface Preparation—The pre-examination surface
aviation. (see Section 49, Code of Federal Regulations). AE
preparation criteria shall be in accordance with 10.2.1, unless
testing has become accepted as an alternative to the common
otherwise specified.
hydrostatic proof test.
6.6 Reporting Criteria/Acceptance Criteria—Reporting cri-
5.2 AnAE test should not be conducted for a period of one
teria for the examination results shall be in accordance with
year after a common hydrostatic test. See Note 1.
Appendix X1 unless otherwise specified.
NOTE 1—The Kaiser effect relates to the irreversibility of acoustic
7. Apparatus
7.1 Essential features of the apparatus required for this
Available from International Organization for Standardization (ISO), ISO
practice are provided in Fig. 1. Full specifications are in Annex
Central Secretariat, BIBC II, Chemin de Blandonnet 8, CP 401, 1214 Vernier,
Geneva, Switzerland, http://www.iso.org. A1.
E2863 − 17
FIG. 1 AE System Block Diagram
interfering features on its surface or when the first AST
coupling test has failed.
7.3 AE Sensors are held in place by means of spring-loaded
rods mounted to the test frame.
7.4 The AE sensors are continuously monitored throughout
the pressurization.
7.5 A preamplifier for each sensor is located outside the
oven. The sensor cable length must not exceed 6 ft (2 m).
7.6 The signal processor is a computerized instrument with
independent channels that filter, measure, and convert analog
information into digital form for analysis, display and perma-
nent storage.Asignal processor must have sufficient speed and
capacity to independently process data from all sensors simul-
taneously. The signal processor must be programed to locate
thesourcesonthesurfacesofthevesselandtodetectclustering
of the sources. The instrument must be capable of reading the
vessel temperature and controlling the industrial oven. It must
also conduct and interpret AST tests both before and after the
thermal pressurization.
7.6.1 Hard copy capability should be available from a
FIG. 2 AE Sensor Holding Fixture (sensors on the head of the
spring loaded rods)
printer or equivalent device.
8. Safety Precautions
7.2 A couplant can be used between the sensors and vessel 8.1 This examination involves pressurization of sealed ves-
wall. The small diameter of the sensor and significant contact sels by heating. When a significant defect is detected, there is
pressure reduces the requirement for a couplant, but it is often nomethodofdecreasingtheinternalpressureexceptcoolingof
useful when positioning a vessel in the test frame to avoid the vessel. It is imperative that the heating cease as soon as a
E2863 − 17
FIG. 3 Picture of Halon Bottle Test System Showing Oven, AE System, Halon Bottle on Oven Shelf.
significantdefectisidentified.ThisrequiresthattheAEsystem is concern for sensor performance. A procedure for sensor
have complete control over the examination, including the pre performance verification is found in Practice E2075.
and post-examination system performance verification; the
9.4 Asystem performance check must be conducted as part
oven heaters; detecting, identifying and classifying defects and
of the AE test immediately before and after thermal pressur-
the determination of when the defect behavior requires the test
ization. A performance check uses a feature of the AE system
to be stopped, decreasing the possibility of an explosion. The
...
This document is not an ASTM standard and is intended only to provide the user of an ASTM standard an indication of what changes have been made to the previous version. Because
it may not be technically possible to adequately depict all changes accurately, ASTM recommends that users consult prior editions as appropriate. In all cases only the current version
of the standard as published by ASTM is to be considered the official document.
Designation: E2863 − 12 E2863 − 17
Standard Practice for
Acoustic Emission Examination of Welded Steel Sphere
Pressure Vessels Using Thermal Pressurization
This standard is issued under the fixed designation E2863; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
1. Scope*
1.1 This practice is commonly used for periodic inspection and testing of welded steel gaseous spheres (bottles) is the acoustic
emission (AE) method. AE is used in place of hydrostatic volumetric expansion testing. The periodic inspection and testing of
bottles by AE testing is achieved without depressurization or contamination as is required for hydrostatic volumetric expansion
testing.
1.2 The required test pressurization is achieved by heating the bottle in an industrial oven designed for this purpose. The
maximum temperature needed to achieve the AE test pressure is ≤250°F (121°C).
1.3 AE monitoring of the bottle is performed with multiple sensors during the thermal pressurization.
1.4 This practice was developed for periodic inspection and testing of pressure vessels containing Halon (UN 1044), which is
commonly used aboard commercial aircraft for fire suppression. In commercial aircraft, these bottles are hermetically sealed by
welding in the fill port. Exit ports are opened by explosively activated burst disks. The usage of these pressure vessels in
transportation is regulated under US Department of Transportation (DOT), Code of Federal Regulations CFR 49. A DOT special
permit authorizes the use of AE testing for periodic inspection and testing in place of volumetric expansion and visual inspection.
These bottles are spherical with diameters ranging from 5 to 16 in. (127 to 406 mm).
1.5 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as the standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical
conversions to SI units that are provided for information only and are not considered standard.
1.6 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility
of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory
limitations prior to use. Specific precautionary statements are given in Section 8.
1.7 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization
established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued
by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
2. Referenced Documents
2.1 ASTM Standards:
E543 Specification for Agencies Performing Nondestructive Testing
E650E1106 Guide for Mounting Piezoelectric Test Method for Primary Calibration of Acoustic Emission Sensors
E976 Guide for Determining the Reproducibility of Acoustic Emission Sensor Response
E1316 Terminology for Nondestructive Examinations
E1781 Practice for Secondary Calibration of Acoustic Emission Sensors
E2075 Practice for Verifying the Consistency of AE-Sensor Response Using an Acrylic Rod
E2374 Guide for Acoustic Emission System Performance Verification
2.2 ASNT Standards:
SNT-TC-1A Recommended Practice for Nondestructive Testing Personnel Qualification and Certification
ANSI/ASNT CP-189 Standard for Qualification and Certification of Nondestructive Testing Personnel
This practice is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee E07 on Nondestructive Testing and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee E07.04 on Acoustic Emission
Method.
Current edition approved June 15, 2012June 1, 2017. Published July 2012June 2017. Originally approved in 2011. Last previous edition approved in 20112012 as
E2863 - 11.E2863 - 12. DOI:10.1520/E2863-12.DOI:10.1520/E2863-17.
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or contact ASTM Customer Service at service@astm.org. For Annual Book of ASTM Standards
volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on the ASTM website.
Available from American Society for Nondestructive Testing (ASNT), P.O. Box 28518, 1711 Arlingate Ln., Columbus, OH 43228-0518, http://www.asnt.org.
*A Summary of Changes section appears at the end of this standard
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
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2.3 Code of Federal Regulations:
Section 49 Code of Federal Regulations, Hazardous Materials Regulations of the Department of Transportation, Paragraphs
173.34, 173.301, 178.36, 178.37, and 178.45
2.4 Compressed Gas Association Standard:
Pamphlet C-5 Service Life, Seamless High Pressure Cylinders
2.5 ISO Standard
ISO 9712 Non-Destructive Qualification and Certification of NDT Personnel
3. Terminology
3.1 Definitions—See Terminology E1316 for general terminology applicable to this test method.
3.2 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
3.2.1 marked service pressure—pressure for which a vessel is rated. Normally, this value is stamped on the vessel
4. Summary of Practice
4.1 Acoustic emission (AE) sensors are mounted on a pressure vessel, and emission is monitored while the pressure vessel is
heated to a pre-determined temperature for achieving the desired AE test pressure. The elevated temperature results in expansion
of the gaseous component and causes the increase of the internal pressure. This increasing pressure applies stress in the pressure
vessel wall. The ultimate pressure is calculated based on the contents of the pressure vessel (bottle) and maximum operating
temperature that bottle has been exposed (for example, during fast filling).
4.2 Sensors are mounted in at least six positions on the vessel and are connected to an acoustic emission signal processor. The
signal processor uses measured times of arrival of emission bursts to determine the location of emission sources on the vessels
surface. The locations are continually checked for clustering. If a cluster grows large enough (refer to Appendix X1), and/or its
behavior with increasing temperature (pressure) departs significantly from a linear increase (refer to Appendix X1), the vessel is
declared unsatisfactory for continued service.
4.3 Bottles that fail this AE examination procedure cannot be subjected to a secondary examination (for example, hydrostatic
volumetric expansion test) because the AE test is the more sensitive test. When a bottle has been rejected by an AE test, it should
be rendered unserviceable.
4.4 Once a bottle has reached a temperature of 110°F (43.3°C) during an AE examination, it may not be re-examined for a
period of six months unless the physical state of the bottle has been changed by refilling or external damage.
5. Significance and Use
5.1 Because of safety considerations, regulatory agencies (for example, U.S. Department of Transportation) require periodic
tests of pressurized vessels used in commercial aviation. (see Section 49, Code of Federal Regulations). AE estingtesting has
become accepted as an alternative to the common hydrostatic proof test.
5.2 An AE test should not be conducted for a period of one year after a common hydrostatic test. See Note 1.
NOTE 1—The Kaiser effect relates to the irreversibility of acoustic emission which results in decreased emission during a second pressurization.
Common hydrostatic tests use a relatively high test pressure (200 % of normal service pressure). (See Section 49, Code of Federal Regulations.) If an
AE test is performed too soon after such a hydrostatic pressurization, the AE results will be insensitive below the previous maximum test pressure.
5.3 Acoustic Emission is produced when an increasing stress level in a material causes crack growth in the material or stress
related effects in a corroded surface (for example, crack growth in or between metal crystallites or spalling and cracking of oxides
and other corrosion products).
5.4 While background noise may distort AE data or render it useless, heating the vessels inside an industrial oven is an almost
noise free method of pressurization. Further, source location algorithms using over-determined data sets will often allow valid tests
in the presence of otherwise interfering noise sources. Background noise should be reduced or controlled but the sudden occurrence
of such noise does not necessarily invalidate a test.
6. Basis of Application
6.1 The following items are subject to contractual agreement between the parties using or referencing this standard.
6.2 Personnel Qualification:
Available from U.S. Government Printing Office Superintendent of Documents, 732 N. Capitol St., NW, Mail Stop: SDE, Washington, DC 20401, http://
www.access.gpo.gov.
Available from Compressed Gas Association (CGA), 4221 Walney Rd., 5th Floor, Chantilly, VA 20151-2923, http://www.cganet.com.
Available from International Organization for Standardization (ISO), ISO Central Secretariat, BIBC II, Chemin de Blandonnet 8, CP 401, 1214 Vernier, Geneva,
Switzerland, http://www.iso.org.
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6.2.1 If specified in the contractual agreement, personnel performing examinations to this standard shall be qualified in
accordance with a nationally or internationally recognized NDT personnel qualification practice or standard such as ANSI/ASNT-
CP-189, SNT-TC-1A, NAS-410, ISO 9712, or a similar documented and certified by the employer or certifying agency, as
applicable. The practice or standard used and its applicable revision shall be identified in the contractual agreement between the
using parties.
6.2.2 The NDT personnel shall be qualified in accordance with a nationally recognized NDT personnel qualification practice
or standard such as ANSI/ASNT CP-189, SNT-TC-1A, or a similar document. The practice or standard used and its applicable
revision shall be specified in the contractual agreement between the using parties.
6.3 Qualification of Nondestructive Testing Agencies—If specified in the contractual agreement, NDT agencies shall be qualified
and evaluated as described in Specification E543. The applicable edition of Specification E543 shall be specified in the contractual
agreement.
6.4 Procedures and Techniques—The procedures and techniques to be utilized shall be as specified in the contractual agreement.
6.5 Surface Preparation—The pre-examination surface reparationpreparation criteria shall be in accordance with 10.2.1, unless
otherwise specified.
6.6 Reporting Criteria/Acceptance Criteria—Reporting criteria for the examination results shall be in accordance with
Appendix X1 unless otherwise specified.
7. Apparatus
7.1 Essential features of the apparatus required for this practice are provided in Fig. 1. Full specifications are in Annex A1.
7.2 A couplant can be used between the sensors and vessel wall. The small diameter of the sensor and significant contact
pressure reduces the requirement for a couplant, but it is often useful when positioning a vessel in the test frame to avoid interfering
features on its surface or when the first AST coupling test has failed.
7.3 AE Sensors are held in place by means of spring-loaded rods mounted to the test frame.
7.4 The AE sensors are continuously monitored throughout the pressurization.
7.5 A preamplifier for each sensor is located outside the oven. The sensor cable length must not exceed 6 ft (2 m).
FIG. 1 AE System Block Diagram
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FIG. 2 AE Sensor Holding Fixture (sensors on the head of the spring loaded rods)
7.6 The signal processor is a computerized instrument with independent channels that filter, measure, and convert analog
information into digital form for analysis, display and permanent storage. A signal processor must have sufficient speed and
capacity to independently process data from all sensors simultaneously. The signal processor must be programed to locate the
sources on the surfaces of the vessel and to detect clustering of the sources. The instrument must be capable of reading the vessel
temperature and controlling the industrial oven. It must also conduct and interpret AST tests both before and after the thermal
pressurization.
7.6.1 Hard copy capability should be available from a printer or equivalent device.
8. Safety Precautions
8.1 This examination involves pressurization of sealed vessels by heating. When a significant defect is detected, there is no
method of decreasing the internal pressure except cooling of the vessel. It is imperative that the heating cease as soon as a
significant defect is identified. This requires that the AE system have complete control over the examination, including the pre and
post-examination system performance verification; the oven heaters; detecting, identifying and classifying defects and the
determination of when the defect behavior requires the test to be stopped, decreasing the possibility of an explosion. The operator
has no control over the carrying out of the test, including analysis and grading of defects or when to stop the test for safety reasons.
8.2 Maximum temperature of the oven’s heating element surface must remain below 800°F (427°C). This will prevent thermal
decomposition of the HALON 1301 into toxic byproducts in the event of an accidental release.
8.3 HALON 1301, itself, has low toxicity but a rapid release of pressure could rupture the
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