API 510 Documentation and Records Management 5

Question 1

What does a 'vessel history file' maintained per API 510 typically contain?

Accepted Answer

MDR, all inspection reports, repair and alteration records, RV test records, current thickness data, and calculated inspection dates

Answer

A complete vessel history file consolidates all lifecycle records from manufacture through current operation to support informed inspection decisions.

Question 2

When a weld repair is made in a zone requiring impact testing (Charpy), what must the records include?

Accepted Answer

Mill test reports or material certifications confirming impact test results at the required temperature and energy values

Answer

Impact-tested zones require certified material test reports (CMTRs) proving the base and filler materials meet specified notch toughness requirements.

Question 3

What must an Authorized Inspector (AI) do before signing off on a repair or alteration record under API 510?

Accepted Answer

Verify that all work was performed per the applicable code, inspect the completed work, and confirm all required documentation is complete

Answer

The AI must personally verify code compliance, inspect the work, and confirm documentation completeness before signing — delegating this review is not permitted.

Question 4

Under API 510, what information must be recorded when calculating the next inspection due date?

Accepted Answer

Long-term and short-term corrosion rates, current measured thickness, minimum required thickness, and the basis for the interval selected

Answer

The next inspection date calculation must be fully documented so any reviewer can independently verify the remaining life and interval selection.

Question 5

A pressure vessel is found to have a crack during internal inspection. What is the minimum documentation required before authorizing repair?

Accepted Answer

Flaw characterization (size, location, orientation), root cause analysis or suspected cause, NDE reports, and engineering disposition

Answer

Cracks require full characterization through NDE, a technical disposition establishing fitness for repair, and documentation before any repair authorization.

(API 510) Certified Pressure Vessel Inspector Practice Test

(API 510) Certified Pressure Vessel Inspector Practice Test

API 510 Documentation and Records Management 5