Article
Problems found at site are expensive. Problems found when the goods arrive are cheap to solve. A short, consistent incoming inspection catches most issues before material is issued to fabrication.
1. Documents
- Packing list matches the purchase order: items, sizes, quantities
- Mill test certificates (EN 10204 3.1 or 3.2) for every heat
- Grades, standards and supplementary tests match the order
- NDT, IGC, PMI or hydrotest reports where specified
2. Marking and traceability
- Heat numbers on material match the MTCs
- Grade, size, schedule, class and standard are marked
- Marking is legible and uses suitable inks for stainless
3. Pipes
| Check | How |
|---|---|
| Outside diameter | Circumference tape or calipers |
| Wall thickness | Ultrasonic gauge at both ends; minimum 87.5% of nominal |
| Length | Tape; random or cut lengths as ordered |
| Ends | Bevel angle and root face, or plain/threaded as ordered |
| Straightness and surface | Visual; no dents, laps, deep scratches or rust stains |
4. Buttweld fittings
- Centre-to-end and end-to-end dimensions against ASME B16.9
- Wall thickness at ends and at the outer curve of elbows
- Bevels and squareness of ends
- Class marking (S, W, WX) as ordered
5. Flanges
- Size, class, type and facing as ordered
- Bore matches the pipe schedule (weld neck)
- Bolt holes: number, diameter and bolt circle
- Face finish undamaged; no radial scratches
- RTJ groove condition and ring number
6. Material verification
For stainless and alloy items, a portable XRF or OES PMI check confirms the grade on a sample or on every piece as the project requires.
7. Packing and storage
- End caps fitted; faces protected
- Stainless stored separately from carbon steel to avoid contamination
- Material kept dry and off the ground
Frequently asked questions
What is the minimum wall thickness for pipe?
Most pipe specifications allow wall thickness down to 87.5% of nominal, i.e. a −12.5% tolerance.
Why store stainless separately from carbon steel?
Iron particles from carbon steel can embed in stainless surfaces and cause rust spots.
Is PMI needed on every piece?
It depends on the project specification; critical alloy systems often require 100% PMI.
Key takeaways
- Check documents and heat numbers first.
- Measure OD, wall, ends and fitting dimensions on a sample.
- Protect stainless from contamination and moisture.
Need these products?
Sawariya Metal Industries supplies stainless steel pipes, flanges and buttweld pipe fittings from Mumbai to buyers in India and overseas. Send your size, grade, standard and quantity through our enquiry form and we will reply with a clear quotation and the test documents you need. You can also browse our stainless steel pipes, flanges and buttweld fittings.