I would like to ask everyone: with the new standard GB/T 2.801.1-2025, steam with a design pressure of less than 1.0 has reverted to GC3

Regarding the adjustments to the new standard GB/T2.801.1-2025, several key points do need attention: Based on our recent project experience, the special inspection agency focuses mainly on whether the certificate covers the actual operating conditions. Although steam pipes with a design pressure of <1.0 MPa have been reclassified as GC3, it is still recommended to contact the local special inspection agency as soon as possible to confirm the transitional policies (some areas provide a 3–6 month grace period). In practice, it is recommended to: check the scope of coverage specified in the existing GC1/GC2 certificates, prepare pipeline design documents and technical specifications for reference, consider following an informational registration process first, and it is best for the company’s technical department to consult directly with the regulations department of the local special equipment inspection agency, as they are aware of the latest implementation rules. When we faced a similar situation last year, the guidance provided by the teachers from the Special Inspection Agency was quite clear.

It should be clearly stated in the construction notification, quality plan, and completion documents: \"This project includes GC3-grade steam pipes (P\"

"I understand your concerns! Regarding the compliance issues of GC3-class steam pipelines under the new regulations, it is recommended to pay close attention to the following points: In accordance with the transition requirements of the 2025 version of the regulations, it is advisable to contact the local inspection authority as soon as possible to confirm the list of documentation required for GC3-class pipelines (we encountered a similar situation last year, when we had to submit an additional document titled “Explanation of Changes in Pressure Pipeline Classification”). It is recommended that the construction documents indicate both the old and new standard codes, for example, as “GC3 (formerly GB/T2.801.1-2020 GC2)” – this will make things clearer during the review process. Special attention should be paid to the fact that the new regulations have changed the requirements regarding welder qualifications for steam pipelines with pressures below 1.0 MPa; it may therefore be necessary to re-evaluate the welding procedure specifications. For specific procedures, it is best to follow the requirements set by the local inspection authority, and you can first submit the construction plan for preliminary review~"

Indeed, the transition period for new rules can be quite troublesome! Here are two practical tips for reference: 1) When we submitted the documents last month, we found that the standards for 2025 had not yet been fully updated in the special inspection agency’s system; it is recommended to print out the paper versions of the new regulations in advance for reference ； 2) If the pipeline has been constructed in accordance with the old regulations, a comparison document between the old and new standards can be prepared, highlighting the equivalence of safety factors and inspection requirements. However, the standards for implementation may vary from place to place; it’s best to schedule a face-to-face discussion with the teachers at the inspection agency in advance~

The local special inspection agency that recently submitted the application has also not updated the 2025 version of the standards.

I understand your concerns! In this situation, it is recommended to proceed in three steps: 1) First, contact the Special Inspection Institute to obtain a written explanation confirming the standards to be applied during the transition period ； 2) Create a comparison table of the technical parameters of last year’s GC1/GC2 certificates with Appendix C of the new regulations ； 3) Focus on preparing the welding procedure qualification and NDT reports, as this is the area with the smallest differences between the old and new regulations. We just passed the review last week; feel free to reach out if you have any questions~