Thoughts on the Pressure Vessel Training, Assessment, Review, and Defense Session – First Session in 2015 (Kunming)

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In July 2015, I attended the drawing review defense in Kunming (the first exam was held in Changsha, and I passed the theoretical test). The LPG storage tank drawings reviewed in Kunming in July were quite simple, but contained many errors (weld coefficient, inspection ratio, heat treatment, hydrostatic testing, under-welding, fitting impact, flange gaskets, ducts; I can’t remember the others). The experts’ questions were relatively simple; I also noted the questions from other candidates: the selection of the weld coefficient ； Allowable stress of stainless steel ； Stress of the tube sheet ； The purpose of tube box heat treatment ； The principle of high-pressure sealing ； Difference between fixed and insertable catheters ； Why is it necessary to verify the saddle? ； Several stresses in horizontal containers ； Why is the pressure rating of pipe flanges higher than that of manholes? ； Stress calculation for fixed tube sheets ； Issues to consider in the design, manufacturing, and welding of stress-corrosion media, as well as the critical sections of cone shells. Personally, I feel that taking the A2 exam is more difficult than taking the A1, A2, and A3 exams. Since A2 is likely to involve heat exchangers, many candidates fail the exam related to heat exchangers. A1 has a limited variety of container devices, and its errors are quite obvious. I know that those who took the A1 and A2 exams all passed. In the first class held in Kunming, many standards had just been updated; perhaps due to time constraints, the Standards Committee prepared fewer types of drawings. There are fewer applicants for the Kunming class, so the examination environment is better, while there are more people in the Changsha class. I’m not sure how the pass rate is controlled; could the pass rate for the Kunming class be higher? (This remains to be determined.) If possible, go to Kunming to take the exam; the climate there is pleasant and it’s also a great place for tourism. Be honest with the experts during the defense – admit what you know and what you don’t. Professionals also know that the work done by candidates is usually quite limited, and they don’t cover everything. There’s one more important thing: bring a calculator to the exam. Bring a calculator, bring a calculator – I repeat this important point three times. During my exam, I encountered two candidates who didn’t bring one. The above are all my personal opinions; please forgive any mistakes!