ASME Code Cases are approved exceptions or alternatives to code rules. They include specific requirements that, when fully and correctly implemented, help users achieve continued quality and safety. Code Cases are not mandatory but may be used for Code compliance by any user.

In ASME’s code cases give instructions for issues that ASME BPVC does not cover. These code cases normally are so called temporary solutions and if code cases are done well these cases will be added to new version of ASME BPVC. If the code case is added to newest version of ASME BPVC the code case will be cancelled. All active code cases are listed and can be read on ASMEs’ Web Site (see link below). Applied code cases must be included in the Manufacturer’s Date Report (if this is specified in the code case itself).

Because of their leading-edge content and timely issuance, Code Cases can be an invaluable resource for ASME Code users.

The most common applications for Code Cases are

• to permit early implementation of a revision based on an urgent need
• to provide alternative requirements
• to allow users to gain experience with alternative or potential additional requirements prior to incorporation directly into the Code
• to permit use of a new material or process

Scope of application of the code cases

In the event of an urgent need for alternative rules concerning materials, construction, or in-service inspection activities not covered by existing Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code (BPVC) rules, or need for early implementation of an approved code revision, ASME may issue a code case. Code cases are effective immediately upon ASME approval and do not expire. 

The majority of Code Cases involve new materials, but many introduce new technologies and concepts, such as nondestructive examination and welding processes, updated design and fabrication methods, and streamlined rules for inspection and quality assurance.

The most common applications for Code Cases are

• to permit early implementation of a revision based on an urgent need
• to provide alternative requirements
• to allow users to gain experience with alternative or potential additional requirements prior to incorporation directly into the Code e. g. Codes Case 3070 “for “Rules for Gasketed Electrochemical Cell Stacks for Electrolysis”
• to permit use of a new material or process

Requests for ASME Code Cases

Requests for a specific application can be submitted to the ASME Committee by any ASME Certificate Holder. Requests for code cases shall include a Statement of Need and Background Information. Requests must describe the urgency and confirm that the request is in connection with equipment that will be ASME stamped, with the exception of Section IX applications.
Proposed code cases shall identify the applicable BPVC section and division, and be written as a Question and a Reply in the same format as existing code cases. Proposed code cases should also indicate the applicable BPVC editions and addenda.

Requests for code cases shall be submitted as noted in the Submittal of Technical Inquiries to the Boiler and Pressure Vessel Standards Committees section within each of the BPVC publications.

Availability of Approved Code Cases

Approved code cases are published in two categories: Boiler and Pressure Vessels (CC-BPV) and Nuclear (CC-NUC). Current approved code cases are also available in compilations aligned to the following specific sections of the ASME BPVC:

Category Boiler and Pressure Vessels (CC-BPV):

• Section I, “Power Boilers” ;
• Section IV, “Heating Boilers” ;
• Section VIII, Divisions 1, 2, and 3 “Pressure Vessels”

Category Nuclear (CC-NUC)

• Section III, Divisions 1, 2, 3, and 5 “Construction of Nuclear Facility Components” ; and
• Section XI, Divisions 1 and 2 “Rules for Inservice Inspection of Nuclear Power Plant Components”

Mandatory use of the Code Cases for Section VIII Div. 1

Code Cases are permissible and may be used beginning with the date of approval by ASME. Only Code Cases that are specifically identified as being applicable to this Section may be used. At the time a Code Case is applied, only the latest revision may be used. Code Cases that have been incorporated into this Section or have been annulled shall not be used.

Code Cases that have been incorporated into this Section or have been annulled shall not be used.

Changes in Code Cases that have been published prior to completion of the pressure vessel or part may include details critical to the intended service conditions of the pressure vessel and therefore should be considered by the Manufacturer. Application of such changes shall be a matter of agreement between the Manufacturer and the user. Specific incorporated Code provisions from later editions that have been applied to construction shall be noted in the “Remarks”section of the Manufacturer’s Data Report.
See also ASME Code Section VIII Div. 1 App. 43

The current list of Code Cases may be found through the BPVC Code Case Search Form.