Process conditions change. When you need existing equipment to run at a different pressure or temperature, a re-rate can be a faster and more economical path than buying new. Alabama Heat Exchangers performs re-rates of shell and tube heat exchangers and pressure vessels under the National Board Inspection Code.
What is a re-rate?
A re-rate is a formal change to the design conditions of existing pressure equipment, most often its maximum allowable working pressure (MAWP) or design temperature. Because the equipment is code stamped, a re-rate must be supported by engineering calculations, verified by inspection and properly documented so the new rating is recognized.
Our re-rate process
- Review existing documentation, including data reports, drawings and nameplate information
- Engineering evaluation and calculations against the original construction code
- Inspection and thickness verification of the equipment
- Modifications or repairs if the evaluation requires them
- Pressure testing
- Documentation and nameplate updates under the NBIC R stamp
When to consider a re-rate
- Increasing throughput or changing operating pressure
- Changing process temperature or service
- Returning idle or relocated equipment to service
- Correcting or updating ratings on older equipment
Not every piece of equipment can be re-rated. It depends on the original design margin, current condition and available documentation. Our evaluation tells you up front whether a re-rate is feasible.
Frequently asked questions
It depends on the equipment, the documentation available and whether modifications are needed. Contact us with your nameplate data and target conditions for an estimate.
No. A re-rate depends on the original design margin, the current condition of the equipment and the documentation available. An engineering evaluation determines whether the new conditions can be supported.
The nameplate information, manufacturer’s data report if available, drawings, current and desired operating conditions, and any recent inspection reports.