ASME U stamp: Successful re-certification

In many countries, qualified manufacturers of pressurised components, such as pressure vessels or high pressure pipes in power plants, require special certification in order to operate. Certification in the case of pressure vessels and component parts is the ASME U stamp. BUTTING approval has been recently re-certified.

In over 100 countries and particularly in the North American market, the ASME (American Society of Mechanical Engineers) Boiler & Pressure Vessel Code sets out a defined set of rules. It is subdivided into various construction codes, in which Section VIII Division 1 – Pressure Vessels is critical for BUTTING.

In order to demonstrate that we fulfil the approval requirements, BUTTING underwent a two-day audit for re-certification purposes. Qualification is based on the Quality Control Manual, in which all procurement and sales processes, staff qualifications and manufacturing processes are presented.

Thomas Knöfel, Quality Control Manager at BUTTING in Knesebeck, recalls what happened: "Given the current situation, an on-site visit by the ASME team leader wasn't possible. So we found an alternative solution. Two TÜV Nord auditors were on-site with the team leader on video link." In on-site discussions and during welding inspection and testing, the auditors were satisfied that all of the processes comply with the processes described in the Manual and meet the requirements as laid down in the ASME-Code Section VIII Division 1 – Pressure Vessels.

In the final meeting, the ASME team leader certified BUTTING not only in terms of its impressive audit preparation and implementation but as also carrying out the processes described in an exemplary manner. Thomas Knöfel is clearly proud with the outcome: "BUTTING once again has U stamp certification for the next three years. Our customers can take full advantage of the widest range of products: from pipes and special containers to pressure vessels for the food industry. This enables us to offer our customers products in accordance with the ASME code and to contribute to their success. Another clear example of our "More than pipes" strategy for the benefit of our customers!"


BUTTING – Progress by Tradition


Photo Thomas Knöfel
Thomas Knöfel
Quality Management