ASME Announces Launch of New Bolting Specialist Qualification Program

New York, NY (February 8, 2016) – ASME, The American Society of Mechanical Engineers, has launched a new training program, “ASME Bolting Specialist Qualification Program,” specifically developed to enhance a bolter’s ability to safely and effectively assemble and disassemble pressurized joints.

Preventing gasket leaks in these types of joints is one of the single most effective ways to improve safety, reduce fugitive emissions, lower maintenance costs and shorten turnaround times during shutdowns. Key to achieving these improvements is enhancing the bolter’s understanding of both the functions and limits of bolts, gaskets and flanges – and especially the importance of following formal tightening procedures.

“While welders have long had the training they need to prevent leaks, bolters now have the formal training they need,” said Michael Ireland, Associate Executive Director, Engineering.  “ASME’s new qualification program was developed by a group of bolting industry experts whose prime motivation is preventing bolted flange connection gasket leaks and who recognize the need for this training program.”

The program comprises online courses and hands-on training.  Successful candidates will understand and demonstrate the principles and practices of safe bolted joint assembly as outlined in Appendix A of ASME PCC-1: Guidelines for Pressure Boundary Bolted Flange Joint Assembly.  They will also display their ability to apply these practices in the safe and effective assembly of bolted joints.

The new program consists of four online modules and a one-day hands-on training session.  The online training portion of the program is designed to improve bolters’ knowledge of the principles and procedures of safe and effective bolting, as assessed by an online test following each module.

The hands-on tool demonstration and testing portion of the program allows candidates to review, observe and demonstrate actual tool handling coupled with practical application of the principles and practices to show their ability to safely and effectively operate bolting tools and assemble functioning joints.

Candidates who successfully complete the online courses, pass the online final examination, and complete the hands-on training will receive the ASME Certificate for the Qualified Bolting Specialist.*

For more information about the new ASME Bolting Specialist Qualification Program, visit https://www.asme.org/learning-development/credentials-and-programs/bolting-specialist-qualification-program

* NOTE: This qualification does not make any determination of an individual's capabilities in applying this general knowledge within a specific work environment or under actual working conditions. It remains the sole responsibility of the employer of the individual to determine competency for assigned tasks and work. It is not a certification.

ASME helps the global engineering community develop solutions to real world challenges. Founded in 1880 as the American Society of Mechanical Engineers, ASME is a not-for-profit professional organization that enables collaboration, knowledge sharing and skill development across all engineering disciplines, while promoting the vital role of the engineer in society. ASME codes and standards, publications, conferences, continuing education and professional development programs provide a foundation for advancing technical knowledge and a safer world. For more information, visit www.asme.org.

About ASME
ASME helps the global engineering community develop solutions to real world challenges. Founded in 1880 as the American Society of Mechanical Engineers, ASME is a not-for-profit professional organization that enables collaboration, knowledge sharing and skill development across all engineering disciplines, while promoting the vital role of the engineer in society. ASME codes and standards, publications, conferences, continuing education and professional development programs provide a foundation for advancing technical knowledge and a safer world. For more information visit www.asme.org.

Media Contact:
Deborah Wetzel
Manager, Media Relations
wetzeld@asme.org
212.591.7085