Module Description

This module provides a detailed understanding of brittle fracture mechanics, stress ratio calculations, and temperature limitations in piping system design. Students will explore ASME B31.3 brittle fracture assessments, API 579 Critical Exposure Temperature (CET) calculations, and Charpy impact testing requirements for material performance. Through mathematical modeling and ASME compliance analysis, students will learn to develop MSOT curves, compare API 579 vs. ASME stress ratios, and mitigate fracture risks—ensuring safe, reliable piping systems in extreme temperature conditions.

Learning Objectives

After completion of this course, the student will earn One (1) PE/PDH Credit towards being a Subject Matter Expert (SME).

When the student completes Module Ten - Brittle Fracture, the student will be able to:

  1. Write the history of Brittle Fracture and ASME.
  2. Write the mathematical equation for the code Stress Ratio.
  3. Write the actual Stress Ratio for a given piping stress state at a given temperature and wall
    thickness.
  4. Use ASME B31.3 Figure 323.2.2A to demonstrate the role of a given wall thickness on code
    compliant brittle fracture piping system design.
  5. Develop a Minimum Safe Operating Temperature (MSOT) curve for a given piping system
    operating plan.
  6. List 2 ASME B31.3 Charpy impact testing requirements for a given material at a predefined
    process condition.
  7. Calculate the API 579 Critical Exposure Temperature (CET) for a specified operating
    condition and compare it to the ASME B31.3 minimum Stress Ration value of 0.3 for that
    same condition.
  8. Mathematically demonstrate that the API 579 Stress Ratios are Equivalent to ASME B31.3
    Stress Ratios.
  9. Define 2 differences between API 579, Part 3, Levels 1 and 2 and ASME B31.3, Brittle
    Fracture assessments.


Meet Your Instructor


Subject Matter Expert: Rotating Equipment, Vibration, Fatigue, and Fracture Mechanics


Click here for Michael Shelton professional resume

Module Ten Price Options


Launch Special: Enroll in the full course for $1,995
(over $500 in savings).

Offer expires May 2, 2025

Our On-Demand Technical Courses


Advance your skills and set yourself apart in the industry.

ASME B31.3, Subject Matter Expert Training Course

Michael Shelton

Michael Shelton

$1,995

Module 1 - Pipe Wall Thickness

ASME B31.3 Subject Matter Expert Course Module 1 - Pipe Wall Thickness

Michael Shelton

Michael Shelton

$500

Module 2 - Design Pressure and Temperature

ASME B31.3 Subject Matter Expert Course Module 2 - Design Pressure and Temperature

Michael Shelton

Michael Shelton

$500

Module 3 -Advanced Pipe Stress and ASME B31.3

ASME B31.3 Subject Matter Expert Course Module 3 - Advanced Pipe Stress and ASME B31.3

Michael Shelton

Michael Shelton

$500

Module 4 - Pipe Bends, Mitered Bends and Branch Connections

ASME B31.3 Subject Matter Expert Course Module 4 - Pipe Bends, Mitered Bends and Branch Connections

Michael Shelton

Michael Shelton

$500

Module 5 - Hydrogen

ASME B31.3 Subject Matter Expert Course Module 5 - Hydrogen

Michael Shelton

Michael Shelton

$500

Module 6 - Advanced Pipe Supports Code Discussion

ASME B31.3 Subject Matter Expert Course Module 6 - Advanced Pipe Supports Code Discussion

Michael Shelton

Michael Shelton

$500

Module 7 - Advanced Flange Technology

ASME B31.3 Subject Matter Expert Course Module 7 - Advanced Flange Technology

Michael Shelton

Michael Shelton

$650

Module 8 - Vibration

ASME B31.3 Subject Matter Expert Course Module 8 - Vibration

Michael Shelton

Michael Shelton

$650

Module 9 - Expansion Joints

ASME B31.3 Subject Matter Expert Course Module 09 - Expansion Joints

David Baker

David Baker

$650

Have questions?

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