Korea prepares new NDT Re-Inspection Standards for Hydrogen Pressure Vessels
28. August 2025South Korea is set to introduce a revised re-inspection standard for pressure vessels used in hydrogen refueling stations, incorporating non-destructive testing (NDT) methods. The amendment to KGS AC116—covering storage tanks and pressure vessels for high-pressure gas—establishes acoustic emission testing and other NDT techniques as mandatory for identifying internal defects in Type-1 pressure vessels used in compressed gas facilities. In alignment with the Enforcement Regulations of the High Pressure Gas Safety Management Act, the revised definition now includes pressure vessels employed at hydrogen fueling sites and for storing compressed gases from treatment systems. Additionally, re-inspection items will now explicitly reference inspection criteria outlined in KS B 6755 and the application of non-destructive testing limited to Type-1 vessels. Pressure vessels usually require KGS factory registration in order to be approved for import and sale in Korea.
The proposed acoustic emission test must be conducted three times to assess suitability. If any signals indicate a potential defect, further NDT methods are required to measure defect depth. A transition period of 24 months will apply after the amendment takes effect, allowing time for the development of detailed standards, including training requirements and procedural guidelines for re-inspection personnel.
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