Pipe work, test facility

The function of a relief valve is to protect a vessel, piping system, or heat exchanger from exceeding its maximum allowable working pressure (MAWP). The MAWP is shown on the code stamp (a metal plate) attached to each process vessel, and by design is determined by the size of the impeller on the pump upstream of the vessel (see Sec. 34.4.1 in Chap. 34). Normally, the relief valve is set to open at this MAWP pressure. The relief valve setting is adjustable and is done by a machinist at a shop pressure-testing facility. 

The majority of testing for project Prometheus was conducted in MSFC s Early Flight Fission Test Facility (EFF-TF) located in Building 4655. Limited work was also performed in glovebox setups outside of EFF-TF for liquid metal property Studies, heat pipe filling, and manufacturing. 

Facility personnel who perform testing and maintenance on fire protection equipment and systems must be experienced and knowledgeable in the systems and on the protocols for testing and maintenance. Knowledge can include work history, educational experience, craft certification, manufacturer certification, field verification, and job assessment and testing. Testing and maintenance personnel may be pump mechanics, pipe fitters, instrument technicians, electrical technicians, millwrights, fire protection personnel or other qualified personnel. 

---