5. Standardization

5.1 Role of API and ISO

The offshore industry originated in the USA, where the American Petroleum Institute (API) crystallized practices around Recommended Practices, specifications and standards.

API is a private organization, independent of ANSI (American National Standard Association – the American equivalent of AFNOR, and as such affiliated to ISO). API recognizes the need for sound engineering judgment in the application of its texts.

In principle, use of API documents is voluntary; in practice, however, contracts require their strict application. For pressure vessels and material classification, API relies on ASME and ASTM, both of which are affiliated...