For destructively testing pipes with a diameter less than or equal to 1 5/16", what is the correct procedure?

The correct procedure for destructively testing pipes with a diameter less than or equal to 1 5/16" stipulates that one full pipe section specimen must be substituted for the root bend and nick break specimens. This approach is aligned with the standard practices outlined in API 1104, which emphasize efficiency and practicality in testing smaller diameter pipes.

Using one full pipe section allows for an adequate assessment of the material properties while minimizing the amount of material that needs to be sacrificed during the testing process. This technique can effectively demonstrate the integrity and performance characteristics of the welds without requiring multiple, separate samples. In the context of testing smaller diameter pipes, this method strikes a balance between rigorous evaluation and resource conservation.

The other approaches outlined do not align with the specific requirements for smaller diameter pipes. For instance, the recommendation that the entire pipe should be used for bend testing is impractical for small diameters due to the amount of material that would be wasted and the challenges associated with conducting such tests on diminutive samples. Similarly, while radiography is a valid non-destructive testing method, it does not suit the criteria of destructive testing that is specifically referenced in the question. Lastly, stating that pipe of this size may not be destructively tested contradicts established