ASME STS-1-2021

The following Standard applies to steel stacks; i.e., those stacks where the primary supporting shell is made of steel. It applies to both single- and multiple-walled steel stacks, either of which can be lined or unlined. It also applies to steel stacks that are guyed or to certain aspects of tower stacks. The stack may be supported on a foundation or from another structure.

This Standard covers many facets of the design of steel stacks. It outlines the consideration that must be made for both the mechanical and structural design. It emphasizes what consideration must be taken for wind- and seismic-induced vibrations. It gives guidelines for the selection of material, linings, and coatings. It gives the requirements for lighting and lightning protection based upon existing building and federal codes. It gives the requirements for climbing and access based upon current Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standards. It emphasizes the important areas regarding fabrication and construction. It outlines areas requiring maintenance and inspection following initial operation.

Although many of the topics within these guidelines may be used for all stacks, this Standard is intended to provide design guidelines for stacks containing nonflammable gases, such as combustion exhaust gases at low internal pressures. For stacks containing combustible gases under pressure, such as flare stacks and flammable vents, additional design considerations must be addressed, including design for internal pressure, design for internal deflagration pressure, and compatibility with adjoining piping design that is in accordance with piping and/or vessel design codes, such as ASME B31.3 and Section VIII of the ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code (BPVC). In addition, the materials of construction referenced in this Standard may not be allowed for use with flammable gases under pressure per ASME B31.3 and Section VIII of the ASME BPVC; materials suitable for pressure containment of flammable gases are listed in these codes. No attempt is made within this Standard to define the need or the methods to be used to consider these additional design considerations.