[Electronic Version] Code of Practice for the Fabrication of Stainless Steel Plant & Equipment (Blue Book)

28 April 2024

The blue book is officially titled Code of Practice for the Fabrication of Stainless Steel Plant and Equipment, first published in 1990 and most recently updated in 2022.

One of the principal contributors since the first edition has been Les Boulton, who has been involved with the New Zealand stainless steel industry since 1973 (and active within NZSSDA since 1999). Recognised internationally for his contributions and publications, his involvement has ensured that this code has become a benchmark not only in New Zealand for hygienic plant and equipment.

This Code of Practice is intended to assist industry achieve the quality, structural integrity and food safety requirements necessary for stainless steel plant and equipment. The document is intended to form part of any tender or contract document for the fabrication of such items providing guidance to specifiers and designers.

Section 10 of the “Blue Book” addresses welding aspects of stainless steel. It also includes commentary on the standard AS/NZS 1554.6:2012 Welding of stainless steel for structural purposes written by Dr Michail Karpenko and Alan McClintock.