Applicator qualification testingis a term used in API 936 to describe the testing required to evaluate whether installation equipment and personnel can achieve the required physical properties (e.g., density, strength) in the final refractory. This testing often involves a mock-up or practice panel where variables like rebound, compaction, and finish are assessed.
The objective is to ensure:
Installation consistency across shifts or crews
Operator competence with specific materials
Adequate equipment settings (nozzles, air pressure, etc.)
Applicator qualification must be completed before production installation begins and is separate from material qualification or final as-installed testing.
[Reference:, API Std 936, Section 5.2.2 – "Applicator qualifications shall be demonstrated by pre-installation testing using the proposed equipment and methods.", API TR 980 – Sections on “Personnel and Equipment Qualification” and “Field Mock-ups”, , , ]
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