A.S.M.E. (AMERICAN SOCIETY OF MECHANICAL ENGINEERS)

American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) is a professional organization focused on technical, education and research issues in the engineering and technology community. ASME develops and maintains internationally recognized industrial and manufacturing codes and standards that enhance public safety.

In 1911, ASME formed a committee with the objective of formulating a collection of standards to govern the manufacture of steam boilers and other pressure vessels. This need became apparent shortly after the invention of the steam engine in the late 18th century. In the 19th century there were literally thousands of boiler explosions around the world. The committee is named the Boiler and Pressure Vessel Committee. It is currently responsible for establishing rules of safety governing the design, fabrication and inspection during construction of pressure vessels, and to interpret these rules when questions arise regarding their content.