MAWP stands for which term?

• A. Minimum Allowable Working Pressure
• B. Measured Air Working Pressure
• C. Maximum Allowable Working Pressure
• D. Mean Available Working Pressure

Answer: (C)

Maximum Allowable Working Pressure. This is the upper limit, set by the ASME Code at the design temperature, that defines the highest pressure a vessel or component is permitted to operate under safely. It reflects the strength of the material and the design, including thickness, joints, and temperature effects, to keep stresses within code limits. It is not the burst pressure the vessel could withstand, nor a minimum or a “measured air” or mean value. In practice, equipment is operated at or below MAWP, and safety devices like relief valves are sized to prevent exceeding it.