Pressure-vessel repair from a National Board R Stamp holder
Blackie's Welding & Boiler Service is a National Board “R” Stamp holder, held since 1989. Our verified work includes pressure-vessel crack repairs and boiler repair work such as flush patches and handhole insert rings.
For a repair inquiry, start with the vessel identification, the reported condition and any inspection findings. The equipment and proposed work determine which requirements need to be reviewed.
Urgent repair contact: (954) 347-0990
What the R Stamp means
The National Board's “R” Certificate of Authorization permits an organization to use the “R” Symbol stamp for repair and/or alteration activities on pressure-retaining items within its authorized scope. The authorization addresses the repair organization and its quality system; it is not the same credential as an individual welder qualification or an ASME construction authorization.
For a specific project, the certificate scope, vessel information and applicable requirements matter. Do not assume that every repair, material or location is covered simply because a contractor holds an R Stamp.
Why the R Stamp matters for your equipment
The R Stamp is an organization-level authorization with ongoing oversight:
- To hold it, a repair organization must maintain an inspection agreement with an Authorized Inspection Agency and a written quality management system that complies with the National Board Inspection Code.
- The certificate expires every three years and has to be renewed. The National Board or a member jurisdiction may also audit certificate holders or make unannounced visits.
- R Stamp repairs are required by many jurisdictions and insurers on National Board-registered vessels. Ask us about your vessel.
Blackie's has held the R Stamp since 1989. The National Board lists our certificate's scope as repairs only, shop and field, metallic: repair work on metallic pressure-retaining items, in our shop or at your site.
You can check this yourself. The National Board's Manufacturer and Repair Directory lists repair organizations holding an active R Certificate of Authorization; search the company name “Blackie” to find our listing.
Bring the vessel information—not just a description of the leak
Useful information includes the manufacturer, serial number, nameplate photo, available drawings or data reports, the reported damage, prior repairs and the equipment location. Include any inspector correspondence and project specifications already provided to your team.
Identify the required documentation early. We will discuss the scope and requirements rather than assume that a general welding repair is appropriate for the equipment.
Inspection and authorization are separate from repair marketing
Requirements vary with the equipment, proposed work and governing jurisdiction. The R Stamp is not a blanket statement that every pressure vessel is subject to identical rules, and it does not make Blackie's the official state or insurance inspector.
For boiler opening, cleaning and closing before an inspection, see our boiler retubing and repair services.
Start a vessel-repair inquiry
Send the equipment identification, repair concern, site location and required timing. Include the specifications and documentation your team needs reviewed.