For which of the following is ASME B31.3 primarily concerned?

ASME B31.3 is specifically focused on the design, installation, and maintenance of process piping systems. This standard is essential for ensuring the safety, reliability, and efficiency of piping used in various industries, particularly those that handle fluids in processing plants, petrochemical facilities, and refineries.

The standard addresses factors such as material selection, allowable stresses, pressure and temperature ratings, and guidelines for non-destructive testing among other aspects critical to maintaining the integrity of the piping systems. It provides comprehensive criteria that take into account the specific environmental and operational conditions that process piping may encounter.

This focus on process piping contrasts with the other areas mentioned. For example, pressure vessel construction falls under different ASME standards, primarily ASME Section VIII. Similarly, while detecting pipeline leakage and standards for pumping equipment are crucial aspects of facility integrity and operation, they are not the primary concern of ASME B31.3, which is exclusively dedicated to managing process piping systems.