How to Verify API Monogram License for Bolting Suppliers: Step-by-Step Guide

What is API Monogram and Why It Matters

The API Monogram is a certification mark issued by the American Petroleum Institute (API) that signifies a manufacturer's quality management system and product conformity to API specifications. For bolting suppliers, the relevant specification is API 20F (Corrosion-Resistant Bolting for Use in the Petroleum and Natural Gas Industries) or API 6A (for wellhead and tree equipment). An API Monogram license indicates that the supplier has undergone rigorous audits and their products meet the stringent requirements of these standards.

Why does this matter? In the oil and gas industry, using non-certified fasteners can lead to catastrophic failures, environmental disasters, and costly downtime. Procurement engineers and project managers must ensure that their bolting suppliers hold a valid API Monogram license for the specific product scope required. This guide walks you through the verification process step by step.

Step 1: Access the API Composite List Online

The API Composite List is the official database of all API Monogram-licensed facilities. It is freely accessible on the API website. Follow these steps:

• Go to api.org and navigate to the API Monogram Program page.
• Click on the “Composite List” link. You may need to accept terms of use.
• The list is available as a downloadable Excel file or an online search tool. For quick verification, use the online search.

Tip: Bookmark the API Composite List page for future reference. The list is updated monthly, so always check the latest version.

Step 2: Search by Company Name or License Number

Once you have access to the Composite List, you can search by:

• Company Name: Enter the full legal name of the supplier. Be careful with spelling variations (e.g., “LOKRON” vs. “LOKRON Fasteners”).
• License Number: If you have the supplier’s API Monogram license number (e.g., API 1234), enter it directly for faster results.

The search will return a list of facilities associated with that company. Each facility has a separate license, so ensure you select the correct location.

Step 3: Verify Product Scope (e.g., API 20F BSL-2)

This is the most critical step. The API Monogram license specifies the exact product scope for which the facility is authorized. For bolting, look for:

• API 20F: This covers corrosion-resistant bolting. The scope may include grades like BSL-2 (Bolting Specification Level 2) or BSL-3. Ensure the supplier’s scope matches your requirement.
• API 6A: For wellhead and tree bolting, check if the license includes “Bolting” under the product category.

In the Composite List, the product scope is listed under “Product” or “Scope” columns. For example, a valid entry might read: “API 20F, BSL-2, Grades B7, B8, B8M, L7”. If the scope does not include the specific grade or specification you need, the supplier is not authorized to apply the API Monogram to those products.

Step 4: Check License Expiration and Status

Each API Monogram license has an expiration date. The Composite List shows the current status (e.g., “Active”, “Expired”, “Suspended”). Verify that:

• The license status is “Active”.
• The expiration date is in the future. If it has expired, the supplier cannot legally use the API Monogram.

Note: API also suspends licenses for non-compliance. A suspended license means the supplier is not currently authorized to use the Monogram, even if the expiration date is still valid.

Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them

• Pitfall 1: Relying on a Certificate Provided by the Supplier. Always verify directly on the API Composite List. Suppliers may show outdated or forged certificates.
• Pitfall 2: Assuming All Facilities Are Covered. A company may have multiple facilities; only those listed are licensed. Ensure the facility that manufactured your fasteners is on the list.
• Pitfall 3: Ignoring Product Scope Details. A license for API 20F BSL-2 does not cover BSL-3. Double-check the exact scope.
• Pitfall 4: Not Checking Expiration Dates. Licenses expire. Always check the date, especially for long-term projects.

Screenshot Examples of Valid vs Invalid Licenses

Note: Screenshots are not included in this text version, but typical valid entries show “Active” status, a future expiration date, and a detailed product scope. Invalid entries may show “Expired” or “Suspended” status, or missing product scope.

LOKRON Solution

At LOKRON, we understand the importance of compliance. Our API Monogram license (License Number: API 20F-XXXX) covers a wide range of bolting products, including ASTM A193 B7, B8, B8M, and A320 L7, under API 20F BSL-2. We maintain an active status and full traceability. For projects requiring API Monogram-certified fasteners, LOKRON provides complete documentation and verification support. Contact us for a quote or to verify our license.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is the difference between API Monogram and API 20F certification?

The API Monogram is the mark that indicates a manufacturer is licensed to apply the API logo to products that meet API specifications. API 20F is the specific standard for corrosion-resistant bolting. A supplier must have an API Monogram license that includes API 20F in its scope to claim compliance.

2. Can I verify an API Monogram license for a non-US supplier?

Yes, the API Composite List includes facilities worldwide. API Monogram is an international program, and suppliers from many countries are listed.

3. How often is the API Composite List updated?

The list is updated monthly. Always check the latest version, as licenses can be suspended or expire between updates.

4. What should I do if a supplier’s license is expired?

Do not accept products with the API Monogram from that supplier. Request a current license or find an alternative supplier with an active license.

5. Does LOKRON provide API Monogram-certified fasteners?

Yes, LOKRON holds an active API Monogram license for API 20F BSL-2, covering a range of bolting materials. We can provide a copy of our license and verification details upon request.

Summary

Verifying an API Monogram license is a straightforward process that protects your project from non-compliant fasteners. By following the four steps—accessing the API Composite List, searching by company, verifying product scope, and checking expiration—you can ensure your bolting supplier is authorized. Always verify directly on the API website, not from supplier-provided documents. For reliable, API Monogram-certified bolting, trust LOKRON.