Manufacturer Data Report (MDR)

A manufacturer’s data report (MDR) is the full documentation package that accompanies manufactured equipment and piping components, providing a complete record of all materials, tests, inspections, and certifications associated with the product. The term MDR is used broadly in the oil and gas industry, but it also has a specific meaning under the ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code (BPVC), where it refers to the formal data reports (U-1, U-1A) that ASME stamp holders must complete for code-stamped pressure vessels.

MDR vs MTC: Key Differences

In procurement, the manufacturer’s data report is often confused with the mill test certificate (MTC). While an MTC covers a single material (one heat, one product), the MDR is a compilation of all quality documents for an entire manufactured item or order. The MDR is the master package; MTCs are individual components within it.

Manufacturer’s Data Report Contents

Document	Description	Typical Inclusion
Mill test certificates (MTCs)	Chemical and mechanical test data per EN 10204	All pressure-containing materials
Welding procedure specifications (WPS)	Qualified welding procedures used	All welded fabrications
Procedure qualification records (PQR)	Weld procedure test results	Reference documents
Welder qualification records (WQR)	Welder/operator certifications	All welders on the project
NDE reports	Non-destructive test results (RT, UT, MT, PT)	Per ITP requirements
Heat treatment records	PWHT charts (time-temperature)	When PWHT is required
Dimensional inspection reports	Measured vs. specified dimensions	All fabricated items
Hydrostatic test reports	Test pressure, duration, results	All pressure-tested items
Painting/coating reports	DFT measurements, coating system	When coating is specified
Certificates of compliance	Gaskets, bolting, non-pressure items	Supporting materials
Inspection release note (IRN)	Third-party inspection sign-off	When TPI is required
ASME U-1/U-1A form	Code data report for ASME-stamped vessels	Pressure vessels only

When an MDR Is Required

Fabricated piping spools: Pipe fabrication shops compile MDRs for each spool or isometric, including MTCs for all pipe, fittings, and flanges, plus welding and NDE records for each weld joint.

Pressure vessels: ASME-stamped vessels require formal data reports (U-1 form for vessels, U-1A for small standard vessels) signed by the manufacturer and the Authorized Inspector (AI). These are filed with the National Board of Boiler and Pressure Vessel Inspectors.

Valves and specialty items: Valve manufacturers provide MDRs that include MTCs for body, bonnet, trim, and bolting materials, plus test reports for shell, seat, and hydrostatic testing.

Pro Tip

When reviewing an MDR, start by checking the document index against the Inspection and Test Plan (ITP). Every hold and witness point on the ITP should have a corresponding signed record in the MDR. Missing documents indicate incomplete inspection and should trigger a non-conformance report before the equipment is shipped from the manufacturer’s facility.

The MDR is a living document during fabrication and becomes the permanent quality record once the product is delivered. It must be archived by the owner/operator for the life of the equipment.

Read the full guide to mill test certificates