Advantages of Performing Risk-Based Inspection Analyses During Project Design and Construction Stages

Introduction

Professionals responsible for fixed equipment integrity programs in the process industries, especially at hydrocarbon facilities around the globe, are well-aware of an industry best practice known as Risk-Based Inspection (RBI) and the traditional benefits of implementing this best practice. We often read about the benefits of risk-based inspection during operation and near the retirement of mechanical assets. I was personally involved in and performed many RBI assessments for gas plants, refineries, gas oil separation plants, and tank farms, and am well-aware of the benefits of utilizing risk-based inspection assessments during the life cycle phases of facilities.

API RP 580 provides the basic framework, elements, and requirements for developing and implementing an RBI program for fixed equipment. RP 580 is intended to supplement existing base inspection codes (API 510, API 570, and API 653) related to increasing or decreasing inspection frequencies. These base inspection codes have provisions that allow an RBI analysis to establish inspection plans for fixed equipment in the refining and petrochemical industry. RP 580 also provides provisions of RBI assessments during the design phase of new projects and can benefit owner/users during installation, after start-up, and first turnaround and inspection (T&I).