API Publishes New Edition of RP 571 - Damage Mechanisms Affecting Fixed Equipment in the Refining Industry

The American Petroleum Institute has published the 3rd Edition of Recommended Practice 571 - Damage Mechanisms Affecting Fixed Equipment in the Refining Industry. This recommended practice discusses damage mechanisms applicable to oil refineries; however, much of the information therein can also be applied to petrochemical and other industrial applications, as the user deems appropriate. It is up to the user to determine the applicability and appropriateness of the information contained therein as it applies to their facility.

API RP 571 is a reference document that provides useful information by itself and also complements other API standards and recommended practices. The document should be utilized as a reference to other integrity-related documents. It is intended to contribute to the overall management of pressure equipment integrity and is a useful resource for many mechanical integrity program activities including:

• identification of existing damage or deterioration and anticipated rates of degradation,
• identification of future damage mechanism susceptibilities,
• development and maintenance of inspection and monitoring strategies, programs, and plans (e.g., per API 510, API 570, and API 653),
• implementation and monitoring of integrity operating windows (IOWs) (see API 584),
• development of corrosion control documents (CCDs) (see API 970),
• implementation of Risk-Based Inspection (RBI) programs (see API 580 and API 581),
• conducting Fitness-For-Service (FFS) assessments (see API 579-1/ASME FFS-1),
• application of proper examination techniques, and
• conducting pressure equipment integrity incident investigations (see API 585).

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