Asset Integrity Management (AIM) is a standard of operating that aims to protect equipment, health, safety, and environment. While there are numerous definitions of AIM, we define AIM as the cradle-to-grave approach to understanding and operating equipment in a safe, reliable manner. AIM does not apply merely to aging infrastructure; instead, it considers all stages of the equipment life cycle, from conception, to engineering and design, construction, operation, inspection, and finally to repair/replacement when necessary.
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July/August 2018 Inspectioneering Journal
By David McCann at Sentinel Integrity Solutions Inc.
As mentorship programs continue to fade across the oil & gas, chemical, petrochemical, and other process industries, this article discusses a few of the main causes as well as the importance for stopping this trend. |
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July/August 2018 Inspectioneering Journal
By Stephen Flory at PinnacleART, Brian Maslar at Amplify Technology Solutions, and Pete Ankner at Amplify Technology Solutions
This article discusses Asset Performance Management (APM) software implementation strategies and the challenges owners face when upgrading their software to the newest version. |
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July/August 2018 Inspectioneering Journal
By Ibrahim Kodssi at Independent Consultant
Software implementation, including RBI, comes with a lot of ad-hoc challenges and pitfalls. There are numerous options for RBI software currently available, and they may differ by design, purpose, function, scope and capabilities. This article highlights several key integrity-related aspects to consider when selecting RBI software. |
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Blog
August 23, 2018 By Efrain Rios at Fortress Oil & Gas, LLC
There are cases where selecting the best IDMS application for the company means that the end users will not immediately obtain all desired functionality. In some instances, users must forgo desirable features to satisfy more valuable requirements of the company. In this article, readers will learn what to do when critical functionality is sacrificed and why in-house customization is not always a great option. When addressing functionality gaps, there are generally only four paths one can take. |
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May/June 2018 Inspectioneering Journal
By James R. Widrig at Quest Integrity, and James Wilson at Quest Integrity
As assets age and production demands grow, it becomes increasingly critical to implement sustainable long-term AIM strategies and programs. This article dives into the elements that will help ensure the successful management of assets throughout their life-cycle. |
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Blog
June 6, 2018 By Efrain Rios at Fortress Oil & Gas, LLC
In the industry today, there are numerous applications being used to manage asset integrity information, i.e. data and records associated with design, construction, corrosion, inspection, process chemistry, and degradation remediation. In the second blog of this 5-part series, the author covers the most prominent steps in an IDMS selection process and the key areas beyond core functionality that must be considered to ensure that the right IDMS is selected. |
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March/April 2018 Inspectioneering Journal
By Vipin Nair at GE Digital, and Sarah Lukens at GE Digital
With time being one of the most precious assets for turnaround teams, finding ways to optimize analysis and recommendations is crucial. This article demonstrates how the use of APM software can help prevent unplanned downtime by quickly identifying potential hidden failures. |
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March/April 2018 Inspectioneering Journal
By John Reynolds at Intertek
This article is designed to help the reader better communicate their FEMI Mission, Vision, Core Values and Responsibilities to all stakeholders at their site. |
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March/April 2018 Inspectioneering Journal
By Ibrahim Kodssi at Independent Consultant, and Houssam Sabry at ADNOC LNG
Implementing RBI for process piping can be a very tedious and lengthy exercise, especially for major process plants with thousands of feet of interconnected piping. This article shares the experience of ADNOC LNG following a structured RBI approach for piping groups. |
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Blog
April 16, 2018 By Efrain Rios at Fortress Oil & Gas, LLC
In the industry today, there are numerous applications being used to manage asset integrity information, i.e. data and records associated with design, construction, corrosion, inspection, process chemistry, and degradation remediation. As the first article in a 5-part series, this is intended to provide readers with an overview of inspection data management systems (IDMS), how they help support mechanical integrity assessments, and some common challenges that users face. |
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January/February 2018 Inspectioneering Journal
By Ashfaq Anwer
Sea water corrosion and erosion issues can affect almost all commonly used metallurgy in a refinery or petrochemical plant. This brief article explains the dangers behind sea water used in plant cooling systems and discusses several metallurgical and material solutions to resist sea cooling water corrosion. |
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January/February 2018 Inspectioneering Journal
By Neil Burns at Stress Engineering Services
The actions you take immediately after a failure are critical in understanding the cause and appropriate steps to remedy the problem. However, the wrong moves might prevent you from getting the answers you need. |
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January/February 2018 Inspectioneering Journal
By Greg Alvarado at Inspectioneering Journal
Most of us that work integrity and reliability understand what we do and how we do it. But how many of us understand WHY we do things? Understanding the motives behind our activities, initiatives and programs can help to galvanize and lay a foundation for long term success. |
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January/February 2018 Inspectioneering Journal
By Mohamed Attia at Saudi Aramco
This article, the first of a multi-part series, discusses the methodology and need for establishing an integrated and holistic framework for managing asset integrity on a day-to-day basis. |
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Partner Content
Our proprietary furnace tube inspection system, FTIS™, is an ultrasonic inspection technology capable of rapid, automated fired heater coil inspection in refinery fired heaters. The data captured by our furnace tube inspection system is exceptionally powerful when combined with our LifeQuest™ remaining life assessment capabilities, providing an integrated solution set for refinery fired heaters in the refining and chemical industries. |
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November/December 2017 Inspectioneering Journal
By Geoff Clarkson at UTComp, Inc.
This article, part two in a series, provides a case study of an inspection and evaluation of a Fiberglass Reinforced Polymer (FRP) column using nondestructive ultrasound readings on the outer surface of the FRP. |
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November/December 2017 Inspectioneering Journal
By Hossam Aboegla at Lloyd's Register Energy
The goal of achieving effective asset integrity management (AIM) throughout an asset’s life cycle requires certain “integrity enablers.” This article discusses six integrity enablers and their importance to a successful AIM program. |
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September/October 2017 Inspectioneering Journal
By Daniel Cypriano at Petrobras, and Henrique Ventura at Petrobras
Although value-drivers often differ between facilities, all can agree that effective asset management strategies should lead to better decision making. In this case study, the authors detail how process-based risk management strategies can make for improved use of equipment. |
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September/October 2017 Inspectioneering Journal
By Tata L.N. Murthy at Gujarat State Petroleum Corporation Ltd
Ensuring the integrity of oil and gas assets is a challenge for oil and gas operators. This article discusses several “pillars” of asset integrity management on which successful O&G operations rely, including Material Selection, Process Safety, Inspection, and more. |
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September/October 2017 Inspectioneering Journal
By Stephen P. Webb at Metegrity
The challenges companies face when implementing an RBI program from scratch can make the practice seem daunting. To ensure that implementation is completed smoothly and the benefits of RBI are quickly realized, there are considerations that should be taken into account. |
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May/June 2017 Inspectioneering Journal
By Mike Asquini at T.A. Cook
Risk is an inherent aspect of asset management. Unfortunately, controlling it is easier said than done. Risk must be managed beginning with the initiation of a project and lasting until completion. How can one implement a reliable risk management program while balancing organizational demands? |
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May/June 2017 Inspectioneering Journal
By Hossam Aboegla at Lloyd's Register Energy
Asset integrity and life cycle management are unique but intertwined concepts. The dynamic process between these principles has a significant impact on the lifecycle of individual assets and, therefore, the integrity of an entire plant. |
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January/February 2017 Inspectioneering Journal
By Abdelmounam Sherik at Saudi Aramco Research and Development Center, Mark Rosa, PE at Harvard Business School, and Abderrazak Traidia at Saudi Aramco Research and Development Center
This article summarizes a comprehensive survey conducted by the Research & Development Center (R&DC) of Saudi Aramco to understand top corrosion damage mechanisms experienced by its operating onshore surface facilities. |
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January/February 2017 Inspectioneering Journal
By John Reynolds at Intertek
In this article, the roles and responsibilities of the corrosion and materials SME will be outlined as I see them, fully recognizing that there is probably no one person out there with all the knowledge and skills suggested herein. |
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January/February 2017 Inspectioneering Journal
By Edwin A. Merrick, PE at The Augustus Group
This article presents a perspective on the human factor and emphasizes the value of using risk tools at all levels in the organization to help provide management focus during times of severe economic pressure. |
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January/February 2017 Inspectioneering Journal
By Chuck Provost at Sentinel Integrity Solutions
Some facilities lead the industry with streamlined RBI/IOW programs, and some facilities are just implementing standard calendar-based programs. Both are still susceptible to inspection interval gaps. |
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November/December 2016 Inspectioneering Journal
By Mohamed Amer at TUV Rheinland
This article describes a high-level dead leg integrity management program overview and is based on experience, knowledge, and adaptation of inspection management philosophies currently being implemented within the Oil & Gas and the petrochemical industry. |
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November/December 2016 Inspectioneering Journal
By Lynne Kaley at Trinity Bridge LLC / Trinity Bridge Digital
This paper provides the background for the technology behind the Third Edition thinning model as well as step-by-step worked examples demonstrating the methodology for thinning in this new edition of API RP 581. |
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November/December 2016 Inspectioneering Journal
By Marc McConnell, P.E. at Pro-Surve Technical Services, and Grady Hatton at Versa Integrity Group
The concept of reducing Condition Monitoring Locations (CMLs) is misguided, and the number and location of CMLs should be OPTIMIZED, not systematically reduced. CML allocation in piping requires a good process, otherwise, you can run into a lot of dead ends before arriving at your intended destination. |
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September/October 2016 Inspectioneering Journal
By Greg Alvarado at Inspectioneering Journal
Risk-based inspection (RBI) programs and processes are front and center, both as a challenge to get it right, and as an integral tool and process to help us achieve success in risk management and equipment reliability. It has to be implemented, maintained, sustained, and in a state of continuous improvement over time in order to achieve the desired results. |
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September/October 2016 Inspectioneering Journal
By John Reynolds at Intertek
Did you ever wonder where you fit into the entire hierarchy of a fixed equipment asset integrity management (FE-AIM) program? Or who is responsible and accountable for what aspects of FE-AIM at your site? All the way from top management down to those doing the work at the field level? That’s what I will try to address in this article. |
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September/October 2016 Inspectioneering Journal
By Kevin Birkby at PinnacleART
Integrity and reliability personnel at processing facilities are no strangers to initiatives to improve processes in the pursuit of establishing best-in-class reliability programs. It is common practice for operators to enlist help from third parties that specialize in implementation of programs like Risk-Based Inspection (RBI) and Asset Management. |
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September/October 2016 Inspectioneering Journal
By Tata L.N. Murthy at Gujarat State Petroleum Corporation Ltd
For all operators, a system made up of a variety of equipment must be available to carry out continued operations. Planning plays a vital role in the success of major maintenance projects. Integrating all departments in the maintenance plan can save operators time and money, can increase equipment availability, and can help ensure the activities are conducted in a safe and efficient manner. |
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Blog
October 27, 2016 By John Reynolds at Intertek
I hope by now, everyone is aware that the next API Inspection Summit will be held again at the Galveston Convention Center from January 31– February 2, 2017. |
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Partner Content
InVista is a lightweight, hand-held ultrasonic in-line inspection tool (intelligent pig) capable of detecting pipeline wall loss and corrosion in unpiggable or difficult-to-inspect pipelines. The pipeline geometry inspection data captured by the InVista tool is exceptionally powerful when combined with the LifeQuest™ Pipeline fitness-for-service capabilities, providing an integrated solution set for the pipeline industry. |
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July/August 2016 Inspectioneering Journal
By Grady Hatton at Versa Integrity Group, and Melissa Guerra at Chevron Products Company
Many plants inspect PRDs on preset intervals as recommended by inspection code API 510, and implement inspection practices such as API RP 576. Just seeking PRD compliance with codes and standards usually results in mediocre mechanical integrity and process safety. Companies must go further to climb the ladder to “excellence.” |
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Blog
August 25, 2016 By John Reynolds at Intertek
Sometimes with our busyness with the “Daily Grind”, we can forget about our most important mission – prevention of a big event caused by an unanticipated fixed equipment mechanical integrity (FEMI) failure. Those big events are the ones that get a lot of media attention, cost many tens of millions of dollars, cause big losses of production & capacity, and worst of all, may result in fatalities. |
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May/June 2016 Inspectioneering Journal
By Dr. Yury Sokolov at SVT Engineering Consultants
RBI and NII are designed to achieve significant cost savings and risk mitigation benefits over a piece of equipment’s lifetime in the long term (e.g. through greater reliability and inspection optimization). It is important to strategically consider new NDE technologies to obtain data of sufficient confidence to satisfy the requirements of the risk model. |
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Online Article
Inspectioneering recently had the opportunity to chat with Jim Weynand, Chief Revenue Officer for Check-6, a global leader in accelerating human performance. Our discussion focused on the effect human factors have on plant operations and how positively and routinely influencing human performance can improve asset integrity management. We hope you find the exchange interesting and informative. |
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Blog
May 6, 2016 By Nick Schmoyer at Inspectioneering
We recently invited asset integrity professionals to rate various mechanical integrity performance characteristics in their facilities. Here are the results. |
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March/April 2016 Inspectioneering Journal
By Tim Hill at Quest Integrity Group
Achieving fired heater reliability in conjunction with meeting performance standards can be a challenging feat. Performance is a measure of the degree to which the fired heater is in an operable condition at any given time. |
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January/February 2016 Inspectioneering Journal
By Walt Sanford at PinnacleART, and Mauricio Olivares at Pinnacle ART
Equipment integrity and reliability programs are essential for refinery and chemical facility operators. The processes of the programs are developed to ensure safety, optimize component life cycles, and promote smooth and economical operations. |
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January/February 2016 Inspectioneering Journal
By Dr. Jake Davies at Permasense Ltd.
Fixed equipment in a refinery can be susceptible to corrosion from the process side, necessitating an inspection strategy to understand the condition of that equipment. Online measurement of pipe and pressure vessel wall thickness is made possible by installing wireless, semi-permanent thickness monitoring sensors. |
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Blog
January 4, 2016 By Jeremiah Wooten at Inspectioneering, LLC.
We at Inspectioneering would like to take this opportunity to thank all of our subscribers, followers, clients, and industry partners for a great 2015, and wish every member of the Inspectioneering community a happy and healthy 2016! |
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November/December 2015 Inspectioneering Journal
By Walt Sanford at PinnacleART
Maximizing return on investment of physical assets, while at the same time operating safely and in an environmentally responsible manner is now more critical than ever for organizations within the heavy process industries. |
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November/December 2015 Inspectioneering Journal
By Fernando Vicente at ABB, and Khulani Ndimande at ABB Consulting
This article highlights several benefits of sound reliability and mechanical integrity practices and how they serve as the cornerstone of effective asset management. Moreover, we believe effective asset integrity management is not only important, but essential, to overcoming the challenges presented by operating in the current oil and gas market. |
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November/December 2015 Inspectioneering Journal
By Paolo Torrado at Engineering and Inspection Services, LLC., and Dr. Reza Azizian at Engineering & Inspection Services, LLC
Excessive vibration is a problem frequently encountered in industrial plants and their peripheral equipment, including piping systems, pressure vessels, and steel structures. Long term excessive vibration can lead to fatigue crack propagation and consequently, may cause system failure. |
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November/December 2015 Inspectioneering Journal
By John Reynolds at Intertek
Once upon a time in the land of Ooze, there were two processing plants that boiled oil to make fuels and various other valuable petrochemical products. On one side of the river, rests a site called Perfecto Process Plant, while just across the river lies another plant called InZayna Zylum. |
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September/October 2015 Inspectioneering Journal
By A.C. Gysbers at The Equity Engineering Group, Inc.
This article addresses a debate mechanical integrity professionals in the O&G and Chemical Processing industries periodically have about how thickness data gathered during a thickness monitoring inspection (TMI) should be recorded. |
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September/October 2015 Inspectioneering Journal
By Virginia Edley at Trinity Bridge, LLC.
If everyone in an industrial setting actively looked for things that were not right or seemed different, or looked at small mistakes as opportunities to prevent larger ones, what would the future look like? |
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September/October 2015 Inspectioneering Journal
By Brad Moore at PinnacleART
Operators in all industries are trying to increase equipment availability, yet oftentimes critical process equipment is not available due to planned or unplanned maintenance. To increase equipment availability, steps must be taken to reduce downtime. One way to achieve this is to ensure that spare parts are organized and available in the event repairs are needed. |
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Blog
August 31, 2015 By Jeremiah Wooten at Inspectioneering, LLC.
Inspectioneering recently had the opportunity to speak with Tom Redlinger about QA/QC practices in the O&G business and what companies can do to create programs that are both effective and sustainable. We hope you find the exchange as interesting as we did. |
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July/August 2015 Inspectioneering Journal
By John Reynolds at Intertek
Rarely is there a new and unknown cause of a major Fixed Equipment Mechanical Integrity (FEMI) failure in the petrochemical and refining industry. This article briefly summarizes five major fixed equipment mechanical integrity (FEMI) failures from the petrochemical and refining industry. |
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July/August 2015 Inspectioneering Journal
By Joe Frey, PE at Stress Engineering, Inc., Lange Kimball at Stress Engineering Services, and Britt Bettell at Stress Engineering Services
This article introduces portions of a “Best-In-Class” Fitness-for-Service (FFS) program that includes the performance of regular visual inspections of pipe supports and hangers, coupled with in-situ load testing of suspect supports. This program can give the plant engineer the knowledge he needs to make sound operational and maintenance decisions. |
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May/June 2015 Inspectioneering Journal
By Amanda Nurse at BP, and Josh Havekost at BP
Assessing risk is an integral part of working at a refinery. Infrastructure supporting the miles of piping, process vessels, and the platforms and ladders used in daily unit operations are often taken for granted. The Civil Structures Management Program (CSMP) at the BP Whiting Refinery was developed in 2004. Since the program’s inception, millions of dollars have been spent in the yearly execution of refinery structural repairs. |
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March/April 2015 Inspectioneering Journal
By Walt Sanford at PinnacleART
Today, many managers are finding that they can address the reliability of all types of assets by combining RBI and Reliability Centered Maintenance (RCM) processes together into one comprehensive reliability management process. |
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March/April 2015 Inspectioneering Journal
By Andy Kates at Versa Integrity Group
Rope access allows for a wide variety of work to be performed at high elevations or other hard to reach areas without the use of scaffolding or heavy equipment. It has evolved from techniques used in rock climbing and caving to become an extremely safe and cost effective industrial tool. |
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March/April 2015 Inspectioneering Journal
By A.C. Gysbers at The Equity Engineering Group, Inc.
The tubes of heat exchangers (HX), whether for a shell and tube bundle or an airfin, are typically subject to some form of nondestructive examination (NDE) to try and quantify the remaining wall thicknesses and corrosion rates to help a plant to determine remaining life or the need for intervention via re-tubing or replacement of these thin wall components. |
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March/April 2015 Inspectioneering Journal
By Matt Midas at GenesisSolutions
With the advancements in today’s technology and improvements to Enterprise Asset Management (EAM) systems and Computerized Maintenance Management Systems (CMMS), if we deploy them properly and in line with best practices, it is possible to reach previously unreachable levels of efficiency, data quality, and meaningful reports. |
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January/February 2015 Inspectioneering Journal
By Pamela Hamblin at Thielsch Engineering, Inc.
Avoiding cracking under pressure when managing high-energy piping systems is common subject matter in the power industry. Just as high-energy piping can give way to pressure, stress and fatigue, so can the people in charge of operating them when trying to determine what to inspect, where to inspect, and what to do with those inspection results once they have them. |
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January/February 2015 Inspectioneering Journal
By Harold Marburger at Dunn Heat Exchangers
Whether onsite or offsite, the methods for cleaning shell and tube heat exchangers can vary. Refining and petrochemical operators will agree that high standards must be employed with each method. Choosing the right method can make the difference between smooth operations and unforeseen equipment shutdowns. |
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January/February 2015 Inspectioneering Journal
By Fred Schenkelberg at FMS Reliability
Reliability engineering tools and concepts can be used to avoid or delay failures, thus increasing product service life. Design or maintenance teams use reliability engineering techniques to identify failures and their causes. |
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January/February 2015 Inspectioneering Journal
By Matthew Green at Neptune Research, Inc.
Engineered Composite Repair (ECR) systems are moving into mainstream usage at a faster pace than ever. This increased usage and exposure is working to push them into new frontiers and commands a more demanding understanding of their basic functions. |
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January/February 2015 Inspectioneering Journal
By Greg Alvarado at Inspectioneering Journal
Challenges abounded in 2014 for the process industries, and it does not look like they will let up soon. But then again, that’s life, as they say. After 40 years in the industry the old adages still ring true, “there is nothing new under the sun” and “the only constant is change.” |
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Partner Content
Our proprietary furnace tube inspection system, FTIS™, is an ultrasonic inspection technology capable of rapid, automated fired heater coil inspection in refinery fired heaters. The data captured by our furnace tube inspection system is exceptionally powerful when combined with our LifeQuest™ remaining life assessment capabilities, providing an integrated solution set for refinery fired heaters in the refining and chemical industries. |
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November/December 2014 Inspectioneering Journal
By John Reynolds at Intertek
Based on my 45+ years of experience working with fixed equipment mechanical integrity (FEMI) issues in the refining and petrochemical processing industry, this article summarizes what I believe are the top 10 reasons why pressure vessels and piping systems continue to fail, thus causing significant process safety events (e.g. explosions, fires, toxic releases, environmental damage, etc.). |
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November/December 2014 Inspectioneering Journal
By Marc McConnell, P.E. at Pro-Surve Technical Services, Josh Yoakam at Holly Refining and Marketing - Tulsa, LLC, and Jeannie Beth Richey at Sasol North America, Inc.
The role of an API inspector is rapidly changing. Necessary skills for success have transformed as technology, standardization, and regulations have become part of the way of life. |
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July/August 2014 Inspectioneering Journal
By A.C. Gysbers at The Equity Engineering Group, Inc.
One of the more common inspection monitoring programs for pressure vessels is to perform thickness measurement at Corrosion Monitoring Locations (CMLs) to allow monitoring of minimum thicknesses and provide estimates for corrosion rates. These minimum thicknesses and corrosion rates are critical in supporting risk based inspection techniques or in setting half-life prescriptive re-inspection intervals. |
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Blog
August 11, 2014 By John Reynolds at Intertek
This blog post is the second part of a two part series that assesses the top ten reasons for FEMI failures that cause process safety incidents. The ten reasons I’ve outlined are a result of doing 60+ FEMI audits within refineries and chemical plants in the last 45+ years, tracking 150+ serious FEMI incidents in the petroleum and petrochemical industry and their causes, and defending numerous clients in the industry from lawsuits pertaining to FEMI issues. |
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Blog
June 25, 2014 By Tyler Alvarado at Inspectioneering
We are constantly striving to improve Inspectioneering. The most important ways we do this are by persistently seeking high-quality asset integrity information; creating clear, simple, and intuitive ways for you to utilize our resources; and forging an identity that embodies who we are. |
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Partner Content
Offshore platforms are exposed to some of the roughest conditions on earth and require regular attention to ensure they are structurally sound and safe for continued operation. With so many components and major joints at elevated locations, it is clear why a well-trained rope access technician can be an invaluable resource for offshore operators. |
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May/June 2014 Inspectioneering Journal
By John Reynolds at Intertek
There are typically three tiers to pass through for most fixed equipment mechanical integrity (FEMI) programs before they reach excellence in FEMI. In my 45 years in the FEMI business, I have observed FEMI programs in all three tiers (phases). |
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Blog
January 27, 2014 By Greg Alvarado at Inspectioneering Journal
2013 was a year of introspection and progress for the process industries, largely motivated by recent (within the last 10 years) equipment failures and their consequences, some highly publicized. |
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Blog
January 6, 2014 By Nick Schmoyer at Inspectioneering
In 2013 Inspectioneering published content covering a wide array of topics, from risk-based inspection, to advanced nondestructive testing methods, to pipeline integrity management systems. Last year, we published more content than any year prior; we expect the same trend to continue into 2014. |
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November/December 2013 Inspectioneering Journal
By Fernando Vicente at ABB
Service failures and safety incidents of machines, structures, and pressure equipment have been experienced in the oil and gas industry for many years without warning, with varying degrees of consequential damages to health, safety, environmental, business, and reputation. Unfortunately, equipment failures will occur no matter how effective a plant’s reliability program is. |
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Partner Content
LOTIS utilizes laser profilometry to conduct internal steam reformer tube inspections. The data captured by LOTIS is exceptionally powerful when combined with our LifeQuest™ remaining life assessment capabilities, providing an integrated solution set for the process and syngas industries. |
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Blog
November 25, 2013 By John Reynolds at Intertek
Without an effective organizational strategy for pressure equipment integrity (PEI), many of the 101 essential elements of PEI can "drop between the chairs" because their may be no management systems (MS) in place to make sure that each element of PEI gets properly planned, scheduled, and completed at appropriate intervals by a responsible party. |
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Blog
October 28, 2013 By John Reynolds at Intertek
Today’s blog post is a continuation on the 10 essential Management Systems needed for an effective PEI program that can achieve excellence. My previous posts covered the first six of these, including LCM, Risk Assessment and Inspection, and Deterioration Management and Control, among others. |
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September/October 2013 Inspectioneering Journal
By Jeremiah Wooten at Inspectioneering, LLC.
Earlier this year, our friends at Pinnacle Asset Integrity Services hosted a webinar entitled Mechanical Integrity Assessment: Why Bother? The broadcast included discussions on the history and value of asset integrity programs, as well as the evolution of the processes and methods necessary to ensure these programs achieve the objective of decreasing risk to improve safety. We have selected a small sample of these exchanges to present to you because we feel they provide important information regarding the need for mechanical integrity assessments in our industry. |
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Blog
September 16, 2013 By John Reynolds at Intertek
From time to time, I’m asked why some operating sites don’t seem to pay adequate attention to the need to protect and preserve pressure equipment integrity (PEI). Too often a few sites don’t seem to "get it" until they have a major process safety event associated with a failure of pressure equipment. |
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Blog
June 24, 2013 By John Reynolds at Intertek
I have written several articles for Inspectioneering Journal to help create successful programs to achieve excellence in pressure equipment integrity and reliability (PEI&R). To reference my series of articles on PEI&R for background reference, click here. This information may be useful as I will refer to aspects of PEI&R throughout my posts. |
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Partner Content
It is difficult to cover all inspection applications with basic inspection procedures like radiography, ultrasonics, magnetic particle testing, and dye penetrant inspection. Owner-operators are finding that advanced NDE services such as guided-wave ultrasonics, AUT corrosion mapping, and eddy current testing are essential tools to keep their facilities operating safely and efficiently. |
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Blog
May 6, 2013 By Greg Alvarado at Inspectioneering Journal
We are in the middle of our 2013 Asset Integrity Management Benchmarking Survey. The last Facilities Survey was held seven years ago, in 2006. Some aspects of this year’s survey have remained the same as before. |
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May/June 2013 Inspectioneering Journal
By John Reynolds at Intertek
One of the reasons we continue to have too many fixed equipment mechanical integrity (FEMI) events in the refining and process industries is the lack of understanding and appreciation by site management for the hazards posed by the 101 FEMI issues. |
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March/April 2013 Inspectioneering Journal
By Greg Alvarado at Inspectioneering Journal
A pattern of requests for key performance indicators (KPIs) related to equipment integrity management (IM) programs has appeared on Inspectioneering’s LinkedIn group discussion as well as other industry forums. Furthermore, the topic came up numerous times at the recent API Inspection Summit. Performance is the key. |
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March/April 2013 Inspectioneering Journal
By Thomas Phan at Bureau Veritas Inspectorate, and Mike Bartholmey at Bureau Veritas Inspectorate
For crude oil refiners and traders, information is the lifeblood of their operations and business decisions. The information obtained by crude oil assays, which includes physical properties and compositional analysis of a crude oil, provides in-depth insight and serves as an important decision-making tool. |
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January/February 2013 Inspectioneering Journal
By Greg Alvarado at Inspectioneering Journal
In response to reader feedback, we implemented some important improvements in 2012. As we broaden our scope to include all aspects of Asset Integrity Management, its synergy and leverage become increasingly important. We will sustain this forward movement in 2013 by continuously seeking ways to serve the Inspectioneering community at maximum value, as you will see by the comprehensive Inspectioneering client survey soon to launch. |
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July/August 2012 Inspectioneering Journal
By John Reynolds at Intertek
This is the last out of the ten articles in this series. Clearly, Continuous Improvement (CI) has a major role in achieving excellence in PEI&R. All the advances we’ve made over the years in achieving excellence in PEI&R stems from our continuous improvement programs to apply new and better techniques and methods by learning from what has already occurred. |
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May/June 2012 Inspectioneering Journal
By Greg Alvarado at Inspectioneering Journal
Development of shale requires the utilization of numerous types of fixed equipment. Due to the high cost and risk associated with hydrocarbon production and processing, E&Ps must continue to manage cost-effective and safe fixed equipment programs. Are the fixed equipment integrity management challenges related to shale development different from the current challenges faced in the upstream oil and gas business? |
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March/April 2012 Inspectioneering Journal
By Fernando Vicente at ABB
Air-cooled heat exchangers (AC-HEs) are used extensively throughout the oil and gas industry, from upstream production to refineries and petrochemical plants, under high pressure and high temperature conditions, as well as corrosive fluids and environments. Some defects and discontinuities can be introduced during the heat exchanger manufacturing process and are not necessarily found as part of QA/QC inspections. |
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January/February 2012 Inspectioneering Journal
By John Reynolds at Intertek
Clearly, record-keeping and data management have a major role in achieving excellence in pressure equipment integrity and reliability (PEI&R). Everything else we do to achieve excellence in PEI&R stems from keeping high quality and complete PEI&R records, as well as doing all the necessary data analysis. |
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November/December 2011 Inspectioneering Journal
By John Reynolds at Intertek
In the first article entitled How to Put It All Together - Guide to Organizing a Successful PEI Program in the current series of articles that I am writing, I provided an overview of the necessary Management Systems (MS) for a successful program to achieve excellence in pressure equipment integrity and reliability (PEI&R). The eighth article in this series will appear in the November/December issue of the Inspectioneering Journal. |
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November/December 2011 Inspectioneering Journal
By Greg Alvarado at Inspectioneering Journal
The original article on scalable accuracy which laid the groundwork for the concept was published in the March April 2011 issue of the Inspectioneering Journal, entitled Scalable Accuracy, Key Roles of Risk Based Inspection and Fitness for Service, Equipment Life-Cycle Management Process. This article is reprinted immediately following this article for ease of reference. |
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September/October 2011 Inspectioneering Journal
By Barry Snider at Small Hammer Incorporated
Maintenance has been around since prehistoric man fixed a broken, trusted spear instead of fashioning a new one. One concept of maintenance is any activity that extends the useful life or enhances the performance of an item of interest. A broad concept for sure but for most of recorded history, maintenance has been synonymous with fixing or repairing. |
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July/August 2011 Inspectioneering Journal
By John Reynolds at Intertek
In the first article in this series entitled How to Put It All Together - Guide to Organizing a Successful PEI Program, I provided an overview of the necessary Management Systems for a successful program to achieve excellence in pressure equipment integrity. This is the seventh article in that series. Clearly, Codes and Standards have a major role in achieving excellence in Pressure Equipment Integrity and Reliability. |
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January/February 2011 Inspectioneering Journal
By John Reynolds at Intertek
In the first article in this series entitled How to Put It All Together - Guide to Organizing a Successful PEI Program, (1) I provided an overview of the necessary Management Systems (MS) for a successful program to achieve excellence in pressure equipment integrity (PEI). This is the sixth article in that series. |
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September/October 2010 Inspectioneering Journal
By John Reynolds at Intertek
In the first article in this series entitled How to Put It All Together - Guide to Organizing a Successful PEI Program, (1) I provided an overview of the necessary Management Systems (MS) for a successful program to achieve excellence in pressure equipment integrity (PEI). This is the fifth article in that series. Clearly, Risk Assessment and Inspection Planning have a major role in achieving excellence in Pressure Equipment Integrity and Reliability (PEI&R). |
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July/August 2010 Inspectioneering Journal
By Craig Emslie BSc at Sonomatic Ltd., and Karen Gibson at Sonomatic Ltd.
Inspection intervals for equipment have in the past been defined in a prescriptive manner. However, industry is now embracing the Risk Based Inspection (RBI) approach which in contrast prioritises inspections based on an assessment of the risk to each individual item. |
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July/August 2010 Inspectioneering Journal
By Craig Emslie BSc at Sonomatic Ltd., and Karen Gibson at Sonomatic Ltd.
Inspection intervals for equipment have in the past been defined in a prescriptive manner. However, industry is now embracing the Risk Based Inspection (RBI) approach which in contrast prioritises inspections based on an assessment of the risk to each individual item. |
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May/June 2010 Inspectioneering Journal
By John Reynolds at Intertek
Clearly, corrosion prevention and control has a major role in achieving excellence in Pressure Equipment Integrity and Reliability (PEI&R). But there is a lot more to PEI&R than just corrosion control. This article will show how corrosion control has a central role in PEI&R, but will also show how the management system (MS) for corrosion control must be integrated with 9 other important management systems shown in figure 1 in order to achieve excellence in PEI&R. |
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March/April 2010 Inspectioneering Journal
By John Reynolds at Intertek
This article in the series will focus on two more of the necessary MSs for achieving excellence in PEI: Integrity Operating Windows (IOWs) and Management of Change (MOC). |
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January/February 2010 Inspectioneering Journal
By John Reynolds at Intertek
Like all of the other 10 MSs in our filing cabinet, this MS on Management Leadership and Support of PEI (shown in Figure 2 below) is vital to success and linked inextricably to all the other PEI MSs. |
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September/October 2009 Inspectioneering Journal
By John Reynolds at Intertek
Knowing what needs to be accomplished in order to achieve excellence in pressure equipment integrity (PEI) is one thing, but knowing how to organize it all for success is quite another. I have previously written numerous articles for the IJ about what all needs to be accomplished (1-2). In this article (and 10 articles to come with more details) I will show how to organize all this \"PEI stuff\" to achieve overall success in order to make sure that everything that needs to be accomplished, is accomplished using management systems (MS) and work process (WP) descriptions. |
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July/August 2008 Inspectioneering Journal
ECUI, the European Committee of User Inspectorates, was conceived during late 1992 as a result of an initiative by the Engineering Equipment and Materials Users Association (EEMUA) in the UK. This initiative was developed by a nucleus of parties with in-house inspection interests in Netherlands, France and the UK, leading to an inaugural meeting in June 1993. |
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September/October 2000 Inspectioneering Journal
By T.C. Ridgeway & Staff at TCRI
In part 1 of this article we covered the importance of quality assurance of UT data, that is, understanding for each particular application, the accuracy required of the UT data, and new ways/graphical program to analyze and show the interrelationships of data by location for trending. Part 1 article areas then included: -UT Data Reporting and Evaluation -Imaging UT Data Evaluating the Quality of Static UT Data -Visual Trending of UT data -Mathematical Trending of UT Data Now, in Part 2, we will cover data quality issue statistics and possible sources of poor quality UT data. |
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January/February 1999 Inspectioneering Journal
By Joseph E. Pascente at Lixi, Inc.
One of the greatest challenges facing many of refining, fossil power, and pulp and paper industries is: How to effectively examine their insulated piping? |
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November/December 1998 Inspectioneering Journal
By John Reynolds at Intertek
In Part 1 of this article, in the last edition of the IJ, I introduced the work process that we use to assess the effectiveness of our pressure equipment integrity (PEI) management. It involves a self-assessment workbook filled out by site personnel, which is in turn reviewed and validated by a team of company auditors from outside the site. I also introduced the seven major categories of assessment that we conduct. |
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September/October 1998 Inspectioneering Journal
By John Reynolds at Intertek
In this first part of a two-part article, I will outline a process that our company uses to review and measure the effectiveness of our pressure equipment integrity management process. Then in Part 2, next issue, I will "fill in the blanks" on some specific issues that we measure. |
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March/April 1997 Inspectioneering Journal
By John Reynolds at Intertek
This is the second in a series of articles on piping inspection. In the last article, I enumerated four inspection issues that I believe contribute to inadequate piping mechanical integrity in the hydrocarbon process industry. |
In this Whiteboard Discussion, Greg Alvarado provides a simple answer to an even simpler question: why do we inspect?
Those involved in the implementation or management of mechanical integrity (MI) programs understand the value of good feedback. An effective feedback loop is critical to ensuring your MI program is achieving the desired results.
30-minute interview on the evolution of reliability and its role within the energy and process industries with Ryan Sitton, Texas Railroad Commissioner.
60-minute webinar presented by PinnacleART on the evolution of inspection and mechanical integrity programs in the refining and process industries.
Pinnacle Webinar - Mechanical Integrity Assessment: Why Bother? from PinnacleAIS Government regulations require facilities to have a documented safety program in place, yet there are still many plants without any type of mechanical integrity program. Even if your location has a program that meets regulation standards,...
U.S. Chemical Safety Board safety video covering three accidents that occurred over a 33-hour period in 2010 at the Dupont plant in Belle, WV.
Marking the one year anniversary of the tragic accident at the Tesoro Refinery in Anacortes, Washington, the U.S. Chemical Safety Board (CSB) released a video safety message.
U.S. Chemical Safety Board safety video depicting events leading to the August 28, 2008, catastrophic explosion and fire at the Bayer CropScience facility in Institute, WV, that fatally injured two workers and injured eight.
U.S. Chemical Safety Board safety video discussing how improperly installed or modified pressure vessels have led to a number of serious chemical accidents.
As temperatures continue to drop, it's important for process plants to be prepared for the unique safety challenges of subfreezing weather, according to U.S. Chemical Safety Board Chairman John Bresland.
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Checklist
The Mechanical Integrity Audit Checklist serves as a companion piece to the Inspectioneering webinar, Auditing My Mechanical Integrity Program, presented by Mr. Reuben Laurel. |
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Partner Content
Our proprietary furnace tube inspection system, FTIS™, is an ultrasonic inspection technology capable of rapid, automated fired heater coil inspection in refinery fired heaters. The data captured by our furnace tube inspection system is exceptionally powerful when combined with our LifeQuest™ remaining life assessment capabilities, providing an integrated solution set for refinery fired heaters in the refining and chemical industries. |
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Press Release
Managing Aging Plants USA, April 2, 2018
Managing Aging Plants USA is seeking presentations for their 2018 conference, scheduled to take place November 13-14, 2018 in Houston, TX. |
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News
AFPM, September 28, 2017
AFPM is seeking presentations for the 2018 Reliability & Maintenance Conference, scheduled to take place May 22-25, 2018 in San Antonio, TX. |
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News
Reuters, February 14, 2017
DuPont and Chemours Co have agreed to pay $671 million in cash to settle thousands of lawsuits involving a leak of a toxic chemical used to make Teflon, the companies said on Monday. |
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Partner Content
It is difficult to cover all inspection applications with basic inspection procedures like radiography, ultrasonics, magnetic particle testing, and dye penetrant inspection. Owner-operators are finding that advanced NDE services such as guided-wave ultrasonics, AUT corrosion mapping, and eddy current testing are essential tools to keep their facilities operating safely and efficiently. |
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News
General Electric, September 15, 2016
GE Digital has announced it has acquired Meridium, Inc. for an enterprise value of $495 million. |
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News
Reuters, July 26, 2016
A plant-wide power loss at a Pasadena, Texas, refinery forced the temporary closure of a portion of the Houston Ship Channel and residents of a town north of the waterway to shelter indoors on Monday afternoon, according to local and federal officials. |
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News
U.S. Department of Energy, June 8, 2016
In April, the Department of Energy (DOE) announced the formation of a new Interagency Task Force on Natural Gas Storage Safety following the Aliso Canyon, California natural gas leak. The Task force is studying three areas of interest: (1) integrity of natural gas wells at storage facilities, (2) vulnerability to energy reliability due to future leaks, and (3) environmental effects from natural gas leaks. To accomplish this, the following workshops have been scheduled to hear from stakeholders. |
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News
Pipeline & Hazardous Materials Safety Administration, February 3, 2016
The U.S. Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) issued a new Advisory Bulletin this week to remind all owners and operators of underground gas storage facilities to consider the overall integrity of the facilities to ensure the safety of the public and operating personnel and to protect the environment. |
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News
Fluor Corporation, December 7, 2015
Fluor Corporation has announced an agreement to acquire 100 percent of Stork Holding B.V., based in the Netherlands, for $755 million. |
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News
Press Release, April 30, 2015
Intertek, a leading quality solutions provider to industries worldwide, today announced that its USA-based Asset Integrity Management (AIM) In-Service Inspection group surpassed four million work hours without a lost-time accident or injury in January 2015. |
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Partner Content
Our proprietary furnace tube inspection system, FTIS™, is an ultrasonic inspection technology capable of rapid, automated fired heater coil inspection in refinery fired heaters. The data captured by our furnace tube inspection system is exceptionally powerful when combined with our LifeQuest™ remaining life assessment capabilities, providing an integrated solution set for refinery fired heaters in the refining and chemical industries. |
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News
DuPont, November 17, 2014
DuPont issues company statement on the fatal chemical leak at its La Porte (Texas) chemical complex. |
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News
US Chemical Safety Board, October 28, 2014
Today the U.S. Chemical Safety Board (CSB) released a safety video into the fatal April 2, 2010, explosion and fire at the Tesoro refinery in Anacortes, Washington. |
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News
US Chemical Safety Board, October 9, 2014
The U.S. Chemical Safety Board today released a video safety message discussing the role that the CSB recommendations program plays in ensuring that the Board’s accident investigations have a lasting impact on industrial safety. |
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News
July 18, 2014
We are excited to announce the completion of the updated and revised 101 Essential Elements in a Pressure Equipment Integrity Management Program by John Reynolds. |
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News
March 26, 2014
Joint integrity is the cornerstone of safe and leak-free operations and proper assembly is one of the primary factors integral to the integrity of a bolted joint. |
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Press Release
AOPL, January 20, 2014
WASHINGTON, DC – Today, the Association of Oil Pipe Lines (AOPL) and American Petroleum Institute (API) launched the Pipeline Safety Excellence initiative, an industry-wide program to improve liquid pipeline safety performance. "Pipelines are the safest way to transport the energy our nation needs and this new Pipeline Safety Excellence initiative reflects the commitment of pipeline operators to make them even safer," said Andy Black, President and CEO of AOPL. "Our members strive for zero... |
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Press Release
Press Release, October 3, 2013
Intertek announces it has acquired Global X-Ray & Testing Corporation (GXT), a U.S. based provider of non-destructive testing and mechanical integrity services to the oil and gas industry. |
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Press Release
Willbros, September 24, 2013
Based in Houston, Young will be responsible for working with Willbros Regional Construction and the Professional Services' Integrity group to increase Willbros' share of the U.S. Integrity Construction market. |
