INDUSTRY INSIGHTS ARCHIVE

Authors: Kraig S. Shipley, P.E., Piping & Fired Heaters Principal Engineer II; Anthony J. Feller, Group Head, Senior Engineer II; Seetha Ramudu Kummari, Ph.D., P.E., Consulting Engineer I

This case study explores fatigue cracking in motor-operated valves (MOVs) used to cycle flow in and out of reformer unit reactors. Surface flaws were discovered during a recent turnaround which prompted further investigation. As only a few of the MOVs were opened and inspected, the owner-user was concerned about the extent and severity of cracks in additional valves. In this article, the authors share the details of the case study and how Equity’s recommendations helped the client make informed repair decisions.

Authors: Adam Smith, P.E. and Derek Rinas, P.Eng.

Performing a proactive FFS assessment on equipment with volumetric wall loss can save both time and money during a turnaround. You can minimize inspection scope and outline a set of well-defined ‘goal posts’ for determining acceptability and identifying a targeted inspection list. In this article, the authors share multiple tips to proactively assess volumetric damage as it relates to the requirements of API 579-1/ASME FFS-1, Part 4 and Part 5.