Fitness-for-Service (FFS) Archives - The Equity Engineering Group, Inc.

Pipeline Defect Assessments for CSA Z662 Pipelines

Sep 26, 2025

Pipeline regulations in Canada differ from the ASME B31.4 and B31.8 standards used across the United States. In this article, the authors provide a detailed overview of the federally regulated CSA Z662 standard and clarify the differences between assessments (Section 10), engineering assessments (Section 3.4), and engineering critical assessments (Annex J & K). This is a must- read for any pipeline operators who wants to understand Canadian pipeline industry regulation and engineering assessment requirements.

Practical Guidance for Plant Turnarounds

Jul 17, 2025

Typically, turnarounds pack months of work into a very short time period—what you do before, during, and after can make or break long-term reliability. In this article, Kraig and Neal provide practical guidance to help you better plan, execute, and close out TARs turnarounds with confidence.

Applying High-Integrity Pressure Protection Systems (HIPPSs) in Petrochemical Plants: Reducing Overpressure Risk Through Instrumented Solutions

Jul 17, 2025

HIPPS are emerging as a key alternative to conventional overpressure protection in upstream and pipeline operations. In this article, the author explores how HIPPS improves safety, reduces emissions, and addresses the limitations of traditional pressure relief methods.

Reimagining Level 3 FFS: How Cloud Computing and Automation Are Transforming Asset Management

May 21, 2025

Cloud computing and automation are reshaping what’s possible in asset evaluation and management. In this article, the author provides a look inside the architecture of the new FEA Suite, shares real-world case studies, and explains how distributed computing helps overcome common barriers to Level 3 assessments. Get a glimpse into the future of faster, more reliable analysis.

Reformer MOV Cracking FFS Case Study

Oct 25, 2024

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.

Are Dents Really a Problem?

Sep 24, 2024

There are several assessment procedures available for evaluating dents and determining whether a dent poses a viable threat to the integrity of a component. Read about common analysis methods for the critical failure mechanisms, potential failure mechanisms such as creep, complex dent configurations, and highlight the value of using a Level 3 finite element analysis (FEA) to determine whether the dent is truly a problem.

Managing Refractory Degradation and Hotspots in Cold-Walled Equipment

Aug 26, 2024

Refractory linings are used to protect pressure vessels and piping components from hot process conditions but can degrade over time, leading to hotspots, creep damage, and potential failure. In this article, the authors discuss the benefits of conducting periodic inspection programs to manage refractory degradation and share an example to highlight the importance of detecting permanent material damage caused by creep or creep-fatigue.

Advancements in Risk-Based Inspection Strategies for Ammonia Storage Tanks

Apr 30, 2024

Developing a repeatable, in-service inspection strategy for ammonia storage tanks is difficult; however, it will help improve operational reliability and minimize the probability of failure from several damage mechanisms, including ammonia stress corrosion cracking (SCC). In this article, the authors discuss Equity’s multi-disciplinary approach to navigate the challenges of these high-consequence ammonia storage tanks. Read how we integrate risk-based inspection (RBI), fitness-for-service (FFS), and materials and corrosion expertise to provide a comprehensive and practical inspection strategy.

PSA on PSA Reliability

Mar 26, 2024

Learn how pressure swing adsorbers (PSAs) are crucial yet challenging in gas separation, and how a comprehensive lifecycle management plan based on engineering and fitness-for-service (FFS) can enhance reliability and extend equipment life. In this article, Neal and Kate discuss the importance of remaining life and inspection optimization studies in managing severe cyclic fatigue service, highlighting how pre-emptive fatigue studies guide inspection plans for PSA vessels. You will learn about inspection strategies and how to maximize capital investments through engineering strategies.

Fitness-for-Service for Asset Management of Air Coolers

Sep 25, 2023

Air-cooled heat exchangers (ACHEs) are designed to use ambient air to cool or condense a process fluid, which eliminates the need for large cooling water capacities. In this article, Kate and Ben discuss how a fitness-for-service (FFS) assessment can be a very powerful tool in air cooler lifecycle management to improve inspection planning and guide run, repair, or replace decisions.

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