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A Deep Dive into Aboveground Storage Tank Settlement Evaluation

Foundational settlement, particularly non-uniform settlement, poses a significant threat to the integrity and operational reliability of aboveground storage tanks. In this article, Katelyn and Derek take a detailed look into at the most common API 653 evaluation methods to provide insight into the limitations and use of the various techniques and show the potential benefit of conducting a detailed analysis for differential shell settlement and bottom edge settlement.

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Buckling Evaluation of Pressure Equipment and Plant Structures

In any industrial facility or plant, buckling poses a significant risk to nearly all components under compressive stress. Several finite element analysis (FEA) tools are used to solve complex buckling issues; however, without fully understanding the underlying mechanics and other relevant factors, the results can be misleading. In this article, Derek and Matthew review the methodology and limitations of the ASME VIII-1, ASME VIII-2, and AISC 360 standards for assessing buckling in beams, columns, steel structures, and pressure vessels.

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Proactive FFS for Volumetric Damage

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.

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Proactive FFS:  Advantages of Brittle Fracture Screening on Piping and Vessels

Proactively conducting brittle fracture assessments on higher-risk pressure equipment and piping, even if it was built relatively recently, will help prevent unexpected failures. This article identifies the three components that drive susceptibility to brittle fracture and includes two case studies to help demonstrate the benefits of using a fracture mechanics-based approach.

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Improving Reliability of Bolted Flanged Joints

ASME VIII-1 Appendix 2 flange design rules states flanges should be sufficiently robust to withstand the stresses produced by operating loads; however, what happens if those flanges leak during operation?. Do you know what options are available to reduce or eliminate the potential risk of leakage in bolted flange joints? In this article, Bob Davis introduces several options to evaluate bolted flange designs with the goal of minimizing the risk of leakage without risking damage to any of the joint components.

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SIMFLEX-IV: A Modern Pipe Stress Engineering Solution

SIMFLEX-IV, the latest update to E2G’s cloud-based piping stress analysis software, will help you prevent potential failures by improving the structural integrity of piping systems and supporting structures. In a single run, you will be able to assess sustained, occasional, and displacement stresses at every data point throughout the piping system. This article introduces you to fast and easy ways to integrate advanced static and dynamic piping stress analysis into your daily workflow.

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Hammered Pipe Still Standing: Is It Fit for Service?

Steam piping systems that are not adequately controlling condensate levels may experience a steam hammer event, which is when a slug of condensate is propelled at high velocity down the piping system. When the large dynamic slug force hits an elbow or pipe cap, it can displace the piping system or slide the pipe shoes off the structural members. In this case study, Kraig Shipley discusses a recent consulting project that used SIMFLEX-IV to determine if a steam header was still fit -for -service after a steam hammer event.

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Process Safety Management & Mechanical Integrity in the Hazardous Materials Processing & Handling World

PSM and Mechanical Integrity in the Hazardous Materials Processing and Handling World

When well implemented, a mechanical integrity program will reduce failures, extend equipment life, increase operating limits, and optimize maintenance and inspection budgets. In this article, Jim McVay introduces several of the elements you need to consider when developing a successful mechanical integrity program and explains how everyone plays a role in the effective implementation.

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Reduction of Nuisance Alarms by Implementing the Alarm Management Lifecycle, A Focus on Rationalization

We are all familiar with Aesop’s fable, “The Boy Who Cried Wolf.” Similarly, with alarm management, if you hear a false alarm too often, you may miss the opportunity to prevent a dangerous situation or equipment failure. In this article, Melissa Westbrook discusses the dangers of ignoring nuisance alarms and provides actionable insights into developing an alarm rationalization philosophy.

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Launching the New Equity Engineering Cloud (eec) Platform

Launching the New Equity Engineering Cloud (eec) Platform

The newly launched eec platform delivers accurate engineering calculations using the speed and flexibility of the cloud. The refreshed interface and dashboard layout are streamlined to make it faster and easier to make informed decisions on safety and reliability. The eec remains your one-stop platform to help you manage risk and control inspection costs throughout a facility’s lifecycle.

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