Trace Silfies

Corrosion Engineer, Consultant

Years of Experience | 12

Education & Licenses:

Bachelor of Science, Materials Science and Engineering, 2013, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA
Registered Professional Engineer, State of Colorado
Active in API Subcommittee on Corrosion and Materials and NACE refinery corrosion task group
Adjunct professor at The University of Akron teaching “Damage Mechanisms in the Refining Industry” (2015)

Areas of Specialization:

High-temperature hydrogen attack (HTHA JIP Phases 1-3)
Facilitating and writing CCDs and establishing IOWs
Leading mechanical integrity special emphasis programs

Overview:

Trace’s career began at Drexel University, working with PPL Energy, Carpenter Steel, and PBF Energy experiencing several turnarounds and obtaining metals lab experience.  Upon graduation, Trace worked for Equity Engineering for 5 years.  At that time, he was responsible for supporting USA and international clients on various materials & corrosion topics including failure analysis, creep evaluations, hot tap welding, fire damage/incident support, and corrosion control documents (CCDs)/integrity operating windows (IOWs), as well as supporting projects related to FFS, RBI, and API-approved trainings in API 571, 579, and 581 modules. 

In 2018, Trace joined the Suncor Denver Refinery as the Senior Fixed Equipment Specialist.  Accomplishments include implementing site-wide IOW program (limits, monitoring, alerts, stewardship), leading CCD program to 100% completion (writing >19 CCDs, stewarding action items), participating in corporate information sharing with other subject matter experts, and maintaining site MI & QA programs (procedure updates, audits & training).  During this time, Trace led influential construction projects related to hydrogen plant hot wall header repairs, FCC refractory-lined stand pipe repair, several fire damage repairs, and winter freeze-up repairs. 

In 2023, Trace began his own LLC, supporting the Denver Refinery, CorrSolutions, and Equity Technical Institute (ETI).

Trace has well versed knowledge in many process units including Steam Methane Reformers, NH3 units, Hydrotreaters, FCC, Crude, Amine, Cyclic Naphtha Reformers, Tail Gas Treating, Sulfur Units, Nitric Acid Production, Boilers, and Poly Units.