The FFS assessment procedures in 579/ASME can be used to evaluate flaws commonly encountered in pressure vessels, piping, and above-ground storage tanks. Sigma performs FSS assessments for establishing the criteria to make run-repair-replace recommendations ensuring that the owner’s asset can continue safe operation with the most cost-effective remediation path available.
FFS evaluations performed in accordance with 579/ASME are recognized and referenced by API 510 “Pressure Vessel Inspection Code”, API 570 “Piping Inspection Code”, API 653 “Tank Inspection, Repair, Alteration, and Reconstruction”, and by NBIC NB-23 as suitable for evaluating the structural integrity of pressure vessels and related equipment. Inspections of a pressure vessel, tank, or related equipment should be performed on a regular basis to ensure their continued safe operation. When equipment is found to contain a flaw or damage, FFS assessments are performed to verify mechanical integrity. API 579-1/ASME FFS-1 provides guidance for conducting the FFS assessments of assets.
579/ASME can assess individual components, complete vessels, or model entire process systems, and perform rigorous tmin calculations that can extend asset remaining life and lengthen inspection intervals. Assessment techniques in 579/ASME evaluate flaws that include erosion, corrosion, pitting, blisters, hydrogen cracking, weld misalignment, shell distortions, crack-like flaws, environmental cracking, laminations, and dents/gouges. In addition, evaluation techniques are provided for the condition review of equipment including (1) resistance to brittle fracture, (2) remaining life assessment procedures for components operating with primary, secondary, or tertiary metal “creep,” and (3) if present, fire damage.
Certified professionals are available for call-out or long-term assignments. Sigma provides turnkey FFS assessments and reporting services complete with equipment, consumables, vehicles (mileage), and accommodations required to perform API 579 / ASME FFS 1-2007 evaluations.
