Fitness for Service Evaluation

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FE analysis of vessel supports

FE analysis of vessel supports

WFMP indication in old cast iron dryer heads

WFMP indication in old cast iron dryer heads

Crack growth prediction for aircraft fuselage

Crack growth prediction for aircraft fuselage

For over 40 years, Metallurgical Consulting has been providing fitness for service evaluations of pressure vessels and other components. These comprehensive evaluations involve setting 1) up appropriate non-destructive testing (NDT) inspections, 2) obtaining actual mechanical property data and 3) performing stress analyses including fatigue life and fracture mechanics calculations. Vessel testing has been successfully completed on a wide range of vessel types, including older cast iron vessels used in paper processing, as well as modern stainless steel, and carbon steel vessels.

As part of this service, Metallurgical Consulting develops complete repair procedures which have safely brought old or damaged vessels back into service. A new standard for this type of evaluation has been recently developed for the petroleum and process industries. Called API Fitness for Service API-579-1, it represents a very large and thorough standard, covering basic visual inspections to more comprehensive inspections including finite element analysis for fatigue.

The starting point for any fitness for service evaluation is a thorough inspection performed by a professional, experienced inspector. Metallurgical Consulting's years of experience and in-depth knowledge of damage mechanisms of vessels, vessel components, and the total environment allow for inspection protocol recommendations which maximize the reliability of detecting actual damage.

The key to success is communication and collaboration. Metallurgical Consulting works with the selected NDT companies to help them understand possible damage and interpretation of the results. Conducting an external and visual inspection and review of operating records is also an important aspect of the overall inspection. Older vessels usually require a determination of actual properties depending on their service. Cases have been observed were major changes in properties required a de-rating of the vessel. There are different ways to acquire mechanical properties involving both destructive and nondestructive techniques. Metallurgical Consulting can determine the type of testing required that will obtain the required properties, including fracture toughness. Stress analysis and fatigue life estimates, which include finite element analysis, can be performed.

For more information contact Metallurgical Consulting directly.

Fitness for Service Evaluation Capabilities

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