Corrosion can have enormous economic and safety implications. Although corrosion is inevitable in metallic structures, it can be managed effectively.
The API 579-1/ASME FFS-1 standard includes 3 assessment procedures that pertain to corrosion:
- Assessment of general metal loss
- Assessment of local metal loss
- Assessment of pitting corrosion
Quest Reliability has experience with each of these assessment procedures, and has developed software tools that implement the various FFS methodologies.
The API 579-1/ASME FFS-1 standard provides detailed analytical procedures for ensuring structural integrity of components in corrosive environments. However, this standard offers minimal advice on identifying the damage mechanisms, estimating future corrosion rates, and prescribing an effective remediation plan. A corrosion assessment that fails to consider these issues is incomplete. Unlike many consultants who perform FFS assessments, Quest Reliability has substantial expertise in metallurgy and corrosion electrochemistry, so we can provide comprehensive solutions to corrosion problems. Our team has many years of practical experience in assessing corrodible components made from carbon steels, stainless steels, nickel based alloys and copper based alloys as well as for non-metallic materials and coatings.
Quest Reliability’s range of services for corrosion assessment include:
- Causal analysis of observed damage and failure analysis
- Analysis of structural integrity of corroded components using Level 1, 2, or 3 assessment procedures
- Laboratory testing
- Application of theoretical and statistical models to predict future corrosion rates
- Recommendations for inspection intervals, remediation strategies, and in-service monitoring
In addition to assessing in-service corrosion damage, we consult on issues pertaining to corrosion in new plants and replacement components. Examples include:
- Selection of appropriate alloys for specific applications using material, environment and corrosion damage models
- Corrosion and metallurgical assessments of candidate materials and fabricated components
- Recommendations for fabrication procedures
- Specification and use of relevant standards and codes of practice
- Guidance on the qualification of welders and welding procedures to recognized standards.
For further information about Corrosion Assessment, please contact us.