Maintenance and Repair of Pressure Vessels

Engineering Encyclopedia
Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards
Maintenance and Repair of Pressure Vessels
Note: The source of the technical material in this volume is the Professional
Engineering Development Program (PEDP) of Engineering Services.
Warning: The material contained in this document was developed for Saudi
Aramco and is intended for the exclusive use of Saudi Aramcos
employees. Any material contained in this document which is not already
in the public domain may not be copied, reproduced, sold, given, or
disclosed to third parties, or otherwise used in whole, or in part, without
the written permission of the Vice President, Engineering Services, Saudi
Aramco.
Chapter : Vessels
File Reference: MEX20205
For additional information on this subject, contact

J.H. Thomas on 875-2230
Vessels
CONTENTS
PAGE
DETERMINING APPROPRIATE INSPECTION FREQUENCIES FOR

PRESSURE VESSELS ............................................................................................ 1
Reasons for Periodic Pressure Vessel Inspection ......................................... 1
Primary Causes of Pressure Vessel Deterioration ........................................ 2
Corrosion...................................................................................................... 3
General Considerations Regarding Inspection Intervals............................... 7
External Inspection Intervals ...................................................................... 10
Internal Inspection Intervals ....................................................................... 10
Safety Precautions and Preparatory Work.................................................. 11
External Inspection Scope .......................................................................... 12
Internal Inspection Scope ........................................................................... 17
Inspection and History Report.................................................................... 23
DETERMINING THE SUITABILITY OF CORRODED PRESSURE
VESSELS FOR CONTINUED OPERATION....................................................... 27
Determining Minimum Actual Thickness .................................................. 27
Acceptability of Corroded Area ................................................................. 37
Potential Actions if Corroded Areas Are Not Acceptable .......................... 39
DETERMINING THE APPROPRIATE DESIGN AND
FABRICATION DETAILS FOR WELDED REPAIRS OR
ALTERATIONS .................................................................................................... 40
Classification of Repairs and Alterations ................................................... 40
Defect Repairs ............................................................................................ 42
Welding ...................................................................................................... 46
EVALUATING THE DESIGN OF EXISTING PRESSURE VESSELS
FOR RERATING TO REVISED DESIGN CONDITIONS .................................. 51
Changes to Original Design Pressure or Temperature................................ 51
Reasons for Derating .................................................................................. 53
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Available Options....................................................................................... 53
Requirements for New Hydrotest ............................................................... 54
WORK AID 1: PROCEDURE FOR DETERMINING THE
APPROPRIATE INSPECTION FREQUENCY FOR A
PRESSURE VESSEL .................................................................. 55
Work Aid 1A: External Inspection Frequency ........................................... 55
Work Aid 1B: Internal Inspection Frequency ............................................ 58
WORK AID 2: PROCEDURE FOR DETERMINING THE
SUITABILITY OF A CORRODED PRESSURE
VESSEL FOR CONTINUED OPERATION............................... 61
Work Aid 2A: Evaluation of Pitting Type Corrosion................................ 62
Work Aid 2B: Evaluation of Uniform Type Corrosion ............................. 64
WORK AID 3: INFORMATION IN API-510 FOR DETERMINING
APPROPRIATE DESIGN AND FABRICATION
DETAILS FOR WELDED REPAIRS OR
ALTERATIONS ON PRESSURE VESSELS ............................. 70
WORK AID 4: PROCEDURE FOR EVALUATING AN EXISTING
PRESSURE VESSEL FOR RERATING TO REVISED
DESIGN CONDITIONS.............................................................. 76
GLOSSARY .......................................................................................................... 78
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DETERMINING APPROPRIATE INSPECTION FREQUENCIES FOR PRESSURE

VESSELS
Pressure vessel components will deteriorate to some extent after they have been exposed to
the operating conditions. This deterioration must be identified before it affects the structural
integrity of the vessel so that appropriate repairs and maintenance are done on a planned basis
rather than on an unscheduled basis.
This section discusses the types of deterioration that may occur, considerations and
requirements in the determination of appropriate inspection frequencies, and typical scopes of
pressure vessel inspections. Additional detail on material deterioration and inspection
methods may be found in COE 103 and COE 105.
Reasons for Periodic Pressure Vessel Inspection
Pressure vessels are inspected after they have been placed into operation in order to determine
their physical condition and the type, rate, and causes of deterioration that may have occurred.
The information that is obtained from each inspection must be recorded to permit both current
evaluation and future reference.
Periodic inspection is necessary to determine whether the structural integrity of the vessel is
still acceptable and whether the vessel remains safe for continued operation. Trends in vessel
condition can be identified, and appropriate corrective action can be taken, before the
condition has deteriorated to the point where leakage of hazardous fluid or other failures
occur. Such leakage or vessel failure would cause an unplanned shutdown, with consequent
disruption in operations plans. Unplanned shutdowns sometimes are more hazardous than
planned shutdowns because operations personnel are more likely to make mistakes when they
are responding to unplanned situations. These mistakes can lead to other unforeseen
consequences. Unplanned shutdowns also cause unexpected losses in production.
Periodic inspection permits the development and execution of a planned maintenance and
repair schedule. Corrosion rates and remaining corrosion allowances can be predicted based
on the inspection results. This corrosion rate and remaining corrosion allowance information
is then used to identify and plan for the necessary materials, labor, time, and costs that are
required to keep the vessel in acceptable operating condition.
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Periodic inspection may be used to improve overall operating efficiency. External inspections
may be made visually, or with other nondestructive techniques, while the vessel is in
operation and still closed. These operational inspections may identify problems such as leaks,
improper installations, plugged lines, excessive vibration, unusual noise, or other evidence of
malfunction. Early identification of these problems and their causes can help in the
development of appropriate corrective action, can prevent more extensive damage, and can
direct the planning efforts for later inspections and maintenance activities.
Primary Causes of Pressure Vessel Deterioration
The primary causes of pressure vessel deterioration are as follows:
Corrosion
Erosion
Metallurgical and physical changes
Mechanical forces
Faulty material
Faulty fabrication
A periodic inspection program is most effective in the case of vessels for which deterioration
is expected and when the program is developed based on the types of deterioration that can be
expected in the particular pressure vessel service. The primary causes of pressure vessel
deterioration are briefly discussed in the paragraphs that follow.
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Corrosion
Corrosion is the primary cause of pressure vessel deterioration and was discussed in COE
103, COE 105, and earlier in this course. As previously discussed, the potential for corrosion
is considered in pressure vessel design by the addition of a corrosion allowance to the vessel
component thicknesses or by the use of alloy materials or internal linings. The most common
corrosive materials that cause internal corrosion in refinery pressure vessel applications are
sulfur and chloride compounds. Caustics, inorganic and organic acids, and other chemicals
that are used in particular processes may cause internal corrosion problems as well. The
degree of external corrosion will vary based on atmospheric conditions and on the presence of
airborne contaminants such as corrosive chemicals in industrial locations and salt in the
vicinity of salt water.
Corrosion by sulfur compounds may occur at temperatures that are below the dew point of
water or at temperatures that are above 260C (500F). High-temperature sulfur corrosion is
the most damaging condition for most steels, especially in applications where hydrogen is
present in significant concentrations with hydrogen sulfide. Corrosion that is due to sulfur
compounds may take the form of general corrosion, scale formation, or blistering, depending
on the process environment and temperature.
Corrosion by chloride compounds, mainly by hydrogen chloride, occurs in areas where the
temperature is below the dew point of water and is general in nature. This type of corrosion
may also cause pitting on the surface of carbon steel or stress corrosion cracking of austenitic
stainless steel material. Areas that are adjacent to welds are particularly susceptible to this
type of corrosion.
Low-temperature hydrogen attack causes the formation of blisters on the steel surface, as
illustrated in Figure 1. In this situation, corrosion by a weak acid forms atomic hydrogen that
may diffuse into the steel. When the atomic hydrogen reaches a void or a nonmetallic
inclusion that is located in the steel, such as at a lamination, it changes into molecular
hydrogen (H2) and can no longer diffuse. Pressure will build in the void as the atomic
hydrogen continues to diffuse and as more molecular hydrogen is formed. This pressure
buildup will cause blisters if it continues to rise and can also lead to the formation of cracks.
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Blister with Cracks

Figure 1
Stress corrosion cracking is a brittle type of failure that can occur in metals that are normally
ductile. Such cracking is due to the combined action of corrosion and tensile stress.
Common forms of stress corrosion cracking are as follows:
Caustic embrittlement of carbon steel, which may be caused by sodium

hydroxide or other strong alkalis.
Stress corrosion cracking of copper alloys in aqueous ammonia solutions,

particularly brasses with high zinc content.
Stress corrosion cracking of austenitic stainless steels in the presence of

chlorides or polythionic acids.
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Erosion
Erosion, as illustrated in Figure 2, is the wearing away of a surface due to the impingement of
solid particles or liquid. Erosion is usually found at flow restrictions, changes in flow
direction, or other geometric disturbances that cause locally high flow velocities. Erosion
may typically be found at inlet or outlet nozzles, on internal piping, internal grid or tray
sections, vessel walls opposite inlet nozzles, internal support beams, and on flow
impingement baffles.
Erosion at Metal Surface

Figure 2
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Metallurgical and Physical Changes

The service conditions that are inside pressure vessels may cause microstructural or
metallurgical changes in the metal. These changes can affect the mechanical properties of the
metal or can make the metal more susceptible to cracking or other forms of deterioration. The
primary types of metallurgical and physical changes that are of interest in refinery pressure
vessel applications are graphitization, high-temperature hydrogen attack, carbide precipitation
and intergranular corrosion, and embrittlement.
Graphitization is a decomposition of the steel metallurgy in which carbon (graphite) is formed
and in which the steel is embrittled and more prone to failure. Graphitization may occur in
carbon or carbon molybdenum steels when these steels operate for long periods of time at
temperatures that are in the range of 440-760C (825-1440F).
High temperature hydrogen attack and the Nelson Curves were discussed in MEX 202.02. At
temperatures above about 230C (450F), steel that is exposed to hydrogen can become
embrittled. This hydrogen embrittlement occurs due to the following: the dissociation of
molecular hydrogen into atomic hydrogen, the diffusion of the atomic hydrogen into the steel,
and the reaction of atomic hydrogen with carbon in the steel to form methane gas. The
methane gas is then trapped in internal voids that are located within the steel. Except in cases
where blisters are formed, high-temperature hydrogen attack cannot be found by visual
inspection. Bend tests and microscopic examination are the normal methods to confirm the
occurrence of high-temperature hydrogen attack, although experienced inspectors can detect
internal hydrogen damage through the use of ultrasonic inspection instruments.
When unstabilized stainless steels are heated in the temperature range of approximately 510790C (950-1450F) or are slowly cooled through this range, a complex carbide precipitates
along the grain boundaries. Steels that are in this condition are more prone to intergranular
corrosion that is caused by weak aqueous corrosive materials, particularly near the HAZ of
welds. Severe intergranular attack of the carbides that have precipitated may occur due to
moisture which may be present after a hydrostatic test, washing operations, or condensation in
idle equipment.
High chromium ferritic steels, such as Types 405, 410, and 410S, are prone to embrittlement
after long exposure to temperatures in the range 370-510C (800-950F). This embrittlement
is caused by precipitation of a microscopic chromium-rich phase of the steel. Low chrome
steels, such as 2-1/4 Cr-1 Mo and 1-1/4 Cr-1/2 Mo, are also prone to this embrittlement. This
embrittlement, although: making the steel more prone to crack formation, is reversible if a
heat treatment is applied to the affected steel.
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Mechanical Forces
Mechanical forces can result in vessel failure if they have not been properly considered in the
design. The primary mechanical forces that are of concern are thermal shock, cyclic
temperature changes, vibration, pressure surges, and high external loads. Excessive
mechanical forces can cause upset of internal components, cracks, bulges, and permanent
distortion. Such mechanical forces will typically have a localized effect on the pressure
vessel or its internals. However, a localized failure can progress into a more general failure if
sufficient load-carrying capacity is lost and if the local failure is not identified in time to take
suitable corrective action.
Faulty Material
The use of faulty or incorrect material may cause problems with pressure vessels after they
have been placed into service. Problems that are due to faulty material may be broad in scope
and may, if they are severe, result in very rapid vessel deterioration. However, the likelihood
that problems will occur due to faulty material is minimal as long as SAESs and SAMSSs are
used for material inspection and as long as past experience and testing is used for material
selection.
Faulty Fabrication
Faulty fabrication can include poor welding, improper heat treatment, dimensions that are
outside acceptable tolerances, improper installation of vessel internals, and improper
assembly of flanged or threaded joints. Problems that are due to faulty fabrication will
typically be localized, such as weld cracks or flange leakage. As with faulty materials, the
likelihood that problems will occur due to faulty fabrication is minimal as long as Saudi
Aramco fabrication requirements are followed.
General Considerations Regarding Inspection Intervals
All new pressure vessels are inspected at the time of fabrication, as discussed in MEX 202.04.
Internal field inspections of new vessels are normally not required as long as the ASME Code
Manufacturer's Data Report (which confirms that the vessel meets the required technical
specification) has been provided.
The type, extent, and frequency of pressure vessel inspection are based on the condition of the
vessel, the environment in which the vessel operates (internal and external), and past
experience with this and other vessels in similar applications. These inspections may be
external, internal, or a combination of both. Various nondestructive techniques may be used
for this inspection, and these techniques will be highlighted in a later section of this module.
Some inspections may be done with the vessel in operation, while others can only be done
with the vessel out of service, cleaned, and prepared for safe entry. In all cases, the inspection
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intervals and methods that are used are intended to ensure that the pressure vessel remains
safe for continued operation, without any unplanned shutdowns, until it is inspected again.
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The primary Saudi Aramco engineering document that is used to determine the required
pressure vessel inspection intervals is SAEP-20, Equipment Inspection Schedule. SAEP-20
supplements requirements that are contained in API-510, Pressure Vessel Inspection Code.
The National Board Inspection Code (NBIC) contains requirements that are similar to API510 and provides additional detail and clarity in several areas. SAEP-20 does not refer to the
NBIC, but it is still a good source of pertinent guidelines.
The NBIC does not have "National" application to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Rather, the
term "National" in the document title applies to its applicability in the United States (although
not all states require its use). Within Saudi Aramco, the NBIC is used as a reference when
repairs, modifications, or rerating is required.
SAEP-20 requires that an Equipment Inspection Schedule (EIS) be prepared as part of all new
projects for pressure vessels that are in the following services:
Utilities, production, processing, storage, and transportation of oil, gas, and byproducts.
Critical community facilities where failure could be hazardous or could cause

serious inconvenience to the community.
Critical equipment, defined as equipment that cannot be inspected by any

means except during a Test and Inspection (T&I).
The EIS must be included in the Inspection Record Book as part of the Project Record Book.
The EIS must be submitted for approval 30 days prior to facility completion. The EIS
approval process must involve Saudi Aramco Project Management, as well as the facility's
Operations Engineering and Inspection Unit. This approach to the development of vessel
inspection requirements forces these inspection requirements to be considered early, results in
permanent records, and involves all the appropriate technical areas.
The anticipated or measured rate of corrosion is the primary factor that determines the
maximum permitted external and internal inspection intervals. Other special factors that
could cause vessel deterioration in particular services are also considered in the development
of the maximum permitted inspection intervals. Work Aid 1 may be used to determine the
appropriate pressure vessel inspection intervals based on given corrosion rate information, in
accordance with SAEP-20 requirements.
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SAEP-20 also provides the flexibility to revise the external and internal inspection intervals
that were originally developed for the pressure vessel based on actual experience and
operational needs. Specific procedures and approval requirements for inspection interval
revision are specified in SAEP-20 and must be followed in order to permit these inspection
interval revisions. Participants are referred to SAEP-20 for additional information.
External Inspection Intervals
Informal pressure vessel inspections should be performed periodically by operations,
maintenance, and inspection personnel during their normal course of doing other work in the
area. These informal inspections merely involve being observant and aware of indications
that appear to be abnormal. For example, visible signs of leakage, extreme vibration, or other
obvious abnormalities should be brought to the attention of appropriate personnel for
evaluation to determine an appropriate course of action. It is always preferable to identify
potential problems as early as possible so that corrective action can be taken before these
problems become more significant.
Formal external inspections, and Onstream Inspection (OSI) Performance, must be done at
intervals that are determined in accordance with SAEP-20. SAEP-20 specifies when the
initial OSI must be done after the vessel has first been placed in service, and SAEP-20 also
specifies subsequent OSI intervals. The initial and subsequent OSI intervals are based on
corrosion rate. Sufficient vessel component thickness measurements are made during the
OSIs in order to determine the actual corrosion rates being experienced and to estimate the
remaining vessel life. Information that is obtained during the OSIs may be used to help
determine whether the specified internal T&I intervals should be lengthened or shortened.
Work Aid 1 summarizes the procedure for determining the required external inspection
intervals.
Internal Inspection Intervals
Formal internal Test and Inspections (T&I) must be done at intervals that are determined in
accordance with SAEP-20. SAEP-20 specifies when the initial T&I must be done after the
vessel has first been placed in service, and SAEP-20 also specifies subsequent T&I intervals.
The initial and subsequent T&I intervals are based primarily on corrosion rate but are also
influenced by the vessel service, whether an internal coating is used, and inspection results.
Sufficient vessel component thickness measurements are made during the T&Is in order to
determine the actual corrosion rates being experienced and to estimate the remaining vessel
life. Work Aid 1 summarizes the procedure for determining the required internal inspection
intervals.
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Safety Precautions and Preparatory Work

Pressure vessel inspection must be done in a timely and thorough manner. However, nothing
is more important than personnel safety. Therefore, the appropriate safety precautions must
be followed both before and during the inspection. Appropriate preparatory work must also
be done in order for the inspection to be undertaken in a thorough and efficient manner. The
paragraphs that follow highlight these two areas.
Safety Precautions
Safety precautions are extremely important because of the limited access and confined spaces
that are involved in pressure vessel inspection. Therefore, appropriate safety precautions
must be taken both before the vessel is entered and during the inspection itself. The
paragraphs that follow note several areas that must be considered. All locally established
safety precautions and procedures, including all local work and entry permit procedures, must
be followed before a vessel is entered.
The vessel that is to be inspected must be isolated from all sources of liquids, gases, or
vapors. This isolation should be done through the use of blinds or blind flanges that have the
appropriate ANSI/ASME B16.5 pressure Class for the design conditions. A closed block
valve should not be relied upon as the only source of isolation.
The vessel should be drained, purged, cleaned, and gas-tested before it is entered. This
preparation will minimize the danger due to toxic gases, oxygen deficiency, explosive
mixtures, and irritating chemicals. Suitable protective clothing should be worn by all
personnel who enter the vessel.
The use of nondestructive examination devices is required as part of the vessel inspection.
These devices must meet the safety requirements that are appropriate in gaseous hydrocarbon
atmospheres. These requirements would most likely necessitate the issuance of a hot work
permit in accordance with established Saudi Aramco procedures. Details of precautions that
should be followed when a vessel is entered are contained in API Publication 2217A,
Guidelines for Work in Inert Confined Spaces in the Petroleum Industry.
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Before the inspection actually begins, operations personnel and all persons who are working
around the vessel should be advised that people will be inside the vessel. As a safety
precaution, a worker should be posted outside the manway that is used for vessel entry, to
stay in touch with the people who are inside the vessel and to get help should assistance be
required. In the case of tall towers, it is advisable to post warning tags at all other manways
as well. Workers who are inside a vessel should also be informed when any work will be
done on the exterior of the vessel, so that they do not become alarmed should there be
unexpected or unusual noises.
Preparatory Work
Existing vessel inspection records and past experience must be reviewed in order to anticipate
what forms of deterioration may be present in the vessel and to plan the specific external and
internal inspections that will be done. Once this inspection planning has been done, it is
possible to determine what specific inspection tools are required. All the tools that are needed
to conduct the vessel inspection should be checked for availability and proper working
condition prior to beginning the inspection. This equipment check includes anything that is
needed for personnel safety. Any necessary safety signs should be installed prior to entering
the vessel. All necessary scaffolding, with appropriate safety rails, toeboards, and ladders,
should be installed prior to beginning the inspection.
Typical inspection tools include items such as a thin-bladed knife, chisel or scraper, steel tape
or rule, inspector's hammer, pit depth gauge, wire brush, magnet, crayons, notebook and
pencil, and plastic bags for corrosion product samples. More specialized equipment which
may be required for specific tasks may include ultrasonic and magnetic particle test
equipment, a portable hardness tester, and a material testing machine. A more complete list
of inspection equipment that may be needed is contained in API RP 572, Inspection of
Pressure Vessels.
External Inspection Scope
Much of the external inspection of a pressure vessel can be done while the vessel is still in
operation. In-service inspection will reduce the amount of time that the vessel must be out of
service in order for the entire inspection to be completed. The paragraphs that follow
highlight the primary areas that are inspected, along with typical deterioration that may be
found. More detailed information can be found in API RP 572, Inspection of Pressure
Vessels.
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Ladders, Stairways, Platforms, and Walkways

External inspection should start with any ladders, stairways, platforms, and walkways that are
connected to or bearing on the pressure vessel. The inspection should start with these items
since they are needed to provide personnel access to other parts of the vessel for other
inspections. Therefore, the structural integrity should be confirmed so that they are safe for
inspection personnel to use later.
A visual inspection should be made for corroded or broken parts, cracks, bolt tightness, the
condition of paint or galvanized material, wear of ladder rungs and stair treads, the security of
handrails and ladder cages, and the condition of flooring on platforms and walkways. The
visual inspection should be supplemented by hammering and scraping to remove corrosion
products and permit more complete examination and assessment. Where corrosion appears to
be severe, thickness measurements should be made to permit more detailed evaluation.
Foundations
Pressure vessel foundations are almost always constructed of steel-reinforced concrete, or
structural steel that has been fireproofed. These foundations should be inspected for spalling,
cracking, and settlement.
Anchor Bolts
The condition of anchor bolts cannot always be completely determined by visual inspection
alone. The contact area between the bolt and any concrete or steel should be scraped and
examined for corrosion. A sideways blow with a hammer is often used as a means to detect
anchor bolt deterioration which may have occurred below the top surface of the foundation
base. The anchor bolts should also be checked for visible distortion, which may indicate a
foundation settlement problem. See Figure 3.
13
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Anchor Bolt Deterioration Below the Surface

Figure 3
Supports
Any opening that is located between a concrete support and the vessel shell or head should be
inspected to ensure that it is sealed to prevent the accumulation of water between the support
and the vessel shell. A visual inspection, in conjunction with some picking and scraping,
should reveal the condition of the seal. A concentration cell can form in this region if it is not
sealed, and rapid corrosion can occur. The concrete support itself should be inspected for any
cracking.
14
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Steel supports should be inspected for corrosion, distortion, and cracking. The thickness of
any areas of significant corrosion should be measured and evaluated for acceptability.
Columns, load-carrying members, or skirt supports which have visibly distorted should be
evaluated for adequate structural integrity.
Nozzles
The nozzles and adjacent areas of the vessel should be inspected for distortion, weld cracking,
and damage or distortion to the flange faces. Nozzle distortion or cracks could be caused by
excessive loads that are imposed on the nozzle by connected pipe or equipment. Flange face
damage could be caused by improper handling practices during maintenance. If any
distortion or damage is noted in the immediate area around the nozzle, the inspection should
be extended to include all vessel seams in the area to ensure that there are no weld cracks.
Nozzles should be internally inspected, when possible, for corrosion, cracking, and distortion.
Nozzle internal inspection is especially important in situations where erosion or high thermal
gradients are expected. Nozzle wall thickness measurements should also be made.
Grounding Connections
Electrical grounding connections should be visually inspected to ensure that good electrical
contact is maintained. Grounding connections provide a path for the harmless discharge of
lightening or static electricity into the ground.
Auxiliary Equipment
Auxiliary equipment, such as gauge connections, sight glasses, and safety valves, should be
visually inspected while the vessel is in operation. Leakage at flanged or threaded
connections, or excessive vibration, should be noted for possible corrective action.
Protective Coatings and Insulation
External protective coatings, such as paint systems, are used to protect the vessel from
external corrosion. Any coating deterioration should be noted by visual inspection. The
usual indications of paint system failure are rust spots, blisters, and lifting of the paint film.
The metal that is under areas of paint system failure should be inspected for corrosion
thinning and pitting.
15
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The insulation system should be visually inspected to ensure that its jacketing is intact and
that the overall installation is sound. Failure of the external jacketing could permit water or
other corrosive material that is in the atmosphere to get under the insulation and externally
corrode the vessel shell, as illustrated in Figure 4. It is prudent to remove several samples of
insulation to determine the condition of the insulation, metal shell, and insulation support
clips that are located beneath it. If local areas of insulation system failure are noted, a more
thorough external inspection of the vessel shell should be made to determine if any corrosion
has occurred. Areas that are typically of most concern are near geometric changes in the
vessel, such as at nozzles and support points. Proper jacket installation is more difficult at
vessel geometric changes, and water can accumulate more easily at these sites.
Corrosion Under Insulation

Figure 4
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External Metal Surfaces

External vessel surfaces should be inspected for corrosion, leaks, cracks, buckles, bulges,
material defects, and deformation and corrosion of external stiffeners. For externally
insulated vessels, it is normal practice to remove small sections of insulation, to take thickness
measurements, and to replace the insulation with more easily removable insulation plugs.
Subsequent thickness measurements are then made at the same locations, so that corrosion
rate trends can be monitored more easily. Special attention should be paid to locations where
moisture or other corrosive material could accumulate under the insulation, as illustrated in
Figure 4.
External metal surfaces are inspected for corrosion by first picking and scraping to locate
corroded areas. Follow-up ultrasonic thickness measurements should be made in any
corroded areas that have been identified. Thickness measurements of the vessel shell, heads,
and nozzles are normally made at each complete vessel inspection. Thickness measurements
may be made from outside or inside the vessel, based on the particular location and whether
specific corrosion problems are anticipated.
Under normal circumstances, at least one thickness measurement is made in each shell ring
and head of the vessel. However, if extensive corrosion is evident or expected, more
extensive thickness measurements are required to completely define the situation. More
extensive thickness measurements are also required in situations where there is limited
corrosion history with a particular vessel or service.
External metal surfaces should also be inspected for cracks and distortions. Cracks are most
often found at nozzle connections, welded seams, and attachment welds (such as at brackets
or supports). A close visual inspection, with some picking and scraping, will locate most
cracks. More extensive inspection is then required if cracks are found. Distortions of the
metal surface are normally evident by visual inspection. When cracks or distortions are
found, their extent should be measured, and an evaluation should be made to determine their
root cause and acceptability.
Internal Inspection Scope
Periodic vessel external inspections, in conjunction with prior experience with the particular
vessel and service conditions, help direct the extent of periodic internal inspections that will
be required. The paragraphs that follow highlight the primary considerations for periodic
vessel internal inspections. More detailed information can be found in API RP 572,
Inspection of Pressure Vessels.
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Surface Preparation
The amount of surface preparation that is required for an internal vessel inspection depends
on the type and the location of deterioration that is expected. Normal cleaning methods such
as hot water washing, steam or solvent cleaning, and ordinary scraping, are usually sufficient
to permit adequate inspection. Where better cleaning is needed, the inspector's common hand
tools will normally be sufficient.
More extensive cleaning methods, such as power brushing, abrasive-grit blasting, or power
chipping, are sometimes required based on the circumstances. The more extensive cleaning
methods are typically required when stress corrosion cracking, wet sulfide cracking, hydrogen
attack, or other forms of metallic degradation are suspected. If extensive cracking, corrosion,
or pitting are found, thorough cleaning over wide areas is required in order to permit a
thorough inspection.
Preliminary Visual Inspection
The vessel internal inspection should always begin with a general, preliminary, visual
inspection. The type of corrosion (uniform or pitting), the location and extent of corrosion,
and any other obvious data (such as failed internal components) should be noted. The visual
inspection should then concentrate on areas where problems could be anticipated based on the
vessel service and past experience. The need for additional inspection, as required, should be
noted. The paragraphs that follow highlight typical occurrences that should be considered.
Pressure vessels that are in certain refinery services are subject to corrosion or
other forms of attack that tend to concentrate in particular areas. Past
experience should highlight the services and areas that are of particular
concern. For example:
-
The bottom head and shell of fractionator towers that process high
sulfur crude oil are prone to sulfur corrosion that tends to be most
severe around the inlet lines.
The upper shells and top heads of fractionation and distillation towers
are sometimes subject to chloride attack.
Vessels that are exposed to wet hydrogen sulfide or cyanides are prone
to cracks in the welds and HAZ.
Concentration cell corrosion can occur in vessels where sludge can

settle.
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Corrosion is often accelerated in weld and HAZ areas due to metallurgical

changes which take place due to the heat of welding.
In any vessel, galvanic corrosion may occur in locations where dissimilar

metals are in close contact or are welded to each other.
Cracks will most likely occur where there are abrupt geometric changes, such
as at nozzles or in weld seams, if high local stresses are applied.
Vessel shell sections that are adjacent to inlet flow streams or a flow
impingement plate are prone to thinning that is caused by erosion. Special
attention should be paid to the possibility of erosion in situations with relatively
high velocity liquid flows, and to the presence of entrained solids in the flow
stream.
The preliminary visual inspection will note areas that require additional cleaning and more
detailed follow-up inspection in order to completely define the situation and permit suitable
evaluation.
Detailed Inspection
The detailed internal inspection should be done using a systematic procedure that begins at
one end of the vessel and works toward the other end. Special attention should be paid to
suspect areas that were identified during the preliminary visual inspection. All parts of the
vessel should be inspected for corrosion, erosion, hydrogen blisters, deformation, cracks, and
laminations. Records should be made of the types and locations of any deterioration that is
found. The paragraphs that follow highlight particular items that must be included in this
detailed inspection.
Thickness and size measurements should be made at areas that exhibit general
corrosion or pitting. The number and location of the thickness and pit depth
measurements that are made will depend on the extent of the deterioration that
is found.
Welded seams are more prone to the formation of cracks when the vessel is in
particular services, or if the vessel is fabricated from particular materials.
Therefore, the welds should be carefully checked for cracks in these cases.
-
Services that require special attention are amine, wet hydrogen sulfide,
caustic, ammonia, cyclic/high temperature applications, or deaerator
services.
Materials that require special attention are high-strength steels (above

10 152 kPa [70 000 psi] tensile strength), and low chrome steels that are
in high temperature services.
19
Vessels
The depth and extent of any cracks that are found must be defined. This crack
definition is typically done by the use of liquid penetrant, magnetic particle,
and/or ultrasonic shear wave inspection techniques.
Nozzles should be visually examined for internal corrosion or erosion, and

thickness measurements should be made as required.
Internal components, such as trays, catalyst support grids, and associated

structural members should be visually examined for corrosion, erosion, and
overall condition. Follow-up thickness and dimensional measurements should
be made as required.
Areas that are directly above or below the liquid level in vessels that contain
acidic corrosive materials are subject to hydrogen blisters. The blister size and
whether any cracks are associated with the blister should be determined.
Inspection of Metallic Linings

Internal metallic linings (cladding or weld overlay) are often installed to provide corrosion
protection for the vessel base metal. Any failures of the metallic lining will subject the base
metal to severe and rapid corrosion. Lining inspection is required to ensure that there is no
corrosion, that the lining is still intact and properly attached, and that there are no cracks or
holes in it.
A thorough visual inspection is normally all that is required to detect lining corrosion. Lining
corrosion should not be a factor if the proper lining material was selected for the service
conditions.
Cracked lining areas can normally be found by visual inspection and light hammering.
Suspect areas of the lining should be inspected by the liquid penetrant method in order to
define their extent.
Bulges that are found in a lining normally indicate that the lining has holes or cracks
somewhere in the bulged section. The bulges are caused either by the buildup of material that
has seeped behind the lining during operation or by differential thermal expansion. In any
event, the base metal that is located behind the lining must be inspected for corrosion, and the
lining damage must be found and repaired.
Inspection of Nonmetallic Linings
Glass, plastic, rubber, ceramic, concrete, refractory, and carbon block or brick internal linings
may be used in pressure vessels. Refractory is the most common type of nonmetallic lining
that is used in refinery applications and is the only type that will be discussed here.
20
Vessels
Refractory is used primarily as an insulating material to reduce shell metal temperatures in

very high temperature applications, such as in the reactor and regenerator vessels of Fluid
Catalytic Cracking Units (FCCUs). Refractory may also be used to provide protection for the
metal in erosive services. The use of refractory as erosion protection also applies in FCCUs.
Failure of a refractory lining could expose the vessel metal to excessive temperature and/or
excessive erosion.
Visual inspection, supplemented by light scraping or hammer testing, are the primary means
that are used to evaluate the condition of refractory linings. The most likely forms of lining
damage that may be found are excessive cracks, spalling, loose sections of lining, and bulges.
The extent of this damage must be recorded, and a determination must be made regarding the
need for repairs. If there is extensive lining damage, the metal that is located underneath the
lining should also be inspected for possible damage that might be caused by high temperature
or erosion.
It should be noted that it is normal for a refractory lining to exhibit a random pattern of
relatively narrow cracks. This random crack pattern is caused by shrinkage that occurs during
the refractory dryout operation. Cracks are only of concern when they are very wide and in a
regular pattern and when they cause sections of the lining to become loose.
Thickness Measurement
The primary method that is currently used to measure component thickness is the ultrasonic
technique. Ultrasonic inspection may also be used for flaw detection. Ultrasonic inspection
was briefly discussed in MEX 202.04, and more information on ultrasonic inspection is
included in COE 103.
21
Vessels
Special Methods for the Detection of Mechanical Defects

Visual inspection will detect most mechanical defects. Other inspection methods, such as
magnetic particle, liquid penetrant, shear wave ultrasonics, radiography, etching, and sample
removal, may be used when the situation warrants more detailed examination.
Radiography and shear wave ultrasonics are used to evaluate defects that are
not visible on the surface.
Etching of small areas of the metal surface is sometimes used to find small
surface cracks.
Small samples of suspect areas are sometimes removed to spot-check welds or

to further investigate cracks, laminations, and other flaws. The hole that is left
in the vessel wall from removal of the sample must be repaired and carefully
inspected; therefore, this inspection approach is only taken under special
circumstances.
The use of any of these inspection methods requires more extensive cleaning of the local
areas of the vessel.
Metallurgical Changes and In-Place Metal Analysis
The methods that are used to detect mechanical changes can also be used to detect
metallurgical changes that may have occurred. In-place metallography can be used to detect
metallurgical changes through the use of portable polishing equipment and replica transfer
techniques. Hardness measurements, chemical spot tests, and magnetic tests are three other
methods that may be used to detect metallurgical changes.
Portable hardness testers may be used to detect locally hard areas that may be more prone to
cracking. Faulty heat treatment, carburization, nitriding, decarburization, and other factors
may result in local changes in hardness that could have wider implications with respect to
vessel reliability.
Local chemical tests are typically used to detect the installation of incorrect materials.
Chemicals such as nitric acid in various concentrations are typically used for these chemical
tests.
Steels that are normally nonmagnetic usually become magnetic when they are carburized.
Therefore, carburization of austenitic stainless steel can sometimes be detected through the
use of a magnet.
22
Vessels
Inspection and History Report

An Inspection and History Report documents the results of a pressure vessel inspection that is
done during a T&I. A typical pressure vessel Inspection and History Report will include at
least the following sections:
Identification and Documentation Information. This section includes items

such as the vessel identification number and name, vessel location, vessel
service, date of inspection, and inspector's name.
Scope and History. This section specifies the scope of the current inspection as
well as the inspection methods that were used (such as visual observations and
ultrasonic measurements). The use of any special inspection techniques should
be documented.
This section also summarizes the pressure vessel's history, such as when it was
placed into service, when the last T&I was done, and any significant inspection
findings or repairs that were made during the last T&I. The Equipment
Inspection Schedule (EIS) with the associated Onstream Inspection (OSI) and
Test & Inspection (T&I) intervals are not a part of the Inspection and History
Report, but they may be referred to if required as part of the evaluation.
The inspector should have reviewed the operating history of the pressure vessel
and should have identified any process difficulties that occurred during the last
period of operation prior to the T&I. Anything unusual in the operating history
should be documented in the report since it might have contributed to problems
that are noted during the inspection. This pressure vessel history review should
also include whether any problems were found on similar equipment during
their T&Is that affected how the current inspection was conducted.
23
Vessels
Observations and Recommendations. This section provides the results of the

inspection and is divided into subsections based on the main pressure vessel
components (such as shell sections, heads, nozzles, and support). The visual
observations of the inspector are recorded for each component, as well as the
results of any measurements (such as thickness readings) that are made. One or
more sketches of the pressure vessel will normally be included in order to
identify the locations of the thickness measurements or other observations that
are made. Locating the observations and measurements in this manner helps to
identify the potential causes of problems and permits inspection at the same
locations during subsequent T&Is. Inspection of the same locations during
T&Is helps to establish trends in pressure vessel deterioration, especially
corrosion.
The complete information file for the pressure vessel will include the Pressure Vessel Data
Sheet (Form 2682 or Form 2683 as appropriate), the pressure vessel Safety Instruction Sheet
(Form 2694), and the vessel fabrication drawings. It may be necessary to refer to this
additional information in order to evaluate the current inspection data. However, this
additional information is not part of the Inspection and History Report.
Figures 5 and 6 provide overall formats that summarize the primary sections and information
that are combined in an Inspection and History Report.
24
Vessels
Identification and Documentation Information

Scope and History
Observations and Recommendations
Item
Observations/Recommendations
Shell
Conical Section
External Heads
Internal Heads
Nozzles
Flanges
Vessel Support
Support Foundation
Internal Lining
Internal Cladding or Overlay
Trays and Downcomers
Internal Distribution Piping
Catalyst Support System
Paint System
Insulation System
Ladders, Stairways, Platforms
Auxiliary Equipment (Gage connections,
sight glasses, etc.)
Grounding Connections
Components of Inspection and History Report
Figure 5
25
Vessels
Vessel Sketch With

Thickness Measurement Points
Prepared By Inspector
Wall Thickness Measurements

Point
Number
Original
Nominal
Thickness
Minimum
Required
Thickness
Inspection Date
Inspection and History Report

Thickness Measurement Data
Figure 6
26
Vessels
DETERMINING THE SUITABILITY OF CORRODED PRESSURE VESSELS FOR

CONTINUED OPERATION
Since pressure vessel components will corrode during operation, their suitability for continued
operation must be determined. The paragraphs that follow discuss the approach that is used
for this evaluation. This approach includes the following essential considerations:
Determining minimum actual thickness.
Assessing the acceptability of the corroded areas.
Determining actions that can be taken if corroded areas are not acceptable.
Each of these considerations is discussed below.

Determining Minimum Actual Thickness
A complete evaluation of an existing pressure vessel for continued operation must consider
the entire vessel, all the loads that are imposed on it, and all the potential forms of vessel
deterioration. This module only discusses corrosion evaluation since corrosion is the most
common form of deterioration that limits vessel integrity. This module will primarily discuss
internal pressure loads since they are the most common factor that limits vessel suitability for
operation. Participants are referred to the Consulting Services Department for assistance in
the evaluation of other forms of pressure vessel deterioration.
The minimum actual thickness of pressure vessel components must be determined before the
condition of an existing pressure vessel can be evaluated. Thickness data are obtained from
the periodic vessel inspections that are made. In determining thicknesses that are measured,
and how these thicknesses are treated, the factors listed below must be considered:
Type of corrosion
Major vessel sections
Type of loading
Location of corrosion relative to welds
The required procedures for determination of the minimum actual thicknesses to use in the
evaluation of corroded regions of a pressure vessel are contained in Work Aid 2.
27
Vessels
Types of Corrosion
Corrosion may take the form of a uniform metal loss, or may occur by leaving a pitted
appearance. Uniform corrosion is a general, even wastage over a surface area. Pitting
corrosion has an obvious, irregular surface appearance. Uniform corrosion may be difficult to
detect visually, and thickness measurements are required to determine its extent. Pitted
surfaces may be thinner than they appear visually, and thickness measurements are typically
required for pitted areas as well. Uniform and pitting types of corrosion are illustrated in
Figures 7 and 8. These types of corrosion must be evaluated differently.
Uniform Type Corrosion

Figure 7
28
Vessels
Recall that MEX 202.03 discussed procedures for calculation of the wall thickness of various
pressure vessel components. For example, a uniform minimum required wall thickness was
calculated for an applied internal pressure. Uniform corrosion results in a thinner vessel
component over a relatively large area. This relatively uniform thinning will make the
component suitable for less severe conditions than it was originally designed for.
Pitting Type Corrosion

Figure 8
From a practical standpoint, even nominally uniform corrosion will not result in exactly the
same thickness throughout a vessel component, even in relatively local regions of the
component. It is permissible, but conservative, to use the minimum thickness that is
measured anywhere in the uniformly corroded region for evaluation purposes. However,
areas of the component that are thicker will tend to reinforce adjacent areas that are thinner.
This reinforcement concept is similar to the nozzle reinforcement calculation requirements
that were discussed in MEX 202.03. Therefore, it is permissible to "average" the measured
thicknesses over a larger area in order to arrive at a constant thickness that will be used in the
evaluation of a uniformly corroded region. API-510, Pressure Vessel Inspection Code,
provides a procedure to determine the minimum actual thickness to be used in the evaluation
of a uniformly corroded region. The API-510 procedure is contained in Work Aid 2.
29
Vessels
Pitted regions on the surface of a pressure vessel are plainly visible and have the appearance
of craters or locally thinned regions that are surrounded by thicker areas. These thicker areas
act as local reinforcement. Because of this local reinforcement, the pitting must be fairly
extensive and deep before it will have a practical impact on vessel integrity. The pitting can
actually be ignored if it can be classified as "widely scattered." If pitting cannot be classified
as widely scattered, pitting corrosion is evaluated with the same approach as for uniform
corrosion. Pit depth, size, and area measurements must be made in order to determine if the
pits can be considered widely scattered and if they may be safely ignored. API-510 provides
a procedure to determine whether pitting can be considered as widely scattered. The API-510
procedure is contained in Work
Aid 2.
Major Vessel Sections
The pressure vessel must be divided into major sections, and the minimum actual thicknesses
to use in the integrity evaluation must be determined for each major section. It may also be
necessary to subdivide these major sections further and to evaluate the smaller regions
separately, based on the type and extent of corrosion that is found and on the size and
geometry of the section. Each section of the vessel is evaluated separately, and the section
that limits the overall operation of the vessel is then determined based on the weakest section.
This concept of identifying the weakest section of a pressure vessel is the same as the
approach to MAWP calculation that was discussed in MEX 202.03.
Division of the vessel into major sections may be based on the following factors:
Geometry. For example, cylindrical or conical shells, heads, and nozzles can
each be considered as a separate section of a vessel.
Thickness. There may be a thickness transition between two adjacent

cylindrical shell sections, and each shell section should be evaluated separately.
Material. Different materials may be used in different vessel sections due to

different design conditions and/or corrosion rates.
Corrosion rates and types. Experience may indicate that corrosion rate or type
may vary in different parts of the vessel, and different sections of the vessel
may therefore require separate evaluation.
Changes in Design Conditions. Design conditions may vary in different

sections of the vessel, such as temperature variations in a tall tower. Therefore,
the different sections of the vessel should be evaluated separately.
30
Vessels
Type of Loading
The type of loading that governs the design of a vessel section determines how the minimum
actual thickness is determined. For the primary shell and head sections of a pressure vessel, it
should be determined whether the governing stress is in the circumferential or meridional
(axial) direction, since the direction of the governing stress will govern the direction of the
thickness measurements. Thickness measurements should be made along lines in the
meridional (axial) direction in vessel sections where the required thickness is governed by
circumferential stress. Thickness measurements should be made along lines in the
circumferential direction in vessel sections where the required thickness is governed by
longitudinal stress. The concept of shell thickness measurement direction is illustrated in
Figure 9, and additional details are provided in Work Aid 2.
31
Vessels
Direction of Thickness Measurements

Figure 9
If the design of a particular vessel section is governed by local load conditions, and if there is
significant corrosion in that section, sufficient thickness measurements should be made to
permit a local stress calculation. For example, if the reinforcement design of a nozzle is
governed by the loads that are imposed by the connected pipe, enough thickness
measurements should be made to permit calculation and evaluation of the local nozzle and
shell stresses. MEX 202.03 discussed the evaluation of loads that are applied at a vessel
nozzle.
Other special cases where localized loads and corrosion must be considered are at cone-tocylinder junctions, stiffener ring locations, and vessel support attachment locations. In all
these cases, sufficient thickness measurements should be made to permit adequate evaluation
of the local area for the applied loads.
32
Vessels
Location of Corrosion Relative to Welds

Recall from MEX 202.03 that a weld joint efficiency is used to determine the required wall
thickness for vessel components such as shells and heads. For existing pressure vessels, the
weld joint efficiency must be considered only for the weld itself and areas of the component
that are adjacent to the weld. The weld joint efficiency does not need to be considered in
regions away from the weld because the weld strength and quality do not affect regions of the
base metal that are away from the weld. Therefore, regions that are away from the weld do
not have to be penalized by the weld joint efficiency. Accordingly, the thickness
measurements that are made should indicate their location relative to any nearby shell or head
welds. In this manner, the weld joint efficiency is not used in the vessel evaluation if it is not
necessary to do so.
API-510 defines the distance from a weld where the joint efficiency still applies, as contained
in Work Aid 2.
Sample Problem 1 - Determining Minimum Actual Thickness of a Corroded Region
Thickness measurements have been made on the cylindrical shell of a pressure vessel during a
T&I. Figure 10 and the thickness measurements in Figure 11 have been taken from the
Inspection and History Report that was prepared. For this vessel, determine the following:
The maximum distance, Lmax, over which thickness measurements can be

averaged.
The minimum number of thickness readings that can be averaged.
The average wall thickness for the vessel shell that should be used in
subsequent evaluations.
Work Aid 2 may be used to solve this problem.

For this vessel, assume that internal pressure, rather than weight and wind loads, governs the
design.
33
Vessels
Sample Problem 1 Vessel

Figure 10
34
Vessels
Thickness Measurements Along Four Longitudinal

Lines Along Shell, mm
Point
Distance
From TTL,
12.3
12.4
12.2
12.2
250
12.4
12.3
12.1
12.1
500
12.5
12.4
12.2
12.2
750
12.4
12.3
12.2
12.2
1 000
12.3
12.2
12.2
12.2
1 250
12.1
12.0
12.2
12.1
1 500
12.1
12.0
12.1
12.1
1 750
12.6
12.3
12.2
12.0
2 000
12.7
12.7
12.2
12.0
10
2 250
12.3
12.2
12.0
12.0
11
2 500
12.5
12.4
11.8
12.0
12
2 750
12.6
12.5
12.1
12.0
13
3 000
12.7
12.6
12.2
12.0
14
3 250
12.3
12.2
12.3
12.0
15
3 500
12.6
12.5
12.3
12.0
16
3 750
12.7
12.7
12.3
12.0
17
4 000
12.3
12.1
12.3
12.2
18
4 250
12.3
12.2
12.4
12.2
19
4 500
12.5
12.4
12.4
12.3
20
4 750
12.2
12.1
12.5
12.4
21
5 000
12.1
12.2
12.5
12.5
Sample Problem 1 Thickness Data

Figure 11
35
Vessels
Solution:
(a)
Since Do = 3 048 mm > 1 500 mm, Lmax = 1 000 mm
(b)
API-510 does not give guidance on the number of readings in Lmax that should be used
to get a good average, but typically a minimum of 5 data points should be used. If
local thinning is a concern, a maximum distance of 50 mm between measurement
points is typically used.
Minimum number of readings per Lmax = 5
Maximum distance between readings = Lmax/4 = 250 mm
(c)
For the thickness measurements given, the minimum thickness can be found by
inspection of the data. The average thickness, "tavg", can be found for a section of the
shell that is Lmax long and that passes through this minimum thickness point.
tmin, min = 11.8 mm
Occurs at point 11 on the S plane.
tavg, min = 12.06 mm
Based on averaging 5 readings about the above point.
However, note that there is a row of 12 mm thickness readings in the "W" plane.
Averaging these thickness readings results in a minimum average thickness in the shell
of 12 mm.
Alternative Procedure:
Alternatively, the shell can be divided up into sections that are Lmax long starting at Point 1.
A value for "tmin" can then be found for each section of the shell.
Section 1
tavg =
tmin =
tavg, min =
12.18 mm
tmin, min =
12.1 mm
Section 2
tavg =
tmin =
tavg, min =
12.08 mm
tmin, min =
12.0 mm
N
12.38
12.3
E
12.32
12.2
S
12.18
12.1
W
12.18
12.1
12.36
12.1
12.24
12.0
12.18
12.1
12.08
12.0
36
Vessels
Section 3
tavg =
tmin =
tavg, min =
12.00 mm
tmin, min =
11.8 mm
12.56
12.3
12.48
12.2
12.06
11.8
12.00
12.0
Section 4
12.52
12.3
12.42
12.1
12.28
11.8
12.04
12.0
Section 5
12.28
12.1
12.20
12.1
12.42
12.3
12.32
12.2
tavg =
tmin =
tavg, min =
12.04 mm
tmin, min =
12.0 mm
tavg =
tmin =
tavg, min =
12.20 mm
tmin, min =
12.1 mm
Minimum tavg =
12.00 mm
The minimum average thickness for the shell is termed "tactual" and is used for subsequent
calculations. This sample problem demonstrates that the minimum average thickness of the
vessel will not necessarily be around the point of the minimum actual thickness. It should
also be noted that subsequent evaluations may account for the actual pressure at a given
elevation along with the minimum average thickness at that elevation.
Acceptability of Corroded Area
After the minimum actual thicknesses for the different sections of the pressure vessel have
been determined, the vessel is then evaluated for acceptability. Each corroded area is
evaluated separately, and a decision is made with regard to the vessel's suitability for
continued operation at the specified design conditions.
In very broad terms, the goal is to confirm that the MAWP of the vessel in the corroded
condition is still acceptable for the required design conditions. This determination must
consider both the current thicknesses of the vessel components and the expected future
corrosion that will take place before the next vessel inspection. This evaluation can be done
through use of the following methods:
Determine the remaining life of the vessel and maximum permitted subsequent
T&I interval, based on the minimum actual thicknesses (less future corrosion)
and the required thicknesses of the primary vessel sections. The vessel is
acceptable as long as the remaining life is acceptable and as long as the
permitted T&I interval is at least as long as that required by SAEP-20.
37
Vessels
Determine a revised MAWP of the vessel based on the minimum actual

thicknesses of each corroded section (less future corrosion). The vessel is
acceptable as long as the revised MAWP exceeds the required design pressure.
Calculation of the MAWP was discussed in MEX 202.03.
Calculate the stresses in the vessel components for the actual thicknesses (less
future corrosion), and compare these stresses to their allowable values to
determine acceptability.
The first approach is the most direct and the quickest; also, the first approach minimizes the
number of calculations that are required. All the information that is needed is available from
the inspection results in the Inspection and History Report and the vessel Safety Instruction
Sheet, Form 2694. Form 2694 was discussed in MEX 202.03. The second approach is only
necessary if it is found that either the remaining life of the vessel or T&I interval is not
acceptable, and a decision must be made whether to repair the vessel or rerate the vessel to
less severe design conditions. The third approach is normally only required when it is
necessary to evaluate local load conditions or if a detailed Division 2 stress analysis is
required to determine the acceptability of locally corroded regions.
The vessel evaluation is normally based on the requirements of the Code to which the vessel
was built. This method is consistent with the minimum thickness requirements that are on
Form 2694 for the vessel. However, a later edition of the Code may be used if desired, as
long as the vessel meets all the requirements of the later Code edition.
It is also permissible to perform a Division 2 detailed stress analysis of corroded regions of a
vessel if it is felt that this analysis would be advantageous. If the Division 2 analysis
approach is used, the following procedures are employed:
The allowable stress that was used in the original design must be used in place
of the Division 2 design stress intensity, as long as this allowable stress is less
than or equal to 2/3 of the Specified Minimum Yield Strength (SMYS) of the
material at the design temperature.
38
Vessels
If the original allowable stress exceeds 2/3 of the SMYS of the material at the
design temperature, then 2/3 of the SMYS is to be used for the Division 2
design stress intensity.
Work Aid 2 summarizes the procedure to use for the evaluation of a corroded area for
acceptability based on the remaining life and subsequent T&I interval requirements.
Potential Actions if Corroded Areas Are Not Acceptable
If a corroded area of a pressure vessel is found to be unacceptable for continued operation,
only two options are available:
Repair the corroded area as needed to make it acceptable for the required
design conditions.
Rerate the vessel to less severe design conditions.
Repair of the corroded area restores the vessel to the strength that is required to withstand the
specified design conditions. Restoration of the vessel integrity in this manner will thus not
have any effect on future process operations. Several repair options are available. The choice
of which repair option to use depends on the nature and extent of the corrosion and the vessel
material of construction. Several of these options will be discussed in a later section of this
module.
In some cases, it may not be practical to repair the vessel due to either the extent and cost of
the required repairs or to the time it would take to make the repairs. If the vessel is not
repaired, it can only be returned to service at less severe design conditions. This reduction in
vessel capability can affect process operations because the mechanical strength of the vessel
is now a restriction on how the vessel may be operated. Rerating a pressure vessel to less
severe conditions will be discussed in a later section of this module.
39
Vessels
DETERMINING THE APPROPRIATE DESIGN AND FABRICATION DETAILS

FOR WELDED REPAIRS OR ALTERATIONS
Pressure vessel repairs and alterations must be done in a manner such that the resulting vessel
integrity is comparable to that of new construction. The paragraphs that follow discuss
appropriate design and fabrication details that may be used to ensure that welded repairs or
alterations are effective.
Classification of Repairs and Alterations
There is a distinction between a repair and an alteration on an existing pressure vessel. This
distinction must be understood in order to determine appropriate design and fabrication details
and whether a subsequent hydrostatic pressure test is required. A hydrostatic pressure test is
normally required after alterations but may not be required after repairs. Repairs and
alterations are defined in API-510, as described in the paragraphs that follow.
Repair
A repair is the work that is necessary to restore a pressure vessel to a condition that is suitable
for safe operation at the design conditions. If any restorative changes result in the need to
change the design pressure or design temperature, the requirements for rerating the vessel
must also be satisfied. Rerating is discussed in a later section of this module. Several
examples of repairs are as follows:
Weld repair or replacement of pressure parts or attachments that have failed in

a weld or in the base material.
The addition of welded attachments to pressure parts, such as studs for

insulation or refractory lining, ladder clips, brackets, tray support rings, strip
lining, corrosion resistant weld overlay, and weld buildup of corroded areas.
Replacement of pressure-containing parts that are identical to those that exist in

the pressure vessel and that are described on the original ASME Code
Manufacturers' Data Report. The following are examples:
-
Shell or head replacement in accordance with the original design.
Rewelding a circumferential or longitudinal seam in a head or shell.
Replacement of nozzles that are of a size where reinforcement is not a

consideration.
40
Vessels
Installation of new nozzles or openings of such a size that reinforcement is not

a consideration. For example, a 76 mm (3 in.) or smaller pipe size nozzle in a
shell or head that is 10 mm (3/8 in.) or less thickness, or a 50 mm (2 in.) pipe
size nozzle into a shell or head of any thickness.
The addition of a new nozzle where reinforcement is a consideration, provided

that the nozzle is identical to one in the original design, that the nozzle is
located in a similar part of the vessel, and that the nozzle is not closer than
three times its diameter from another nozzle.
Installation of a flush patch or replacement of shell courses.
Replacement of slip-on flanges with weld neck flanges, or vice versa.
Alteration
An alteration is a physical change in any component that has design implications which affect
the pressure-containing capability of a pressure vessel beyond the scope of the items that are
described on the original ASME Code Manufacturers' Data Report. Several examples of
alterations are as follows:
An increase in the MAWP or design temperature, regardless of whether or not

a physical change was made to the vessel.
A decrease in the minimum design temperature such that additional mechanical

tests are required (such as impact tests).
The addition of new nozzles or openings, except for those that may be
classified as repairs.
The addition of a pressurized jacket to a pressure vessel.
Replacement of a pressure-containing part with a material that has a different

allowable stress or nominal chemical composition from that used in the original
design. (However, such a replacement may be considered a repair if the
material satisfies the material and design requirements of the original
construction Code that was used for the vessel.)
41
Vessels
Defect Repairs
Unacceptable defects that are found during a T&I, such as cracks or excessively corroded
areas, must be repaired before the pressure vessel can be returned to service at the specified
design conditions. The particular method that is used for the repair depends primarily on the
type and extent of the defect.
In all cases, the repaired area must be inspected for acceptability. The inspection method that
is used and the extent of inspection depends on the type and extent of repairs that are made.
The basic intent of inspection after repair is for the repair welds to receive the same level of
quality control that the original construction welds received. This will typically involve PT or
MT inspection of weld overlay type repairs and RT and/or UT examination of full penetration
type weld repairs. The required procedures and acceptance criteria for the actual inspection
method that is used is the same as for new construction, as was discussed in MEX 202.04.
The inspection requirements are developed at the same time as the repair procedures are
developed. The Consulting Services Department should be consulted as required.
The paragraphs that follow discuss several different weld repair options that may be
considered, based on API-510 and Saudi Aramco and industry practice. Work Aid 3
summarizes an overall procedure which may be used to determine appropriate repair and
alteration procedures.
Cracks
Whenever cracks are found, an evaluation should always be made to identify their root cause
and to eliminate it, rather than to just repair the cracks. For example, cracks may be due to
the following:
Original construction defects that were not found.
High local stresses that are caused by applied loads or thermal gradients.
More general material degradation, as might be caused by hydrogen attack,

caustic cracking, or stress corrosion cracking.
The Consulting Services Department should be consulted as required for the determination of
the root cause of cracks.
42
Vessels
Crack repair cannot be made until the crack has first been completely removed. Crack
removal before repair is necessary in order not to leave a geometric discontinuity at the repair
location. Such a geometric discontinuity could act as a stress concentration point and could
be a location for new crack initiation after the vessel is returned to service. Crack removal is
typically done by grinding the crack to sound metal and by performing a PT or MT inspection
to confirm that the crack has been completely removed. It is common to find that cracks
which are thought to be fairly small may actually be much longer and deeper than originally
expected. The grinding and subsequent inspection of cracks will define their complete extent.
After the crack has been completely removed, the area must be prepared for welding. This
weld preparation will typically be in the form of a U- or V-shaped groove that extends the full
length and depth of the crack. If the crack extends through the full thickness of the material,
the preparation should be for a full penetration double-butt weld or for a single-butt weld with
or without a backing strip. The area that is to be welded is then filled with weld metal through
the use of a qualified weld procedure.
It should be noted that it might not always be necessary to do a weld repair after grinding out
a crack. If the crack is shallow enough such that the remaining vessel thickness after grinding
is still acceptable for continued operation, subsequent weld repair is not required. If weld
repair is not necessary, the area of the ground out crack should be blended into the adjacent
material so that there are no sharp corners that could act as stress concentration points. Blend
grinding a crack is illustrated in Figure 12.
43
Vessels
Blend Grinding a Crack

Figure 12
Corroded Areas
Several repair options are available for areas that have experienced excessive corrosion. The
approach that is taken depends primarily on the extent of the corrosion and or the cost and
time that are required to make the repair. These options are highlighted below.
Relatively small corroded areas may be repaired by weld overlay, provided that
it is determined that this approach will not reduce the overall strength of the
vessel. Strength should not be an issue as long as appropriate weld procedures
and qualifications have been developed and as long as the repaired area has
been inspected. Use of weld overlay does not require any weld preparation
other than cleaning the surfaces to be welded.
Nozzles may be installed to encompass relatively small corroded areas. The

nozzles are made large enough to extend beyond the corroded area.
44
Vessels
A larger corroded area of a shell or head may be repaired by removing it and

replacing it with an insert patch that is welded into the vessel with fullpenetration welds, as illustrated in Figure 13. The insert patch is fabricated
with rounded corners in order to minimize local stress concentrations.
Extensive corrosion may require replacement of major shell or head sections or
other vessel components such as nozzles.
Insert Patch Repair

Figure 13
45
Vessels
Corroded areas of flange faces may be thoroughly cleaned and built up with
weld metal. The flange faces then must be remachined to provide the required
contact surface to seal against the gasket. The weld buildup and subsequent
machining must be done such that the flange thickness is not less than the
thickness required by the original design. Use of less than the original flange
design thickness must be verified as acceptable based on calculations that are
done in accordance with ASME Code criteria.
Welding
All pressure vessel repairs and alterations must be done in accordance with the principles that
are contained in the ASME Code, as modified by the applicable SAESs and SAMSSs that
were discussed in MEX 202.04. However, it is recognized that specific ASME Code and
Saudi Aramco welding requirements may be difficult to apply in all cases. This difficulty
arises because the ASME and Saudi Aramco requirements are for new construction that is
done in a fabrication shop, whereas repairs and alterations to existing pressure vessels are
done under field conditions.
It is always preferable to make vessel repairs and alterations based on the same welding
requirements that are used for new construction. However in situations where this approach
may not be practical, alternative approaches may be considered as long as they are technically
acceptable for the intended purpose. The Consulting Services Department should be
contacted for assistance as required, especially if it is necessary to deviate from ASME Code
and Saudi Aramco original construction requirements. The paragraphs that follow highlight
several specific topics.
Procedures and Records
Before any welding is done, welding procedures must be prepared and qualified, and the
welders who will perform the work must be qualified to the procedures. The same welding
procedure and welder qualification review and approval process that is used for new vessel
construction must also be used for the welding that is done for repairs and alterations. These
qualification requirements were discussed in MEX 202.04. The intent here is that there
should be no distinction between original construction welds and repair or alteration welds
with respect to welding procedure and welder qualification requirements.
46
Vessels
Repair and alteration welding will typically be done manually rather than through the use of
automatic or semi-automatic equipment. Such welding will also be done under field
conditions rather than shop fabrication conditions. Therefore, it is extremely important that
the welding procedure and welder qualifications be performed in the positions and with any
restrictions that will be encountered in the actual vessel. For example, if repair welding will
be done in a very restricted space and overhead, these conditions should be duplicated to the
extent possible in the procedure and welder qualification tests. A procedure or welder may be
able to pass the qualification test under ideal conditions, but either the procedure or the welder
may be unacceptable under the actual field conditions that must be dealt with.
Welding procedure and welder qualification records must meet the same requirements that are
used for new vessel construction. Here again, the intent is to have no difference between
original construction and repair or maintenance welding with respect to record keeping and
accountability. These records will have added importance in situations where a subsequent
failure occurs at a location that has been repaired or altered, since the records might help in
the development of an alternative repair approach.
Alternatives to PWHT
A pressure vessel may have been given a PWHT as part of its original fabrication. This
PWHT may have been based on either stress relief considerations in accordance with ASME
Code requirements or on Saudi Aramco requirements based on either the vessel service or to
achieve acceptable weld hardness. PWHT was discussed in MEX 202.02 and MEX 202.04.
Performance of a PWHT in the field after repair or alteration welding is commonly done.
However, based on the amount of welding that is done and the materials that are involved,
field PWHT can become difficult and time consuming. Therefore, it is sometimes
advantageous not to PWHT after repairs or alterations, even if the vessel had originally
received PWHT.
There are two possible alternatives to PWHT that may be considered in the case of repairs or
alterations: the use of a higher than normal preheat temperature or the use of a temper bead
welding technique. These alternatives may only be considered for the specific cases that are
summarized in Work Aid 3. Use of either higher preheat temperature or temper bead welding
as a means to avoid PWHT should only be considered after consultation with the Consulting
Services Department.
47
Vessels
Higher Preheat Temperature - Use of a higher than normal preheat temperature reduces the
differential temperatures in the weld joint area and thus reduces the residual stresses that are
induced due to weld shrinkage.
If higher preheat temperature is used for cases where impact testing was done as part of the
original fabrication requirements, the welding procedure that is used for the repairs should be
requalified at the higher preheat temperature. This requalification is necessary to confirm that
the toughness is still acceptable in the as-welded condition.
The details and additional restrictions on the use of higher preheat temperature are contained
in Work Aid 3.
Temper Bead Welding - The temper bead welding technique is also known as the half-bead
welding technique. The basic concept of temper bead welding is to use the heat from
subsequent layers of weld metal to provide a heat treatment of the weld metal and HAZ of
weld layers that are underneath. Weld metal that has not been tempered in this manner is
removed by grinding.
Details and restrictions on the use of temper bead welding are contained in Work Aid 3.
Local PWHT
PWHT of a new pressure vessel is typically done by placing the entire vessel into a heat
treating furnace. However, the ASME Code also permits use of a local PWHT for new
construction under certain circumstances, such as if a new nozzle or attachment must be
added to a vessel after it has already received a PWHT.
In the ASME approach to local PWHT, as illustrated in Figure 14, an entire 360
circumferential band around the vessel must be uniformly brought up to the required
temperature and held at this temperature for the specified time. Heating is typically done
through the use of electric resistance heating coils. This circumferential band contains the
weld that requires the PWHT and is to extend at least six times the plate thickness beyond
each side of the weld. The circumferential band and adjacent area of the vessel are externally
insulated to the extent necessary to ensure that the thermal gradients that result from the high
PWHT temperature do not cause excessive thermal stresses in the vessel shell.
48
Vessels
Local PWHT Per ASME

Figure 14
API-510 states that local PWHT of vessel repairs or alterations does not have to encompass a
360 circumferential band around the vessel if the requirements and precautions that are
summarized in Work Aid 3 are applied.
49
Vessels
Design
The design details for all repairs and alterations (such as the addition of new connections)
should generally meet the principles that are established in the ASME Code, as supplemented
by Saudi Aramco requirements. Vessel components should be replaced rather than repaired
when the integrity of the repair might be questionable. Vessel design and fabrication
requirements were discussed in MEX 202.03 and MEX 202.04.
Buttwelded joints that are used for repairs or alterations must have complete penetration and
fusion in all cases, consistent with new construction requirements. Fillet-welded patches
should not be used, except for exceptional cases (such as in very low pressure applications
that involve nonhazardous services). The use of fillet-welded lap patches requires special
design considerations, and the Consulting Services Department should be consulted before
the use of fillet-welded lap patches is considered.
50
Vessels
EVALUATING THE DESIGN OF EXISTING PRESSURE VESSELS FOR

RERATING TO REVISED DESIGN CONDITIONS
Rerating a pressure vessel involves a change in either or both the design temperature or the
maximum allowable working pressure of the vessel. It is sometimes necessary to rerate an
existing pressure vessel due to either of the following:
Changes in original design pressure or temperature.
Vessel deterioration that was found during a T&I.
Rerating calculations will typically be done in accordance with the Code that was used in the
original vessel design. All the necessary design information to permit rerating in accordance
with the original construction Code is contained on the Pressure Vessel Design Sheet, the
Safety Instruction Sheet, and the original vessel fabrication drawings. Rerating calculations
may also be done based on a later edition of the original construction Code. However, to use
a later Code edition, it must be confirmed that all essential vessel details comply with the
requirements that are contained in this later edition of the Code.
The sections that follow discuss the reasons for pressure vessel rerating. Work Aid 4 provides
a procedure for the evaluation of a pressure vessel for rerated design conditions.
Changes to Original Design Pressure or Temperature
It is sometimes desirable to change the original design conditions of an existing pressure
vessel for process operations reasons. For example:
There may be an increase in unit throughput that will result in a higher

operating pressure. MEX 202.03 pointed out that the operating pressure is used
to set the design pressure of a pressure vessel. The design pressure is found on
both the Pressure Vessel Design Sheet (Form 2682 or Form 2683) and the
Safety Instruction Sheet (Form 2694).
Changes in flow arrangements or heat transfer scheme may result in a higher

vessel operating temperature, which will increase the design temperature that is
required for the vessel. The design temperature is also found on the Pressure
Vessel Design Sheet and Safety Instruction Sheet.
51
Vessels
The pressure vessel must then be evaluated for the desired design conditions in order to
determine if the vessel is acceptable. With the following exceptions, this evaluation is done in
the same manner as for a new vessel (as was discussed in MEX 202.03):
The current vessel component thickness data must be used.
An allowance for future corrosion that is based on actual corrosion rate data
must be included.
Either the design pressure, design temperature, or both might be revised. As MEX 202.03
explained, the design pressure and design temperature must be considered together when a
pressure vessel design is developed. This combination of design pressure and design
temperature must also be considered when a vessel is rerated. Items that must be considered
when rerating a pressure vessel are as follows:
The effect of a design temperature increase on material allowable stress, flange

Class, and vessel MAWP.
Whether the new design pressure is below the vessel MAWP.
The remaining corrosion allowance in the vessel, considering current

component thicknesses and measured corrosion rates.
The need to reset the safety valve set pressure, based on a new design pressure.
In some situations, it may be necessary to provide process operations personnel with

acceptable design condition alternatives when their ideal case is too severe. For example, the
vessel might not be adequate for the desired combination of both design pressure and
temperature. However, the vessel might be adequate for the following applications:
Some lower pressure at the desired design temperature.
Some lower temperature at the desired design pressure.
A shorter future inspection interval, which will permit use of a smaller future
corrosion allowance.
Multiple combinations of the above applications.
This information defines an acceptable design envelope for the vessel. This acceptable design
envelope, if it is not adequate for a long duration of service, might be satisfactory for at least
shorter term operational needs.
52
Vessels
Reasons for Derating

Less demanding operational requirements that need less severe design conditions than those
that were originally required is one reason for derating (or downrating) a pressure vessel.
However, a formal derating evaluation is not done if a pressure vessel is being used for less
severe conditions than were specified for the original design. The reason for derating that is
of more interest is when derating is required due to a deteriorated vessel condition.
An earlier section of this module discussed the evaluation of corroded pressure vessels to
determine their suitability for continued operation. If a corroded pressure vessel is not
suitable for continued operation, one option which may be considered is to derate the vessel
to less severe design conditions. Derating a vessel involves determining the design conditions
that the vessel is suitable for, reducing the operating conditions such that these design
conditions are valid, and resetting the safety valve to correspond to the new design pressure.
Derating a pressure vessel can have process operations implications, such as reduced
throughput or lower product yields. However, these process implications might have to be
accepted in certain situations, such as if they are preferable to taking the time that is necessary
to make any needed repairs or modifications to the vessel.
Available Options
If an existing pressure vessel is not suitable for operation at revised operating conditions,
three options are available:
Repair or modify the vessel such that it will be acceptable.
Modify the process requirements such that the vessel will be acceptable without
repair or modification.
Use a new pressure vessel.
The choice of which option to take depends on cost, schedule, and available operating
flexibility.
The repairs or modifications that are required to make an existing pressure vessel suitable for
revised operating conditions must be defined in order to determine the feasibility, cost, and
time to implement the repairs or modifications. For example, relatively simple repairs such as
localized weld overlay, the use of insert patches, or the replacement of corroded components
such as nozzles or flanges might be all that is required and might be relatively simple to
accomplish. However, the replacement of major sections of the shell or of entire heads will
be more expensive and time consuming.
53
Vessels
It will sometimes be possible to modify the originally desired process requirements

sufficiently to permit continued use of the pressure vessel. Other operational alternatives
might be available that will place less severe demands on the vessel and that will be less
costly and time consuming to implement than vessel repair, modification, or replacement. It
might also be possible to use process operations alternatives on a temporary basis until there
is sufficient time to make the needed vessel repairs or modifications.
Use of a new pressure vessel to meet revised operating conditions or to replace a deteriorated
pressure vessel is always an alternative. This approach is the most expensive and time
consuming, but it will sometimes be necessary.
Requirements for New Hydrotest
A new hydrotest is normally not conducted as part of a routine T&I. However a hydrotest
will typically be done in certain situations as follows:
After pressure vessel alterations.
After rerating to new design conditions that result in a higher than original
MAWP.
After certain repairs.
To provide an extra measure of safety when there is doubt as to the extent of a

defect or detrimental condition that exists in a vessel.
A new hydrotest is performed in the first two situations for the same reason that it is done for
a new vessel. The hydrotest is done to confirm that the mechanical integrity of the vessel is
still acceptable after alterations are done. A hydrotest is also done to determine whether the
vessel has been rerated to a higher MAWP. If the vessel MAWP has not been changed from
the original value, the hydrotest pressure will typically be equal to that shown on the Pressure
Vessel Design Sheet (Service Test Pressure) and the Safety Instruction Sheet. If the vessel
MAWP is changed, the hydrotest pressure is adjusted accordingly. Procedures to use in the
calculation of the hydrotest pressure were discussed in MEX 202.04.
Doing a hydrotest for the last two situations will depend on the particular details that are
involved. The Consulting Services Department should be consulted as required.
54
Vessels
WORK AID 1:
PROCEDURE FOR DETERMINING THE APPROPRIATE

INSPECTION FREQUENCY FOR A PRESSURE VESSEL
This Work Aid may be used in conjunction with the copy of SAEP-20, Equipment Inspection
Schedule, that is contained in Course Handout 2, in order to determine the appropriate
external and internal inspection frequencies for a pressure vessel.
Work Aid 1A:
External Inspection Frequency
The procedure that follows is to be used to determine the maximum permitted initial and
subsequent Onstream Inspection (OSI) Performance intervals for pressure vessels.
1.
Determine the Corrosion Service Class for the pressure vessel in accordance with the
criteria that follows:
Corrosion Service Class
Criteria
___________________________________________________________
2.
0 - Performance Alert
380 m/a (15 mpy) and up corrosion rate, or

Special Problems. This Class refers to special
material or process conditions to address problems
such as dearator cracking, weld repairs done
without PWHT, molecular sieve plugging, etc. It
also refers to problems that require special
monitoring such as for cracking, blistering,
oxidation, creep, fatigue, fouling, and localized
corrosion/erosion attack sites.
1 - Corrosive Service
150 to 380 m/a (6 to 15 mpy) corrosion rate.
2 - Mild Corrosive Service
75 to 150 m/a (3 to 6 mpy) corrosion rate.
3 - Low Corrosive Service
Less than 75 m/a (3 mpy) corrosion rate.
The initial maximum OSI interval must be one year for Corrosion Classes 1 and 2, and
two years for Corrosion Class 3.
The initial maximum OSI interval must be one year for Corrosion Class 0, unless a
shorter interval has been specified based on specific Performance Alerts.
55
Vessels
3.
Subsequent OSI intervals must be scheduled either annually, or calculated based on

the remaining vessel life using data that is developed by the OSI program. See Step 4
for the procedure that is used to calculate the required subsequent OSI interval.
4.
Subsequent OSI Intervals Based on Remaining Vessel Life.

Subsequent OSI intervals may be calculated based on the remaining vessel life as
follows.
a.
Determine the supplied nominal thickness, tnom, and minimum required

thickness, tm, for each major vessel section (such as shell sections or heads).
These should be available on the Safety Instruction Sheet for the vessel, Form
2694.
b.
Determine the actual measured thicknesses for the same major vessel sections,
tactual, as determined from the previous OSI.
c.
Determine the maximum corrosion rate for the vessel, CR, based on the larger
of the following:
-
Historical information based on experience with other vessels in the

same service, or
The actual maximum CR for the vessel, based on the OSI data for each
major vessel section, as determined based on the equation that follows.
The CR for the vessel is taken as the maximum value that is calculated for the
major vessel sections.
d.
Determine the remaining life, RL, for the vessel. This is the minimum RL that
is calculated considering all the major vessel sections, based on the equation
that follows:
56
Vessels
e.
Determine the maximum subsequent OSI interval from the table that follows.
Maximum Subsequent
OSI Inspection
Interval
______________________________________________________
5.
Corrosion Service
Class
Vessel RL,
Years
Less than or
equal to 4
RL/4
4 - 10
12 months
10 - 20
Greater than or
Equal to 20
30 months
60 months
Any revisions to the specified inspection intervals can only be made based on the
procedures and approval requirements that are stated in SAEP-20.
57
Vessels
Work Aid 1B:
Internal Inspection Frequency
The procedure that follows is to be used to determine the maximum permitted initial and
subsequent Test and Inspection (T&I) intervals for pressure vessels.
1.
Determine the Corrosion Service Class for the pressure vessel in accordance with Step
1 of Work Aid 1A.
2.
Is the technology, process, or vessel new to Saudi Aramco?

Yes ___
3.
No ___
Determine the maximum interval before the Initial T&I based on the information in
Steps 1 and 2 as follows:
If Step 2 is "No", the Initial T&I interval is 24 months for all Corrosion Service
Classes.
If Step 2 is "Yes", the Initial T&I interval is 12 months for Corrosion Service
Classes 0 and 1, and 12 - 24 months for Corrosion Service Classes 2 and 3.
Assignment of a time interval for Corrosion Service Classes 2 and 3 is flexible
within the stated range, and must be determined by Area Operations Inspection.
However, the actual time interval that is used must not be influenced by
material selection and/or design considerations.
4.
The maximum interval for subsequent T&Is must be the smallest of the values that are
determined based on the three separate determination criteria that are summarized in
Steps 5 through 7: the vessel remaining life, Corrosion Service Class, or equipment
items as specified in SAEP-20.
5.
Subsequent T&I Interval Based on Vessel Remaining Life.

The maximum subsequent T&I interval must not be longer than that determined based
on the procedure below.
a.
Determine the vessel remaining life, RL, using the procedure in Work Aid 1A,
Step 4.
b.
The maximum subsequent T&I interval must be the lower of RL/2 or 10 years.
58
Vessels
6.
Subsequent T&I Interval Based on Corrosion Service Class.

The maximum subsequent T&I interval must not be longer than that specified below
for the specified Corrosion Service Class.
Corrosion Service Class
Subsequent T&I Interval,

Months
___________________________________________________________
0 - Performance Alert
30
1 - Corrosive Service
60
(1)
(1)
2 - Mild Corrosive Service
120 (1 & 2)
3 - Low Corrosive Service
120 (1 & 2)
Notes
7.
(1)
When equipment life depends on the integrity of an internal coating or is in

Corrosion Service Class 1, as determined by Area Operations Inspection, the
maximum T&I interval must be 60 months.
(2)
Equipment with internal critical coatings that are in Corrosion Service Classes
2 or 3, as determined by Area Operations Inspection, should have their T&I
intervals based on anticipated coating life.
Subsequent T&I Interval Based on Specific Equipment Items.

The maximum subsequent T&I interval must not be longer than that specified below
for the equipment items specified. The actual subsequent T&I interval may be shorter
than these times.
Equipment Item
T&I Interval, Months
___________________________________________________________
Air Receivers, Portable
36/72
Air Receivers, Stationary
60/120 (1)
Air Surge Drums, Small
(2)
(1)
120
59
Vessels
Deaerators
24/48 (3)
GOSP Desalters
60
GOSP Traps, Dry Crude
120
GOSP Traps, Wet Crude
60
Process Vessels in Corrosive Service
60
Process Vessels in Mild Corrosive Service
(4)
60
NOTES
(1)
The longer interval is acceptable if a UT OSI survey (for pitting) is passed 6 to

12 months before the start of the scheduled interval.
(2)
Small air surge drums have a capacity of 4 cubic feet (30 gallons or 114 liters)
or less. Larger air surge drums fall under the regular "air receiver" category for
T&I intervals.
(3)
All internal welds of the Deaerator must be 100% Wet Fluorescent Magnetic
Particle Tested (WFMPT). The T&I intervals that follow must apply based on
the results of those tests:
(4)
8.
a.
If deep cracks (approaching or exceeding tm) are found, then the T&I
interval must be 12 months.
b.
If shallow surface cracks are found, then the T&I interval must be 24
months.
c.
If no cracks are found after two successive T&Is, then an EIS Revision,
along with support documentation, should be submitted for the
maximum 48 months T&I interval.
Corrosive Service - Vessels that are in Corrosion Class 0 or 1, or that have

corrosion rates in excess of 150 m/a (6 mpy), or that are in wet (free water)
sour (over 70 ppm H2S in the water phase) service.
Any revisions to the specified inspection intervals can only be made based on the
procedures and approval requirements that are stated in SAEP-20.
60
Vessels
WORK AID 2:
PROCEDURE FOR DETERMINING THE SUITABILITY OF A

CORRODED PRESSURE VESSEL FOR CONTINUED
OPERATION
The procedures that are contained in this Work Aid are based on API-510, Pressure Vessel
Inspection Code, and may be used to determine the suitability of a corroded pressure vessel
for continued service, based on information that is provided in an Inspection and History
Report and elsewhere. A copy of API-510 is contained in Course Handout 2 for reference.
Use of this procedure requires the following information:
Vessel component current wall thickness data. The wall thickness data would
have been obtained during a T&I and should be summarized in an Inspection
and History Report that is prepared during the T&I.
Minimum required component wall thicknesses. The minimum required

thickness data are available from the Pressure Vessel Design Data Sheet or
Safety Instruction Sheet.
Vessel geometric details and design conditions. Again, these are available
from the Pressure Vessel Design Data Sheet or Safety Instruction Sheet.
The number of years the vessel has been in service, the desired remaining life,
and the desired minimum inspection interval. This information should be part
of the Inspection and History Report.
Data Collection
Use the procedure that follows to collect the data that is needed for the vessel evaluation.
1.
From the inspection data, original component thickness information, and the number
of years the vessel has been in service, determine the maximum corrosion rate for the
vessel.
2.
From the maximum corrosion rate, desired remaining vessel life, and desired
minimum inspection interval, determine the required remaining corrosion allowance to
achieve the minimum inspection interval and remaining vessel life.
3.
From the inspection data, determine whether the corrosion is pitting type or general
type.
61
Vessels
Work Aid 2A: Evaluation of Pitting Type Corrosion

The procedure that follows is used to evaluate pitting type corrosion. Refer to Figure 15 in
the application of this procedure.
1.
Locate the worst area of pitting within the corroded area, and inscribe a 200 mm (8 in.)
diameter circle around it.
2.
Measure the total pit area within the 200 mm (8 in.) circle.
3.
Inscribe a straight line or lines within the circle such that they cross the pits. The
objective is to locate the straight line that results in the largest total length of pits that
are within the circle whose boundaries cross the straight line (see Figure 15).
4.
Determine the maximum pit depth that is located within the circle.
5.
The pitting may be considered as widely scattered and ignored if all the following
conditions are satisfied:
The pit depth is no more than half the required wall thickness minus the
required allowance for future corrosion.
The total area of the pits in any 200 mm (8 in.) diameter circle does not exceed
45 cm2 (7 in.2).
The sum of the pit dimensions along any straight line within the circle does not
exceed 50 mm (2 in.).
6.
It may be necessary to repeat this process to confirm that the entire pitted area satisfies
the criteria.
7.
Pitted areas that cannot be considered widely scattered must be repaired or treated as
general corrosion.
62
Vessels
Pitting Type Corrosion Evaluation

Figure 15
63
Vessels
Work Aid 2B: Evaluation of Uniform Type Corrosion

The procedure that follows is used to evaluate uniform type corrosion. Refer to Figure 16 in
the application of this procedure.
1.
The minimum thickness that is measured anywhere within the generally corroded area
may be used for the subsequent evaluation. However, use of the minimum thickness
may be too conservative. Therefore, the thickness within the corroded area may be
averaged over a maximum length, L, based on the procedure that follows.
a.
For vessels with an inside diameter of 1 500 mm (60 in.) or less, L is the
smaller of one half the vessel diameter or 500 mm (20 in.).
b.
For vessels with an inside diameter over 1 500 mm (60 in.), L is the smaller of
one third the vessel diameter or 1 000 mm (40 in.).
c.
L is as follows for the stated cases:
When the corroded area contains an opening, L must not extend beyond
the limits of reinforcement as defined by the ASME Code (discussed in
MEX 202.03).
When the corroded area is in the vicinity of a cone-to-shell junction,

. "R" and "t" are the mean radius and wall thickness
respectively at the junction.
When the corroded area is in the knuckle area of an ellipsoidal or

torispherical head, L is equal to the arc length of the knuckle region.
64
Vessels
Uniform Corrosion Evaluation

Figure 16
65
Vessels
d.
Note the following with respect to the thickness measurements and averaging.
API-510 does not indicate how many thickness measurements should be

taken in the corroded area for averaging purposes. Typically, at least 5
readings should be used.
If localized thinning is a concern, a maximum distance of 50 mm (2 in.)

should be used between measurement points.
The smallest value of average thickness must be found within the

corroded area, and this is used in the subsequent evaluation. In order to
determine this smallest value, it will typically be necessary to use
multiple locations for thickness averaging (see Figure 16), and the least
average thickness is the critical value for the area.
One location for "L" must pass through the minimum measured
thickness in the corroded area. However, the "L-location" that contains
the minimum measured thickness will not necessarily be the one that
yields the critical average thickness. For example, the minimum
measured thickness might be relatively isolated within a generally
thicker region. Other areas may be thicker, but might yield a lower
average value within a distance, L.
2.
For vessel sections where the minimum required thickness is governed by internal or
external pressure, the governing stress is circumferential and the distance, L, that was
determined in Step 1 should be located along meridional lines on the vessel section
(axial lines on a cylindrical shell). Circumferential stress will govern the design of
most vessel shell and head sections.
If the combination of pressure, weight, and wind or earthquake loads governs the
design of a vessel section (such as the lower part of a tall tower), the governing stress
is longitudinal and the distance, L, that was determined in Step 1 should be located
along circumferential lines on the section.
If it is unknown what type of stress governs the design of the section, the "L-distances"
should be located along both meridional and circumferential lines.
66
Vessels
3.
For corroded areas that are at or near welds that have a joint efficiency other than 1.0,
the weld joint efficiency must be considered.
Corroded areas that are within the greater of 25 mm (1 in.) or twice the minimum
thickness on either side of the weld must be evaluated based on the weld joint
efficiency. Corroded areas that are located further from the weld may be evaluated
based on a joint efficiency of 1.0. If the inspection data does not specify the distance
between the corroded area and the welds, the actual weld joint efficiency must be used
in the evaluation.
4.
When the corroded thicknesses of ellipsoidal or torispherical heads are evaluated,

thickness measurements may be made in both the knuckle and central regions of the
head, and the two regions of the head may be evaluated separately. Note that if the
inspection data does not indicate where the thicknesses were measured in the head,
they must be assumed to be in the knuckle region.
a.
Thicknesses that are measured in the knuckle region are evaluated by the
appropriate ASME Code head formula.
b.
Thicknesses that are measured in the dished region may be evaluated

considering this to be a spherical segment. The MAWP for the dished region is
then calculated by the formula for spherical shells.
The spherical segment of both ellipsoidal and torispherical heads is the area
that is located entirely within a circle whose diameter is equal to 80% of the
shell diameter.
-
The dish radius of a torispherical head is to be used as the radius of the

segment, and this normally equals the shell diameter of standard heads.
The dish radius of ellipsoidal heads is equal to an equivalent spherical

radius, K1D, where K1 is given in the table that follows:
67
Vessels
D/2h 3.0
2.8
2.6
2.4
2.2
2.0
1.8
1.6
1.4
1.2
1.0
K1
1.27
1.18
1.08
0.99
0.90
0.81
0.73
0.65
0.57
0.50
1.36
Where:
5.
D=
Shell inside diameter, mm (in.).
h=
One-half the length of the minor axis, equal to the inside depth
of the head, measured from the tangent line, mm (in.).
Use the procedure that follows to determine if the generally corroded area, or pitted
area if not "widely scattered," is acceptable.
a.
Calculate the available remaining corrosion allowance, CAavail, in the corroded

area.
CAavail = tavg - tm
Where:
tavg =
tm
Critical value of average thickness within the corroded area, mm (in.).
= Minimum required thickness within the corroded area, mm (in.).
b.
Determine the remaining life of the vessel, RL, based on the corroded area.
c.
Compare the calculated RL with the desired RL.

-
If the calculated RL equals or exceeds the desired RL, the corroded area
is suitable for continued operation.
If the calculated RL is less than the desired RL, either the corrosion
must be repaired, the RL shortened, or the vessel downrated.
68
Vessels
d.
Determine the maximum permissible T&I interval based on the calculated RL

as RL/2.
e.
Compare the calculated maximum permissible T&I interval with the desired
T&I interval.
f.
If the calculated maximum T&I interval equals or exceeds the desired

T&I interval, the corroded area is suitable for continued operation.
If the calculated T&I interval is less than the desired T&I interval, either
the corrosion must be repaired, the T&I interval shortened, or the vessel
downrated.
Repeat this procedure for each generally corroded area that is found in the
vessel.
69
Vessels
WORK AID 3:
INFORMATION IN API-510 FOR DETERMINING

APPROPRIATE DESIGN AND FABRICATION DETAILS FOR
WELDED REPAIRS OR ALTERATIONS ON PRESSURE
VESSELS
The following procedure must be used to define acceptable repair details and procedures for a
pressure vessel. Refer to the copy of API-510 that is contained in Course Handout 1.
1.
Unacceptable defects that are found during a T&I must be repaired before the pressure
vessel is returned to service.
2.
All repaired areas must be inspected for acceptability. This inspection will typically be
as follows:
3.
a.
PT or MT of weld overlay type repairs.
b.
RT and/or UT of full penetration type weld repairs.
c.
Inspection procedures and acceptance criteria must be the same as are used for
new construction.
d.
The Consulting Services Department must be consulted as required for special

cases.
Cracks must be repaired as follows:

a.
Grind crack to sound metal, followed by PT or MT to confirm its complete

removal.
b.
Prepare ground area for welding using a U- or V-shaped groove that extends
the full length and depth of the crack area. If the crack extends through the full
thickness of the material, the preparation must be for a full-penetration doublebutt weld, or a single butt-weld with or without a backing strip.
c.
Fill the repair area with weld metal.
d.
If the crack is shallow enough such that the remaining vessel thickness after
grinding is acceptable for continued operation, subsequent weld repair is not
required.
70
Vessels
4.
Corroded Areas
The repair option that is used for unacceptable corroded areas is based on the extent of
the corrosion, cost, and the time required to make the repair. Note that it is acceptable
to repair only portions of a corroded area, as long as the remaining thicknesses in the
unrepaired portions are acceptable for the design conditions.
a.
Repair relatively small corroded area by weld overlay, or by installing a new

nozzle to encompass it.
b.
Repair larger corroded area by removing it and replacing it with a buttwelded

insert patch. Extensive corrosion may require replacement of major shell or
head sections, or other vessel components such as nozzles.
c.
If corroded area is very localized, consider if design modification is appropriate

to reduce the local corrosion rate. For example, localized shell corrosion that is
located opposite from inlet nozzles may be reduced by the use of an
impingement plate welded to the shell or a flow deflector plate attached to the
nozzle.
d.
For corroded flange faces, clean thoroughly and build up with weld metal.
Remachine the flange face to provide required gasket contact surface. Confirm
that the final flange thickness is acceptable.
5.
Welding procedures, qualifications, and record keeping must meet new construction
requirements. Consult the Consulting Service Department for assistance as required
and for special situations.
6.
Was vessel given PWHT as part of original fabrication?

No _____ Yes _____
If No, PWHT is not required for repair welding.
If Yes, it may be possible to use a higher preheat temperature or temper bead welding
as an alternative to PWHT after repair welding if all the conditions that follow are met:
71
Vessels
P-No. 1 or 3 materials (carbon steels and carbon-molybdenum steels).
Routine type weld repair.
Non highly-stressed location in the vessel.
Original PWHT was not required due to process considerations.
Materials are not subject to hydrogen embrittlement.
Use of either approach should only be considered after consultation with the
Consulting Services Department to develop appropriate procedures.
a.
b.
Requirements for the Use of Higher Preheat Temperature
May not be used for Mn-Mo steels in P-No. 3, Groups 1 and 2.
The weld area must be preheated and maintained at a minimum

temperature of 149C (300F) during welding.
The 149C (300F) minimum preheat temperature must extend for a

distance on each side of the joint that is the greater of 102 mm (4 in.) or
four times the material thickness. The temperature in this area must be
checked periodically to ensure that this requirement is met.
The maximum weld interpass temperature must not exceed 232C

(450F).
Requirements for the Use of Temper Bead Welding
For P-No. 1 materials, the total depth of repair must not exceed 38 mm
(1-1/2 in.). For P-No. 3 materials, the total depth of repair must not
exceed 16 mm (5/8 in.).
After removal of the defect, the weld preparation must be examined by

either MT or PT.
72
Vessels
The welding procedure and welders must be qualified based on the

same Saudi Aramco requirements that are used for new construction.
The welding procedure should include the following (Refer to Figure
17):
-
The weld metal must be deposited by the manual shielded metal

arc process using low hydrogen electrodes. The maximum weld
bead width must be four times the electrode core diameter.
The weld area must be preheated and maintained at a minimum

temperature of 177C (350F) during welding. The maximum
interpass temperature must be 232C (450F).
The initial layer of weld metal must be deposited over the entire
area with a 3 mm (1/8 in.) maximum diameter electrode.
Approximately one-half the thickness of this layer must be
removed by grinding before depositing subsequent layers.
Subsequent weld layers must be deposited with a 4 mm (5/32

in.) maximum diameter electrode in a manner that will ensure
tempering of the prior weld beads and their HAZ's. Partial
removal of these subsequent layers is not required.
A final temper bead weld must be applied to a level above the

surface that is being repaired, without contacting the base
material, but close enough to the edge of the underlying weld
bead to assure tempering of the base material HAZ.
The weld area must be maintained at a temperature of 260C

28C (500F 50F) for a minimum of two hours after
completion of the weld repair.
The final temper bead
reinforcement layer must be removed substantially flush with the
surface of the base material.
73
Vessels
After the finished weld repair has reached ambient temperature, the
weld repair must be inspected using MT or PT. Weld repairs that are
over 9.5 mm (3/8 in.) deep must also be given an RT inspection.
Temper Bead Welding

Figure 17
74
Vessels
7.
8.
If PWHT is required, it may be done locally and not encompass a 360 circumferential
band if the requirements that follow are met:
The PWHT procedure to be used must be developed and approved by an

engineer who is experienced in pressure vessel design and PWHT
requirements. The Consulting Services Department should be consulted if this
approach is considered.
The procedure must consider the items that follow.

-
Base metal thickness
Thermal gradients and the stresses that they cause
Material properties (such as hardness, chemistry, strength)
Metallurgical changes that could occur due to PWHT
Subsequent inspection requirements
Minimum preheat of 150C (300F) must be maintained while welding, and be

included in the welding procedure qualification.
Required PWHT temperature must be maintained for a minimum distance on

each side of the weld of two times the base metal thickness. The temperature
must be monitored by at least two thermocouples. More thermocouples may be
required based on the size and shape of the area that is being heat treated.
Heat must also be applied to any nozzle or other attachment that is located
within the PWHT area, even if the nozzle or attachment were not involved in
the welding that was done.
Butt-type joints that are used for repairs must have complete penetration and fusion.
Insert type patches must have rounded corners. Design details for all repairs must
meet the same requirements as are used for new construction. The Consulting
Services Department should be consulted when alternatives are being considered.
75
Vessels
WORK AID 4:
PROCEDURE FOR EVALUATING AN EXISTING PRESSURE

VESSEL FOR RERATING TO REVISED DESIGN CONDITIONS
The procedure that is contained in this Work Aid may be used to evaluate the suitability of an
existing pressure vessel for rerated design conditions. This procedure is based on the
assumptions that follow:
Evaluation of corroded vessel components is not a factor. If corrosion is an

issue for a particular case, this Work Aid must be used in conjunction with
Work Aid 2 in the evaluation of the rerated design conditions.
The originally specified corrosion allowance is acceptable for the rerated

design conditions, and evaluations of remaining vessel life and maximum
permitted inspection interval are not required.
1.
Determine the originally specified design pressure and temperature, material allowable
stresses, vessel geometric information, nominal and minimum required component
thicknesses, corrosion allowance, and vessel MAWP. This information is available
from the Pressure Vessel Design Data Sheet or Safety Instruction Sheet.
2.
Determine the desired rerated design pressure and temperature. This information is
provided by process or operations engineers.
3.
Evaluate the suitability of the vessel for the rerated design conditions based on which
case is appropriate, as described below.
a.
Case 1: New design temperature is unchanged (or lowered), and the new design
pressure does not exceed the original MAWP of the vessel.
The rerate is acceptable.
b.
Case 2: Design temperature is increased.

Determine a new MAWP for the vessel if the new design temperature
decreases the material allowable stress, or the Class that was used for the vessel
flanges must be increased for the new conditions. The vessel MAWP is
unchanged if the material allowable stress and flange Class are unchanged.
76
Vessels
c.
If the new MAWP exceeds the desired design pressure, the vessel is
acceptable.
If the new MAWP is less than the desired design pressure, the vessel is
not acceptable for the desired rerated conditions.
If the vessel is not acceptable for the initially desired rerate conditions,
operations personnel may ask that one or more alternative combinations
of pressure and temperature be evaluated for suitability.
This
subsequent evaluation is done based on the same procedure as above.
Case 3: Design temperature is lowered.

Determine a new MAWP for the vessel if the new design temperature increases
the material allowable stress or maximum allowable flange design pressure.
Then proceed as in Case 2. If the temperature decrease does not affect material
allowable stress or flange allowable pressure, then the original MAWP is
unchanged.
4.
In all cases, the safety valve set pressure must be reset to the revised design
pressure.
77
Vessels
GLOSSARY
alteration
A physical change in any component that has design

implications which affect the pressure-containing capability of
a pressure vessel beyond the scope of the items that are
described in existing data reports.
corrosion allowance
Actual wall thickness minus the retirement or minimum wall

thickness (tm). This measurement may be different than the
"specified corrosion allowance" that is found on the Safety
Instruction Sheet, Form 2694, or on other vessel drawings that
are prepared during the original design.
I-T&I interval
The initial interval between new or rebuilt equipment

commissioning and the first T&I overhaul. (See T&I.)
minimum allowable
shell thickness
The thickness that is required for each element of a vessel

based on calculations that consider temperature, pressure and
all other loadings.
Performance Alert,
Corrosion Service
Class 0
The service class of equipment that requires more attention

and more intense monitoring than the next service class, Class
1, which is based on corrosion rate only.
repair
The work that is necessary to restore a vessel to a condition

that is suitable for safe operation at the design conditions.
rerating
A change in either or both the temperature rating or the

maximum allowable working pressure rating of a vessel.
T&I
Test & Inspection, with the main purpose to guarantee the

mechanical integrity, operation and safety of the
plant/structure. This is primarily accomplished by thorough
inspection and testing by plant inspection personnel.
T&I interval
The time between scheduled T&I equipment downtimes.
78

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