Webinars - UK - Reducing Shutdowns through Inspection - Presented by Dr. Susan Osbeck

Reducing Shutdowns through Inspection: Case Studies

• An overview of how a systematic approach to non-intrusive inspection (NII), as a replacement or supplement to internal visual inspection, improves the effectiveness of integrity management decisions and reduces inspection work scopes during shut downs.
• Examples of workscopes, inspection results and analysis of data which highlight how quality data is essential to NII project success.
• Case studies of inspection campaigns which highlight safety improvements, time savings, and cost savings.

Abstract

Safe operation of pressure vessels relies on inspections to assess their condition, including that of the interior. Internal visual inspection (IVI) is widely accepted and understood by Operators and Regulators but often the vessel can only be accessed while off-line. This leads to additional work during planned shutdowns and additional hazards associated with vessel entry.

Non-intrusive inspection (NII) can be used to replace or defer internal visual inspection of pressure vessels.

Benefits of NII include:

• No entry requirements to vessel, resulting in improved safety and reduced vessel preparation costs
• Permanent digital records of inspection findings with ability to use data for life assessment calculations.
• The vessel can continue to operate resulting in increased asset availability.
• Vessels unsuitable for NII or those which raised concerns during the NII can be prioritised in shutdown
• Shutdown requirements can be reduced

Sonomatic’s approach to NII allows substantial reductions in shut down durations, thereby maximising production up-time. This is achieved without compromising integrity.  There has been increased interest from Operators in utilising NII and many have already saved millions of pounds by implementing NII. It is important, however, to have a good understanding of the NII process in order to have a robust inspection, evaluation and justification process. This talk will cover some of the key points required for effective NII and will give case studies of projects that have already resulted in savings.

Dr. Susan Osbeck - Principal Consultant

Susan is a principal consultant within Sonomatic’s Engineering team providing integrity-related services to clients. She has degrees in Physics and a PhD in Engineering and is a Chartered Physicist. She has experience in NII projects, software development and performing statistical analysis to maximise the value of inspection data. She has many years of experience of data analysis within a variety of fields including radiation protection, chemistry, surface engineering and mechanical engineering.