NIMA Use Case: Risk Based Inspection for Storage Tanks

Lecture

Within the evolution of inspection programs, fixed interval inspection regimens were replaced by condition-based monitoring approach, where calculations were made for corrosion rates and thoughts were given to damage progression and damage mechanisms. Condition based monitoring was better in comparison to the time-based approach, but consequence of failure was not yet factored into the decision making process. Condition based monitoring was then followed by Risk Based Inspection (RBI), where inspection programs are defined on a risk basis considering damage mechanisms, probability of failure and related consequence.

NIMA RBI approach was developed based on the guidance given in API Recommended Practices 580/581, focusing on the generation of inspection programs that improve operator knowledge about the damage state of their equipment, reducing the uncertainties and clearly defining the level of risk.

NIMA Tanks RBI provides the basis for intelligent decision making on inspection frequencies, the extent of inspection, and the most suitable type of Non Destructive Testing applicable to Atmospheric Storage Tanks (AST).

Key Takeaways

  • Understand the key elements for successful RBI programs.
  • Learn about data required for a valuable RBI assessment.
  • Gain insights into current AST inspection technology updates.
  • Optimizing inspection effectiveness through aligning inspection technologies to damage mechanisms

Speaker

Veronica Andrea Dominguez

Veronica Andrea Dominguez

ROSEN, Senior Integrity Engineer

Veronica is a Senior Integrity Engineer at Rosen. After earning her master’s degree in Material Engineer from the National University of Mar del Plata, Argentina, she worked 14 years for YPF and Repsol – YPF, Argentinian national Oil & Gas Company, with responsibility for inspection and integrity planning & execution in Refinery’s equipment, storage tanks terminals, LPG storage plants and liquid transportation pipelines. In 2012, she moved to independent consultant associate at Tergo Engineering leading mechanical integrity projects related to oil and gas facilities, upstream, midstream and downstream, such as oil and gas pipelines, refinery process plants and E&P facilities. She joined Rosen in 2018 with more than 20 years of experience in the Oil & Gas industry and holding certification on Risk-based inspection API 580 and API inspector 653, 510, 570.