Defect Assessment
When defects are found on a pipeline or related facility they require assessment to determine if they are fit for service or if mitigation is required as per the applicable codes, standards, and regulatory requirements . Defect types can range from Metal Loss, Cracking, Geometry, Manufacturing, and Weld defects. Each type has specific methods to evaluate and assess the serviceability of the pipeline or pressure facility in these areas. Pinnacle has extensive experience, training, and knowledge to provide Engineering Critical Assessments (ECA) or Fitness-for-Service evaluations for any type of defect found during inspection or operation. Mitigation strategies and repair methods can also be provided if the assessment deems necessary.
Data Collection & Non-Destructive Examination (NDE)
To provide a quality and accurate assessment of a defect, quality, accurate, and consistent data from the field inspection is required. To obtain this data, NDE methods and a data collection process are absolutely necessary to provide the required documentation of a defect . The defect data and information can then be provided to the Engineer for evaluation. Pinnacle can provide guidance and recommendation on data collection standards, measurement requirements, and NDE methods and technologies to provide consistent and comprehensive documentation of all defects.
Defect Assessment & Fitness-for-Service Evaluation
Depending on the defect to be evaluated, specific calculation and assessment methods are employed to obtain remaining strength values, safety factors, and serviceability requirements. A number of industry standard techniques and programs exist that are used for the evaluations. Advanced methods such as API 579 can be employed as required. Once the engineering assessments are completed and the required serviceability values are obtained, acceptability to standards, codes, and regulations are determined.
Defect Mitigation & Monitoring
If a defect is deemed unacceptable or injurious, a mitigation strategy or repair method will be required. Mitigation strategies can be applied on a case-by-case basis or as part of an overall integrity project depending of the defect type and severity. In addition to a repair recommendation, Pinnacle can provide engineering support and project management of these mitigation and repair activities as necessary. Depending on the type of defect a repair may not be viable or necessary at a certain time. These defects need to be monitored accordingly for growth and change (ie. internal corrosion). Monitoring methods and strategies can be determined as necessary.