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API, methods for calculating remaining life of equipment
API, methods for calculating remaining life of equipment
API (American Petroleum Institute) is a trade organization that develops standards for the oil and gas industry. API has developed several methods for calculating the remaining life of equipment and structures in the oil and gas industry, including methods for calculating the remaining life due to corrosion.
One such method is the API RP 571: Damage Mechanisms Affecting Fixed Equipment in the Refining Industry. This guideline provides a framework for identifying, evaluating, and mitigating damage mechanisms, including corrosion, that can affect fixed equipment in the refining industry.
To calculate the remaining life of equipment due to corrosion using the API RP 571 method, the following steps should be followed:
Identify the type of corrosion that is occurring: This includes identifying the type of corrosion (such as uniform corrosion, pitting corrosion, or crevice corrosion) and the specific corrosion mechanism that is at play (such as galvanic corrosion or corrosion caused by stress).
Determine the corrosion rate: This involves measuring the thickness loss of the material over a specific period of time, typically in millimeters per year (mm/year). The corrosion rate can be determined through various methods, including corrosion coupons, electrochemical techniques, or corrosion probes.
Determine the remaining life: Once the corrosion rate has been determined, you can use it to calculate the remaining life of the equipment. This can be done by dividing the remaining thickness of the material by the corrosion rate. For example, if the remaining thickness of a material is 5 mm and the corrosion rate is 0.5 mm/year, the remaining life of the structure would be 10 years.
It is important to note that these calculations are estimates and the actual remaining life of the equipment may be longer or shorter depending on various factors. It is also important to regularly monitor the equipment to ensure that it is safe and in good condition.
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