In this episode of Upon Further Inspection, hosts Branden Stucky and Greg Alvarado discuss the evolution of mechanical integrity, exploring its transition from past practices to our current standards and regulations. They recount a couple historical failures (the Union Oil Lemont refinery explosion in 1984 and the Shell Norco explosion in 1988) that highlight the importance of developing stringent inspection codes. 

The discussion touches upon the role of standards, the shift from localized to holistic thinking, the integration of technology, and the critical importance of mentoring and the role of generalists in the industry.  The hosts conclude this episode with some advice for new engineers – be passionate about your work, seek to understand the link between data and wisdom, and ask guidance from experienced mentors.

00:00 Introduction to Mechanical Integrity Podcast

02:08 Historical Events Shaping Mechanical Integrity

04:47 Evolution of Codes and Standards

08:59 Understanding Recommended Practices vs. Standards

12:28 Regulatory Bodies and Their Roles

17:31 Boiler Inspections and Heat Treatment

25:19 Technological Advancements in PMI

28:06 Evolution of Mechanical Integrity Programs

29:06 The Role of Generalists and Specialists

33:12 Challenges in Implementing Predictive Models

44:24 Advice for New Asset Integrity Engineers

48:35 Conclusion and Final Thoughts 

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Episode Acronyms & Abbreviations

• 1910.119 - OSHA's process safety management of highly hazardous chemicals
• ANSI - American National Standards Institute (USA)
• API - American Petroleum Institute (USA)
  • RP - recommended practice
• ASME - American Society of Mechanical Engineers (USA)
• ERP - enterprise resource planning software
• FEA - finite element analysis
• LNG - liquid natural gas
• NACE - National Association of Corrosion Engineers (now called AMPP - the Association for Materials Protection & Performance, USA)
• NBIC - National Board Inspection Code (USA)
• OSHA - Occupational Health & Safety Administration (USA)
• P&IDs - piping and instrumentation diagram
• PMI - positive materials identification
• RBI - risk-based inspection (API RP 581)
• SME - subject matter expert

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Note: The views and opinions expressed by the guest are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the hosts or the Upon Further Inspection podcast. This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or professional advice. Listeners should seek their own qualified advisors for guidance.