EMIS is a leading company in pressure vessel inspection. Our API inspectors are properly trained and certified to perform API 510 pressure vessel inspections on a regular basis. The API 510 inspection evaluates pressure vessels both internally and externally for operational stability, material quality, storage capability, safety, measurements, and more.
A complete API 510 Pressure Vessel Inspection covers more than just the shell of the vessel inside and out. All moving parts and operational equipment for the pressure vessel must be checked for standards and safety compliance.
The following are inspected with the API 510 Pressure Vessel Inspection:
☑ Separators ☑ Drums ☑ Towers ☑ Shell and tube heat exchangers
☑ Air-cooled exchangers ☑ Bullet tanks ☑ Sphere tanks ☑ Flare stack
☑ Filters ☑ Knock-out pots ☑ Boilers
A certified API inspection involves more than a simple visual inspection of the inside and outside of the pressure vessel/tank. API 510 inspection reports and code details cover multiple areas including, but not limited to:
- Ultrasonic flaw detection
- Magnetic particle and Dye penetrant testing
- Positive material identification
- Corrosion under insulation inspection
- Leak testing
- Lead detection measures
- Fitness for service evaluations
- Repair and alteration inspection
There are many different pressure vessels designed to hold different liquids, vapors and gases, but most API 510 pressure vessel inspections specify the same regulations as the API code. However, depending on the pressure vessel you are using, our pressure vessel inspection specialist will determine the best inspection method for your facility and equipment.
Types of API 510 Pressure Vessel Inspection
There are two different types of API 510 pressure vessel inspections.
Off-Stream Inspections
Off-stream inspections are directed towards vessels that have been taken out of service and are not presently operating. These inspections are, by API code, required every 10 years. To complete an off-stream inspection, the vessel needs to be opened and cleaned for entry. There are several inspection points covered in an off-stream inspection.
Internal Inspections
Internal inspections are performed by an API 510 certified inspector and use a specific checklist to help ensure all areas of the vessel are inspected for proper function and mechanical integrity. This includes reviewing the vessels operating and inspection history to ensure that operating pressures and temperatures are occurring with the structural limits.
Components inspected during an internal and external inspection include the foundation, shell, heads, nozzles, ancillary equipment, and pressure relief valves. These components are inspected visually; however, if imperfections or abnormalities are detected or anticipated, further inspection utilizing non-destructive testing may be necessary.
Ultrasonic Thickness Testing Inspections
In contrast with the internal and external inspections, Ultrasonic Thickness Testing Inspections, or UTT, are performed by an ASNT Level II Certified UTT Inspector. This inspection focuses on ultrasonic monitoring of material thickness for pressure vessels holding gases and vapors. Although thickness measurements are not required to be taken during an external inspection, thickness measurements share the same inspection interval as Internal inspections. Therefore, at a minimum, thickness measurements are taken during internal inspection, but are often taken at both external and internal inspections.
This data is used to determine the corrosion rates and remaining life of the vessel. Measurements are taken at the following location: Shell course, internal and external heads, and nozzles are inspected using UT.
On-Stream Inspections External inspections are considered on-stream inspections because the vessel is not taken out of service. External inspections are to be performed at intervals: the lesser of 5 years or at the time of the internal inspection.