API 570: Inspection, Repair, Alteration, and Integrity of In-Service Piping Systems.

R4

API 570

Pipe Inspection Code

INSPECTION, REPAIR, ALTERATION

AND INTEGRITY OF SYSTEMS OF

PIPES IN SERVICE.

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INDEX

Introduction
Sección 1 Alcance:.................................................................................................................................. 4
1.1 General Application
Service Fluid Category D.......................................................................................... 6
Section 2 references
Terms used:................................................................................................................................ 8
Section 4 Owner's Inspection Organization: ........................................................................ 15
Section 5 Inspection practices, modes of failure and evaluation: ......................................................... 18
Preparation of the works:................................................................................................................ 19
5.3 Inspection of specific types of corrosion and cracking........................................................... 20
5.4 Types of Inspection and Surveillance
5.5 Locations for Thickness Measurement (TML)................................................................ 31
5.6 Thickness measurement methods.................................................................................. 34
5.7 Pressure Test.................................................................................................................... 35
5.8 Material traceability.
5.9 Valve Inspection
5.10 Inspection of welds in service................................................................................... 38
5.11 Inspection of flanged joints.
Section 6 Frequency and Scope of Inspection. ................................................................................. 41
6. 2 Types of Pipe Service.................................................................................................... 42
6.3 Inspection intervals.............................................................................................................. 43
6.4 Extension of External Visual Inspection and CUI
6.5 Inspection scope
6.6 Scope of inspection for auxiliary pipes, small diameter and threaded joints............ 46
Section 7 Registration, Analysis, and Evaluation of Inspection Data....................................................... 50
7.1.1 Remaining Life Calculation........................................................................................... 50
7.1.2 New Systems or with Changes in the Service........................................................................ 51
7.1.3 Existing Systems
7.2 MAWP. ....................................................................................................................................... 52
7.3 Determination of withdrawal thickness
7.4 Evaluation of inspection findings.
7.5 Stress Analysis of piping systems
7.6 Records...................................................................................................................................... 56
Section 8 Repairs, Alterations, and Rerating:............................................................................. 58
8.1 Repairs and Alterations.
8.1.3 Welding Repairs
8.1.4 Unwelded Repairs......................................................................................................... 60
8.2 Welding and hot tapping............................................................................................................... 60
8.2.1 and 2 Preheating and PWHT................................................................................................. 61
8.2.3 Design....................................................................................................................................... 62
8.2.4 Materials................................................................................................................................. 63
8.2.5 END.......................................................................................................................................... 63
8.2.6 Pressure Test. ................................................................................................................... 64
8.3 Re-rating
Section 9 Inspection of buried pipes........................................................................................ 68

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9.1 Types and Methods of Inspection

Inspection methods.......................................................................................................................... 69
9.2 Inspection Frequencies
9.3 Repair of buried pipes.................................................................................................. 71
9.4 Records..................................................................................................................................... 72

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Introduction
API-570 "Code for Inspection of In-Service Piping Systems": covers
Inspection, Rating, Repair, and Alteration Procedures for Piping Systems
metallics that have been put into service.
Like other Codes, each new edition or addendum becomes mandatory six
months after its publication.

GENERAL
This Code contains the following sections:
Scope
References
Scope
Definitions
Owner's inspection organization.
Inspection practices.
Frequencies and scope of inspection.
Recording, analysis, and evaluation of inspection data.
Repairs, Alterations and Re-rating.
Inspection of buried pipes.
Appendices.

Section 1 Scope:

1.1 General Application

API 570 was developed for the chemical process and petroleum refining industry,
but it can be applied to any piping system if deemed appropriate.
The application of the Code is restricted to organizations that have access to
organizations that employ or have access to an Inspection Organization
Authorized as defined in section 3.
The use of this Code is restricted to Organizations that employ or have access
engineering and inspection personnel who are technically qualified to

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maintain, inspect, repair, modify and/or re-rate pressure pipes. (Exceptions

according to 1.2)

Pressure Pipe Inspectors must be qualified according to what

indicated in this Code.
API 570 should not be used as a substitute for the building code before installation.
service to the system, nor if there is a conflict with jurisdictional requirements.

• Included services

Except for specific exceptions of the Code, it applies to piping systems for fluids.
of process, hydrocarbons, and service fluids similarly flammable or toxic,
such as the following:

Raw, intermediate, and finished chemicals;

Petroleum products, crude, intermediate, and finished;

Catalytic lines;

Hydrogen, combustible gas, natural gas, and flame gas system;

Drainage water and water with contaminant levels above the limits
allowed by the jurisdictional requirements;

Hazardous chemicals with pollutant limits above the allowed levels

due to jurisdictional requirements;

Excluded and optional systems.

The following services and classes of pipe systems are excluded from the scope
of API 570 but can be included if the owner/user deems it necessary
convenient.

a) Fluids
Hazardous products with contaminant limits below what
allowed by jurisdictional requirements;
Water, including fire suppression systems, steam, condensate, water from
cooling of boilers and systems classified as category D in
ASME B31.3.

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Service Fluid Category D

A service fluid in which all the following conditions apply:

9The fluid handled is not flammable, not toxic, and does not harm human tissues;
9La presión de diseño manométrica no excede 150 psi; y
9The design temperature is between -20.0F (-290C) and 3660F (1860C).

b. Classes of Pipeline Systems excluded or optional.

Piping systems on mobile structures covered by requirements

jurisdictional, including systems on trucks, ships, barges,
etc.
Piping systems that are integral parts of rotating equipment or
alternatives, such as pumps, compressors, turbines, generators and
hydraulic or pneumatic cylinders where the primary design conditions
they are based on the efforts due to the operation.
Internal piping of heaters and boilers.
Pressure pipes, heaters, furnaces, exchangers,
Plumbing, sanitary services, and sewers.
Pipe with an external diameter not exceeding NPS ½"
Non-metallic pipes, polymers, and glass-coated pipes.

1.3 Ability for service.

This Code recognizes the concepts for degradation assessment in service of
components that retain pressure.
API 579 provides detailed procedures for the assessment of mechanisms of
specific degradations mentioned in this Code.

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Section 2 references
Includes references to other standards, codes, and specifications. The following are
examples of them.
API 510 Pressure Vessel Inspection Code.
API RP-574 Pipe Inspection
API RP-578 Material Verification Program for new systems and
existing.
API RP 579 Fitness for Service
API RP 651 Cathodic protection for aboveground petroleum storage tanks
level.
API Publ 2201 Hot taps of equipment in service
API 750 Hazard Management Systems.
Std 598 Inspection and testing of valves.
Inspection guides for refinery equipment (chapter II): Replaced by API 571
ASME B31.3
ASME BPVC Section VIII Division 1 and 2. Section IX.
ASME B16.34 Valves with threaded ends for flanging and welding.
ASME B31.G Manual for determining the strength of corroded pipes.
NACE RP 0169 Control of corrosion of buried and submerged pipes.
NACE MR 0170 Protection of austenitic stainless steels against cracking by
corrosion under tension (Plolythionic acid) during shutdown and startup of equipment
of the refinery.
NACE RP 0274 High Voltage Inspection of Pipe Coatings.
NACE MR 0275 Application of organic coatings to buried pipelines.
ASNT Requirements for qualification and certification of NDT personnel.
ASTM G 57. Method for field measurement of soil resistivity.

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Section 3 includes definitions of terms, among which is included repair.

and alteration.

Terms used:
Authorized Inspection Agency
Any of the following organizations may employ an authorized inspector.

Jurisdiction.
Insurance companies authorized or licensed to issue pipeline policies.
The organization of the operator that maintains an inspection organization only for
its facilities.
An independent organization or individual under contract with the operator.

"Alteration" is a physical change or rerating of a component that has implications.

on the design and pressure retention capacity beyond what is indicated in the
Data Report
The replacement of one part with another similar (duplicate) is not considered an alteration.
addition of connections similar to those existing in the same area and the addition of
connections that do not require reinforcement.

Aptitude for service

Methodology by which the defects and conditions of a structure are evaluated
to determine the integrity of equipment to continue in service.

Building Code
The Code or Standard with which the piping was originally constructed (e.g. ASME, B31.3)

Inspection Code
Short name to refer to API 570

CUI Corrosion Under Insulation

Corrosion under insulation (including stress corrosion)

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Defect
Imperfection of magnitude or type that exceeds the limits of acceptance.

Controlled Welding Deposition

Technique for obtaining refined controlled grain size and tempering of the Affected Zone
due to the heat from previous ones and base material.
(Example of tempering past and half past technique)

END
Non-Destructive Testing/Examination.

In Service
Refers to pipeline systems that have been put into operation.

Defect evaluation refers to the assessment of whether the detected defects

during the inspection, they are acceptable or not.

Examiner
A person who assists the Inspector in carrying out NDE on system components.
pipeline, but does not evaluate the results according to API 570 unless it is
specifically trained and authorized by the owner or user.

Fragilization
Loss of ductility and toughness that occurs in high alloy steels susceptible.
like the 1.25 and 2.25Cr due to prolonged exposure to high temperature (700ºF to
1070ºF) ( 370ºC a 575ºC)

Imperfection
Discontinuity detected during an inspection or examination, subject to criteria of
acceptance.

Indication
A response or evidence resulting from the application of a NDT technique.

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Pressure Piping Engineer

One or more persons from an acceptable organization for the owner/operator, with
knowledge and experience in engineering disciplines associated with evaluation
of materials and mechanical characteristics that affect integrity and availability of
tanks. It can operate through consulting with other specialists in order to cover
the full spectrum.

Inspection The rules related to inspection are those that dictate frequencies
minimum inspection requirements and their scope and the inspection and evaluation methods
results.

Authorized Inspector of Pressure Pipelines

An employee of an Authorized Inspection Agency qualified and certified to carry out
inspections according to this Code.

Owner/User Inspector
Inspector employed by the manufacturer who has qualified under the forecasts of section 4 and
Appendix A of API 570 or according to A2 and complies with jurisdictional requirements.

Alloyed material
Material that contains alloying elements such as Cr, Ni, or Mo that are
intentionally added to improve mechanical properties or resistance to
corrosion.

Maximum Allowable Working Pressure: MAWP

It is the maximum allowed internal pressure in the piping system to allow continuation.
in service under the most severe condition of internal or external pressure and
temperature. It has the same meaning as design pressure in ASME B31.3 and is
subject to the same tolerances for variation in temperature or pressure or both

Minimum required thickness for the body

Required thickness for each part of the body. Calculated based on Pressure, Temperature and
other loads.

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MT
Examination by Magnetizable Particles.

NPS
Nominal Pipe Size

On Stream
Pipe that contains amounts of process fluid.

On Stream Inspection
Inspection used to determine fitness to continue in service.
The system may or may not be in service while the inspection is being carried out. Rules apply.
NDT procedures. Inspection carried out essentially from the outside of the
pipeline.

Repair Organization
Applies to any of the following:
Holder of applicable ASME stamp.
owner or user who repairs their own pressure pipes according to
this Inspection Code.
A contractor who possesses acceptable qualifications for the owner or user
and repairs pressure pipes in accordance with this Inspection Code.
An Organization or individual authorized by a legal Jurisdiction

Positive Material Identification: PMI

A physical evaluation or test of the material that has been or will be put into service for
is in accordance with the specified. It can be based on qualitative information or
quantitative.

Materials Verification Program

Documented Quality Assurance Procedure to evaluate the
compliance of the alloyed materials with those specified by the owner/User.

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Detention point
Point in the repair process alteration from which the work cannot proceed.
continue until an inspection is carried out.

Rehearsal point
Area defined by a circle no more than 2in (50mm in diameter for tubes of
size no greater than NPS 10 and diameter of no more than 3in (75mm) for larger lines.
The thicknesses measured within these areas can be averaged. The point of
the essay must be within Thickness Measurement Locations TML)

Injection point
Location where a small amount of materials is injected inside the
current of the process, for chemical control or other process variables. (Does not include
localizations where the currents of two processes mix

PT
Liquid Penetrant Examination.

PWHT
Post-Weld Heat Treatment

Dead branches
Parts of systems that normally do not have significant fluid circulation.

Repair
It is an activity carried out to restore a degraded pipe in such a way as to return it to its original condition.
capacity according to the original design.

Temporary Repair
Repair carried out to restore sufficient integrity to operate safely until
that a definitive repair can be scheduled and carried out. The deadline must be accepted.
by the inspector or pipeline engineer.

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Rerating
A change in the temperature range, MAWP or both.

RT
Radiographic Examination

Design temperature
The temperature for which the corresponding pressure requires the thickness.
larger or higher rating. It is the same concept defined in ASME B31.3 and others
sections and is subject to the same tolerances for variations in temperature or pressure
or both. Different components of the system may have different temperatures of
design.

TML
Thickness Measurement Locations: Defined areas in the piping systems
where inspections and thickness measurements are performed periodically.

Auxiliary pipe
Instrument and equipment tubing, typically of small diameter and that
it can be isolated from the main pipe.

Primary Process Pipeline

Pipeline that in normal active process cannot be isolated by valves because it could affect
significantly the process of the unit.

Critical check valves

Valves that can be identified as critical for process safety and
that require reliable operation in order to avoid potential events
dangerous.

UT
Ultrasound Examination.

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WFMT
Examination by Wet Fluorescent Magnetic Particles.

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Section 4 Owner Inspection Organization:

The Owner/User must exercise control over:

Pressure Pipe Inspection Program;
Inspection frequencies;
Maintenance.

The Owner/User is responsible for the function of an Authorized Agency of

Inspection.
The Owner Inspection Organization must oversee the related activities.
a:

Maintenance inspection;
Re-rating;
Repair and
Alteration.

Responsibilities of the Owner/User Organization:

He is responsible for:
Develop, Implement, Execute and Evaluate the System and procedures of
pipeline inspection according to this Code.

The System and Procedures must be documented in an Inspection Manual

of Quality Assurance and must contain:

Organization and records.

Documentation and records of inspection and testing results;
Corrective actions;
Internal audits;

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Review and approval of plans, calculations and design of repairs

alterations and rerating;
Ensure that all jurisdictional requirements are included;
Information to the Authorized Inspector of any process change that may
affect the integrity of the pipe
Requerimientos de entrenamiento de personal referidos a herramientas,
inspection techniques and knowledge;
Controls to ensure that only qualified welders and procedures are
used,
Controls to ensure that only materials comply with the requirements of
Code to be used,
Control of measuring and testing equipment;
Control to ensure that the inspection, repair, or organizations
alteration, they meet the same requirements as the organization of
owner/user.
Internal audit requirements for the quality control system of
pressure relief devices.

Pipeline Engineer
He is responsible to the Owner/User for the activities related to the
design, engineering review, analysis or evaluation of pipelines covered by API 570.

Authorized Pressure Pipe Inspector

It is responsible to the Owner/User for ensuring that the requirements of
Inspection, examination, and testing of API 570 are completed.
Must have education and experience in accordance with Appendix A and be certified by
API.

Repair organization.
He is responsible to the Owner/User for ensuring that materials are used,
equipment, quality control and techniques for maintaining and repairing systems of
Pressure pipes according to the requirements of API 570.

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Other Personnel.
Operations and Maintenance staff or other personnel with knowledge and
experience in systems in particular, is responsible for alerting the inspector
authorized the engineer in pipelines of any abnormal condition and by providing
assistance when required.

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Section 5 Inspection practices, failure modes and evaluation:

5.1 Risk-Based Inspection

Identifying and evaluating the mechanisms of deterioration are important steps in the
evaluation of the probability that a pipe will fail.

However, adjustment tactics for inspections and strategies that assess the
The consequences of a failure should also be considered.

The combination of failure probabilities with their consequences is an element

Basics of Risk-Based Inspection (RBI)

RBI is a relatively new method for calculating inspection periods and

based on the inspection extent on the associated risk of each withholding item
pressure. When this method is applied, a systematic evaluation must be carried out
both components: Probability and Consequence (See API 580)

A great job has been done in this area and this method is used in a great
number of industries.
Basically, risk can be defined as the mathematical product between the
probability of an incident occurring and the consequence it would have in case of
to occur.

RIESGO= Probabilidad de falla * Consecuencia de la falla.

The probability of failure is based on the identification and evaluation of the different
potential degradation mechanisms.
The consequence of the failure is based on the safety of people and effects
economic.
The probability and consequence related to all mechanisms must be evaluated.
deterioration that may reasonably occur.

Examples of these deterioration mechanisms are thickness losses, any

type of cracking including hydrogen-induced cracking and corrosion cracking

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under tensions (internal or external) and other forms of corrosion or mechanical deterioration
like fatigue, creep, etc.
This evaluation must also include the effectiveness of the techniques and equipment.
used inspections.
In an evaluation according to API 580, the suitability of the should also be included.
materials for the service, design of the pipes, if the building code is
adequate, effectiveness of corrosion monitoring programs and the quality of the
maintenance and inspection programs.
The evaluation of consequences should include the potential effects of
spill or escape of fluids including fire, explosion, toxic exposure, impact
environmental, other health-related aspects, etc.
It is essential that the evaluation is documented.
Once effective RBI has been carried out, the results can be used
para establecer una estrategia de inspección de la tubería y específicamente
determine

The most appropriate methods, techniques, equipment, and scope of inspection for
apply according to the expected deterioration mechanisms.

The appropriate frequencies for inspection, external and 'on stream'

The convenience of performing a pressure test after the occurrence of

incidents or after completing repairs.

Preventive and mitigation actions to reduce the probability and/or

consequence of pipe failure.

RBI can also be used for a possible increase of the 10-year limit between
internal inspections or 'on stream' (6.4) or the period between external inspections (6.3).

When it is used to extend the 10-year limit, this must be reviewed and
approved by a pressure piping engineer and an authorized inspector during periods
10 years old or younger.

Preparation of the work:

Considering the fluids handled, precautions must be taken.

necessary security fundamentally prior to the opening of the system for
internal inspection and before any external inspection.

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Procedures for segregating piping systems, placing blind plates, and examining
hermeticity should be part of safety practices
In general, the section of pipe to be opened should be isolated from the sources.
of liquid, gas or hazardous vapors and be drained and purged to eliminate residues
dangerous or that affect the results of the inspection.
Before starting the work, the personnel who will carry out the tasks should
obtain permission from the personnel responsible for the operation.
Eye protection and other body protection elements must be used that
are necessary.
The equipment used must meet the applicable requirements for the type of
atmosphere in which they will be used.
In general, inspectors should be familiar with the results of
preliminary inspections and repairs before carrying out the required inspections by
API 570. API 574 provides additional recommendations.
An overview of the checks to be performed can be found in Appendix D
of API 570.

5.3 Inspection of specific types of corrosion and cracking.

Each Owner/User must pay specific attention to the need for
inspection of piping systems susceptible to the following types of deterioration and
belonging to the following locations:

Injection points.
dead branches.
Corrosion under insulation (CUI)
Solid-Air Interfaces (S/A)
Specific services and localized corrosion.
Corrosion and Erosion/Corrosion.
Invoicing due to environmental effects.
Corrosion under coatings and deposits.
Billing for fatigue.
Billing for thermofluence.
Fragile fracture.
Damage from freezing.

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For other areas of attention see IRE chapter II (API RP 571) and API RP 574 chapter 6.

Injection points:
Sometimes subjected to accelerated corrosion between normal operating cycles and
abnormal. They can be treated as separate inspection sectors and being
thoroughly inspected at regular intervals.
The recommended inspection zone includes 12in (300mm) or 3 pipe diameters.
upstream of the injection nozzle (the larger one). The downstream limit is the second
change of direction from the injection point or 25 feet (7.6m) from the first
change of address (The minor). Sometimes it may be convenient to extend the
injection circuit to the next pressure equipment.
Additionally, TML must be established in the appropriate accessories, points of
impact of the injected fluid, anterior and posterior limits of the injection circuit and
It may be convenient to establish intermediate points in long circuits.
In addition, a more thorough inspection must be carried out in the 12in (300mm) area.
upstream and 10 pipe diameters downstream of the injection point.

Dead branches:
The corrosion rate of these areas can vary significantly with respect to the
active adjacent pipe.
The inspector should monitor the thicknesses of the selected dead branches.
including both ends the one that connects to the active tube and the opposite one that can
contain stagnant fluid.
In pipes that operate at high temperatures, the high points due to the
convective currents that occur in the dead branch.

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The removal of dead branches that will not be used should be considered.
future processes.

Corrosion under insulation (CUI)

The external inspection should include the review of the integrity of the insulation in the
referring to conditions that may lead to corrosion under insulation (CUI) and signs
of what has started.
Sources of corrosion can be rain, water leaks, condensation, etc. The way
more common is localized corrosion in carbon steels and corrosion cracking
under stress due to chlorides in austenitic stainless steels.
This section provides guidelines for identifying potential areas for inspection.
the extension of these areas may vary depending on local climate, temperature,
Marine localization. In cold and dry areas, this phenomenon may not occur.

Isolated systems susceptible to CUI.

Areas exposed to fog from cooling tower dew.
Areas exposed to steam venting.
Systems exposed to flooding.
Areas subject to spills, moisture ingress, and acid vapors.
Carbon steel systems, including those insulated for protection of the
personnel that operate at temperatures between 25ºF (-4ºC) and 250ºF (120ºC) can
be aggressive when operating temperatures cause condensation and re-
continuous evaporation of ambient humidity.
Systems that operate at temperatures above 250ºF (120ºC) but in
intermittent service.
Austenitic stainless steel pipes that operate at temperatures between
(150ºF and 400ºF) (65ºC and 204ºC) (These systems are prone to cracking due to
stress corrosion due to chlorides
Dead frames, supports, and fasteners that protrude from the insulation and operate at
different temperature than the active line.
Piping systems that vibrate and cause damage to the insulation.
Systems with damaged paint or coatings.

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Common locations in systems susceptible to CUI.

The listed system areas above may have areas more susceptible to CUI.
Penetrations into the insulation.
Hanging supports and other types of supports.
Dead branches (vents, drains, and similar systems)
Valves and accessories. (isolation of irregular profile)
Threaded bushings.
Termination of insulation on flanges and other components.
Damaged or missing insulation.
Metal protection unions of the insulation, located at the top or
sealed in an inappropriate manner.
Low points.
Bridges and screws in carbon steels and low alloy.
Points where part of the insulation has been removed for thickness measurement
or another inspection.

Soil-Air Interfaces.
This interface in buried systems without adequate cathodic protection must
to be included in the scheduled periodic external inspections.
Damage to coatings, exposed pipes, and depth should be checked.
stings.
If significant corrosion is observed, a thickness measurement should be carried out.
more extensive and it may be necessary to carry out excavations to determine if the
corrosion is limited to the soil-air interface or is it more extensive.
Thickness measurements can expose the metal of the tube and accelerate the
corrosion if the paint or coating is not quickly and adequately replaced.

If the system has adequate cathodic protection and it is monitored for

According to what is stated in section 9, an excavation may be required only
if damage to paints or coatings is detected.
If the pipe is not painted or coated, excavation should be considered.
from 6 to 12 inches (150 to 300 mm) deep to assess the situation.

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At the concrete-air and asphalt-air interfaces of unprotected systems with systems

of cathodic protection, the inspector should check the sealing areas to verify
potential damage that allows the entry of moisture. If this occurs in systems of
pipes older than 10 years, an inspection should be carried out beforehand
to carry out the resealing.

Localized corrosion and specific services.

An effective inspection program includes the following three elements, which
They help detect areas with potential damage and efficiently locate the TML.

An inspector with knowledge of the service and where it can take place.
corrosion.
Extensive use of non-destructive testing.
Communication by the operations staff of abnormal conditions
que puedan afectar la velocidad de corrosión.

A few examples of where this type of corrosion can occur are the following:
Groundwater below injection points and groundwater above separators
products.
Dew points in condensate flows.
Unforeseen contact of acids or caustics with non-alloyed or caustic systems
with steel systems without heat treatment.
Turbulent areas and mixing phase in acid fluids.
Mix of carbon steel grades in service of corrosive high-temperature oil
temperature (450ºF (230ºC)) and sulfur content greater than 0.5% by weight.
Note: Steels that are not treated with Si such as SA53 and API5L can
Corrode at higher speeds than the calm ones to Si, for example A106
especially in atmosphere with hydrogen sulfide at high temperature.
Corrosion under deposits of sludge, crystallized solutions or coke.

Erosión y Corrosión/Erosión.
Erosion can be defined as the removal of material from the surface due to
numerous individual impacts of solid or liquid particles.
It can be characterized by notches, grooves, rounded holes, undulation.
superficial, valleys, etc.

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It usually occurs in areas with turbulent flow such as where it is produced

changes in direction or downstream of valves where vaporization occurs.
The damage can be increased in currents with large amounts of solids or
liquids flowing at high speed.
A combination of corrosion/erosion increases damage. It can occur in areas of
great speed or great turbulence. Examples of areas to inspect are:

Downstream of control valves. Especially when there is intermittency.

Downstream of openings.
At any point of direction change (e.g., inner and outer radius of
elbows
Downstream of certain configurations. (Welds, flanges, etc.), that
They produce turbulence particularly in systems sensitive to speed.
how to be ammonium hydrosulfide and sulfuric acid.

Areas where erosion or corrosion/localized erosion is expected should be

examined with NDT techniques that provide information about a wide area
how to perform ultrasound scanning, radiographic profiling or eddy currents.

Corrosion due to the environment.

Construction materials for piping systems are normally selected
to resist various types of stress corrosion cracking (SCC)
However, some systems may be susceptible to environmental cracking due to
to abnormal process conditions, CUI, unforeseen condensation or exposure to
carbonates or hydrogen sulfides.

Examples of environmental corrosion include:

oSCC due to chlorides in austenitic stainless steels, caused by humidity and

chlorides under insulation, deposits, joints/gaskets, grooves or openings.
oSCC by polytone acids in sensitized austenitic stainless steels
exposure to sulfides, condensation of moisture or oxygen.
oSCC due to caustics (commonly known as caustic embrittlement)
oSCC by amines (especially in systems without PWHT)

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oSCC by carbonates.
oSCC where wet hydrogen sulfide may exist. Example processes with
acid water (hydrogen sulfide)
Hydrogen blisters and hydrogen-induced cracking (HIC).

When the inspector suspects or is warned that an area may be subjected to

Environmental fissuring, additional inspections should be scheduled.
These additional inspections should be based on NDT techniques such as PT,
MT fluorescente (WFMT), o ultrasonido (UT). Donde es posible deberían desmontarse
spools for conducting an interior inspection.
If environmental cracking is detected during the inspection of containers and it is suspected
That the piping is also prone, the inspector should select water spools.
above and below the container, to be inspected.

Corrosion beneath coatings and deposits.

Si pinturas interiores o exteriores, revestimientos refractarios o revestimientos anti
corrosion, are in good condition and there is no reason to suspect that there is
any condition of deterioration underneath them, it is not necessary to remove them to carry out
an inspection.

La efectividad de los revestimientos anti corrosión es fuertemente afectada por rotura,

blisters or holes in the lining.
If any of these conditions are found, it may be necessary to remove one.
portion of the coating for conducting an inspection of its effectiveness and the
base metal state.
Alternatively, an inspection with UT can be carried out from the outside to measure.
thicknesses and spacing of the lining.

Refractory linings can fail in service causing or without causing problems.

Significant. Corrosion beneath the refractory lining can cause
detachment and protuberances.

When process deposits such as coke exist, it should be investigated whether there is corrosion.
activates beneath them.

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In large lines, the deposit can be removed in selected areas to

Inspect for any damages. Small lines may need to be removed.
spools for conducting an internal inspection or applying non-destructive testing, for example
X-rays.

Fatigue cracking

It can result from excessive cyclical efforts that are normally below
the resistance to static creep of the material.

Cyclic efforts can be imposed by pressure, mechanical stresses or

thermal conditions that can result in low fatigue (often related to
heating and cooling) or high cycles (for example excessive vibration due to
example of a machine or fluid that induces vibrations.

Fatigue cracking can typically be found first in areas of high

concentration of stresses/efforts such as branch connections, zones
where materials with different thermal expansion coefficients are joined by
welds and threaded joints.
Técnicas de END preferidas para detectar fisuración por fatiga son MT y PT. Emisión
Acoustics can also be applied when the cracks are activated by the stresses.
of the pressure test.
It is important for the user and the inspector to understand that fatigue cracking
it can produce the system failure before it is detected.

The number of cycles required for the crack to propagate is much lower.
that the number of cycles needed to start.

For this reason, it is important that the design of the installation prevents its occurrence.

Cracking due to creep

Creep is dependent on temperature, time, and stress.

Cracking can occur within the design conditions as the stresses
Admissible values of some Codes are found within the creep range.

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Cracking is accelerated by the interaction of creep and fatigue, especially when the
service is cyclical at creep temperatures.
The inspector should pay attention to the areas of stress concentration.
In the presence of high temperatures, the properties can also be modified.
mechanical and microstructural properties of materials.

NDT techniques suitable for detecting these defects are MT, PT, UT, RT.
in-situ metallography. Acoustic emission can also be applied when the cracks are
activated by the efforts of the pressure test.

Fragile fracture
Carbon steels, low alloy steels, and other ferritic steels may be susceptible to
brittle fracture at or below room temperature.
It is not a phenomenon related to thin wall thicknesses.
The largest number of cases occurs in the first application of a certain level of
effort. (Pressure or overload test) unless defects occur
critics during the service.
The possibility of brittle fracture must be considered when conducting a new test.
of pressure and more carefully evaluated if a pneumatic test is carried out or applied
overload.
Special attention should be paid to 2.25Cr steels due to their susceptibility to
fragilization (tempering) and in ferritic stainless steels.

Freeze damage

At temperatures below freezing, water and aqueous solutions

they can freeze and cause system failures due to the expansion of those
fluids.
If unexpected freezing occurs, it is important to check for damage before
restart the service.
Low points, drainage branches, and dead branches must be inspected.
carefully.

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5.4 Types of Inspection and Surveillance

Depending on the situation, the following inspections may apply. Extension and
frequencies are covered in section 6.
Internal visual inspection
Thickness measurement
External visual inspection
Inspection of pipes with vibrations
Supplementary inspection

Internal visual inspection

Internal visual inspection in piping systems is usually not conducted.

When it is possible to perform, it can be scheduled for large diameter lines, lines
transfer, ducts, and other pipes of sufficient size.

This inspection is of a similar nature to that indicated in API 510, so it should

to be carried out with the same procedure and scope.
Remote visual inspection techniques (video endoscopy) can be useful for
small diameter pipes.

An additional opportunity to carry out the internal inspection is when

they disassemble the flanged joints.
Removing a section of pipe and cutting it along its central line can be another
possibility in case of need.

Thickness measurement
It is carried out to determine the remaining thickness. It can be done with the system
in service or out of service. It must be carried out by the inspector or examiner.

External visual inspection.

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It is carried out to check the external condition of the pipe, insulation, painting.
coating, supports and other associated elements, check for signs of misalignment,
vibration and losses.
This inspection can be performed with the system in service. API 574 contains
information of interest to assist in carrying out this inspection.

Appendix D of API 570 contains a guideline checklist.

It should include the verification of supports and hangers, spring break,

displacement of supports, accumulation of water in vertical line supports and
state of supports and displacements in general.

Expansion bellows joints must be inspected to verify deformations.

misalignment or displacements that may exceed the design.

The inspector should inspect the system to verify if there are any deviations from the design.
among others, temporary repairs, unsuitable flanges or valves not included in
plans or records.

Threaded components that can be easily disassembled and reassembled require

special attention due to the high potential for improper assembly that these have
components.

The external visual inspection should be carried out by the inspector who also
should be responsible for the custody of records and inspection of repairs.
When accepted by the inspector, operations and maintenance personnel can
perform external inspection. For this, they must be qualified according to API 570 to
through appropriate training.

Movement and piping monitoring with vibration.

The operations staff should inform the engineering or inspection staff that
pipes have vibration or oscillation.

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Other significant movements of the lines must also be reported that can
for example, originating from water hammer, liquid hammer in steam pipes, or
abnormal thermal expansion.

In areas where line vibration is restricted, it should be considered

periodic examination with PT or MT to verify cracking due to fatigue.

Branch connections must receive special attention.

Supplementary inspection.
Another type of inspection can be scheduled. as deemed appropriate or
necessary.

Examples of this include: periodic X-rays to check for accumulations or

blockages, thermography to check hot spots. Acoustic detection of
Losses and thermography can be used as remote inspection methods.
Ultrasound and X-ray can be used to detect corrosion.

5.5 Locations for Thickness Measurement (TML)

TML are specific areas located along the piping circuit where
inspections will be carried out.

The nature of the TML varies depending on its location along the pipeline.

For the selection of the TML, the corrosion potential must be considered.

Each piping system must be monitored by thickness measurement.

TML.

Systems with high consequences in case of failures should have more quantity of
TML in areas with high corrosion rate, localized corrosion and should be
monitored more frequently.

The amount of TML can be eliminated or reduced in specific locations where

no corrosion is expected such as non-corrosive hydrocarbon products. If it goes
to substantially reduce the amount of TML, personnel must be consulted
specialized in corrosion.

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The minimum thickness at each TML must be located by ultrasonic scanning or profiling.
Radiographic. Electromagnetic techniques can also be used for detection
thin areas that can later be measured with UT or RT.

The minimum thickness or an average of thicknesses within the TL must be recorded and
used to calculate the corrosion rate, the residual life, and the period for the
next inspection according to section 7.

When appropriate, measurements should be included in the four quadrants of the

tubes and accessories. Special attention must be paid to the areas of the inner radii.
and outside of the elbows and tees because in those areas it can accelerate the
corrosion.

The TML should be selected based on the expected phenomena: CUI; interface
soil-air, localized corrosion, generalized corrosion, etc.

The TML should be registered in inspection plans and/or on the pipe in such a way that
allow repetitive measurements in the same locations.

This procedure provides data for a more accurate calculation of the speed of
corrosion.

Selection of TML

In the selection of quantity and location of TML, the inspector should take into account the
expected corrosion pattern.

A number of common corrosion processes refinery units and

Petrochemicals are of relatively uniform nature, resulting in a velocity of
corrosion virtually constant regardless of the location in the
pipeline circuit.

Examples of these corrosive phenomena are high-temperature sulfide corrosion and

corrosion from acidic water resulting in corrosion rates that are not
excessive enough to cause localized corrosion or erosion in elbows, tees, and items
similar.

In these cases, the amount of TML required is less than what is needed for
monitor circuits where localized corrosion occurs.

In theory, circuits with completely uniform corrosion could be monitored with a

only TML.

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In reality, corrosion is never completely uniform, so it always requires

greater amount of TML.

The inspector should have knowledge of the process unit in order to

optimize the selection of TML. In order to balance the effort to obtain data
versus the benefit obtained.

More TML should be selected in the circuit with one of the

following conditions:

High potential to create an environmental or security emergency in case of

localized loss.

High speed of corrosion experienced or expected.

The high potential for localized corrosion to occur.

High complexity in terms of accessories, configuration, dead branches,

derivations, injection points, etc.

The high potential of CUI.

On the contrary, a low amount of TML can be selected in the following

cases:

low potential to create an environmental or security emergency in case of

localized loss.

relatively non-corrosive processes.

Systems with long straight sections.

TML may not be used when any of the following conditions apply:

Extremely low potential to create an environmental or emergency

security in case of localized loss.

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Non-corrosive systems, demonstrated by history or comparable systems and

systems not subject to changes that could cause corrosion.

5.6 Thickness measurement methods.

Ultrasound is the most accurate technique for measuring thicknesses in tubes larger than
NPS 1.

Radiography is preferred for pipes NPS 1 and smaller.

Radiographic profile technique can be used to determine the areas to be measured.

especially in isolated systems or where uneven corrosion is expected.

Where practicable, UT can be used to perform thickness measurements on

to be registered.

Following the measurements, the insulation areas, painting or needs to be repaired.

coating, removed in order to make measurements.

The radiographic profile may not require removing insulation or coatings and for this reason
it can be considered as an alternative.

When the corrosion is not uniform or when the measured thickness is close to the
minimum required, additional measurements must be taken. For these cases it is
it is appropriate to use ultrasonic scanning or radiographic profiling. Eddy currents also
can be applied.

When thickness measurements are made with UT at temperatures above 150ºF

(65ºC) it is necessary to ensure that the probes, coupler, and equipment in general
provide accurate results at those temperatures. It may be necessary to apply a
corrosion factor by temperature.

Inspectors should pay attention to the causes that can introduce

inaccuracy in measurements and making efforts to eliminate its occurrence.

Factors that may influence the decrease in accuracy in measurements by UT,

they can be:

Inappropriate calibration.
Painting or shells.
Excessive surface roughness.
Oscillation of the probe/palpator. (On curved surfaces)
Subsurface imperfections (laminations)

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Effects of temperature.
Thicknesses less than 1/8 in (3.2 mm) (in typical digital gauges)
Pattern of uneven corrosion that makes it difficult to detect the smallest thickness.

It is important that the measurement of the minimum thickness can be repeated at the location.
as close as possible.

When the pipe is out of service, some thicknesses can be taken to

through openings using gauges. (Example for valves, castings,
depth of stings, etc.)

Devices for measuring bite depth can also be useful.

to determine the loss of material.

5.7 Pressure Testing

Pressure testing is not normally required as part of the inspection of

routine.

There are requirements to apply in case of repairs, alterations, and rerating.

(8.2.6)

When performed, it must comply with ASME B31.3. Considerations

Additional information is provided in API RP 574 and RP 579.

Tests at lower pressures, used only to determine airtightness.

They can be carried out at the pressures specified by the user.

The test fluid should be water unless there is a risk of freezing or

other adverse effects.

In any case, another non-toxic liquid can be used.

The boiling point should be at least 120ºF (49ºC) or higher.

Piping that contains accessories series 300 or higher, made of stainless steel should
practice using potable water (250ppm max of chlorides) or condensate
vapor. After the trial, they should be drained, with vent points open in the
highest parts of the system, and dry by blowing with air or another means.

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If potable water cannot be used or cannot be drained and dried immediately

after the test, water with low chloride content (pH > 10) should be used and
inhibitor to reduce the likelihood of bites and microbiological corrosion
induced.

In austenitic stainless steels subject to stress corrosion cracking

politics, the use of an alkaline water solution should be considered for the
pressure test. (See NACE RP 0170)

When pressure testing is required, it must be carried out after any

thermal treatment. Precautions should also be taken in the case of expansion of the
fluid that can produce an increase in pressure.

Before filling with water and pressure testing, the configuration must be analyzed.
pipe support.

Pneumatic testing can be performed instead of hydrostatic testing in case it

not feasible due to weight, temperature, or structural limitations, or
process. Potential risks must be considered and the given precautions taken
in ASME B31.3 at a minimum.

If the test pressure exceeds the lowest calibration pressure of the valves.
for pressure relief, these should be removed. As an alternative to removing the valves
Devices can be applied to maintain the closure disks of the valves. It is not
It is recommended to apply more load to the springs.

Other devices such as rupture discs, glass indicators, expansion joints and
Others who cannot withstand the test pressure must be removed or isolated.

Once the pressure test is finished, the devices are removed or conditioned.
they must be reinstalled or reactivated.

Líneas que contengan juntas de expansión que no puedan ser retiradas ni bloqueadas
they can be tested at lower pressure according to the principles of ASME B31.3.

If shut-off valves are used to isolate sectors, the system must be suitable.
do not exceed the allowable pressure according to ASME B 16.34 or information
applicable from the valve manufacturer.

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5.8 Material traceability.

During the repairs or alterations of piping systems made of alloyed materials
required to withstand pressure, the inspector must verify that the new materials
installed should be consistent with those of design and construction.

The verification program should be consistent with API RP 578. Using

risk assessment procedures the owner/user can carry out this
evaluation by verification 100%, PMI trial in certain locations or by
sampling at a certain percentage of the materials.

If a piping system can fail due to the use of inappropriate materials, the
inspector may consider the need to investigate the existing materials in the
pipe.

A materials verification program according to API RP 578 may include

procedures for prioritization and risks ranking pipeline circuits.

Components that meet the criteria of the PMI test (API RP 578 section 6)
They must be identified for replacement.

The owner/user, in consultation with a corrosion specialist, must prepare a

replacement program.

The inspector must conduct periodic examinations with NDT until the
identified components should be replaced.

5.9 Valve Inspection

Thickness measurements are usually not included in routine inspections.

valves installed in the pipe circuits.

The body of the valve is thicker than the tubes and others for design reasons.
pipeline components.

When the valves are disassembled for maintenance and inspection, it can
a different corrosion pattern occurs.

Valves that are subjected to abrupt temperature cycles should be

periodically examined to determine the existence of fatigue cracking
thermal.

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If corrosion or erosion has been experienced or is expected in valves

gate, thickness measurements should be taken in the area between seats due to
What is an area of high turbulence and high stress.

Control valves and other types of throttling valves can be

prone to corrosion in the body downstream of the hole. If this is
the valve should be removed from the line for internal inspection. Also
The pipe flange and the pipeline downstream of the valve should be inspected.

When a pressure test is conducted on the valve body or its closures, it should be
carried out according to API RP 598.

Critical check valves should also be inspected internally for

ensure that they are in working condition that allows for the retention of flow.
A normal visual inspection for these valves may consist of:

Check seat status.

Check that the closing disk has free movement without excessive play.
wear
The closing disc top should not have excessive wear in such a way
prevent it from going to its normal position and blocking the closure when the valve is
mounted in a vertical position.
the nut that secures the spindle of the closing disk should be fastened in such a way that
avoid malfunctioning in service.
A closing essay is normally not required but can be done if it is necessary.
deems it appropriate.

5.10 Inspection of welds in service.

The inspection of the quality of the welds is normally part of the activities.
of construction, repair, or alteration. However, the welds are
inspected for corrosion detection through radiographic profiling or inspection
internal.

When it is detected that corrosion is attacking the welds differentially, they must
select for inspection, more welds within the piping circuit.

Sometimes the radiographic profile can detect imperfections in the weld. If

imperfections such as cracks are detected while the system is in service,

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an additional examination with quality X-ray should be performed to

welding or ultrasound to assess the magnitude of the imperfection.

It should also be attempted to determine whether the cracks are from the original construction or
they may be due to the environmental cracking mechanism.

If they correspond to the original construction, an inspection or analysis is required.

engineering to assess the impact of welding quality on integrity
piping system. This analysis can be one or more of the following:

The inspector's judgment.

The judgment of the authorized inspector.

The judgment of the engineer in piping.

Service Aptitude Analysis.

Topics to consider when evaluating the quality of existing welds include

next:

Acceptance criteria used in the original construction.

Extent, magnitude, and orientation of the imperfection.
Time in service.
Operating conditions versus design conditions.
Presence of secondary tensions. (residual and thermal)
Potential fatigue loads (mechanical and thermal)
Primary or secondary piping system.
Potential impact or transient loads.
Environmental cracking potential.
Hardness in welds.

In many cases, it is not advisable to use criteria for welds in service.

acceptance of ASME B31.3 for random radiography due to the fact that these are
developed for new constructions where a sample is tested of
welds with the intention of trying to assess the quality of all the welds.
There may be some welds that were not tested during construction.

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original and that do not meet those acceptance criteria but have supported the
pressure testing and perform satisfactorily in service. Another case may be
to be the welds of branch connections that have not been inspected during
the original construction.

The owner/user must specify the use of a qualified UT examiner.

when required:

Detection of planar imperfections on the inner surface when examined

from the outside.
Detection and characterization of planar imperfections.

5.11 Inspection of bolted joints.

The marking of a representative sample of new brackets, bolts, screws and

joints/packaging should be examined to verify if they meet the specified requirements.

The required marking is indicated in the ASME or ASTM specifications.

applicable.

The bolts/screws must extend completely through their nuts. If any

Installed bolt/screw does not comply; this can be considered acceptable if nothing else is missing.
than a steak.

If excessively deformed installed clamps are observed, it should be

compare the marking with the requirements before taking corrective action.

The flanges and bolts/screws of the valve bonnets should be examined for
detect corrosion.

Braced joints and valve bonnets must be examined for signs of

losses such as stains, deposits or drops. The examination should include
the flanges closed with splash guards and the seating surface of the flanges of
braced unions that have been disassembled.

Losses on flanges and bolts/screws can result in corrosion or cracking.

environmental

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Section 6 Frequency and extent of Inspection.

TheThe frequency and extent of the inspection of the pipe circuits depends on the
mechanisms of deterioration and the consequences that a failure may have.

The deterioration mechanisms are described in section 5. In this section, it

It makes a simplified classification of piping systems based on
consequences of failure.

The inspection strategy based on probability and consequence is called

risk-based inspection.

The simplified classification provided in this section based on the consequences of failures
It is used to determine the frequency and extent of inspection.

The owner/user can develop a more complex classification system than

contemplate more certainly the consequences of certain pipe circuits.

The evaluation of consequences should consider: Explosion, Fire, Toxicity,

Environmental impact and other potential effects related to failures.

After the effective evaluation has been carried out, the results can be
used to plan a more effective inspection strategy among what is
includes:

The most appropriate methods, techniques, equipment, and scope of inspection for
apply based on the expected deterioration mechanisms.

The appropriate frequencies for inspection.

The convenience of performing a pressure test after the occurrence of

incidents or after completing repairs.

Preventive and mitigation actions to reduce the probability and/or

consequence of pipe failure.

RBI can also be used to increase or decrease the frequencies of

inspections given in logging 6.1 and also to increase or decrease the extent of the

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inspection given in table 6.2. (Approval from the engineer and inspector is required)
pipes)

When RBI is applied, the inspection intervals should not exceed the given limits.
in table 6.1.

6. 2 Classes of Pipe Service

All piping processes must be classified into classes. This allows for the application of the
greater inspection efforts in the systems that require it.

In general, systems with the highest classification (1) require more inspection.
exhaustive and shorter intervals in order to ensure its integrity to continue
the operation safely.

The owner/user must maintain the record of the fluids handled and their
classification.

API RP 750 and NFPA 704 contain information that may be useful for
classify the services.

The following 3 classes are recommended.

Class 1.

Services with the highest potential for an immediate emergency to occur in

in case of losses. The emergency may be for security or environmental reasons.

Examples of these services are:

Flammable services that can self-refrigerate and produce brittle fracture.

Pressurized services that can expand in case of release creating
vapors that can form an explosive mixture, such as currents of the type
C2, C3, and C4. Fluids that vaporize quickly and those that have a boiling point.
from boiling at atmospheric pressure below 50ºF (10ºC)
Hydrogen sulfide (>3% by weight) in gas stream.
Hydrofluoric acid.
anhydrous hydrogen chloride
Pipelines over or adjacent to water and in public areas.

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Class 2

Services not included in other classes are class 2. This classification includes the majority.
of the services. Examples of these services are:

Hydrocarbons that vaporize slowly when released such as

those that are processed below the vaporization point (flash) (on site).
Hydrogen, combustible gas and natural gas.
Heavy acids and caustics.

Class 3

Flammable services that do not vaporize (significantly) when there are losses and not
They are located in high activity areas.
Potentially dangerous services for humans but located in low areas
activity can be classified in this class.

Examples of these services are:

Hydrocarbons that do not significantly vaporize when released and that

they operate below the boiling point.
Product lines and distillates from and to storage tank, loading and
download.
Acids and caustics (out of plant)

6.3 Inspection intervals.

The interval between inspections must be set and maintained following the following
criteria:

Corrosion rate and remaining life.

Service classification.
The judgment of the inspector, piping engineer, piping supervisor, specialist in
corrosion, based on operating conditions, prior inspections,
results of current inspection and conditions that may require inspections
supplementary.
Jurisdictional requirements.

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The owner/user or the inspector must set the intervals for measurement of
thicknesses and external visual inspection and when applicable internal inspection or
supplementary.

Thickness measurements should be scheduled based on a period no greater than

at the halfway point of the remaining life determined from corrosion rates as
It is indicated in 7.1.1 respecting the maximum intervals given in table 6.1.

Smaller intervals may be advisable in certain cases. Before using the table
6.1 the corrosion rate should be calculated according to 7.1.3.

Table 6.1 contains maximum inspection intervals for the three classes of service
and for injection points and soil-air interface (S/A)

The inspection interval should be reviewed and adjusted as necessary.

after each inspection or when significant changes occur in the
operating conditions.

The different types of modes of deterioration must be considered when one

they establish the different inspection intervals.

6.4 Extension of External Visual Inspection and CUI

They must be conducted within the maximum intervals of table 6.1 to evaluate the
items indicated in appendix D of this standard summarized in the checklist that
this will be included later). Alternatively, inspection intervals can be defined.
applying RBI (API-580)

The external inspection of uncoated piping is to determine the condition of the

painting, protection, system state and other forms of deterioration.
The external inspection to determine possible CUI is also to verify the
condition of the insulation and must be carried out on all piping susceptible to suffering from these.
effects.

The result of the inspection should be documented to allow for its tracking.

Following the visual inspection, it may be necessary to apply additional NDT.

according to table 6.2.

Damage to insulation in high parts of the piping can cause CUI

lower level locations in the pipeline and possibly away from the damaged area
in isolation.

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END according to table 6.2, should also be carried out in areas where
suspects that there is the possibility of CUI.

Radiographic inspection or removing insulation is necessary to perform this inspection.

If areas with CUI are detected, the inspection must be extended until it is ensured that it
inspect 100% of the damaged area.

The extension of the CUI program in table 6.2 should consider the configuration.
of the piping and areas with a likelihood of suffering this deterioration. The probability can
to be influenced by:

Weather conditions.
Insulation design.
Quality of paint.
Process conditions.

Experience in this type of verification may require increasing or decreasing the

scope of the inspection required in table 6.2

Systems that have a remaining useful life calculated as greater than 10 years or that are
adequately protected against external corrosion do not need to be included within
from the inspection recommended in table 6.2. However, the condition of the insulation
must be determined.

The following are examples of these systems:

Insulation with a seal that prevents moisture entry.

Cloaked pipe for cryogenic service.
Lined pipe and atmosphere between the casing and the purged pipe with inert gas.
Pipes in which the temperature is kept sufficiently high or low to
prevent the presence of water.

6.5 Scope of inspection.

To meet the requirements of the periodic inspections, they should be obtained.
readings from an amount of representative TMLs for each piping circuit.

This representative sample should have data from all types of components and
orientations (vertical, horizontal).
From this representative sample, it is advisable to have data from the first
measurements, the measurements from the previous inspection.

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A greater amount of TML measured in a circuit with greater precision can be

project the date of the next inspection. However, the effort must be evaluated.
to carry out a greater number of measurements versus the benefit obtained.

(Inspection at injection points: see 5.3.1)

6.6 Scope of inspection in auxiliary pipes, small diameter and joints

screwed

Small diameter:
Small diameter pipes (SBP) that are part of the primary process must
to be inspected according to what is indicated.

The small diameter pipes (SBP) that are of secondary process have
different minimum requirements depending on the class of service.

Class 1 SBP: applies Class 2 requirements for primary process piping.

Classes 2 and 3 SBP: The requirements are optional.
Dead branches (SBP): They should be inspected if corrosion has been experienced or
expected.

Auxiliary piping

The inspection of auxiliary piping, SBP associated with instrumentation and machinery, is
optional.

The criteria for determining if the auxiliary SBP piping requires any inspection.
include the following:

Classification.
Potential for environmental cracking.
Potential corrosion based on neighboring primary systems.
The potential CUI.

Threaded connections.

The requirements are as indicated above for auxiliary systems and SBP.

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When TML is selected in threaded joints, only those that are included are
They can be X-rayed during the scheduled inspection.

The threaded joints associated with machinery and subject to fatigue damage should
to be continually evaluated and consider their renewal for a thicker one
or replaced by welded joint.

El programa para definir la renovación o reemplazo, dependen de varios tópicos,

among those found:

Classification of the system.

Magnitude and frequency of the vibration.
Unsupported weight amount.
Current thickness of the pipe.
Possibility of performing maintenance on the system while it is in service
stream
Corrosion rate.
Intermittent service.

TABLE 6.1: Recommended maximum inspection intervals

Type of circuit ThicknessmeasurementExternalvisualinspection
Class 1 5 years 5 years
Class 2 10years 5 years
Class 3 10years 10years
Injectionpointsa 3 years ByClass
InterfaseS/A b -- ByClass
Note:
Thickness measurement applies to systems for which TML was established according to 5.5.
aInspection intervals for potentially corrosive injection / Mixing points can also be

establishedbyRBI
bVersion 5.3.4.

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TABLE 6.2: Recommended inspection on CUI (following visual inspection)

Approximate amount of follow-up with END or Amount approximate of
removal of insulation in areas with insulation inspection with NDT in areas
damaged suspected of CUI ([Link]) in
pipe systems with
susceptible temperature ranges.
([Link].e.f.h)
Class
1 75% 50%
2 50% 33%
3 25% 10%

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Ap.D:“ListadeVerificaciónparaInspecciónExternadeTuberíadeProceso”
Item/inspected system:
Date.
Acceptable
Part
WHO Comments
a. Losses
Process
Vaportrails
Existing clamps

b. Dethreading
Pipe
Movementrestriction
Expansion joints.

c. Vibration
Inadequate support
Excessivemisalignedweight
Thin, small, or alloyed pipe.
Threaded connections
Loss of support/material wear

d. Supports
Out of place shoes
Distortion/breakage of hangers
Affected springs
Distortion/breakage of brackets/columns.
Sliding plates
Conditionofcounterweights.
Corrosiononsupports

e. Corrosion
Pipingandcomponentsstatus
Corrosionunderboltedclamps
Deterioration of paint/coating
Soil-airinterface
Interfaceswithisolation
Biologicalcorrosion.

f. Thermal insulation
Damage in penetrations
Deterioration/lack of mechanical protection
Seal deterioration.
Deformation.
Discontinuities.

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Section 7 Data Inspection Registration, Analysis, and Evaluation.

7.1.1 Calculation of Remaining Life

The remaining life can be calculated with the following formula:

Vida remanente (Años) = t (actual) – t (requerido)

Corrosion rate

In inches per year or mm per year.

t It is the current thickness measured (inches or mm) during the inspection in a

given pipe area (5.6).
t(required): It is the required thickness (inch or mm) in the same area as the thickness
current and determined with the applicable design formulas before the addition of
corrosion overspeed and manufacturing tolerance.

The short-term (ST) and long-term (LT) corrosion rates can be calculated with
the following formulas.

t(initial)− t(actual)
Corrosion rate (LT)=
time_between_initial_and_actual

t(previous)− t(actual)
Corrosion speed (ST)=
time_between_measurements_of_tprevio_and_tactual

t(initial): Measured thickness (inch or mm) during initial installation or during the
development of a new corrosion rate, in the same area as tactual .

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Thickness measured (inches or mm) during the previous inspection of the same
tactile area

The short-term and long-term corrosion rates should be compared, as part of

of the evaluation.

The authorized inspector, in consultation with a corrosion specialist, shall

select the corrosion rate that best reflects the current process.

A statistical analysis can be used to calculate the corrosion rate.

and remaining life of the pipe circuit sections. Attention must be paid to
that the different types of components are represented.

7.1.2 New Systems or Changes in the Service.

The following methods should be used to determine the probable speed of

corrosion from which the remaining thickness will be calculated as of the inspection date
and the date of the next inspection.

a. Calculation of corrosion rate based on data obtained from the

owner/user of other systems of similar materials and services
comparables.
b. If the data indicated in a is not available, the owner/user can
based on the experiences of other owners/users or information
published systems in comparable services.
c. If it is not possible to obtain data by either of the two methods mentioned above,
Thickness measurements must be carried out using NDT in the first period.
for three months. The use of corrosion monitoring devices can be useful.
to determine the most appropriate time to take measurements of
thickness. Subsequent measurements at appropriate intervals must be
carried out to establish the corrosion rate.

7.1.3 Existing systems.

Corrosion rates must be calculated based on both short and long.

deadline.

If there are signs that the corrosion rate was not correctly assumed, the
the speed to be used for the next period must be adjusted.

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7.2 MAWP.

The Maximum Allowable Working Pressure (MAWP) for continuity in service of

components of a piping system must be established using the Code
applicable.

The calculations can be performed for known materials and the requirements are met.
principles of the applicable Code:

a. Maximum and minimum temperature limits for specific materials.

b. Inspection requirements.
c. Reinforcement of openings.
d. Cyclical service requirements.

Unknown paramaterials can assume the degree and efficiency of joints more.
lower provisions of the applicable Code.

When recalculating the MAWP, the thickness to be used is the current one minus two times the
expected corrosion until the next inspection.

Other burdens should be considered if they exist.

Table 7.1 contains two methods for calculating MAWP:

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Table 7.1: Examples of calculating MAWP based on the corrosion method at half of the remaining life
Example 1
Design pressure 500psi(3447kPa)
Design temperature
Tube [Link].;A106GrB
Outer diameter 16in(406mm)
Maximumallowableeffort(S) 20000psi (137900kPa)
Longitudinal joint efficiency (E) 1.0
Thicknessdeterminedininspection 0.32in(8.13mm)
Corrosion rate (7.1.1) 0.01in/yr(0.254mm/year)
Nextplannedinspection 5years
Estimated corrosion up to approx. 0.05 in/yr (1.27 mm/year)
Inspection
MAWP 2SE(tact-2*timeuntilnextinsp.*corrosionspeed)/D

USunits

SI Units

Result OK

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Example 2 Sameasexample1butchangingthedateofthenextinspection.
Nextplannedinspection 7years
Estimated corrosion up to approx. 0.07 in/yr (1.78 mm/year)
Inspection
MAWP 2SE(tact-2*timeuntilnextinsp.*Corrosionspeed)//D
USunits

SI Units

Result The inspection interval must be reduced or determine if the pressure of

normal operation does not exceed the seventh year or change the
affected parts of the system before the seventh year.

7.3 Determination of the removal thickness.

The minimum pipe thickness must be at least equal to the minimum thickness.
required or to the withdrawal thickness (whichever is greater) and must be based on
pressure, mechanical and structural considerations using the formulas
adequate and the maximum efforts permitted by the applicable Code.

Both localized and generalized corrosion should be considered.

In services with significant consequences in case of failure, it can be included in the design.
additional thicknesses for unforeseen or unknown loads or losses of
undiscovered materials

7.4 Evaluation of inspection findings.

The components that have deteriorated to the point that their capacity is compromised.
withstand pressure and other loads, must be evaluated to determine their suitability
to continue in service.

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Methods such as those contained in API RP 579 can be applied. The following
API 579 evaluation techniques can be applied as an alternative to the
given in API 570 point 5.7.

Assessment of generalized thickness reduction: API 579, Section 4.

Evaluation of localized thickness reduction: API 579, Section 5.

Pitting Corrosion Assessment: API 579, Section 6.

Evaluation of Blisters and Lamination: API 579, Section 7:

In some cases, it may be necessary to estimate a corrosion rate.

future. In these cases, the methodology given in section 6 must be applied.
API 570.

Evaluation of weld misalignment: API 579, Section 8:

Evaluation of defect types such as cracks: API 579, Section 9.

Fire damage assessment: API 579, Section 11.

7.5 Stress Analysis of piping systems.

Pipeline systems must be supported in such a way that:
His weight should be supported safely.
It has enough flexibility for thermal expansion or contraction.
Do not have excessive vibration.

The larger the diameter and the greater the temperature differences, the more attention is given.
requires flexibility.

The stress analysis to evaluate flexibility and support is not normally

carried out as part of the pipe inspection. However, many systems
were analyzed as part of their original design or as part of activities for
rerating and the results of those analyses can be useful for developing plans of
inspection.

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Stress analyses can detect areas of higher concentration of

efforts and predict movements in operation and this can be applied to
determine the points of possible thermal fatigue and/or creep.

Comparing the expected movements in engineering with the real ones can
determine if there are unexpected movements.

Stress analysis can also be used to solve problems of

vibrations as they can also predict the natural frequency at which it will vibrate
system and help to determine if it is possible to increase the vibration frequency by
guided /, beyond the frequency of vibration of the existing forces, just like the
produced by a rotary machine.

7.6 Records.
Users and pipe owners must maintain permanent records and
progressives of each system covered by API 570.

The records must contain information such as:

Service class
Classification.
Identification numbers.
Inspection intervals.
Types of essay.
Name of examiners and people conducting trials.
Results of thickness measurements and other tests.
Permanent and definitive repairs.
Alterations.
Rerating.
Design/Blueprint information.
Maintenance activities that may affect the integrity of the system.
Date and results of external inspections.

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The use of computer systems to record, store data and perform calculations.
it should be considered in light of the volume of information to be handled
will apply among others for:

Store measurement results

Calculate long-term and short-term corrosion rates.
Calculate remaining life.
Calculate inspection periods.
Highlight areas of attention.

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Section 8 Repairs, Alterations, and Rerating:

8.1 Repairs and Alterations.

The applicable requirements for Repairs, Alterations, and rerating are contained in
section 8.

The principles of the ASME B31.3 Code or the Code under which the system was built.
They should be followed.

Repairs and alterations should be carried out by an organization of

repair as defined in section 3 and authorized by the Inspector.
Before carrying out repairs and alterations, the execution methods, materials and
welding procedures to be used must be approved by the IA and if it is
necessary for an experienced engineer in design, construction, and inspection of
Pressure pipes.

Authorization:
Any repair or alteration must be approved by the Inspector before it is
initiated by the repair organization.
Authorization for alterations should not be granted until an experienced engineer
In pressure pipe design, it has been consulted and this has approved the
repairs and/or alterations.

The inspector will indicate the stopping points and may grant authorizations to some.
routine repairs.

Approval:
The inspector or the piping engineer must approve any repair or alteration.
after conducting an inspection that demonstrates that the established requirements
have been fulfilled and that the pressure test, if required, was witnessed.

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No crack should be repaired without consulting a piping engineer.

in order to identify and correct the cause of the crack.

The inspector must approve the repair and alteration works.

8.1.3 Welding Repairs

Temporary repairs:

For temporary repairs including 'On stream', a sleeve can be used.

(sleeve) that surrounds the entire tube designed by the piping engineer.

Longitudinal cracks should not be repaired this way unless the engineer approves.
pipes determine that they will not propagate

If the repair is localized, for example on an area with dents or a hole and
the specified minimum yield strength (SMYS) does not exceed 40000 psi (276 MPa).
A repair can be made with a coupling or patched with fillet welds. (See 8.2.3
and appendix C)

The repair material must be compatible with the material to be repaired.

Minor losses can be repaired using some element that encloses them.
whenever the remaining thickness in the weld area of this element to the tube
it is sufficient and the material of the tube can withstand welding without subsequent damage.

Temporary repairs must be removed and replaced with repairs.

permanents at the next opportunity when maintenance allows it. They can
stay longer if they are approved and documented by the piping engineer.

Permanent repairs.

Repair of defects can be carried out by preparing the area with a bevel/groove in
In U or V with the depth and length according to what the defect to be repaired requires.
performing a fill with welding material deposited according to 7.2.
The thickness in corroded areas can be restored through deposited welding.
according to 8.2
Surface irregularities and contamination must be eliminated before proceeding.
the deposition of solder.

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END and inspection must be fixed in the repair procedures.

If it is possible to take the pipe out of service, the defects can be removed by cutting a section.
of piping or replacing fittings.

Inserted patches (flush) can be used to repair corroded areas if the

the following requirements are met:

Total penetration meetings are held.

For services classes 1 and 2, X-ray 100% or UT with an approved method.
the inspector.
The patches can have any profile but must have a minimum radius of
1in (25mm) in the corners.

8.1.4 Non-welded repairs.

Temporary repairs of areas with reduced thickness or defects

circumferential can be done by placing a sleeve / clamp
screwed, Non-metallic repairs (composite), combination of clamps
metallic and epoxy or another method.

In the design of these repairs, the axial loads that must be considered should be taken into account.
support and the possible effects on the tube to be repaired.

The procedure may include the injection of sealants. Their consideration should be taken into account.
influence on the process and other mechanical elements.

When appropriate, the added elements must be removed and the integrity
the pipe must be restored.

8.2 Welding and hot tapping

Welded repairs on pipes in service must be carried out following the
API Guidelines Pub. 2201 and at a minimum use the included 'Check list'.
document.

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The repair organization must use welding procedures and welders.

qualified according to the ASME B31.3 Code or the original construction Code.

The repair organization must maintain qualification records and the

they must be available for the authorized inspector before they begin
repairs or alterations.

8.2.1 and 2 Preheating and PWHT.

The preheating temperatures must comply with the code of

construction and certified procedures. Exceptions may be approved by
the piping engineer.

Preheating no less than 300ºF (150ºC) can be considered as a

alternative to PWHT for alterations or repairs of systems originally PWHT
(but it cannot be considered an alternative for the prevention of cracks case)
environmental

This applies to P-1 steels listed in ASME B31.3. P-3 steels, with the exception of
Mn-Mo steels can also receive this preheating temperature.
when the operating temperature is high enough to provide a
adequate toughness and there are no dangers during the pressure test and startup and
system shutdown.

The inspector should determine that the preheating temperature was

maintained. Once the welding is finished, it must be covered with insulation for
keep the cooling speed low.

Piping systems built with other steels that initially required PWHT
they are usually PWHT.

The application of the PWHT alternative requires consultation with the piping engineer.
to analyze the risk of environmental cracking and whether the welding procedure
will provide adequate toughness.

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Examples where this alternative may be considered are: Seal welds,

welding deposition to restore thickness, welds of supports/clips, etc.

PWHT.
PWHT should be carried out according to the guidelines of ASME B31.3 or the Code
of construction.

Some exceptions may apply, as stated above.

Localized PWHT can be applied instead of heating a 360º band if it meets

the following:

The application is reviewed and the procedure is developed by engineers.

experienced in the involved specialties.
The suitability of the procedure is evaluated. The following factors must be
considered: Base material thicknesses, temperature gradients, properties
of the materials (hardness, composition, resistance among others), need for
full penetration welds, need for surface and volumetric examination,
tensions and distortions.
Minimum preheating of 300ºF (150ºC) is maintained during welding.
The required PWHT temperature must be maintained at a distance of at least
less than 2 thicknesses of base material measured from the weld. The temperature
It must be monitored using an adequate number of thermocouples (at least 2)
To determine the number of thermocouples, the profile and size must be considered.
area to be thermally treated.
Heat should also be applied to any connection or fastening within the PWHT area.
located.
The PWHT is performed to comply with the Code and is not a requirement for
prevent environmental cracking

8.2.3 Design
The joints must be at full penetration.

The components should be replaced when repairs do not seem to work.

recommended.

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New connections can be made anticipating the design, location, and method.
The fixation complies with the requirements of the applicable Code.

Fillet welds in patches require special design considerations in

especially regarding joint efficiency and corrosion.

Patch weld fillets must be designed by a piping engineer. A

patch can be placed on the outer surface of the pipe if the requirements are met
requirements of this code and the following:
a. The sewn patch with piping provides design security equivalent to that of
opening reinforcement designed according to the applicable section of the Code
ASME.
The filet-sewn patch is designed to absorb tension from
membrane of the parts such that, according to the rules of the section of
Applicable ASME code, the following results:
• The allowable membrane tension is not exceeded in the patch area.
• No tension is produced in the threads greater than that allowed for these.
welds.
• Overlapping patches must have rounded corners (See appendix
C).

8.2.4 Materials.
The material used in the repair or alteration must meet the requirements.
from the applicable section of the ASME Code.
The material must have recognized weldable quality and be compatible with the material.
original.

8.2.5 END
For the acceptance of repairs and welded alterations must be included
examination through NDT in accordance with the applicable Code and specifications of
owner/user, unless API 570 requires otherwise.

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8.2.6 Pressure Test.

After the repairs, a pressure test must be performed, if necessary and
practicable.

The pressure test is usually required after major repairs or

alterations.

When the pressure test is not necessary or practicable, NDT should be used instead.
place. Consultation with an experienced engineer in pressure pipes is necessary and
con el inspector autorizado.

When it is not feasible to perform a pressure test on the final joint connection between
new and existing parts must apply the following:

The replacement pipe must undergo pressure testing and be examined accordingly.
requires the Code that governs the design of the piping system. If it is not feasible
An appropriate END can be carried out according to what the inspector specifies.
authorized and the following must be fulfilled:

a. The final joint is a butt weld made between components of equal

diameter and thicknesses and axially aligned (not at an angle) and between materials
equivalent. Alternatives to this are: 1) SO S150 clamps and temperature not exceeding
at 500ºF (260ºC) and 2) Socket Welds NPS 2 and smaller and temperature
no more than 500ºF (260ºC). For socket welds, it must be ensured
a distance of 1/16in (1.5mm) between the end of the tube and the bottom of
Accommodation and in addition the welding must have at least two passes.
b. The closure weld must be 100% radiographed or subjected to angular UT.
that acceptance criteria are established.
c. MT or PT must be done at the root pass of the butt joints and the pass
end of the fillet welds.

8.3 Re-rating.
The rerating of a pipe due to a change in MAWP and/or temperature is allowed if it
they meet the following requirements:

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There are calculations made by the manufacturer or the engineer in pressure pipes.
from the owner/user (or their designated agent) justify the re-rate.
The re-rate meets the requirements of the original building code or the
latest edition.
Inspection records must allow for determining that the piping is suitable for
the service being proposed that has sufficient oversize for corrosion
future. The rerating must be based on measurements of recent and valid thicknesses.
Re-rated systems must undergo loss testing in accordance with
Original construction code or current edition for new conditions of
service unless the system has been tested at least once at a pressure
equal to or greater than required. If the rerating does not affect the tension/stress
admissible no pressure test required.
The system is reviewed to verify that the pressure relief valves
required are present.
The re-rate and the pipe inspection must be accepted by the Inspector.
Authorized.
All system components such as valves, flanges, fittings,
bolts/screws, sealing elements and expansion joints are suitable for
the new pressure and temperature conditions.
The flexibility of the system is suitable for the new conditions.
The engineering records have been updated.
The decrease in the minimum design temperature is justified with tests.
of impact if this is required by the design code.

The re-rate is considered finished when the Authorized Inspector supervises the
placement of an additional identification plate with the information

APPENDIX C

C.1 Repairs
Weld repairs using SMAW or GMAW processes can be carried out.
When the temperature is below 50ºF (10ºC), low electrodes should be used.
hydrogen (AWS E-XX16 or E-XX18), when welding ASTM A-53 Gr. A materials
y B; A-106 Gr. A and B; A-333; A 334; API-5L and similar.

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These electrodes should also be used on lower grade steels when

the temperatures are below 32ºF (0ºC)

When using AWS E-XX16 or E-XX18 electrodes for welds 2 and 3 of the figure.
C-1, the welds must start at the bottom and be performed in a consistent manner.
ascending. The diameter should not exceed 5/32in (4.0mm). Larger electrodes
diameter, not exceeding 3/16in (4.8mm), can be used for welding 1 of the
Figure C-1. This weld must have a backing or preparation in such a way that the
welding does not bond the main tube. This can be avoided if checked through
ultrasonic measurements that the thickness of the main tube is sufficient to support
welding.

Repairs and welding on service lines must comply with API public
2201.

Small repairs with patches:

The diameter of the electrode should not exceed 5/32in (4.0mm). When the
temperatures are below 32ºF (0ºC) low electrodes should be used
Hydrogen. Oscillating welding with low hydrogen electrode should be avoided.

Examples of repair can be seen in figure C-2.

Translation of figure C-2 notes:

The size of the patch should not exceed half the diameter of the tube to be repaired. If
It is necessary to exceed this dimension; a full shirt should be used.

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The corners of the patches must have a minimum radius of curvature of 1in (25mm)

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Section 9 Inspection of buried pipes.

The inspection of this type of systems is essentially different from that of the systems.
airborne, because significant external deterioration can occur due to the conditions
corrosive soils
Due to the fact that the inspection is limited by inaccessibility, API 570 deals with
this topic separately.

Important reference information can be found in NACE 0169, 0274, and 0275.
and section 11 of API RP 0651.

9.1 Types and Methods of Inspection.

Indications of leaks in buried pipes may occur due to changes in the

surface surrounding it, discoloration of the soil, softening of the floor asphalt,
formation of liquid pools, bubbling, odor, etc.

Monitoring the route where the pipeline is laid can be a method of inspection.

Soil potential measurement can indicate corrosion activity because

the potential in the area close to corrosion can be markedly different from the
from areas far from areas with corrosion.

Inspection holes: They can be used to locate damage in the paint or

pipe coatings.

Soil resistivity: Corrosion in "bare" or poorly protected piping is

normally caused by a mix of different types of soil in contact with the
surface of the pipe.

The corrosiveness of the soil can be determined by measuring its resistivity.

Low resistivity levels are relatively more corrosive than high levels.
resistivity, especially where the piping is exposed to significant changes in
soil resistivity.

The soil resistivity measurement should be carried out using the Wenner method.
Four-Pin according to ASTM G-57.

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In cases of parallel lines or intersection of lines, the use of may be required

simple pin to accurately measure soil resistivity.

Cathodic protection monitoring: Buried pipe protected cathodically should

to be monitored periodically to ensure adequate protection.

Periodic measurements and analysis of potential tube-soil should be included.

More frequent monitoring of critical system components is required.

protection such as printed circuit rectifiers.

Refer to NACE 0169 and section 11 of API RP 0651 for applicable guidelines.
to inspect and maintain cathodic protection systems of buried lines.

Inspection methods.

Several inspection methods are available. Some can reveal the state of the
The exterior wall of the pipe and others can reveal the condition of the interior. Examples:

Smart tool: Involves a moving device inside and to

through the pipeline in service or out of service. There are different types of
devices and different inspection methods. The line must be free of
restrictions that may cause obstruction of the device. Normally, it
requires the use of bending radius curves equivalent to 5 pipe diameters
because standard 90º elbows can hinder the passage of the device. The
The line must also have facilities to launch and receive the device.

Video cameras: Television cameras or video endoscopes can provide a

image of the inside of the pipe.

Excavation: In many cases the only available alternative is to dig up the pipe.
in order to visually inspect it and measure thicknesses. Caution must be taken.
by removing the soil to prevent damage to the pipe protection. The last 5
inches of soil should be moved manually. The consideration of the must also be taken into account.
safety aspects and the possibility of collapse.

9.2 Inspection Frequencies.

Visual surveillance on the ground:

Recommended every 6 months.

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Potential tube-soil:
Short interval monitoring of cathodically protected lines can be
used to determine that the line has protective potential throughout its entire length.
In lines with poor paint or coating where the protection potential
Cathodic is inadequate; monitoring can be conducted every 5 years.

In lines without cathodic protection or where losses have been detected, it may
measurement of tube-soil potential along the line should be carried out.
excavations where active corrosion has been detected. A continuous potential profile or
short interval monitoring may be necessary to detect the areas with
active corrosion.

Inspection holes for painting:

The frequency will be based on indications from other forms of corrosion control.
not effective. For example, it may be necessary to carry out inspection in areas where there are
gradual loss of cathodic protection potential or losses that occur
due to external corrosion in areas with paint defects.

Soil corrosiveness:
For buried lines longer than 100 feet (30 meters) that are not protected
Cathodically, soil corrosivity assessment should be conducted every 5 years.
Soil corrosivity measurements can be made for classification.
relative to soil corrosivity.

Cathodic protection:
For the determination of the inspection frequency, the guidelines must be followed
NACE 0169 and section 11 of API RP 0651

Internal and external inspection intervals:

If internal corrosion is expected, intervals should also be established and adjusted.
inspection methods to determine the internal condition. The external condition of
buried pipes that do not have cathodic protection should be determined by the
use of "smart tools" with thickness measurement capability or
carrying out excavations and direct detection according to the indicated frequency in the
table 9.1
Table 9.1: Frequency of inspection of buried pipes without protection
effective cathodic
Soil resistivity (ohm-cm) Inspection interval (years)
<2000 5
2000to10000 10
>10000 15

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The inspection length when using excavation should be 6 to 8 feet (2 to

2.5 meters) and around the entire circumference of the tube, at each of the locations of
inspection.
If the inspected area reveals that the pipe or paint is in poor condition,
the inspection area must be extended until the extent of the area is determined
affected.

If the pipe is protected by a casing, it must be verified if it has

produced water or soil ingress into the inside of the sleeve. The inspector should
check: a) That the protective shirt extends to the area above level of
soil, b) The ends are sealed (if the sleeve has no drains) and c) The pipe
is properly painted or coated.

Loss detection intervals:

One alternative to verify losses is to conduct a loss test with liquid at
a pressure not less than 10% higher than the Maximum Operating Pressure at
intervals no greater than half of that indicated in table 9.1 for pipes without
cathodic protection and at the same intervals as indicated in table 9.1 for
pipes with cathodic protection. The pressure test should be maintained for
minus 8 hours. During the first 4 hours, the pressure should be maintained. Then
the pressure line should be disconnected. If during the remaining time
If the pressure decreases by more than 5%, the pipe should be inspected.
to determine the location and extent of the areas with losses. Sonic methods
they can be useful for helping to detect the affected areas.
It can also use pressure testing or volumetric method with correction by
temperature.

Another alternative is the use of acoustic emission or the addition of a tracer gas (By
example helium or sulfur hexafluoride)

9.3 Repair of buried pipes.

Repairs to paintings:

Paint removed for inspection must be replaced and inspected.

For paint repairs, the inspector should take the following into account:
sufficient adherence between the paint and the pipe to prevent the
moisture migration beneath the paint film.
Sufficient ductility to avoid cracking.

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Absence of gaps and cavities.

sufficient strength to withstand the stresses and loads transmitted by the
soil.
Capable of withstanding cathodic protection.
o Additionally, it must be inspected using a high-voltage system.

Repair with clamps:

If buried piping is repaired using screw clamps and these are

buried, this must be recorded. The clamp can also be marked. Both the
registro como la marca sobre la abrazadera deben contener la fecha de colocación y la
location of it.

This type of repair is considered temporary and should be replaced by

a method of definitive repair at the first opportunity it becomes possible.

Welded repairs: They must be carried out as indicated in the section

2.

9.4 Records.
The records of buried pipes must be maintained as indicated.
in section 7 (7.6). The location of temporary clamps must be included.

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