Application of API 579 Level 3 FFS Assessments to Many Types of Pipelines
The API 579/ASME FFS-1 Fitness-for-Service (FFS) Level 2 approach is typically used for assessing pipeline anomalies/conditions found by different types of nondestructive examination devices and tools.
The API 579/ASME FFS-1 Fitness-for-Service (FFS) Level 2 approach is typically used for assessing pipeline anomalies/conditions found by different types of nondestructive examination devices and tools. When the level 2 assessment fails, repair, re-rating or Level 3 assessment is to be performed. In many cases, repair or rerating are either impractical, impossible, or extremely costly so a Level 3 assessment is the only option to determine if a pipeline can continue to be operated safely without downtime. The current presentation provides an overview of successful application of API 579 Level 3 assessments for anomalies, potential defects, or conditions that have been found in steel pipelines. The examples will include:
- Ovalities
- Bulges and dents, including bullet dents
- Lifting of pipelines containing defects
- Road/railway crossings
- Girth Welds (GW) and Electrical Resistance Welds (ERW) with crack-like indications located within different misaligned geometries
- Effects of ground movement
The topic is relevant to inspectors who want to see how findings during the inspections are assessed to allow the asset to continue its service. They are also relevant to our engineers who want to learn more about fitness for service assessments.
