Maximizing Reliability: 6 Best Practices for RBI Success
Posted on | | Category: Risk Based Inspection
Risk Based Inspection (RBI) is a methodical approach to evaluate the integrity of equipment and determine the optimal inspection strategy. RBI programs require the establishment of best practices that focus on influencing key business activities such as inspection, engineering, reliability, operations, and maintenance. It is essential to follow best practices when implementing RBI to achieve maximum benefit.
These practices are not optional, nor are they mere guidelines. RBI Best Practices go beyond code compliance and include roles and responsibilities, which organizations can define using a Responsible, Accountable, Support, Consult or Inform (RASCI) matrix. Here are six key RBI best practices that organizations should consider.
RBI Data & Results Validation
RBI requires more data input than traditional non-RBI methods to calculate the Probability of Failure (POF), Consequence of Failure (COF), and risk criteria. RBI provides more output information than non-RBI methods, which includes an increased resolution of the impacts of inspection on POF, systematic management of an inspection plan, and hardware changes to mitigate consequence. The RBI data and results validation best practice aims to ensure that the input data used for RBI calculations is accurate and that the results are validated. This includes data inputs such as wall thickness test data, materials of construction, previous inspection results, and output information such as inspection grading, effectiveness, and management of an inspection plan.
RBI Systems, Circuits (Loops), and Component Modeling
Systems, circuits (loops), and component modeling is an essential best practice in RBI programs. RBI requires organizations to break down their systems and circuits (loops) into components with common fluids or damage mechanisms. Small Bore Connections (SBC) and dead legs are common locations for corrosion failure and are often more prevalent than the main piping systems. It is also essential to maintain consistency when modeling components. This process entails deciding which components, such as pressure vessels, piping systems, tank foundations, valves, flanges, tubing, and foundations, should be included or excluded from RBI modeling.
Damage Mechanism Identification & Assessment
The damage mechanism identification and assessment best practice is critical in RBI POF assessments. It involves identifying potential and acting damage mechanisms that can cause equipment failure and assessing the likelihood and consequence of failure. Damage mechanisms can include local or general corrosion, cracking susceptibility, high temperature corrosion, etc. Organizations must consider operational modes such as startup, shutdown, normal, and upset conditions.
Inspection Grading & Effectiveness
Inspection grading and effectiveness are required to assess the effects of previous and future inspections. It is essential to link them to specific damage mechanisms and provide minimum inspection effectiveness that can be applied for each damage mechanism.
Inspection Planning
Inspection planning is a critical process that aims to ensure consistent results across various equipment, units, plants, and sites. It involves developing an inspection plan that addresses all factors that can impact the probability of equipment failure (POF), as identified during the RBI process. The inspection plan should be tailored per equipment and fit for purpose. Inspection planning should be risk-based, with priority given to high-risk areas.
RBI Evergreening
RBI Evergreening is the process of updating RBI models to ensure that they remain accurate and up to date. RBI Evergreening involves re-assessing risk whenever new inspection data is obtained, reassessing damage mechanisms, and updating POF and COF models.
In conclusion, RBI is an essential methodology for managing equipment and system inspection and maintenance to ensure safety and reliability. Organizations should follow the six key RBI best practices outlined above to achieve maximum effectiveness. RBI requires continuous improvement, and organizations must continuously evaluate and improve RBI practices to ensure optimal performance.
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