Exploring the Roots of Failures through RCA (Root Cause Analysis)

The Interest Note explores the concept of Root Cause Analysis (RCA) as a process to identify the fundamental cause of a failure in equipment, emphasizing that a failure implies the inability of the equipment to fulfill its original purpose. It is underscored that the consequences of these failures can be significant, affecting assets, people, or the environment. The scope of RCA has expanded beyond physical issues, encompassing areas such as corporate culture, quality management, occupational safety, project management, and medicine. The complexity of RCA will be addressed, emphasizing the need to identify events and conditions leading to failures. The importance of understanding failure modes and involved factors is highlighted for implementing preventive and corrective measures.

Implementation of Operational Integrity Windows

In the dynamic industrial environment, where assets face various threats that can compromise their integrity, the implementation of advanced methodologies becomes essential to ensure effective management and extend the lifespan of equipment. In this context, we emphasize the relevance of "Integrity Operating Windows" (IOW) as a fundamental component in the maintenance strategy. These operating windows not only provide a proactive approach for continuous monitoring of critical variables but also allow anticipation of potential deviations in asset performance. Through the definition of key variables, operational limits, and responses to these limits, Integrity Operating Windows emerge as a comprehensive tool for early detection of deterioration, facilitating informed decision-making and significantly contributing to reducing uncertainty in asset management. In this context, we will thoroughly explore the application and benefits of these operating windows in predictive maintenance and continuous improvement related to the integrity of industrial assets.

Discover the Advantages of Phased Array Ultrasonography (PAUT) for Weld Inspection and Corrosion Mapping

Phased Array Ultrasonography (PAUT) is an advanced method that utilizes multiple ultrasonic crystals with varying delays to generate directed ultrasonic beams at specific angles. Unlike conventional ultrasound, PAUT probes can be electronically focused without the need for physical movement, facilitating the inspection of seams and other critical areas. It can be applied manually or connected to equipment such as crawlers to record the position, similar to digital radiography.

PAUT offers significant advantages over conventional ultrasound, including increased certainty and speed in inspection. Sectorial and linear scans enable comprehensive coverage of welds and the detection of discontinuities. Furthermore, PAUT replaces industrial radiography in pipeline construction, producing permanent records without radiation, thereby enhancing safety and efficiency in inspection. The method is also effective for corrosion detection and determining corrosion profiles. Overall, PAUT is a versatile technology applicable in various industrial sectors.