Brittle Fracture Screening

Brittle Fracture is Rare – But Typically Catastrophic

E²G|The Equity Engineering Group provides a comprehensive screening program for pressure vessels, piping, and storage tanks. The program is consistent with the API 579-1/ASME FFS-1 Fitness-for-Service methodologies to assess the susceptibility to catastrophic brittle fracture failures.

This program will help you meet OSHA 1910.119 PSM RAGAGEP requirements.

Are You a Candidate for Brittle Fracture Screening?

• Was the equipment built prior to the 1987 addendum of ASME Section VIII Division 1?*
• Was susceptibility to brittle fracture not considered in the original design?
• Has there been a change in process operating conditions that increases the possibility of low metal temperatures?
• Has a PHA indicated that process or ambient temperatures lower than anticipated in the original design are possible (including depressurization and/or auto-refrigeration potential)?
• Has the equipment item been rerated using a lower design margin?
• Looking to optimize startups or shutdowns?
• Looking to perform a hydrostatic pressure test?

*Prior to 1987, most pressure vessels did not require a formal evaluation to address brittle fracture.

We Employ Industry-Wide Standards (Many of which were developed by Equity Engineering Group)

E²G follows Part 3 API 579-1/ASME FFS-1 Fitness-for-Service standards to screen for brittle fracture propensity. As the principal investigator for these standards, E²G is well-positioned to interpret them for your facility’s equipment evaluation. This includes the following:

• Screening of equipment for susceptibility (Level 1 and 2)
• Detailed assessment using fracture mechanics (Level 3)

Why Complete a Brittle Fracture Project?

• Numerous catastrophic brittle fracture failures have occurred in the industry
• All design and post-construction codes have taken action to address the industry concern
• OSHA 1910.119 PSM RAGAGEP requirements

Services from the Leader in Aging Infrastructure Support

The Equity Engineering Group is internationally recognized for its expertise in the refining and petrochemical industries. We are:

• Principal Developer of Fitness-for-Service Standard, API 579-1 / ASME FFS-1 Fitness-for-Service and Damage Mechanisms Affecting Fixed Equipment in the Refining Industry, API 571
• Principal Author of Welding Research Council (WRC) 528 (Development of Material Fracture Toughness Rules for the ASME B&PV Code Section VIII Division 2)
• Experienced with large-scale projects, including large-scale brittle fracture projects

Download the Brittle Fracture Brochure