Optimizing the location of Condition Monitoring Locations (CML’s)

Equipment and piping failure resulting in loss of containment and release of hazardous chemicals has resulted in loss of life, environmental impact and significant loss of money and assets. Process equipment and piping should be frequently monitored to lower the risk of loss of containment. By determining potential damage mechanisms and identifying likely failure points the risk of failure can be significantly reduced. Condition monitoring locations (CML’s) should be properly located to provide the most information. Monitoring locations provide the data for assessment of damage rates. The rate of damage can be evaluated and piping and equipment can be repaired or replaced before failure.

This paper will discuss the assessment process necessary to properly locate CML’s. Evaluating damage mechanisms anticipated, based on service, material of construction and piping and equipment configurations, will be discussed. An assessment process for determining the optimum corrosion monitoring locations will be presented.