Swift Solutions to Avert Major Structural Failures

Abstract

In today's challenging work and business environment, swift response to structural integrity concerns is the need of the hour to minimize the damages that will reduce down time, specifically in oil & gas sector. The solution devised to address structural concerns shall prevent further failure of structural members and avert major catastrophic accidents, as they support process equipment and piping. This paper outlines case studies of such structural failures, potential reasons of incidents and approaches followed in restoring structural integrity in a safe and economical way that ensures uninterrupted plant operation. Key parameters to be studied / considered while arriving solutions to structural damage / incidents include reliability of data, primary cause of incident, inventory of readily available material, execution feasibility under plant operating conditions thereby avoiding plant or unit shutdowns and manpower skillsets. Due to various constraints, the solution arrived may be temporary that averts multiple structural failures or a major accident. Further studies would be required to identify the root cause and to confirm or enhance the implemented solution that will reaffirm long term integrity of structure. In almost all of the incidents, some of the common steps followed for swift restoration of structural integrity include conducting a site survey to identify and judge the probable cause, reviewing available data, structural assessment and details of material in stock. After analyzing numerous factors, diverse approaches unique to each incident were considered in arriving a solution that is fit-for-purpose. Structural integrity issues, if not attended swiftly, can worsen the situation leading to safety concerns and major accidents. Solutions adopted for various incidents ensured restoration of structural integrity with minimal consequences. Suggested improvements and recommendations were implemented and no further issues were reported until this time.