Asset Integrity Management Services

The TesTex Asset Integrity Management (AIM) service provides key clients with an added value inspection service that will help to maximise the efficiency and lifespan of their plant assets through targeted inspections.

The objectives of the service are to;

• Collect meaningful data and information relating to the assets in question, so that targeted and effective plant inspections can take place
• Use this data in our innovative, easy to use Asset Integrity Management software system
• Identify and target critical areas of inspection using Risk Based Inspection (RBI) methodology
• Produce and certify Written Schemes of Examination (WSE) that will tell you how and when to conduct an inspection
• Reduce the risk of asset failure and the associated costs in respect of downtime and repair
• Avoid any potential litigation in the event of a critical failure
• Ensure compliance with all main pieces of Health and Safety Executive (HSE) and Environmental Agency (EA) Legislation surrounding the use and maintenance of plant assets

How do we deliver the AIM service?

Although client’s needs vary, we collect data about the asset(s) first. Data is required in order to allow the Written Schemes of Examination (WSE’s) to be produced and it allows a targeted Risk Based Inspection (RBI) strategy to be developed.

The types of data used are: past inspection reports, historical leaks or failures, original design drawings, specifications, piping and instrumentation diagrams (P&ID’s). The more comprehensive the data made available, the more detailed and targeted the inspections will be – saving time, effort and money.

We conduct a full visual inspection of the site and asset(s). This is one of the most important aspects of the AIM process that contributes not only towards the final report of the condition of the assets but towards developing the RBI approach. This allows us to decide which of our ranges of non-destructive examination techniques will be utilised during the inspection process.

If required, as often original drawings lack the information necessary, we will develop isometric drawings for evaluation. These provide you with a consistent labelling system for welds, supports, spools and CML’s (Corrosion Monitoring Locations). This helps us to identify specific/targeted locations across the system where the NDT Inspection(s) will take place. The isometric drawings also identify the boundaries of the Written Schemes of Examination (WSE).

The WSE’s that are produced are one of the most important documents associated with the process. They are used to define the examinations to be carried out, when the examinations should be carried out and by whom. They also highlight the preparatory work which needs to be completed in order for the inspection to take place. The WSE will take into consideration all compliance requirements i.e. The Pressure Systems Safety Regulation (PSSR), The Control of Major Accident Hazards (COMAH) Regulations and Power and Use of Work Equipment Regulations (PUWER), for example.

Once we have agreed the content of the WSE and any preparatory work has been completed we are then able to conduct the inspection using the techniques identified.

A final report will be produced and presented containing clear details of the extent of the inspection. The report will go beyond the condition of the assets and will not report by exception only. It will cover all examinations, tests and their results. Where defects are identified the report will specify those requiring immediate attention/repair and define any time limits for reparation.  This includes clear information on the assets and fitness for service. All deterioration will be recorded with all remaining life calculations and any re-rating.

Once reviewed and adopted the report document will then inform any revisions to inspection periodicity and any amendments will be made to the WSE.