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EPA Proposal to Change an Effective RMP Lacks Data, Would Impose Significant Costs Without Improving Safety

EPA’s existing Risk Management Plan (RMP) is doing what it was designed to do: drive continual safety improvements across workplaces to keep industry employees, contractors, facility neighbors and local environments safe. Any changes to a regulation as effective as the RMP need to be solidly evidence-based. Unfortunately, today’s proposal is filled with costly and misinformed changes, with little-to-no data to back them up. In fact, many of the proposed changes will adversely impact the safety and security missions of refining and petrochemical sites. AFPM looks forward to providing detailed comments on this proposal.

Alkylation: Safety & Risk in the Production of Cleaner Fuels

Because of the extensive safety and mitigation steps refiners take wherever hydrofluoric acid (HF) alkylation is concerned, the risks from this process pale in comparison to those we assume every day when we engage in routine activities like riding a bike, driving a car and playing with pets.

API RP 751 Section 6

HF Alkylation, Mechanical Integrity


Join this session to hear the latest on API's 5th edition of Recommended Practice (RP) 751, Safe Operation of Hydrofluoric Acid Alkylation Unit. In this session, we're discussing maintenance from the operator perspective, integrity management and other safety programs for hydrofluoric (HF) acid alkylation units.

Facilitator: Herb Haught, CVR Energy

Speaker: Monica Plowman, Ethos Mechanical Integrity
Speakers
Monica Plowman
Herb Haught
Session Start End
-
Topic
HF Alkylation
Mechanical Integrity

Lessons Learned from Ergon's Mechanical Integrity Failure

Mechanical Integrity


In this session we will show the results of a failure in a Mechanical Integrity Program. This track will also discuss event investigation results, along with, lessons learned and path forward, in hopes to enlighten all in the industry.

Facilitator: Dean Roberts, Ergon-West Virginia Refining Inc.

Speaker: Cory Bird, Ergon, Inc.
Speakers
Dean Roberts
Cory Bird
Session Start End
-
Topic
Mechanical Integrity

When the Standards Stop: Using FEA to Push Fitness for Service Further

Reliability and Maintenance Bootcamp, Mechanical Integrity


This technical session is designed to give engineers and maintenance professionals a practical understanding of how API-579 Level 3 Fitness-for-Service (FFS) assessments—powered by Finite Element Analysis (FEA)—can solve complex reliability challenges in the oil and gas industry.

We will introduce advanced methods for evaluating equipment with damage mechanisms like corrosion, cracking, and dents. You’ll learn when Level 3 assessments are needed, how FEA is applied, and why these techniques offer better accuracy, safer outcomes, and longer equipment life.

Highlights include:

  • API-579 FFS framework and when to escalate to Level 3

  • Benefits of FEA: realistic modeling of stress, temperature, and pressure

  • Real-world case studies: pressure vessel corrosion, weld cracking, and pipe dents

  • Key takeaways for maintenance planning and repair decisions



Tailored for a broad operator-based audience, this session uses real examples—not just theory—to demonstrate how advanced analysis can enhance reliability, reduce costs, and support critical decisions.

Moderator:
Dean Roberts, Ergon, Inc.

Speaker:
Colin Davis, Becht
Speakers
Dean Roberts
Colin Davis
Session Start End
-
Topic
Mechanical Integrity

Applying Mechanical Integrity Programs to Rotating Equipment

Mechanical Integrity


This session will highlight Phillips 66’s focus on the need to go beyond the vibration signature and understand the root cause of the component failure. We will also discuss leveraging new technologies like machine learning and artificial intelligence to prevent inherent issues.

See related presentations on MI on the AFPM Safety Portal at https://safetyportal.afpm.org/

Moderator:
Bill Clark, Phillips 66

Presenter:
Carlos Acosta, Phillips 66
Speakers
Bill Clark
Carlos F. Acosta
Session Start End
-
Topic
Mechanical Integrity

Blast it Off and Raise the Roof: Motiva’s Experience with Robotic Tank Cleaning and Pneumatic Roof Raising

Mechanical Integrity


Motiva’s 2.0 Tank Division journey leveraged time-tested technology that has consistently delivered success in our industry. Innovative robotic cleaning not only enhances safety compared to manual blasting but also boosts efficiency and reduces waste disposal costs. This means a safer, more cost-effective solution. To further elevate our tank maintenance process, we introduced “Pneumatic Roof Raising” technology, which significantly minimizes human exposure to negative ergonomics, pinch points, and the need for extensive scaffolding which translates to quicker project completion, reduced downtime, and enhanced overall safety.

See related presentations on the AFPM Safety Portal at https://safetyportal.afpm.org/

Moderator:
Gerard Celestine, Motiva Enterprises LLC

Speakers:
Sterling Gregg, Motiva Enterprises LLC
Adam Martin, Allstream Services & Rental, LLC
Marshall Rayborn, Specialty Tank Services
Speakers
Gerard Celestine
Sterling Gregg
Adam Martin
Marshall Rayborn
Session Start End
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Topic
Mechanical Integrity