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.
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.
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/
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/
In this session, we will present a case study on wash water reliability, examining the critical role a well-designed water wash plays in maintaining the mechanical integrity of a system. We will also discuss lessons learned from investigations into excessive accelerated corrosion in an overhead system.
Check out the 2024 Summit Session Inspection and Reliability of Wash Water Systems https://safetyportal.afpm.org/
The oil refining process generates a significant volume of wastewater that contains a suite of challenging contaminants, from hydrocarbons to heavy metals and organic compounds. Oil production at a refinery relies on efficient and reliable wastewater treatment as it is impossible for the facility to operate without treating its effluent. Issues with the wastewater treatment systems can result in production limitations, as well as significant environmental impacts and violations. These systems can be complex, and they are sensitive to upset conditions due to poor feed quality, unexpected contaminants, or equipment breakdown.
This presentation will discuss a significant upset condition that impacted both the primary and secondary wastewater treatment system at a large West Coast refinery. We will present the processes that allowed for detection of the upset, and the steps taken by the operations group, technical team, and vendor support that helped maintain target production rates and avoid any environmental violations or impacts. The mitigation steps allowed for storage and post-upset treatment of the problematic effluent streams. The technical team evaluated options for treatment and environmental compliance, and the water treatment vendor supplied specialty biological treatment technology to get the system back online as quickly as possible. All of this contributed to a successful upset response and the implementation of best practices that can help all refineries facing a wastewater oil contamination.
Moderator:
Dan Harbs, Veolia
Speakers:
Angela Wharton, Chevron U.S.A. Inc.
Kai Zhang, Chevron U.S.A. Inc.
The intersection of refining and petrochemical manufacturing has never been more significant as industries navigate the dual challenges of efficiency and sustainability. This session will explore the critical role of Perchloroethylene (PERC) in modern refining processes while also highlighting its applications in petrochemical production.
PERC is recognized as one of the safest catalyst activators during normal operations, as well as a regenerator for spent catalysts. Utilizing less efficient materials can necessitate larger quantities of hazardous substances being kept onsite, thus increasing exposure risks. Other chlorinating agents are either restricted by the EPA or are inherently more hazardous, making PERC a preferable option.
Attendees will gain insights into how PERC enhances refining technologies through processes such as isomerization and catalytic reforming, which help ensure compliance with environmental regulations. Industry experts will discuss the extensive benefits of utilizing PERC, emphasizing innovations that contribute to both safety and operational efficiency.
Moreover, we will review advancements in safety protocols that facilitate the effective handling of PERC, ensuring minimal exposure and adherence to rigorous regulatory standards. By fostering dialogue among leaders in refining and petrochemical manufacturing, this session aims to identify collective strategies for driving innovation and achieving sustainability goals within the industry.