New Sitech service: Positive Material Identification
We have recently added a new offering to our range of services: Positive Material Identification, PMI for short. PMI is designed to identify the composition of a specific material. This is useful information in cases where we do not know (or no longer know) the exact composition of a material and where work needs to be carried out on installation components whose composition is important. Among other things, this technique enables us to reduce risks and carry out engineering works in more detail; it also makes a significant contribution to the ‘first time right’ principle when it comes to getting work done.
What is the composition of a material?
“Various PMI techniques are available to identify the material composition,” says Steven Custers, Mechanical Engineer Corrosion & Materials. “These techniques are generally non-destructive. Where installation components can be accessed safely, they do not have to be dismantled or frequently sacrificed for research purposes. Our technique allows us to analyze all the materials encountered. This is also the most favorable technique from a financial point of view.”
Fewer risks and improved risk management
Why is it useful to know the composition of a material? Steven: “The analyses enable us to reduce risks during engineering, during operational repairs, or to support improved identification of prevailing failure mechanisms and associated risks. As a result, this service makes a significant contribution to the ‘first time right’ principle when it comes to getting work done. It also allows our customers to better comply with legal provisions or insurance requirements. The engineering can also be carried out in more detail using the PMI results, for example when it comes to repairs (welding) or checking the correct fasteners for flange connections. PMI is also useful when it comes to completing files for reclassification and implementing predictive maintenance strategies.”
Fully unburdening customers
“This service means that we can fully unburden customers,” says Steven. “As well as analyzing the material composition, we also deal with processing in the Asset Performance Management system and closing the Plan-Do-Check-Act loop in the Risk Based Inspections (RBI) and Reliability Centered Maintenance (RCM) methodologies. We possess all the necessary authorizations and are familiar with safety regulations. This means that there is no need for additional support from the customer. We are also flexible and can offer this service at an attractive rate on the Chemelot site.”
Want to find out more about PMI?
Contact the Corrosion & Materials department:
peter-hgm.janssen@sitech.nl or steven.custers@sitech.nl