One important factor in conducting a quality Mechanical Integrity Inspection is to ensure that the equipment being inspected is adequately protected from accidental impact. Humans are notorious for making mistakes and so, to the extent possible, we must ensure that ammonia refrigeration equipment is adequately protected. Most governing codes and standards for refrigeration systems address this issue to some […]
Next time you are performing a Mechanical Integrity Inspection of an Oil Separator be sure to check the tightness of the nuts being used to fasten the manway access to the Oil Separator. Recently, I received this picture illustrating what vibration can do to a nut over an extended period of time. Thankfully, the design of the […]
Question: What is an emergency pressure control system? Answer: An emergency pressure control system (EPCS) is a pressure-limiting safety system that is required by many current Fire Codes (International Fire Code and NFPA 1). The EPCS has replaced the Emergency Control Box (sometimes called Dump Box, Red Box, Fire Department Box, etc.) as a code required safety system for over-pressurization events. […]
There seems to be a lack of clarity regarding the frequency that Mechanical Integrity inspections must be performed on ammonia refrigeration systems and more specifically whether a 5-year MI inspection is required by the PSM regulation. Title 29 CFR §1910.119(j)(4)(iii) requires that “the frequency of inspections and tests of process equipment shall be consistent with applicable manufacturers’ recommendations and good engineering practices, […]
Question: What pieces of equipment in ammonia systems are required to have nameplates? Answer: The quick answer is that all equipment, valves, instruments, appurtenances, etc. should be equipped with nameplates as a best practice. Current codes and standards require nameplates on all major equipment. Here is a quick summary of relevant codes and standards on this topic: […]
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