Key standards
- ASME Boiler & Pressure Vessel Code (BPVC), API 510 (pressure vessel inspection), NBIC (National Board Inspection Code), ISO 9001.
Documented issues
In the 2017 LoyLange Box Company explosion, the bottom head of a pressure vessel corroded and burst through three floors, killing workers and bystanders. The CSB found the company ignored warnings about corrosion, had no mechanical integrity or inspection program, and a 2012 repair was not NBIC compliant. inspectioneering.com
Effective corrosion management and inspection programs could have prevented the accident. inspectioneering.com.
Typical challenges
- Aging pressure vessels operate without systematic inspections or corrosion monitoring.
- Repairs do not follow recognized codes (e.g., NBIC, API 510).
- Management lacks a mechanical integrity program to track equipment condition.
Best Practice playbook
- Develop a mechanical integrity program covering all pressure equipment: define inspection intervals, techniques (UT thickness, visual, corrosion probes) and acceptance criteria.
- Follow recognized codes (ASME BPVC, API 510, NBIC) for repairs and alterations; ensure “R” stamp contractors are used.
- Act on inspection findings: replace or repair components when remaining life is low; do not defer replacements.
- Train staff on corrosion mechanisms and inspection procedures; maintain documentation for audits.
- Integrate mechanical integrity into the quality system (ISO 9001 or equivalent) and track actions to closure.
References
- CSB/Inspectioneering summary of Loy‑Lange Box Company explosion: corrosion, lack of mechanical integrity program, and NBIC non‑compliant repair. inspectioneering.com inspectioneering.com.
