Fitness-for-Service (FFS) Assessment, based on API and ASME

Is it for me?

If you are someone who maintains and keeps process equipment, pipelines, boilers, or storage tanks safe and reliable, then this course is for you. This applies whether you are a plant engineer or non-destructive testing engineer, or are working closely with a materials and corrosion engineer or plant inspector, with skills to assess confidence in the management of ageing equipment.

This course contains Level 1 (for plant inspectors) and Level 2 (for engineers conducting Fitness-for-Service (FFS) assessments), according to the latest API 579/ASME FFS standards. It teaches how to assess equipment integrity and support decision-making for smooth and safe operations.

Experience in design, fabrication, operation, or maintenance of process equipment and piping will be an advantage to you. Knowledge of pressure equipment design codes and standards will help you benefit the most from this course—the ASME, BSI, API, or NACE standards. 

What will I learn?

If you work with ageing process equipment, pipelines, boilers, or storage tanks, understanding Fitness-for-Service (FFS) is essential. This course is based on the latest API 579 Third Edition, which now covers a broader range of material damage mechanisms, beyond just those found in the refining industry.

This hands-on course will give you the knowledge and tools to assess equipment integrity, identify potential failures, and extend service life. Key topics include:

• The Basics of FFS: Understanding material properties and API 579 Annexes
• Stress Analysis for FFS
• Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) and Flaw Sizing
• Identifying Damage Mechanisms for FFS
• Learn brittle fracture and metal loss (general and localised), pitting, laminations and weld misalignment, Shell distortion and crack-like flaws, creep, fire damage & hydrogen-related issues (HIC, SOHIC), dents, gouges and methods for life extension

You will also explore repair and remediation strategies, the latest updates in API 579, and how it connects with other key industry standards like FITNET, BS 7910, R5, R6, API 510, API 570, and API Std 653.

What will I leave with?

At the conclusion of this course, candidates will be able to:

•  Application of the Latest FFS Techniques – recognise interventional strategies i.e., repair, replacement, re-rating, or redesign of equipment according to the best practices in the industry.
• Perform Detailed Assessments – confidently assess damage mechanisms, including: brittle fracture and metal loss (general and localised), pitting, laminations, weld misalignment & shell distortion, crack-like flaws, creep, fire damage and hydrogen-related issues (HIC/SOHIC), dents, gouges and remaining life assessments, 
•  Use FFS in Real-World Scenarios – Apply what you’ve learned to pipelines, boilers, storage tanks, and process equipment, ensuring safety and compliance.

This course gives you the tools to make better decisions, reduce risk, and extend the life of critical equipment.