Pressure Vessel External Inspection
Professional API 510 pressure vessel inspection services
API 510 Pressure Vessel Inspection
Professional in-service inspection, repair, alteration, and rerating of pressure vessels following API 510 standards. Our certified inspectors ensure comprehensive vessel integrity assessments.
What is API 510?
API 510 is the American Petroleum Institute's Pressure Vessel Inspection Code. It covers the in-service inspection, repair, alteration, and rerating of pressure vessels used in the petroleum, chemical, and industrial sectors.
It ensures that pressure vessels remain safe, reliable, and compliant throughout their operational life.
Key Scope of API 510
Comprehensive standards covering all aspects of pressure vessel safety and integrity
Inspection Requirements
External inspections – At defined intervals while in service.
Internal inspections – Based on corrosion rates, risk assessments, and service conditions.
On-stream inspections – Non-intrusive checks while equipment remains in service.
Vessel Evaluation
Thickness measurements and corrosion monitoring.
Fitness-for-service assessments.
Stress and fatigue analysis.
Repairs & Alterations
Welding and component replacement.
Nozzle or reinforcement additions.
Design modifications to extend life or meet new requirements.
Rerating & Certification
Establishing new maximum allowable working pressure (MAWP).
Adjusting design temperature or operating conditions.
Work must be performed by an API 510 certified pressure vessel inspector.
Why It Matters
API 510 compliance is essential for safe, reliable, and legally compliant pressure vessel operations
Safety & Integrity
Ensures safety and integrity of high-pressure equipment.
Failure Prevention
Prevents failures, leaks, and catastrophic incidents.
Regulatory Compliance
Helps maintain regulatory and industry compliance.
Extended Service Life
Extends equipment service life while minimizing downtime.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about API 510 services
API 510 applies to pressure vessels used in petroleum refineries, chemical plants, and related processing facilities that were originally constructed to ASME Section VIII standards. This includes vessels operating above 15 psig and includes reactors, drums, heat exchangers, and storage vessels containing process fluids.
Inspection intervals depend on the service severity, corrosion rates, and risk assessment. Generally, external inspections are required every 5-10 years, while internal inspections may be required every 10-20 years. High-risk vessels may need more frequent inspections, while low-risk vessels may qualify for extended intervals.
API 510 inspectors must pass the comprehensive API 510 certification exam and meet specific education and experience requirements. They need knowledge of pressure vessel design, materials, corrosion mechanisms, inspection techniques, and relevant codes. Recertification is required every three years through continuing education or re-examination.
Rerating is required when vessel conditions change due to corrosion, cracking, or service modifications that affect the Maximum Allowable Working Pressure (MAWP). This includes changes in operating temperature, pressure, or service that could impact vessel integrity. All rerating must be performed by qualified API 510 inspectors.
Yes, many API 510 inspection activities can be performed on-stream including external visual inspections, thickness measurements, and non-destructive testing. However, internal inspections typically require the vessel to be taken out of service, cleaned, and properly prepared. Risk-based inspection programs help optimize inspection timing and methods.
Need Professional API 510 Services?
Our certified API 510 professionals use advanced techniques including NDT methods to ensure your assets remain safe, reliable, and compliant. Learn about our safety commitment and get started today.