Provides background information on damage that can occur to equipment in the refining process. It is intended to supplement Risk Based Inspecton (RP 580 and Publ 581) and Fitness-for-Service (RP579) technologies develeped in recent years by API to manage exisiting refining equipment integrity. It is also an excellent reference for inspection,operations, and maintenance personnel.

Covers over 60 damage mechanism. Each write-up consists of a general description of the damage, susceptible materials, of construction, critical factors, Inspection method selection guidelines, and control measures. Wherever possible, pictures are included and references are provided for each mechanism. In addition, generic process flow diagrams have been included that contain a summary of the major damage flow mechanism expected for typical refinery process units.