Mar 16, 2011
The most common corrosive species that has caused failures in chemical plant is the chloride ion. Chloride Stress Corrosion Cracking (CSCC) can occur in hot acid chloride solutions, sodium chloride/peroxide solutions, and seawater. Other neutral halides such as bromides, iodides and fluorides can also cause SCC of the 300 series stainless steels.
Feb 17, 2011
In the processing world, one of the major hurdles we must face is a plant audit. Whether by a regulatory agency or a customer, this can be daunting and time consuming. When an audit is scheduled in your plant, what is your game plan? Share with us your best tips for a successful performance, whether it’s meetings with operators, checklists, or key items you...
Feb 4, 2011
Question: If I purchase AL-6XN alloy (N08367) tubing or fittings to the ASTM A270-S2 specification, will they meet the low sulfur requirements? Many end users in pharmaceutical industry require the ASTM A270-S2 (pharmaceutical quality) tubing for their application. However, sulfur requirements are commonly misunderstood, and the ASTM A270 specification covers...
Jan 24, 2011
Mixproof Valve technology is advanced enough to completely replace Transfer Panels. Manufacturers tout the fully-automated operation and smaller footprint of mixproofs, but many processors hold firm to the old standby of transfer panels. What’s your take? Have you made the switch, or is there something about Transfer Panels that you can’t give up? I’d love to hear your opinions.
Jan 20, 2011
Many of our customers whose processes utilize high chloride materials or are subject to extremely corrosive applications know that the life span of a vessel which uses a properly specified nickel alloy or reactive (commercially pure) metal can justify the additional expense. While the cost of an alloy tank itself can be higher, remember to factor the additional costs incurred from downtime, maintenance, or replacement, including removal and installation.
Nov 9, 2010
When first considering your options for a new process design, one very important question to ask is: What’s the value of a skid system? There are many advantages to using a skid system, particularly for processing companies that intend to grow their business. If the process is likely to be expanded in the future, the skid can be designed to accommodate...
