Case Study
Pressure Relief Analysis (PRA) Independent Review
Client: Downstream Operator | Location: USA
Our client was initiating a brownfield project to meet more stringent environmental requirements. They sought an independent review of the relief system design basis for new relief devices being installed for the project.
Our Solution
- Performed an independent analysis of a representative sample of relief systems for the project, and compared the results with the design basis provided by the engineering contractor.
- Reviewed Project’s Design Philosophy to ensure alignment with industry standards and owner/operator internal pressure relief guidance documents and engineering standards.
- Provided actionable recommendations to address findings, discrepancies, gaps, and areas for improvement, with implementations prioritized by risk level and finding type.
Key Findings
- Not all overpressure scenarios were properly identified, resulting in additional calculations to prove the adequacy of the relief devices.
- Specification of obsolete control valves resulted in the potential for undersized relief devices in the next phase of the project.
- Improper valve type selections (conventional vs. bellows), for backpressure requirements based on incomplete piping estimates.
Meet the Author
Timothy Threatt, P.E. – Technical Manager – Pressure Relief S
ystems
Timothy is an experienced chemical engineer with a background in pressure relief analysis, process simulation, and process safety management. His pressure relief experience includes identification of overpressure scenarios, pressure relief device sizing, hydraulic calculations, and identification of deficiencies.
Related Cognascents Solutions
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