E. B. Abrahamsen & W. Røed – A FRAMEWORK FOR SELECTION OF TEST METHOD AND TEST INTERVAL FOR SAFETY CRITICAL VALVES IN SITUATIONS WITH LIMITED DATA

In this paper we present a practical framework that can support the decision on test methods and test intervals for safety critical valves in situations where limited relevant historical data is available. The framework is based upon a systematic review of the valve functions and associated failure modes, as well as properties of the environment that the valve is located in, and evaluation of this knowledge in qualitative expert workshops. The main application area for the framework is valves located upstream or downstream of large gas transport pipeline segments. The framework is however general and can be applied to smaller hydrocarbon segments as well.