Zahra Lotfian, PhD, PE Senior Engineer II Dr. Zahra Lotfian earned her PhD in Computational Mechanics and MS in Structural Engineering from the State University of New York at Buffalo. Before joining Kiefner in 2019, she worked for ExxonMobil Upstream Research Company in Spring, TX, and Princeton University as a Research Associate. Dr. Lotfian has […]
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Hydorgen and CO2 Capture Pipelines Solar Parks and Wind Farms Over 30 years of Energy… We pride ourselves in years of working with pipeline designs, codes, and regulators. Our 30+ years has taught us that no two projects are alike and getting the details right at the feasibility portion of these projects is critical to
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API-653 Hydro Waiver Brochure 1 Reconstruction and major repairs to aboveground petroleum product storage tanks require a full hydrostatic test before continued service. Performing this test can be costly, time-consuming, and often logistically challenging. Recognizing this, Section 12.3 of API 653 allows for exemptions to the hydrostatic test when certain criteria are met. One of
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Nondestructive Testing (NDT) Understanding Nondestructive Testing (NDT) Understanding material properties is pivotal to designing and operating equipment. A myriad of nondestructive and destructive testing methods exist. These nonintrusive methods provide data to ascertain material and component conditions that may identify potential flaws. NDT encompasses a range of techniques, including radiography, ultrasonic, magnetic particle, eddy current, dye
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Materials Testing The Significance of Materials Testing Understanding material properties is pivotal in designing and operating equipment. A myriad of non-destructive and destructive testing methods exists, furnishing data to ascertain product manufacture consistency, and performance levels. Effective materials testing empowers clients to gauge service suitability or pinpoint system concerns. Kiefner’s Expertise in Material Testing With
Destructive Testing & Material Verification The Essence of Material Testing When engineers design equipment and structures, they define the essential physical properties of the construction materials. Destructive testing is pivotal in material verification, ensuring alignment with the engineer’s design specifications, and compliance with regulatory standards. Whether during initial manufactures, such as pipe mill inspections or
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Failure Mode and Effect Analysis (FMEA) Unlocking Asset Insights & Future Operability FMEA investigates potential system failures, mapping out prevention, and mitigation strategies. This analytical tool offers companies a clear perspective on their assets’ present risks and future operability, ensuring enhanced safety and efficiency. Monitoring System Failures & Addressing Skill Gaps As industrial operations evolve,
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Pipeline Failure Analysis & Risk Assessment Understanding Pipeline Failures To safeguard pipeline safety, operators must be well-versed in the root causes of pipeline failures. This proactive understanding helps in avoiding similar issues in the future. Pipeline risk assessment is a cornerstone of pipeline integrity management. Though numerous software tools exist for this purpose, specialized situations
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Root Cause Analysis Understanding the Causes for Unplanned Releases Unplanned releases in pipeline systems can have a myriad of underlying causes. Investigating these causes is paramount to ascertain whether the condition is an isolated incident or indicative of a potentially widespread issue. The insights derived from a failure analysis can serve as a foundation for
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Mastering Ultrasonic Corrosion Monitoring Preserving the integrity of pipelines and equipment is paramount in the demanding world of oil and gas infrastructure. At Kiefner, we employ the ultrasonic corrosion monitoring technique, a nonintrusive method adept at mapping material thickness with unparalleled precision. This advanced methodology is essential for detecting the initial signs of degradation and
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