Inspection of damage and risk analysis of containers in a coal drying facility in exploitation

Risk analysis of containers in a coal drying facility was performed using the Failure Modes and Effects Analysis (FMEA) method in combination with the risk matrix. The selected exploitation period analysed for all vessels was 5 years, since there is a lot of data about the maintenance performed during this period, including results of material testing performed by an accredited laboratory. Based on all issues detected by testing, risk probabilities (with corresponding levels of severity) of various defects were calculated, and potential expected repair costs determined. These probabilities were then used as input for the risk matrix which indicated the most critical types of defects, both in terms of occurring probability and the severity of their occurrence. It was concluded that through-thickness cracks were the most dangerous defect in this case. Furthermore, high probabilities of most defects considered, implied that containers will become unreliable and unfit for continued exploitation in the near future. Suggested means of preventing failures include a more thorough periodic maintenance and control of these vessels, until it is possible to fully replace them with new equipment.