Evaluation Phase for Removal of Insulation from Equipment in service for CUI inspections.

As part of an insulation removal evaluation phase, the following list of questions may be helpful for review prior to executing CUI inspections:
• Is equipment/piping in cyclic service? If ‘yes’, what are the maximum temperatures expected, and duration of maximum temperature?
• Is equipment/piping in Intermittent Service? If yes, what is the frequency of operation?
• Is equipment/piping subject to steaming and/or hot gas treatment? If yes, what is the frequency? Maximum temperature and the duration?
• Can the insulation be removed for CUI inspection and remediation while the equipment/piping is in service without adversely affecting process control and product quality?
• Is equipment/piping currently Out-of-Service?
• Is insulation installed for the sole purpose of personnel protection (> 140 F)? If yes, can metal cages or ceramic coatings be used instead of insulation?
• Does the equipment/piping contain fluids that may freeze resulting in an interruption of service(s)?
• Does the equipment/piping need insulation for process control/unit production? If yes, would wind and rain guards suffice?
• Does the equipment/piping require heat tracing? If yes, is the heat tracing used continuously or only if certain conditions exist?
• Does the equipment/piping require insulation to reduce condensation?
• Does the equipment/piping require insulation for acoustics?
• Does the equipment/piping require insulation for fire protection or controlling pressure relieving events?
• Do the heat conservation economics dictate this equipment/piping be insulated? [Usually considered at > 200°F (>95°C).