scope:

This document describes how to inspect fiber-reinforced plastic (FRP) equipment that is already in service ("used") to determine its condition, knowledge of which is used to assess fitness for continued service and to plan repairs. Three complementary types of inspection are described: (1) External inspection with the equipment in service (supplemented with infrared thermography inspection); (2) External inspection with the equipment out of service; (3) Internal inspection. In general all three inspections should be done for a complete inspection. Inspection methods, including infra-red thermography, Barcol hardness, acoustic emission testing, spark testing and radiography are discussed.

These inspection guidelines apply to conventional FRP equipment, including tanks, piping, stacks, ducts, etc., and to "dual laminate" FRP equipment. Inspection of resin-based linings, which can be FRP laminates or resin vehicles filled with inert materials and trowel or spray-applied, is not directly covered although the general principles and practices discussed herein can be applied where such linings are protective barriers for metal and non-metal substrates.