Page 35 - SIM Guide to annual assessment_v2.0_Dec 2021

Steel

CATEGORIZATION OF DEFECTS

Other type of flaws and “Safe Side” categorization

INCLUDES:
▪ Other type of faults and damages on steel elements and structures not
categorized previously in this document.

CATEGORIZATION / ACTION:
▪ Categorization shall be based on the “best judgment” and consider how critical is

the steel element for the entire structure and what could the timeline for a further
degradation leading to a failure of the element.

▪ In case of doubt, it is recommended that the inspector categorize the LFF in a
conservative way (higher LFF) and trigger immediate reparation or Expert
Assessment, if applicable.

▪ Criticality of a member or a part of a member shall be considered. Critical

members are those essential for the structural integrity (e.g. columns, welds in
suspended hopper).
▪ Consider the possibility of some members apparently not loaded during an

inspection may be occasionally extremely loaded (example: Effect of lateral wind
load on bracing elements).

Examples:

Misalignment of members Missing members Internal welding

Partly bolted
and partly welded Cuts on plates to fit bolts Fire damage

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