API 570 Piping Inspection

API 570 Piping Inspection is the in-service inspection, rating, repair, and alteration of piping systems in accordance with the American Petroleum Institute’s API 570 standard. In Malaysia, this inspection is crucial for oil and gas, petrochemical, chemical, and power generation facilities to ensure safe operation and compliance with the DOSH (Department of Occupational Safety and Health) regulations. Regular API 570 inspections detect corrosion, erosion, leaks, and other forms of deterioration before they lead to failures, accidents, or costly shutdowns.

The inspection interval depends on the service conditions, fluid type, operating pressure, and piping material. API 570 requires an initial baseline inspection, followed by periodic internal and external inspections at intervals defined by risk-based inspection (RBI) assessments or fixed schedules. In Malaysia, DOSH guidelines often require inspections every 12 to 60 months, with more frequent checks for high-risk service lines.

An API 570 inspection typically includes external visual examinations, ultrasonic thickness measurements, corrosion under insulation (CUI) checks, pressure testing, and non-destructive testing (NDT) such as magnetic particle or dye penetrant testing. Inspectors also review piping design data, material certificates, and maintenance records to evaluate the remaining life and fitness-for-service of the system.

DOSH regulates the use of piping systems in hazardous and high-pressure environments to ensure workplace safety. API 570 inspections conducted by certified inspectors help facility owners comply with the Factories and Machinery Act and Occupational Safety and Health Act, avoiding penalties, insurance issues, or enforced shutdowns

Yes, certain non-invasive inspection techniques such as ultrasonic testing, thermal imaging, and external visual surveys can be carried out while the system is operating. However, internal inspections and certain NDT methods may require plant shutdowns, especially for high-risk lines or areas where internal access is needed.

Common findings include general corrosion, localized pitting, weld defects, misalignment, erosion at bends, corrosion under insulation (CUI), and thinning in straight runs or elbows. Detecting these issues early allows maintenance teams to perform targeted repairs, extend piping lifespan, and reduce unplanned downtime.

CT Precise Engineering offers rapid mobilisation for API 570 Piping Inspection services across Malaysia, with the capability to respond to urgent requests on the same day. Whether your facility is located in Johor Bahru, Kuantan, Penang, Klang Valley, or on offshore platforms, our inspection teams are fully equipped with portable NDT tools and API 570 certified inspectors ready to deploy.

For emergency situations such as suspected leaks, rapid corrosion progression, or unexpected shutdowns, we prioritise immediate mobilisation to help clients minimise downtime and prevent further damage. Our approach includes on-site risk assessments, real-time data collection, and preliminary reporting before the end of the inspection day.

We also work closely with DOSH to ensure that all inspections meet Malaysia’s regulatory requirements, enabling a smoother certification or compliance process. For larger plants or extensive piping networks, we can scale up manpower and equipment to cover more ground in less time, ensuring the entire inspection is completed efficiently without compromising accuracy.