Six Asset Integrity Programs Every Refinery Sub Should Know
According to Inspectioneering Journal, Ricardo Valbuena, Maintenance, Turnarounds and Construction Manager at PBF Martinez Refinery, identifies eight asset integrity programs that can significantly impact facility integrity if not properly managed. Writing in the May/June 2026 issue, Valbuena highlights programs covering corrosion under insulation (CUI), corrosion under fireproofing (CUF), external corrosion, PMI, winterization, heat exchanger inspection, vibrating piping, and plant infrastructure. He notes that CUI and CUF programs must start early, citing the updated API RP 583 third edition (April 2026) as a key reference.
What It Means for Subcontractors
- Inspection and maintenance subs working in refineries and chemical plants should familiarize themselves with API RP 583’s April 2026 update, which adds new CUI mitigation methods including insulation drying wraps and leachate barriers.
- Clients are increasingly organizing work around formal asset integrity program structures, so subs who can speak to specific programs like CUI, PMI, or heat exchanger inspection are better positioned to win scopes.
- Valbuena’s emphasis on starting corrosion programs early signals that proactive inspection contracts, not just reactive repair work, are where more contract volume is being directed.
