This recommended practice discusses damage mechanisms applicable to oil refineries, however, much of the information herein can also be applied to petrochemical and other industrial applications, as the
user deems appropriate. It is up to the user to determine the applicability and appropriateness of the information contained herein to their facility.

API RP 571 is a reference document that provides useful information by itself and also complements other API standards and recommended practices. The document should be utilized as referenced to other integrity-related documents. It is intended to contribute to the overall management of pressure equipment integrity and is a useful resource for many mechanical integrity program activities, including:
a) identification of existing damage or deterioration and anticipated rates of degradation,
b) identification of future damage mechanism susceptibilities,
c) development and maintenance of inspection and monitoring strategies, programs, and plans (e.g., per
API 510, 570, and 653),
d) implementation and monitoring of integrity operating windows (IOWs) (see API RP 584),
e) development of corrosion control documents (CCDs) (see API RP 970),
f) implementation of risk-based inspection (RBI) programs (see API RP 580 and 581),
g) conducting fitness-for-service (FFS) assessments (see API RP 579),
h) application of proper examination techniques, and
i) conducting pressure equipment integrity incident investigations (see API RP 585).