AB-539
Composite Inspectors Course

Course Overview

This course breaks down the activities involved in the design, manufacturing, installation, examination, etc. for the usage of Engineered Composite Systems (ECS) as a repair method, and provides inspector-focused education on each aspect. Its purpose is to create competency for Owner-User Inspectors to ensure consistent high-quality Engineered Composite System (ECS) installations and satisfy the requirements of AB-539.  This training is reinforced with hands-on training, including basic composite installation training that is mandated by AB-539. 

As per AB-539, below outlines the requirements of training for inspectors for composite systems:

AB-539 - 7.2.1 Training

a) The owner-user is responsible for the training of inspectors in the application and inspection of ECSs.

b) The inspector at a minimum shall have training and certification for in-service pressure equipment inspection.

c) The inspector shall complete basic training in the application of engineered composite systems. 

Key Learning Objectives & Expectations

Upon successful completion of this course, a student will be able to:

• Define common terms associated with ECS.
• Understand the Responsibilities of the various organizations involved with an Engineered Composite System (ECS) Alterations:
  • Owner-Use
  • ECS Supplier
  • ECS Designer
  • ECS Installer
  • Regulator
• ECS applicability which includes limitations regarding:
  • Pressure
  • Temperature
  • Pressure Equipment Category
  • Defect Type
  • Code of Construction
• Registration and Alteration reporting requirements
• Clearly define what is an ECS and its components.
• ECS Material Qualification and the responsibilities of both the Supplier and the Installer
• Design Methodology from the Owner User perspective
• Competencies of Installers and Inspectors
• Owner-User and Installer responsibilities related to competency.
• Examination & Testing; Pre, in-process, and post-installation

It is the expectation that all students participate in both the hands-on activity and the classroom discussion.

Lack of participation and or missing class time may result in an “incomplete” assessment at the instructor’s discretion.

Course Schedule

Course Completion

• A score of 80% or greater on the written exam.
• Successful completion:
  • Substrate surface profile measurement
  • Identify ECS defects
  • ECS hardness measurements

Additional information and resources

• AB-539
• ASME PCC-2
• ISO 24817