Metallurgical Failure Assessment Consultant

The CSB is assessing a steam explosion that occurred on April 3, 2017, in St. Louis, Missouri. The bottom head of a 510-gallon steel vessel called a semi-closed receiver (SCR) failed. The remnants of the bottom head of the vessel looks severely corroded while the shell of the vessel, even the part directly adjacent to the severely corroded head, looks nearly pristine. The objective of this procurement is to obtain the services of an expert to provide advice on specific engineering and technical issues in metallurgical failure mechanisms. As part of this procurement, the contractor shall: Travel to Wentzville, MO. Conduct a preliminary examination of the subject pressure vessel, and remnants of the bottom head of this vessel. Review evidence provided by the CSB to further understand possible failure modes. Provide recommendations to the CSB on further documentation to obtain to aid in the diagnosis of probable failure modes. Advise the CSB on where and how to collect metal samples for further laboratory testing (i.e. where to cut the vessel, and what type of tool should be used to make the cut). Identify the material(s) of construction of the heads, the "tank circle," and the shell of the vessel. Write a brief report describing apparent corrosion mechanism(s) and failure mode of the SCR supported by evidence from metallurgical, chemical, and possibly other analyses. Include possible explanations for the distinct differences in damage between the original shell and head material. Before performing any task, the contractor shall advise the COR of its plan and methodology for the task, and obtain the COR's approval of such plan and methodology. The contractor shall provide all equipment required to perform the work under this contract.