FAQs
FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. What challenges does Tru-Fit address in small-bore tubing systems?
Tru-Fit addresses long-standing integrity challenges in small-bore tubing systems, including connector-related leakage, fugitive emissions, unplanned shutdowns, and limited visibility from conventional inspection methods.
Q2. How does the Tru-Fit inspection process work?
Tru-Fit uses a non-intrusive inspection method to assess connector assembly condition without opening or disturbing the connection. A handheld device captures inspection data in situ and generates a QR-coded record. This is scanned using the Tru-Fit application, which produces an immediate assembly condition grade from 1 to 5, where higher grades indicate more severe anomalies. This provides a consistent, repeatable data set for integrity and maintenance decision making,
Q3. How does Tru-Fit align with HSE and Energy Institute guidance?
HSE and Energy Institute guidance for small-bore tubing integrity emphasises the importance of using inspection methods that are capable of reliably identifying relevant assembly-related degradation as part of demonstrating that risks have been reduced As Low As Reasonably Practicable (ALARP).
ALARP is achieved through the application of appropriate good practice, including inspection methods that provide sufficient capability to detect credible failure mechanisms. Independent comparative studies, including published academic evaluations, have shown that conventional visual and gauge-based inspection methods have limited probability of detection (PoD) for certain connector assembly conditions. Within these studies, Tru-Fit demonstrated significantly higher detection capability under the evaluated conditions.
Many small-bore tubing (SBT) systems perform safety-critical functions. HSE has published detailed guidance on inspection and non-destructive testing (NDT), recognising that flaws in critical components can compromise system integrity and increase the likelihood of failure. The guidance explains that inspection is often the only practical means of obtaining information about the condition or ‘health’ of process plant and that inappropriate inspection can give a false impression of plant integrity and safety.
HSE also recognises that the required inspection performance should reflect the criticality of the component being inspected. In its published inspection case studies, HSE states:
“A probability of detection of only 50% may be acceptable for a regularly applied, non-critical inspection whilst for a highly critical inspection the probability of detection would need to be up near 95%.”
Independent studies have reported probability of detection (PoD) values of approximately 30% for gap gauges, 46% for close visual inspection, and 99% for Tru-Fit when assessing compression fitting assembly conditions.
As a result, Tru-Fit provides inspection evidence that is better aligned with recognised good practice for identifying connector assembly conditions and supporting ALARP demonstrations within integrity management programmes.
Tru-Fit does not replace ALARP assessments, risk evaluations or engineering judgement. It provides higher-quality inspection data to support those decision-making processes.
Further HSE guidance
HSE Hazardous Installations Directorate (HID) has also published guidance covering ALARP demonstrations, inspection capability and the introduction of new technology. These documents are provided below for reference.
Q4. What benefits can operators expect from using Tru-Fit?
Operators typically benefit from improved visibility of connector condition, reduced reliance on intrusive inspection, and more targeted maintenance planning.
By improving the quality and consistency of inspection data, Tru-Fit supports better-informed maintenance decisions and helps reduce unnecessary interventions and operational disruption.
Actual benefits will vary depending on asset type, inspection strategy, and operating enviroment.
Q5. How does Tru-Fit improve safety during inspection activities
Tru-Fit is a non-intrusive inspection method, meaning connector condition can be assessed without opening or disturbing the connection.
This reduces the need for intrusive inspection activities, which can expose personnel to additional operational hazards.
It also reduces unnecessary follow-up inspections by improving the reliability of initial condition assessment, supporting safer and more efficient inspection planning.
Q6. How does Tru-Fit compare with leak detection and x-ray inspection methods?
Leak detection identifies loss of containment after a leak has already occurred and does not provide information of pre-failure connector condition. X-rays inspection can provide limited connector information but will not typically detect common assembly faults that cause failures in-service whilst being more time-consuming, costly, and operationally disruptive, particularly when applied across large populations of fittings.
Tru-Fit is designed for scalable, non-intrusive assessment of connector assembly condition before leakage occurs, enabling faster and more consistent inspection coverage.
Q7. How does Tru-Fit support ALARP and integrity management processes?
ALARP demonstration relies on the use of appropriate inspection methods, engineering judgement, and risk assessment to reduce risk to a level that is reasonably practicable.
Tru-Fit supports this process by providing inspection data with a high probability of detection for connector assembly conditions within validated performance criteria.
This improves the quality of inputs used in integrity management and risk-based inspection programmes, helping operators make more consistent and evidence-based decisions.
Q8. How do conventional inspection methods compare to Tru-Fit?
Conventional Inspection methods such as visual checks and gauging are widely used but have limited capability in reliability detecting certain connector assembly conditions, particularly those not externally visible.
Independent studies have shown significantly lower probability of detection for these methods compared to advanced inspection techniques. Tru-Fit provides a higher-resolution, non-intrusive assessment of connector assembly condition, improving the consistency and reliability of inspection data used in integrity decision-making.
Q9. Can Tru-Fit be used during construction and commissioning?
Yes – New construction can be monitored using the Tru-Fit system. Energy Institute guidelines require ALARP risk minimisation is embedded within the construction management process and is demonstrated on an on-going basis. Tru-Fit is the only inspection method for connector assembly issues that complies with ALARP for new construction and risk based inspection.
Q10. How is Tru-Fit deployed and supported in operations?
Tru-Fit is deployed as a management inspection system, including hardware, software and user training. Inspection data is captured in the field and uploaded to a digital platform, enabling structured storage, review, and export for integration into existing integrity management systems.
Training and support and provided to ensure consistent application and interpretation of inspection results across user groups.
Q11.What is the Connector Condition Index (CCI)?
The connector condition index (CCI) is a structured integrity metric derived from Tru-Fit inspection data, designed to provide a consistent way of comparing connector condition across asset populations.
It enables operators to move from individual inspection results to a broader view of system integrity performance, supporting screening, trend analysis and engineering communication.
CCI does not replace inspection or engineering judgement. It provides a scalable interpretation layer built on validated connector condition data.