INSPECTION & QA INSIGHTS
Practical guides on pressure vessel inspection, piping inspection, welding documentation, and third-party QA written by a certified API and CWB inspector.
ARTICLES
Written by a senior API 510, API 570, and CWB Level 2 certified inspector. No filler, just what practitioners and procurement teams need to know.
How Much Does Third-Party API Inspection Cost? (2026 Pricing Guide)
Transparent pricing breakdown for API 510 pressure vessel inspection, API 570 piping inspection, CWB welding inspection, WPS/PQR review, and source inspection services in Canada and Alberta.
March 1, 2026 · 8 min read
WPS vs PQR: What's the Difference and Why Both Matter
A certified CWB Level 2 inspector explains the difference between Welding Procedure Specifications (WPS) and Procedure Qualification Records (PQR) — and why getting both right is critical for project compliance.
March 4, 2026 · 6 min read
What Is API 510 Inspection? A Certified Inspector's Complete Guide
API 510 is the standard for in-service inspection of pressure vessels. A certified API 510 inspector breaks down what the standard covers, when it applies, what inspectors look for, and how it intersects with ABSA requirements in Alberta.
March 7, 2026 · 9 min read
What Is an Inspection Test Plan (ITP)? A Complete Guide
An Inspection Test Plan (ITP) defines every inspection and test activity on a fabrication project, who performs it, and whether it is a Hold Point, Witness Point, or Review Point. This guide explains ITP structure, how to review one, and when third-party ITP review is required.
March 10, 2026 · 7 min read
Source Inspection in India for Canadian Oil and Gas Operators
Canadian operators sourcing pressure vessels, heat exchangers, and piping from India face real quality assurance challenges. This guide explains how third-party source inspection in India works, what the hybrid remote + site visit model covers, and what to budget.
March 12, 2026 · 6 min read
Remote Document Review for Oil and Gas: How It Works and When to Use It
Remote document review delivers independent QA on WPS/PQR packages, ITPs, MTRs, and inspection reports without a site visit. A certified inspector explains what gets reviewed, how the process works, and when remote review is the right call.
March 14, 2026 · 5 min read
API 510 vs API 570: What's the Difference and When You Need Both
API 510 covers pressure vessels; API 570 covers piping systems. A certified inspector explains the scope boundary, inspection interval differences, damage mechanism overlap, and why most turnarounds require both standards.
March 17, 2026 · 7 min read
Pressure Vessel Inspection Checklist: What API 510 Inspectors Look For
A practical checklist of what API 510 inspectors check during external and internal pressure vessel inspection — covering visual, UT, NDE, documentation, and report deliverables. Useful for operations teams preparing for a scheduled inspection.
March 19, 2026 · 6 min read
Third-Party vs In-House Inspection: Which Is Right for Your Project?
When does a project require an independent third-party inspector, and when is in-house QA sufficient? A certified API inspector breaks down regulatory requirements, credential gaps, cost models, and the hybrid approach most operators use.
March 21, 2026 · 7 min read
How to Prepare for an API 510 Pressure Vessel Inspection
A well-prepared inspection runs faster, produces better records, and reduces the chance of a return visit. This guide covers the documentation, vessel preparation, site logistics, and common mistakes that delay inspections.
March 24, 2026 · 7 min read
NEED A CERTIFIED INSPECTOR?
Norman QC provides independent API 510, API 570, and CWB Level 2 inspection services across Alberta and remotely worldwide. Contact for a scope discussion and fee estimate.