Manage CUI Risks with Evolving Strategies, Recommended Practices

The oil, gas, and petrochemical industries are under intensifying pressure to operate more safely, reduce environmental risks, and extend the life of critical infrastructure. One of the biggest threats to asset integrity—corrosion under insulation (CUI)—continues to drive costly failures, with CUI reportedly responsible for 60% of pipeline incidents worldwide. This article provides a timely perspective on how the industry is evolving its strategies for managing CUI, as well as the vital role that recommended practices play in aligning inspection, monitoring, and maintenance programs. It highlights the release of CUI-RP-101: Issue 1, the first recommended practice dedicated to continuous CUI monitoring systems. This document was developed with input from major operators including Aramco, Dow, INEOS, Chevron, and CorrosionRADAR.