In this episode, Robert Freed, Ph.D., FASM, Associate Director at the Materials Technology Institute, joins co-hosts Heather Allain and Marc Cook for a practical, materials-focused discussion on corrosion and wear. Robert helps clarify the differences between abrasion, adhesive wear, erosion, and cavitation, and explains how these damage mechanisms commonly show up in industrial equipment such as extruders and other high-wear components. The conversation explores key variables that influence wear performance, how wear can accelerate corrosion, and why factors like particle size matter. Robert also walks through methods for evaluating and ranking materials, including relevant ASTM wear tests, metals lab analysis, and the pros and cons of different overlay solutions—such as laser cladding, thermal spray, and weld overlay—as well as non-metallic options. The episode closes with insight into MTI-led research projects and practical considerations for selecting materials and processes to manage wear in demanding operating environments.

In this episode, Evan Lowrance, Corporate NDT Engineer at Webco Industries, and Jonathan Konerza, Tubing Division Manager at Sentinel Integrity Solutions, join co-hosts Heather Allain and Marc Cook for an in-depth look at eddy current testing (ECT) of heat exchanger tubes. Together, they break down how ECT works, the differences between internal and external testing, and how factors like magnetism and material conductivity influence test results. The conversation explores how eddy current testing compares to IRIS testing, what types of defects ECT is best suited to detect, and where its limitations exist. Evan and Jonathan also discuss the importance of reference standards, technician qualification, and tailoring inspection programs to expected degradation mechanisms. The episode wraps with practical insight into evaluating NDE providers and recognizing warning signs that testing may not be delivering reliable results.

In this episode, Danny Mock, managing partner for M10 Process Equipment, Inc., joins co-hosts Heather Allain and Marc Cook to take listeners inside the world of column internals and the fundamentals that drive mass-transfer performance. Danny breaks down what mass-transfer equipment is and how internals efficiency is evaluated, offering practical insight into design considerations that influence reliability and long-term operation. He discusses the importance of selecting materials with appropriate corrosion allowances, how internals are attached and supported, and what engineers should know about bolted fasteners, dissimilar metals, tray flatness, and the risks associated with creep and thermal expansion. The conversation also covers column fires, static charge generation, and the role of random packing in modern column design. Whether you're troubleshooting existing towers or designing new equipment, this episode provides a comprehensive look at the details that matter most inside a process column.