Foreign Material Exclusion (FME) is the process by which foreign material is kept out of systems and components. This is accomplished by implementing controls, monitoring, procedures and product based solutions to ensure foreign material is captured/controlled to prevent introduction into operational systems. Foreign Material Exclusion originated in the Nuclear Power Industry, and best practices are typically captured in a facility’s “FME Plan” or "FME Procedure".
Foreign Material, as defined by INPO (Institute of Nuclear Power Operations) Guidelines, is comprised of “any material that is not part of the system or component as designed”. Some examples of foreign material are the following: dirt, debris, broken or missing parts, oil, slag, tools, rags, chemicals, machine tailings, lapping compounds, polishing wires, tie wires, solvents, grinding particles, paint chips, leak-sealing compounds, personal protective equipment, and any other items that could adversely affect the intended operation, components, or chemistry of the system. The ultimate goal of an FME Plan is to help reduce/eliminate FMI (Foreign Material Intrusion) events, which must be documented, and can have adverse effects on worker safety and plant machinery lifespan and efficiency.
The following are example pillars of an FME plan:
- Defined FME controls for open components and systems
- Use of FME logs and zone establishment materials
- Performing routine field observations, inspections and monitoring
- Proper usage of FME Devices Signage, Drop Prevention for Tooling, FME Covers, FME Tarps, Caps, Plugs and Sponges and custom solutions designed to protect open components and systems.
- Defined process for the recovery of foreign material, if an event were to occur
A Dropped Tool can result in shredded Turbine Blades, which decrease power effectiveness and require replacement. This was caused by a roll of paper towels.
Fuel Failure at a Nuclear Facility caused by Metal Debris, Resulting in a Multi-Million Dollar Forced Outage.
