Best Tech Solutions for Pipe in-line Inspection

There are three methods of pipe in-line inspection.

10:58 23 February 2021

The direct assessment, hydro test, and pipeline Inline Inspection. The in-line inspection method gives the most details about pipe defects and allows pipeline inspection to go through without operations interruptions. At https://www.pipecaregroup.com/inline-inspection/, you can learn more about this method and why most pipeline companies opt for this method.

 

Importance of pipe Inline Inspection

 

Pipeline integrity management is a requirement for any pipeline operator to maintain the safety of the environment. Through the in-line inspection (ILI) the operators can get details regarding the pipe status and lay strategies to improve their operations. Below are some of the reasons why operators opt for pipe inspection.

 

• Cleaning to remove impurities that can affect the quality of the product
  
  
• Crack and corrosion detection
  
  
• For proper repair and maintenance procedures

 

Through the latest tech solutions, the process of pipeline inspection is made easy. Below are highlights of the best tech solutions and their applications.

 

Tech solutions for pipeline In-line inspection

 

• Ultrasound technology

 

The technology focuses on metal corrosion and loss. UT is a non-destructive pipeline inspection technology that uses smart pigs to detect pipe thickness. Through such inspection, details on metal corrosion and the extent of metal loss emerge. Through the technology, lamination and inclusions detection is also possible.

 

• Magnetic flux leakage

 

Through this technology, pipe inspection is possible even for the hard to inspect pipes. It helps in measuring circumferential corrosion through the use of smart pigs. For pipelines where the smart pigs don't work, the technology offers options for customizable solutions.

 

• Ultrasonic Crack Detection technology

 

Cracks on the pipes can form at any stage. They may occur during manufacture, transportation, or in the process of pipeline construction. Mechanical stress or corrosion can also lead to cracks. Through ultrasonic crack detection technology, the detection of both longitudinal and circumferential is possible.

 

• Caliper technology

 

Through this technology, geometry inspection of pipelines is possible. Pipe shape deviations detection is possible at the early stages. Such deviations affect the flow of the product and increase energy consumption. Geometry deviations also accelerate the rate of corrosion and cracking in pipes. Early detection and repairs are possible through caliper technology.

 

• Transverse field inspection technology

 

The high-resolution TFI technology ensures accuracy in detecting the size of anomalies in pipelines. Mapping simultaneously is also possible through the IMUs. Pipe inspection companies may run this technology alone or with other ILI tools for a comprehensive pipeline integrity inspection.

 

• EMAT technology

 

The in-lien inspection method using the EMAT technology does not need a liquid couplant. One of the limitations of ultrasonic technology is the requirement of liquid couplant. The EMAT technology is also advantageous because detection of any parts with the disbanded coating is possible. The level of accuracy in the detection of cracks is almost 100%.

 

Pipeline inspection companies that use these tools can detect internal and external metal loss, corrosion pits, and bulging. Through the above ILI inspection technologies, detection of welds, ovality, and pinholes is possible. Such information makes it easier for pipeline integrity management.