Pipelines

We generally use phased-array ultrasonic testing for the detection of internal thickness losses in the pipes. This technique provides faster coverage and better interpretation of surface profiles.

 

Advantages :

• Precise thickness data
• Rapid coverage of large sections
• Excellent interpretation of indications
• Possible to inspect through a uniform and well-adhered paint
• Applicable on hot surfaces (variable maximum temperature)

 

To Consider :

• Need to apply couplant to the contact surface
• It may be difficult or impossible to take measurements from a heavily corroded contact surface
• Measurements may become more difficult to get when the thickness is less than 1 to 3 mm (depending on the application)

Phased-array ultrasonic thickness measurement data can be recorded based on position to obtain a detailed thickness map for the section of interest, mainly for internal corrosion. Different types of scanners can be used, including a dedicated scanner to scan pipe elbows.

 

Advantages :

• Efficient and detailed thickness mapping
• Accurate thickness measurements
• Data available in Excel format for "fitness for service" calculations or progress monitoring over time

 

To consider :

• Requires application of couplant or water to the contact surface
• We have a dedicated scanner for challenging elbow thickness mapping

 

Technician Certifications:

• ASNT, SNT-TC-1A, PAUT
• ASNT, UT Level 3

Magnetic particles non-destructive testing method is very efficient and simple to perform. It detects defects emerging at the surface in ferromagnetic materials. A magnetic yoke is generally used to create the magnetic field.

 

Different Techniques:

• Dry powder (yellow or red)
• Black particles on a white background ("black & white")
• Fluorescent particles (in dark environment)

 

Advantages :

• Fast and effective
• Excellent probability of detection
• Applicable on various geometries
• The dry powder technique is applicable at high temperature

 

To note :

• Applicable only to ferromagnetic materials
• Detection of surface defects, or very close to the surface, only
• Requires a clean surface (no grease)

 

Technician Certifications:

• ASNT, SNT-TC-1A, Magnetoscopy, level 2
• CGSB, Magnetoscopy, level 2

We excel wih 3D modeling technologies which allow us to obtain accurate thickness loss profiles of external corrosion. The use of self-adhesive targets on the inspected surface allows very precise scanning of the surface profile, even on site.

 

Applications:

• Detailed characterization of corroded areas
• Extensive thickness loss impact assessment using finite element analysis
• Monitoring of corrosion evolution over time

 

To Consider :

• Surface must be dry and not very reflective.
• The technique models any material on the surface, so also paint, deposits or corrosion. It is necessary to clean the surfaces of interest for more precision.
• Results obtained is the profile of the modeled surface, and not directly the wall thickness, it is necessary to supplement with ultrasound to judge the residual thicknesses.
• Require some clearance (min 12 ") from the surface of interest.

We use 3D modeling technologies which allow us to obtain accurate profile of mechanical damages, such as dents and deformations. The use of self-adhesive targets on the inspected surface allows very precise scanning of the surface profile, even on site.

 

Applications:

• Detailed characterization of the damage
• Damage assessment according to standard or using finite element analysis
• Monitoring of damage evolution over time

 

To Consider :

• Surface must be dry and not very reflective.
• The technique models any material on the surface, so also paint, deposits or corrosion. It is necessary to clean the surfaces of interest for more precision.
• Results obtained is the profile of the modeled surface, and not directly the wall thickness, it is necessary to supplement with ultrasound to judge the residual thicknesses.
• Require some clearance (min 12 ") from the surface of interest.

The ultrasonic phased-array technique allows multiple angles to be used simultaneously, creating a two-dimensional pie shape view. This greater coverage of the wall or weld section allows rapid detection of cracks, as well as a good interpretation of the type of defect.

 

Advantages :

• Fast scans with excellent probability of detection
• Characterization and accurate positioning of defects
• Volumetric inspection, not just on the surface
• Applicable on hot surfaces (variable maximum temperature)

 

To note :

• Requires application of couplant at the contact surface
• Sensitive to irregularities at the contact surface 
• Technique sensitive to very small defects, on the other hand, a crack must be of a certain depth to be characterized as such (from 1 to 3 mm depending on the application)

 

Certifications:

• ASNT, SNT-TC-1A, UT and PAUT, Levels 2 and 3
• CGSB, UT, Level 2
• API, QUPA
• ASNT, UT, Level 3

Multi-element eddy currents (Eddy Current Array) can be used to detect and map external surface cracks such as SCC ("stress corrosion cracking"), even on ferromagnetic materials. This method is based on electromagnetic induction. Defects present on the surface of the pipeline have the effect of disturbing the flow of eddy currents and their induced magnetic fields. The instrument senses amplitude and phase impedance variations for each element of the probe and presents the results in 2D and even 3D views.

 

Advantages :

• Excellent sensitivity to small surface cracks
• Good evaluation of cracks depth, up to a certain maximum depth of penetration of eddy currents
• Ability to record and map a surface to capture multiple defects quickly

 

To consider :

• Sensitive to surface irregularities (grooves, dents, weld build ups)

We have a camera mounted on a robotic crawler with ATEX explosion-proof and immersible classification. This robot has a maximum range of 1000 feet (300 meters) and can pass through pipes 4 inches and larger. The camera sits at the end of a hinged bottom that is controlled by the operator for close-up images.

 

Advantages :

• Large robot range (1000 feet)
• Very effective at going through obstacles
• Quality of images and videos
• Instrument pressurized with nitrogen (ATEX classification)
• Completely immersible

 

To note :

• Elbows can be difficult, especially for smaller diameters
• Consider creating an access for the robot (open the pipe)
• Heavy equipment to mobilize (mainly the cable reel)