This paper is concerned with a new non-invasive ultrasonic transducer for measuring the wall thickness of pipelines, vessels and structures to provide information on the effects of corrosion and erosion.; In its simplest form the system comprises of a flexible multi-element array of ultrasonic transducers, an ultrasonic flaw detector, switch unit and associated cabling. Fully automated systems are now available for unmanned applications. The flexibility of the transducers allows it to be permanently bonded to areas which are difficult to inspect by conventional means due to limited access or component geometry such as, pipe bends, the underside of vessels, underneath cladding etc.; The system is currently in use on several offshore oil platforms and in oil and chemical plants onshore. This paper outlines the initial and continuing development of the system, how it is installed / deployed, typical results obtained and then concludes with the benefits that have been enjoyed as a result of the system.

Subject
Materials, Manufacturing, Thickness measurement, Installation, Corrosion detection, Transducers, Polyvinylidene fluoride, Flaws, Wall thickness, Equipment, Corrosion data, Elements, Oil
Keywords:
Corrosion monitoring, non-invasive, ultrasonic, wall thickness, permanent, flexible, erosion, continuous
© 1997 Association for Materials Protection and Performance (AMPP). All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted, in any form or by any means (electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise) without the prior written permission of AMPP. Positions and opinions advanced in this work are those of the author(s) and not necessarily those of AMPP. Responsibility for the content of the work lies solely with the author(s).
1997
Association for Materials Protection and Performance (AMPP)
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