In-line inspection (ILI) of pipelines has established itself as the most efficient tool for evaluating the condition of a pipeline and an indispensable part of pipeline integrity management. This paper describes the new generation of ultrasonic ILI tools, both for metal loss (corrosion) and crack detection. This paper shows how requirements on ILI data and ensuing defect assessment procedures; influence the development of new tools. The performance of these new tools is discussed, their detection and sizing performance, as well as their operational characteristics and improved reporting. It is demonstrated how the new ultrasonic (UT) metal loss tools provide superior results over others in fully using the most advanced defect assessment algorithms.

Inspection of pipelines for crack and crack-like defects is another aspect where this technology offers the highest standards within the industry. Examples are shown of how cracks and crack-like defects of different kinds can be reliably detected classified and sized using this technology. Most recent results obtained with the described technology are shown, illustrating the performance and fields of application.

Subject
Sensors, Piping, Inline inspection, Thickness measurement, Pipelines, Tools, Inspection, Corrosion detection, Metal loss, Defects, Wall thickness, Cracks, Stress corrosion cracking
© 2004 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).
2004
Association for Materials Protection and Performance (AMPP)
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