Improved methodology for guided wave inspections of pipelines

Phil Catton, Peter Mudge, Daphne D'Zurko, Joseph Rose

Research output: Contribution to specialist publicationArticle

1 Scopus citations

Abstract

By obtaining additional information about the extent of the defect as well as its amplitude, the accuracy of defect size determination in oil and gas pipelines using long-range ultrasonic guided waves may be improved. This is obtained by focusing the ultrasonic energy at a desired distance along the pipe from the transducer and at a desired angular position. A phased transducer array successfully used to steer and to focus ultrasonic guided waves is presented. Focusing increased the sensitivity to defects. The spatial information provided from the focused tests allows estimation of defect extent, permitting the classification of defect severity. A classification scheme is developed and applied to the results from field tests on various known defects. Such scheme gave an accurate prediction of defect severity, thereby providing pipeline operators with the information to make confident decisions about the continuing fitness for service of their pipelines.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages36, 38, 40, 42
Volume235
No6
Specialist publicationPipeline and Gas Journal
StatePublished - Jun 2008

All Science Journal Classification (ASJC) codes

  • Energy Engineering and Power Technology
  • Mechanics of Materials
  • Mechanical Engineering
  • Metals and Alloys

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