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Monday, March 23, 2009: 1:30 PM
C304 (Georgia World Congress Center)
The phenomenon of Stress Corrosion Cracking (SCC) as a major integrity threat has been investigated intensively and discussed since the 1970's. Based on the far-reaching understanding of this threat today, integrity management programs have been developed further in the recent past.
The detection of SCC with liquid coupled ultrasonic technology is well accepted within the pipeline industry. Part of this acceptance is the successful application of such assessment standards as API 579. It has been shown that the conventional ultrasonic technology is sensitive and accurate enough to meet the needs of the standard.
Recently, another form of ultrasonic technology has been recognized as a competitive alternative for in-line inspection tools. The electromagnetic acoustic transducer (EMAT) based ultrasonic technology does not require a liquid coupling making it cost effective for use in gas pipelines.
In this paper a case study is referenced and inspection results from several gas pipelines are presented and put into perspective to establish that EMAT technology is sufficiently sensitive and accurate to meet industry standards like API 579, making it a viable option for pipeline operators, especially for transportation of gaseous media.
The detection of SCC with liquid coupled ultrasonic technology is well accepted within the pipeline industry. Part of this acceptance is the successful application of such assessment standards as API 579. It has been shown that the conventional ultrasonic technology is sensitive and accurate enough to meet the needs of the standard.
Recently, another form of ultrasonic technology has been recognized as a competitive alternative for in-line inspection tools. The electromagnetic acoustic transducer (EMAT) based ultrasonic technology does not require a liquid coupling making it cost effective for use in gas pipelines.
In this paper a case study is referenced and inspection results from several gas pipelines are presented and put into perspective to establish that EMAT technology is sufficiently sensitive and accurate to meet industry standards like API 579, making it a viable option for pipeline operators, especially for transportation of gaseous media.