A New, Improved Pipeline AUT Girth Weld Inspection System

Automated ultrasonics is steadily becoming the standard method of inspection of pipeline girth welds throughout the world. In addition, old technology multiprobe systems are rapidly being replaced by newer phased arrays. Olympus NDT developed the first phased array system a decade ago, which proved to be much more flexible and capable than multiprobe systems, particularly for offshore special applications. As such, the original system effectively became the global standard in AUT. A new system has been developed, which incorporates all the techniques developed for the original system, e.g. seamless pipe, thick section inspections, small diameter pipe inspections, clad pipe, and is significantly more powerful and flexible. Compared with the original system, the new system: • Has much improved ultrasonic performance • Is more robust • Is easier to upgrade • Is more maintainable • Is highly modular, i.e. flexible • Has increased applications capability • Requires no additional training and qualification. The new system can be configured to match the application, e.g. from thin onshore gas pipelines to thick risers and tendons, by changing the instrumentation and packaging. The instrumentation can be removed and placed near the weld if convenient. The umbilical is improved with lengths from 5m to 25m. The scanner is lighter and lower profile, with waterproof TOFD pre-amp. The instrumentation is upgraded to the Focus LT, including multiple units up to 128/256, while the software is based on TomoView 3.0 and is upgradeable. A much higher data transfer speed allows additional inspection techniques to be used simultaneously. For example A-scan compression is available for full data collection on S-scans. The ability to display strip charts, S-scans and merged views on the same display layout is good for detailed defect analysis. The computer is switched to a server for improved robustness. GPS is used for location, with wireless data transfer. Overall, the new system has all the original system capabilities, plus significantly increased applications capability. In addition, the new system has been designed so that no additional training is required for experienced operators, and no additional system approvals should be required outside regular project qualifications.