NDTnet 1998 Aug, Vol.3 No.8

Abstract

Corrosion detection at locations with limited accessibility, such as pipeline on supports insulated or sleeved piping and floorplates storage tanks, gives rise to many inspection problems. Hidden corrosion is found with great difficulty or in a late stage when damage is already done. Obtaining access to these locations often means taking the component out of service which can very costly or is simply impossible. Non invasive techniques that are capable of inspecting the component while in service can go around many accessibility problems and form a very cost effective way of inspecting.

RTD has developed a new method for ultrasonic inspection over long distance (typically one metre) to overcome accessibility problems. The technique employs optimised bulk wave transducers with a P-scan data recording system.

One of the main applications of LORUS (LOng Range Ultrasonic System) is aimed at external inspection of annular plates in storage tanks. The annular plate is regarded as a high risk area, which requires full attention in the tank inspection. LORUS provides a non-invasive technique for in service inspection. LORUS is capable of accurate corrosion mapping in a range of one metre inside a tank, while being filled with fluid. Inspection results can be used to input risk based analysis for tank inspection management or in combination with other techniques as an inspection tool for complete in service tankfloor inspection. The method will be further explained and results of validation tests and field applications be reported.

To illustrate the state of the art, other examples of use will be given.

Abstract Source:
Book of Abstracts, 7th European Conference on Non-Destructive Testing, 26-29 May 1998, ISBN: 87-986898-0-00

Full-Text Source:
Proceedings of the 7th European Conference on Non-Destructive Testing, 26-29 May 1998, ISBN:

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