Guided-Wave Evaluation as Hydro-testing Equivalent

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Threats and Integrity Management -- Anomaly Detection and Characterization

Guided Wave Ultrasonic Testing (GWUT) has been shown to be a promising technology for inspecting casings and other difficult-to-access sections of pipe. The project provided a validation methodology that could be used as the basis for a new standard that could be referenced by 49 CFR Part 192. The GWUT identified the anomalies that would have been found by hydrostatic testing to pressures equivalent to the pipe’s Specified Minimum Yield Strength (SMYS).

GWUT is a promising technology for inspecting casings and other difficult-to-access sections of pipe. Numerous R&D efforts have been undertaken to evaluate GWUT. However, the results have never been combined to provide a validation of GWUT's effectiveness in detecting anomalies, relative to pressure testing. If used as a standalone tool, GWUT is currently considered an “Other Technology” in 49 CFR 192.921 and thus requires authorization (i.e., notice must be given to PHMSA) and compliance with a PHMSA "18-point checklist". See: http://primis.phmsa.dot.gov/gasimp/notifications.htm.

Increased Safety - The ability to use GWUT to inspect casings and other difficult-to-access pipe sections will facilitate integrity management inspection in a cost-effective manner. Additionally, the use of GWUT as a stand-alone inspection tool will provide a means of compliance where, in some situations, no alternative exists.

Reduced Operations Cost -

Guided Wave Equivalency to a Hydro-test, Operations Technology Development, OTD Project Report 4.8.a, March 2010.