Pipeline Integrity Assessment Using In-Line Inspection (ILI)

Under Development

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Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA)

Threats and Integrity Management -- Anomaly Detection and Characterization

This PHMSA-funded project investigated two technologies: Structured Waveform Magnetic Field (SWMF) and Low-Frequency Eddy Current with Saturating Field. These technologies have the potential to produce an ILI tool that can exceed these limitations and provide ID, mid-wall, and OD defect inspection (corrosion and cracks) under ILI operating conditions. Project results will serve as a basis for future commercialization of ILI tool designs.

This research effort is focused on technology for enhanced ILI tools that can be easily deployed, ideally at a lower cost and with fewer personnel and infrastructure compared to existing tools. It demonstrated the feasibility for ERW weld crack detection, internal and external corrosion imaging, longitudinal stress mapping and post weld heat treatment assessment using an advanced MWM-Array. Existing arrays are limited by current technology and not always practical for certain ILI approaches or defects.

Increased Safety - The technology aimed at reducing the cost of the ILI tool, improving its sensitivity, and making it easier to use will encourage wider use. More repetitive ILI runs are planned to detect more defects, providing more effective integrity management.

Reduced Operations Cost -

PHMSA, https://primis.phmsa.dot.gov/matrix/PrjHome.rdm?prj=562