Above-Ground Detection Tools for Disbondment, Metal Loss, and Cast-Iron Graphitization

Under Development

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Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA)

Threats and Integrity Management -- Anomaly Detection and Characterization

The Above-ground Detection Tool (ADT) consists of a mobile platform for detecting coating disbondment, graphitization and external corrosion by measuring the pipe’s magnetic field signatures from above ground. Alternating current is applied to the test pipe, generating magnetic fields which are affected by corrosion and disbondment. A suite of sensors moves along the pipe with stops at specific intervals to take readings, which are geo-referenced at the location and time when they are captured. An operator is able to review the data and intervene in the platform operation if needed.

The technology is a process for detecting corrosion threats and coating disbondment through an external direct assessment (ECDA) process; with the potential of adding a practical tool to the pipeline inspection procedures.

Increased Safety - This is a proactive approach to facilitate monitoring, which will help to detect potential pipeline threats (corrosion or mechanical damage) so that they can be addressed sooner, resulting in more effective integrity management.

PHMSA, https://primis.phmsa.dot.gov/matrix/PrjHome.rdm?prj=500