Intrinsically Safe Pipeline Corrosion Tool Launched
CorDex Instruments has launched a new ultrasonic tool for detecting corrosion in pipelines which for the first time provides the ability to build a predictive maintenance program to improve safety. CorDex unveiled the dynamic handheld UT5000 at the Offshore Technology Conference in Houston. The intrinsically safe tool for non-destructive testing has the ability to rapidly measure metal thickness to establish the extent of corrosion and is combined with intelligent data tracking.
The UT5000 with CorDex connect uses RFID technology to locate and log up to 1,000 measurements, each linked to a specific location, date and time. It can be used for days or weeks in the field before the data is downloaded, providing accurate corrosion analysis and helping to predict potential failures. A unique corrosion mode helps identify thinning spots and MultiECHO technology improves measurement accuracy on uneven surfaces.
The tool has been developed in response to integrity issues, particularly in ageing pipelines which can run for thousands of miles. Calls have been made recently for an increase in fines following tragic pipeline incidents in the US where defective welds and poor testing and record keeping have been blamed.
Marcus Halliday, CorDex Instruments director said: “More than 2.5 million miles of pipeline deliver oil and gas to communities and businesses around the US alone. Multiply that many times around the world and it is clear that pipeline maintenance programs based on solid information can save companies millions of dollars and avert dangerous failures. The UT5000 can safely and rapidly measure any corrosion and with its smart RFID technology, can build the robust report required to identify and trend developing trouble spots.”