Modular Digital Radiographic Pipe Inspection Tool
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing digital radiographic tools for inspecting pipes are difficult to install and maneuver, especially on insulated pipes in refineries, and create dead zones due to their complexity and size, making it challenging to detect corrosion and defects effectively.
Innovation Solution
A simplified digital radiographic tool with a track assembly, car assembly, arm assembly, and adjustable collimator, allowing for easy movement along pipes and accommodating different sizes, with a digital detector array to collect x-rays or gamma rays and process images for defect detection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a complex digital radiographic tool is used to inspect pipes, then the detection capability is improved, but the device complexity and difficulty of installation increase
Solution Approach 1:
The digital radiographic tool is divided into separate modular components including a radiation source assembly, detector array, and positioning system. Each module can be independently installed and adjusted, reducing overall installation complexity while maintaining detection precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The inspection system transitions from traditional single-point detection to a two-dimensional detector array that captures radiographic images across the pipe cross-section. This dimensional change improves defect detection capability by providing comprehensive coverage without requiring proportionally increased system complexity.
2Area of stationary object
If a large digital radiographic tool is used to ensure complete coverage, then the detection coverage is improved, but the maneuverability and ease of operation worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The detector array is segmented into multiple smaller detector elements that can be independently positioned. This segmentation allows the system to cover a large inspection area while maintaining compact individual components that are easier to maneuver and install in confined spaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The radiographic tool incorporates adjustable and movable components including the radiation source position and detector array configuration. These dynamic elements allow the system to adapt to different pipe sizes and inspection requirements, improving maneuverability while maintaining comprehensive coverage capability.
3Productivity
If a traditional radiographic tool is used on insulated pipes, then the inspection capability is limited, but with the new tool the inspection efficiency is improved
Solution Approach 1:
The digital radiographic tool is designed with universal applicability to inspect both insulated and non-insulated pipes. The system incorporates features such as adjustable radiation energy levels and detector sensitivity that allow it to effectively penetrate insulation materials while maintaining inspection efficiency comparable to dedicated solutions.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables efficient, cost-effective, and minimally personnel-intensive inspection of pipes, including those with insulation, by ensuring complete coverage and reducing dead zones, thus improving the detection of corrosion and defects.
Implementation Method 1
a radiation source of x-rays or gamma rays is projected through a pipe under test
Implementation Method 2
a radiation source of x-rays or gamma rays is projected through a pipe under test
Implementation Method 3
The less radiation that reaches the detector, the better the pipe. The more radiation that reaches the detector, the more wear or corrosion in the pipe
Data Source
AI summary
A digital radiographic tool with drive car for moving along track sections attached longitudinally to a pipe is shown. The drive car carries (1) a collimator on one side of the pipe for projecting x-rays or gamma rays on said pipe and (2) a linear digital array on an opposing side of the pipe for collecting x-rays or gamma rays that have passed through the pipe. The collected rays are processed to indicate any defects in the pipe. The digital radiographic tool is adjustable to allow inspection of pipes that have obstructions adjacent thereto.