Multi-receiver Corrosion Detection Tool for Pipe Thickness
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing corrosion detection tools in wellbore operations are inadequate for accurately determining the thickness of pipes and detecting defects, particularly corrosion, due to limitations in processing induction logging tool data.
Innovation Solution
A multi-receiver corrosion detection tool with buck and non-bucked receivers that processes impedance measurements from transmitters and receivers to estimate pipe thickness and detect defects, using a combination of collocated receivers and a segmented magnetic core to enhance resolution and sensitivity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If previous processing of induction logging tool data is used for determination of conductivity of formations, then the processing method is simple and well-established, but it is inadequate for detection of certain defects in the pipe, example corrosion
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the pipe into multiple discrete sections along its length, with each section analyzed independently for corrosion detection. This segmentation allows the processing system to evaluate thickness variations at specific locations rather than treating the entire pipe as a uniform structure, thereby enabling localized defect detection while maintaining a structured approach to data analysis.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from conventional formation conductivity analysis to a multi-dimensional assessment that includes radial thickness measurements, axial position, and defect characterization. By adding these dimensional aspects to the data processing framework, the system can detect corrosion defects that would be invisible in conventional conductivity-only analysis.
2Measurement precision
If a single receiver is used in the corrosion detection tool, then the device complexity is reduced, but the resolution and sensitivity for detecting pipe defects is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the receiver system into multiple discrete receivers positioned at different locations and orientations around the pipe. Each receiver captures electromagnetic field information from a specific sector, and the combined data from all receivers provides comprehensive coverage of the pipe circumference, enabling precise localization and characterization of corrosion defects.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a nested receiver configuration where receivers are positioned at multiple radial distances from the pipe surface and at different angular positions. This nested arrangement allows inner receivers to capture near-field information while outer receivers capture far-field information, providing multi-scale resolution for detecting defects of varying sizes and depths.
3Measurement precision
If induction logging tool data is processed using conventional methods, then the processing time is short and computational resources are minimized, but the detection accuracy for corrosion defects is inadequate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary processing steps to the raw electromagnetic data before full analysis, including noise filtering, signal normalization, and initial defect candidate identification. This preliminary action reduces the complexity of subsequent detailed analysis by pre-processing the data to highlight relevant features and remove artifacts, thereby improving detection accuracy while managing computational time.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements an iterative feedback mechanism where initial defect detections are used to refine the analysis parameters and focus subsequent processing on regions of interest. The system continuously compares measured data against modeled responses, adjusting processing parameters based on detected anomalies, which improves accuracy by concentrating computational resources on critical areas rather than uniformly processing all data.
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
This approach provides unprecedented accuracy in estimating pipe thickness and detecting defects, especially in multi-pipe configurations, offering improved sensitivity and resolution beyond current technologies.
Implementation Method 1
a corrosion detection tool with buck and non-bucked receivers and the processing of data therefrom
Implementation Method 2
Previous processing of induction logging tool data for determination of conductivity of formations
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3A
Figure 3B~3C
AI summary
A corrosion detection system for a pipe may include a corrosion detection tool. The corrosion detection tool may include a transmitter and a receiver. The transmitter and receiver have measurements associated with each and these measurements may be used to determine an impedance. Derived constants match a numerical model that is based on the measurements associated with the transmitter and the nominal thickness of the pipe. The information related to the thickness of a pipe surrounding the corrosion detection is based on the derived constants and the impedance. This thickness of the pipe may be used to determine if a section of a pipe has a defect, such as, corrosion.