Pipe Internal Surface Inspection Using Eddy Current PIGs
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional instrumented PIGs for pipe inspection are costly, complex, and inefficient for recurring inspections due to high operating costs, requirement of multiple sensors, and difficulties in removing tools from pipes, especially those using MFL techniques, which limits their ability to detect anomalies and maintain pipe integrity effectively.
Innovation Solution
A low-cost, modular, and flexible inspection tool equipped with eddy current sensors and a pressure vessel housing electronics, allowing for efficient detection of pipe anomalies and components by generating a magnetic field that amplifies sensitivity, reducing the number of sensors needed and simplifying tool deployment and removal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional instrumented PIGs with MFL technique are used for pipe inspection, then magnetic field generation for defect detection is achieved, but the tool requires extra equipment for removal and has high operating costs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the magnet from the inspection tool, using the pipe wall itself as the magnetic source. The eddy current sensors detect magnetic field disturbances caused by defects in the pipe wall, eliminating the need for onboard magnets and their associated removal equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces eddy current sensors as an intermediary between the inspection goal and the pipe wall. These sensors detect changes in the magnetic field generated by the pipe wall itself, allowing indirect detection of defects without requiring direct magnetic field generation by the tool.
2Measurement precision
If conventional instrumented PIGs use multiple sensors to cover the entire internal surface, then inspection coverage is improved, but the number of sensors and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the pipe wall itself serve multiple functions: it acts as both the object being inspected and the source of the magnetic field for detection. This universal use of the pipe wall eliminates the need for multiple separate sensing and field-generating components.
Solution Approach 2:
The pipe wall serves itself by generating the magnetic field needed for its own inspection. The eddy current sensors detect disturbances in this self-generated field caused by defects, allowing the pipe to provide its own inspection signal without external assistance.
3Reliability
If recurring inspections with shorter intervals are performed, then detection of unpredictable failures is improved, but operating costs become unfeasible
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a foam-based PIG that is inexpensive to manufacture and can be disposed of after use. This low cost allows for frequent deployment and recurring inspections at shorter intervals without significant financial burden, directly addressing the need for improved detection of unpredictable failures.
4Strength
If metallic body PIGs are used for inspection, then structural strength is provided, but cleaning PIGs are required to prevent getting stuck
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a foam body instead of a metallic one, creating a flexible, non-magnetic structure that naturally resists adhesion to pipe walls. This foam construction eliminates the need for separate cleaning operations and prevents the tool from getting stuck, while still providing sufficient structural integrity for inspection.
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
The tool provides high sensitivity and reduced manufacturing and operational costs, enabling more frequent inspections with precise detection of defects and components, facilitating easier maintenance and reducing financial losses associated with pipe integrity issues.
Implementation Method 1
A plurality of eddy current sensors arranged spaced around the circumference of the PIG structural body (10)
Implementation Method 2
allowing for efficient detection of pipe anomalies and components by generating a magnetic field that amplifies sensitivity
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention discloses, according to a preferred embodiment thereof, a tool for inspection of the condition of the internal surface of pipes, which comprises at least one PIG structural body, a plurality of eddy current sensors, and a pressure vessel housing a set of electronics in a tight manner inside the same. Furthermore, an inspection method using said inspection tool is disclosed.