ECAT™ for Metallic Pipe Wall Thickness
Overview
PPIC has expanded its portfolio of service offerings through the signing of an exclusive distribution agreement with Advanced Engineering Solutions Limited (AESL). This agreement allows PPIC to offer ECAT™ technology that can predict how much life is remaining in metallic pipelines using metallic pipe wall thickness. Both internal and external corrosion can be identified and measured, providing accurate information for condition assessment models. PPIC is now offering this service in North America.
ECAT™ services allow pipeline owners to know the true condition of metallic water mains, as well as predict their remaining life, while the lines remain in service. By using a combination of ultrasonic and magnetic inspection tools, these services provide customers with data on pipe coating, pipe wall deterioration, and the corrosivity of the surrounding environment.
These services assist customers in focusing on maintenance, capital expenditure, minimizing pipeline failures and maximizing asset life.
These services can be applied to:
- Individual pipelines – to identify pipelines 'at-risk' of failure
- Critical pipeline sections - to minimize the risk of failure (bridge crossing, tunnels, supply pinch points, etc)
- Pipeline networks - to aid in optimization of maintenance and replacement expenditure
How it Works
In order to determine the pipeline's original maximum wall thickness, ultrasonic inspection equipment is used to take a series of readings on the exterior of the pipeline.
A field team then uses magnetic inspection tools on the pipeline surface to map and size all significant corrosion of the internal and external pipe face.
During this process, raw data is collected on-site and stored on a handheld computer (PDA). Basic data analysis is done on-site by the inspection crew, and significant defects are reported immediately to the customer.
The raw data is then sent for advanced analysis, and a detailed report outlining the following is produced:
- Coating condition.
- Pipe wall condition.
- Assessment of the soil corrosivity.
- A visual assessment of the type and condition of any joints, or other fittings which are exposed in the excavation.
- Maximum pitting, general and combined corrosion rates.
- Prediction of time until corrosion pitting will result in perforation of the inspected areas.
ECAT™ Advantages
- Pipelines can be kept in service during inspection which greatly reduces overall inspection costs.
- Accurate results that pinpoint areas of corrosion to help optimize repair and replace investments.
- Minimizes the risk of pipeline ruptures and leaks that can result in public safety issues, significant property damage and extensive service interruption.
- Allows for pipe inspection at any point in time, no need to wait for scheduled pipeline shutdowns.
- No interruption to local water services.
- Non-intrusive – nothing is ever inserted into the pipeline.
Types of pipe:
- Steel
- Cast grey iron
- Cast ductile iron
- Wrought iron