Ultrasonic phased arrays offer significant advantages over radiography for pipeline weld inspections: they have higher detection rates for critical planar defects (i.e. cracks and lack of fusion), better defined interpretation, vertical sizing capability for Engineering Critical Assessment, no safety hazards, no licensing issues, no chemical wastes, and no requirement to evacuate the area. Phased arrays also offer major advantages over multiprobe systems and manual ultrasonics.
Pipelines are typically constructed by joining sections of pipe together, using either manual or automated welding. Since pipelines operate at a high percentage of yield strength, these welds must be constructed to a high standard. The advent of higher strength steels, high demand for pipelines, greater environmental concerns, thinner pipe walls and improved technology have all lead to more demanding inspection requirements.
Phased Arrays for Pipeline Girth Weld Inspections
