Underground pipelines are the hidden channels of our modern infrastructure, carrying essential resources that fuel our homes, businesses, and industries. These networks are vital for transporting water, gas, oil, and other industrial chemicals. But like any infrastructure, pipelines are susceptible to damage from corrosion, ground movement, and wear and tear. Frequent inspections are essential to guaranteeing its longevity and safety.
Non-destructive testing (NDT) offers a powerful solution that helps to assess, monitor and maintain infrastructure that is otherwise all but inaccessible- and in a way that cannot cause any damage to pipelines. NDT provides a range of testing pipeline inspections, with radiography being one of the most popular methods.
Why is it necessary to inspect pipelines?
By their very nature, pipelines transport materials that can be extremely dangerous to both humans and the environment, such as gas, oil, slurry, sewage, and chemicals. A pipeline breakdown could have disastrous results:
- Environmental contamination: leaks can release harmful substances into the soil, groundwater, and surrounding ecosystems, impacting wildlife and water resources.
- Safety hazards: gas leaks or pipeline ruptures can lead to explosions and fires, causing injuries and fatalities.
- Property damage: leaks can undermine foundations, cause sinkholes, and lead to extensive and costly repairs.
- Economic disruption: pipeline failures have the potential to interrupt vital industries and services, causing large financial losses as well as general inconvenience.
Regular NDT inspections, particularly those employing radiography, help identify potential problems before they escalate, safeguarding our communities and environment.
Inspection method: radiography
Radiographic testing employs radiographic film, combined with Computed Radiography (CR) and Digital Detector Array (DDA) technologies.
Radiographic testing (RT) involves using X-rays or gamma rays to penetrate the pipeline and create a detailed image of its internal structure. This image captured on film or a digital detector, reveals a wealth of information about the pipeline’s condition, including:
- Corrosion: locating spots where the pipe wall is thinned or pitted.
- Cracks: identifying fractures that could jeopardise the integrity of the pipeline.
- Weld defects: evaluating weld quality and spotting any flaws.
- Foreign objects: identifying blockages or debris inside the pipeline.
Advantages of radiography in pipeline inspection
Radiography offers several key advantages for pipeline inspection:
- Versatility: it can be used on a wide range of pipeline materials and diameters.
- Accuracy: it provides a highly accurate and detailed view of the pipeline’s internal condition.
- Permanent record: the pictures created act as a lasting documentation of the examination, which is useful for comparisons and analysis in the future.
- Accessibility: unlike other NDT techniques, radiography may be utilised on pipelines and in a variety of locations.
Fujifilm: advancing radiography for pipeline inspections
Fujifilm is a pioneer in NDT solutions, offering innovative radiography technologies specifically designed for pipeline inspections. Their advanced systems, including Computed Radiography (CR) and Digital Detector Array (DDA), provide inspectors with powerful tools to ensure pipeline integrity.
- Computed Radiography (CR): CR utilises reusable imaging plates that capture X-ray or gamma ray exposure. These plates are then processed in a CR reader to create high-resolution digital images. CR offers increased sensitivity and efficiency compared to traditional film radiography.
- Digital Detector Array (DDA): DDA technology employs electronic detectors that convert radiation directly into digital signals. This provides real-time imaging, eliminating the need for film processing and enabling faster inspections. DDA also offers exceptional image quality and the ability to adjust image parameters on the fly.
CR/ DDA are beneficial for pipeline expectations for several reasons. These technologies provide results quickly and are accurate, safe with proper training, affordable and accessible, especially compared to other NDT methods.
Other significant advantages over traditional film radiography:
- Increased speed and efficiency: digital images are produced quickly, reducing inspection time and downtime.
- Enhanced image quality: digital images offer superior contrast and resolution, allowing for better defect detection.
- Improved data management: digital images can be easily stored, shared, and analysed using specialised software.
NDT pipeline inspections, particularly those utilising advanced radiography techniques, are an investment in safety, environmental protection, and economic stability. By proactively identifying and addressing potential issues, we can ensure the continued flow of essential resources through these critical underground lifelines. Fujifilm’s innovative NDT solutions allow inspectors to test and maintain the integrity of pipeline infrastructures.
To learn more about Fujifilm NDT EMEA and its solutions, click here. For more personalised enquiries, contact ipd_feg@fujifilm.com.