Long Range Ultrasonic testing also commonly known as LRUT is essentially a Guided Wave Ultrasonic testing (GWUT), which is one of the Ultrasonic test method wherein the ultrasonic waves are transmitted along the surface of the pipe wall.
Typical test range of the Guided Wave Long Range Ultrasonic testing (GW LRUT) is ±30 meters in each direction for above ground pipelines from a single location, ideal conditions can achieve more in a single inspection depending on the pipe layout, attachments, supports, product etc. The coverage for underground pipelines can vary.
The distance covered in a single inspection may increase or decrease and this depends on the following parameters:
- The internal deposits and sediments.
- The location of the pipelines i.e. above ground or underground.
- The number of bends, supports, branches & joints that are on the pipelines.
- The density of the liquid, chemical or anything that flows through the pipelines.
- Internal / external corrosion on the pipeline.
- The coating and insulation on the pipelines.
- The thickness, diameter and the material of the pipeline.
Ideal Applications:
Most ideal for rapid inspection of long distance pipelines and pipings
Guided Wave Long Range Ultrasonic testing (GW LRUT) can be used to inspect insulated and underground pipelines and piping
Encased pipelines, road crossing and culverts line
Refinery and chemical plant piping
Risers and offshore topside pipe work
Jetty lines and river crossing pipelines
Tank farm link lines and Sewer lines.
Advantages:
Guided Wave Long Range Ultrasonic testing (GW LRUT) can inspect 100% of the pipeline surface on each side of the sensors up to 30m distance in a single inspection
No need to remove surface coating (quality adhered) up to 60m of pipeline length
Guided Wave Long Range Ultrasonic testing (GW LRUT) can provide reliable detection of 3% metal loss flaws
No need to remove insulation up to 60m of pipeline length except 1m exposure to position Sensors
Guided Wave Long Range Ultrasonic testing (GW LRUT) can inspect approximately 60m of pipeline length per hour, thus reducing onsite inspection time.
Limitations:
Guided Wave Long Range Ultrasonic testing (GW LRUT) is a screening test method and hence precise wall thickness measurements similar to the conventional compression (longitudinal) wave ultrasonic testing is not possible
Cannot detect localized pitting and volumetric discontinuities
Guided Wave Long Range Ultrasonic testing (GW LRUT) cannot be used on Cryogenic pipelines
Bituminous coated pipelines or severely pitted pipelines are difficult to inspect
Guided Wave Long Range Ultrasonic testing (GW LRUT) cannot be utilized on long sections having fillet welds.
Expertise:
Compared to conventional ultrasonic testing, Guided Wave Long Range Ultrasonic testing (GW LRUT) instrument and sensors are complex and expensive. This test method requires highly trained, skilled and experienced technicians.
INTEGROSOL engages certified and experienced engineers to provide Guided Wave Long Range Ultrasonic testing (GW LRUT).
