Plant Integrity & Diagnostics -> Pipeline Integrity Inspection

Pipeline integrity is an issue of vital importance for a wide range of industries, particularly petrochemical and food processing. Pipelines are vulnerable to a variety of threats such as erosion, corrosion, cracking and mechanical damage. Pipe scanning uses the gamma scan technique to find differences in density between deposits and process fluids. The pipe scanner allows our personnel to quickly and accurately scan pipes of various sizes and at different angles to locate deposits anywhere inside the pipes. These scans can locate deposits of ice or polymers, build up of scale and coke, sludge in flare headers and lost refractory lining.

Roxby Services also use advanced technologies such as digital radiography and guided ultrasonics to pinpoint faults and potential problem areas, and all equipment is operated by experienced and qualified personnel.

However, technology is merely technology and must be backed up by a high standard of service in order to keep customers satisfied and coming back for more. Our speed of response, reliability and high degree of local knowledge are the reasons why companies such as BP, Terra, BASF and Lundbeck, to name just a few, put their trust in Roxby Services.

Long Range Ultrasonics

The Pipe Screening System employed by Roxby Services allows long lengths of pipework in difficult to access areas to be quickly screened for corrosion or other defects. Pipe diameters from 2” up to 36” can be inspected by using lightweight transducers which are placed around the circumference of the pipe. These transducers send guided ultrasonic waves up to 50m in each direction allowing up to 100m of pipeline to be inspected from one location. The system uses torsional or longitudinal waves, allowing inspections to be carried out on gas and liquid filled pipes during normal operations, resulting in minimal disruption to the client.

Digital Radiography

Initially developed for use in the medical world, but now being increasingly used in a variety of industries, digital radiography is an alternative to conventional film-based radiography. It is a non-intrusive and filmless technology, using an imaging plate, and allows precise image analysis, electronic archiving and transmission of images.

It is used by Roxby Services mainly in testing for corrosion under insulation, though it is also used for a number of other applications. Compared to conventional radiography, the digital version requires shorter exposure times, often reducing them by up to 90%. It also minimises errors, eliminates film waste and involves no dark room or chemicals handling. Time saving, flexibility, space saving and cost are additional benefits, along with a reduction in health and safety issues as a result of the reduction in exposure times.