Detecting CUI for FLNG, FSRU and FPSO operators

October 1st, 2020

Detecting CUI

Detecting corrosion under insulation (CUI) is one of the major problems for FLNG, FSRU and FPSO operators, as It can interrupt production and can be costly to remove and replace insulation. Detecting where corrosion is occurring and being able to assess the level of damage – without removing the insulation – is the key to reducing remedial work to a minimum.

EM&I has developed real time radiography (RTR) technology to change it from a screening tool to one where specialised calibration methods provide accurate information to help combat CUI without the need to remove insulation.

Just two technicians operating the RTR equipment can inspect approximately 50 m of insulated pipework in a day and detect where corrosion is occurring and assess the level of damage, so that only the areas affected are repaired. EM&I can apply the same principle to large diameter components such as pressure vessels using eddy current and backscatter computed tomography (BCT) methods.

EM&I Group has used the RTR technology for more than five years for major clients in Canada, Brazil, Europe, and SE Asia who are delighted with the cost savings. The clients calculated that if the new ‘calibrated’ RTR technology saved them removing just 6 m of insulation, it would pay for the operators and equipment for a week.

Danny Constantinis (Executive Chairman) of the international asset integrity specialists EM&I Group commented: “This is another proven technology which we have adapted for the oil and gas industries, just as we adapted nuclear techniques for our ODIN® diverless inspection and repairs and NoMan® remote inspection of confined spaces. Robotics and data analysis are key to making positive step changes in safety and cost reductions.”