EM&I use real time radiography to detect Corrosion Under Insulation (CUI)

June 6th, 2018

real time radiography

Detecting Corrosion Under Insulation (CUI) is one of the major problems for FPSO operators, as it is very 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 have developed Real Time Radiography (RTR) technology to change it from a screening tool to one where specialised calibration methods provide accurate information is provided to help combat ‘Corrosion Under Insulation’ without the need to remove insulation.

Just two technicians operating the RTR equipment can inspect around 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.

The company has used the real time radiography technology for major clients in Canada and Brazil for more than 18 months, with positive feedback on its cost-saving impact.

Danny Constantinis, Executive Chairman, commented:

“This is another well proven technology which we have adapted for the oil & gas industries, just as we adapted nuclear techniques for our ODIN® diverless UWILD, and NoMan® remote camera technologies. Using sophisticated equipment and robotics and highly trained personnel at both engineering and technician level is the key to making major savings, and improving safety in the asset integrity business”.