Flooded Member Detection for Subsea Pipeline Inspection (Gamma FMD Subsea)

ScanTech’s Flooded Member Detection (FMD) system is the most reliable and cost-effective method available for both subsea pipeline inspections as well as oil and gas platform inspections for flooded members.

The Value of Regular Platform Inspections

Oil platform operators need to inspect these critical members on a regular basis because defects could allow the ingress of sea water, which can lead to structural failures over time.

Although essential, inspecting structural members located hundreds of feet underwater using conventional methods can present a challenging and intricate task, imposing considerable costs on the platform owner.

Our foremost objective in providing flooded member inspection services is to guarantee the safety of our personnel and the integrity of your subsea assets. Our success is underpinned by a combination of extensive inspection campaign experience, a commitment to well-trained personnel, and the use of cutting-edge inspection equipment.

Not only will Scanning Technologies meet these challenges head-on, we’ll overcome any underwater obstacles that are nearly impossible to overcome with traditional inspection techniques. For example, removing marine life that can grow on subsea structures, such as underwater pipelines and platform members is time-consuming and adds to operational costs.

Cost-Effective Subsea Pipeline Inspection Solutions

To meet the unique challenges posed by these surveys, ScanTech adapted proven pipe-scanning technology to handle the problems associated with offshore and subsea inspections. The resulting flooded member detection system showcases state-of-the-art technology that is accurate, reliable and easy to use.

Subsea Inspection Technology

Our Flooded Member Detection (FMD) system uses gamma ray inspection technology, mounted on remotely operated vehicles (ROVs), which greatly facilitates the inspection of underwater structures for cracks, leaks and other damage allowing water ingress. Our “always on” assessment technology delivers readings in real time, so our experienced technicians can diagnose issues quickly and easily.

One of the main advantages of this detector system is that it can be easily adapted to meet changing needs. The FMD has great flexibility in terms of power options, as it can be entirely battery-operated or use a low-voltage surface power supply. Data collection from the ROV to the operator is accomplished through a digital signal so there is no degradation of data, regardless of water depth. A single twisted pair wire in the ROV umbilical/tether cable is needed that can also be converted to a fiber optic cable if required.

The framework of our FMD system is constructed using high-grade aluminum complemented by stainless steel fittings. This combination ensures remarkable strength while keeping the overall weight light. As a result, the system can be easily customized to accommodate a diverse array of Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs), from compact observation ROVs to the more sizable and powerful work-class ROVs currently available.

Inspecting Flooded Platform Members

Due to the fact that our Flooded Member Detection (FMD) system can be affixed to an adjustable yet sturdy framework that extends across the subsea element or pipeline, inspections can be carried out without necessitating the removal of marine growth, which would otherwise be obligatory for an ultrasonic inspection.

Thanks to gamma ray technology and ScanTech’s advanced software, technicians are able to establish whether or not members are flooded or dry in a matter of seconds. When mounted to an ROV, an experienced crew can inspect entire platforms quickly and efficiently at a drastically reduced cost compared to other inspection methods.

It is clear that carrying out flooded member detection with this system offers time and cost savings over other methods.

Subsea Pipeline Inspection

Traditional pipe scanning strategies often run into trouble on subsea pipelines because the underwater environment can pose many unanticipated challenges, like when seabed sands shift to cover sections of the pipeline.

Our flooded member detection system can be used to inspect subsea pipelines for deposits or blockages, as well as locating lost or stuck pigs. Through the use of our FMD technology, we provide reliable results, whether it is a bare metal, polymer-coated, or even concrete-coated pipeline.

ScanTech’s software also allows for the continuous monitoring of the density between the source and detector, which provides inspectors with a steady stream of information to facilitate rapid blockage detection. This technology also allows inspectors to monitor a stationary position for any change in density which may be associated with liquid or vapor slugging.

The Advantages of ScanTech’s Subsea Inspection Services

By carrying ROV-assisted gamma ray inspections for flooded member detection, ScanTech’s services provide a number of advantages for owners and operators.

More Cost Effective

Our approach to FMD is more cost-effective than traditional methods to inspect for leakage.

More Accurate

Our inspections are accurate, reliable and repeatable.

Speedier Results

Our FMD devices can detect with certainty whether an underwater member is dry or flooded within a few seconds of positioning.

More Efficient

Cleaning the surface of the members is not required, which saves time and money.

Less Risky

The use of ROVs reduces the risk to worker health and safety during inspections.

FMD System Applications

ScanTech provides flooded member detection (FMD) services to customers around the world. With teams on six continents, ScanTech carries out subsea inspections on a wide variety of equipment and infrastructure, including:

• Oil and gas platforms
• Offshore wind turbine structures
• Subsea pipelines
• Buoyancy tanks
• Midwater arches