Pipe Scanning
ScanTech’s Pipe Scanning service enables the rapid evaluation of above ground piping for blockages and deposits. The Pipe Scan uses the same principle of radiation transmission as the Gamma Scan to measure density differences within the piping.
The pipe scan can determine the location of a deposit within a flowing pipeline while keeping our equipment external to the pipe. From the information obtained we can determine the density, thickness and volume of the deposit if other parameters are known. Scans can be performed in different planes around the piping to fully analyze the distribution of any deposit through the piping.
ScanTech’s Pipe Scan equipment is adjustable, lightweight and portable. The source and detector are mounted on either side of a rigid frame and moved along the exterior of the piping recording the density of the contents inside the pipe.
The frame of the pipe scan is adjustable from 4 inches to 48 inches or more. It may be rotated to different orientations around the pipe to provide information on the distribution of any deposit within the piping. Typically scan orientations will occur in the vertical and horizontal axis.
Slug Monitor Over Time
The Pipe Scanning equipment may be fixed to a specific location on the piping and monitored to record changes in density with time. This is typically used when slugs of liquid are suspected within a gas pipeline.
Applications
ScanTech has performed pipe scanning on many different types of piping looking for all kinds of deposits or flow regimes. Some of the more common piping scanned are:
- flare headers
- slug catchers
- FCC standpipes and risers
- vent lines
- bitumen pipelines
- produced water lines
- polymer lines
- subsea pipelines
