ERW Solutions: In-Line ERW High-Temperature Inspection System

ERW Solutions: In-Line ERW High-Temperature Inspection System

Fully Automated ERW Tube Process-Control

The In-Line ERW High-Temperature Inspection System integrates into the production line between the weld cooling and annealing, where the pipe temperature is 100 °C (212 °F) or lower. A special self-cooling wedge combined with automatic alarms protect the phased array (PA) probe against excessive temperatures.

Using conventional ultrasonic (UT) and PA technology, the system inspects the internal and external surfaces of the ERW seam and the heat-affected zone (HAZ) in pipes ranging from 60.3 mm to 508 mm (2.4 in. to 20 in.) OD. Automatic weld tracking technology connected to servomotor-driven mechanisms helps ensure coverage of the region of interest.

The following typical defects are detected:

• Longitudinal cracks
• Through-drilled holes
• Lamination defects in the HAZ (up to 25 mm (1 in.) on each side of the weld)