A remote device with special capabilities has been developed for internal inspection and repair of inaccessible piping systems. By remote-control operation this device allows execution of the following steps over a length of about 600 feet, including bends, slopes, and vertical sections: Visual examination of the inner surface with color TV cameras, marking damaged areas. Registration and documentation of the damage with regard to the longitudinal and circumferential location. Grinding of damaged areas, measuring of remaining wall thickness by ultrasonic examination. Registration and documentation of test results. Repair of TIC welding layers in order to reach the necessary wall thickness. Smooth grinding of the repair-welded areas. Further ultrasonic examination of actual wall thickness. Application of multi-layer corrosion protection, if necessary. Monitoring and documentation of all essential steps by TV camera, video recorder and video printer. Form an economical standpoint this device can avert total removal and replacement of old piping systems by prolonging residual life through special repair methods.
A crawler for internal inspection and repair of piping systems
Manipulator zur inneren Inspektion und Reparatur von Rohrleitungssystemen
1992
4 Seiten
Conference paper
English