Pipeline Feature Identification Using a Guided Wave-Based In-Line Inspection Tool

This article presents the conceptual design and prototype validation stages of the development of an in-line inspection tool that is based on circumferential guided waves (GWs) generated by shear horizontal electromagnetic acoustic transducers (EMATs). By combining the data from these sensors with information from accelerometers and an odometer, the tool can evaluate the integrity of the pipeline nondestructively and record the longitudinal and circumferential position of wall thinning areas and geometrical features or anomalies. This article focuses on the identification of pipeline features, which is a key aspect in avoiding false-positive calls during real inspections. The performance of the tool in detecting and identifying such features in near-operational conditions in a defect-free qualification pipe loop is evaluated.