Advancing pipeline integrity: The role of in-line inspection (ILI) 

Flawed pipeline spools play an integral part in improving in-line inspection accuracy. Our team have manufactured numerous of validation and calibration spools up to 30ft in length for organisations around the world, with flaws connected to the OD, ID or mid-wall.  

What is in-line inspection? 

ILI commonly known as pigging, utilises non-destructive testing techniques to assess the condition of pipelines from the inside.  

A specialised device, known as a “pig”, is inserted into the pipeline, travelling along its length to collect data on various parameters. This data includes information about wall thickness, corrosion, cracks, and other potential flaws, providing a comprehensive assessment of the pipeline’s condition.  

ILI is employed across diverse industries where pipelines are integral to operations, particularly oil and gas, petrochemical, water and wastewater management, and more. The need for regular inspection is driven by the critical role pipelines play in transporting fluids, making their integrity a top priority to ensure safety, environmental compliance, and operational efficiency. 

The benefits include: 

• Early detection of flaws 

• Minimised downtime 

• Extended pipeline lifespan 

• Cost-effective maintenance 

• Operational efficiency 

Manufacturing validation and calibration spools for ILI 

Our flawed pipeline spools are engineered to mimic real-world pipeline conditions by incorporating a variety of flaws such as hook cracks, corrosion, erosion, crack fields, pitting and pinholes.  

The inclusion of a variety of flaws allows for a more realistic and challenging inspection environment for operators, ensuring that the ILI process is rigorous and accurate. 

The benefits: 

• Realistic simulation: The flawed pipeline spools provide a realistic simulation of the challenges faced in actual pipelines, ensuring more accurate assessments during ILI. 

• Training and skill development: Technicians and operators can hone their skills in identifying and addressing various pipeline flaws, enhancing their proficiency in the ILI process. 

• Optimised equipment calibration: The spools contribute to more comprehensive equipment calibration, ensuring that ILI tools are fine-tuned to detect and characterise a range of pipeline defects with precision. 

• Enhanced research and development: Researchers and engineers benefit from the realistic flaws incorporated into the spools, facilitating the development and refinement of advanced ILI methodologies, equipment, and software. 

• Compliance with industry standards: Our flawed pipeline spools align with industry standards, promoting the safety and reliability of pipelines in accordance with stringent regulations.