Modelling and experimental study on pipeline defect characterisations using a pulsed eddy current measurement

Pipelines are widely used as the main transportation method in petrochemical and metallurgical industries. However, the special nature of the materials transported in pipelines means they are often subjected to high temperature, high pressure and corrosive conditions. This can lead to defects, such as thinning and cracking, resulting in pipeline failure and causing serious economic losses. Therefore, regular non-destructive testing of pipelines is particularly important. This paper uses the non-destructive testing method with pulsed eddy current technology to characterise pipeline thinning and defects. A preliminary study is conducted on the pulsed eddy current detection signal patterns for pipeline crack defects with varying orientations and quantities. A more portable pulsed eddy current detection device with an extended wall thickness detection range is developed. It can achieve measurements with a maximum thickness of 30 mm for detections of pipelines with rectangular defects and thickness-stepped reduced. The experimental results are consistent with modelling results, and the accuracy for pipelines with insulation layer is also investigated. On-site measurements using the PEC system are conducted on equipment sections with pipe thickness within 20 mm in a petrochemical plant. It is confirmed that the developed PEC inspection device can accurately characterises the thickness of pipelines with 0–50 mm cladding.