Teletest^® equipment

Flaw detector

At the core of the range is the new 24-channel Teletest Focus^TM Multi-Mode flaw detector. A major advance on the existing, well-proven 12-channel unit, it operates in the same way but with 24 channels and 50% more power and offers the potential for greater inspection distance and resolution. The equipment can generate any of the three main wave types used in guided wave technology, longitudinal, torsional and flexural. It has been designed to be used as a phased array. This makes it possible to focus ultrasound at any point both along and around the pipe, thus improving flaw detection capability. It also means that it is possible to determine the approximate circumferential extent and depth of any flaw that has been identified using the equipment in its original screening mode. Using the Version 2 software, it is possible to switch from screening mode to focusing at a specific distance from the tool with just two mouse clicks.

These features permit a much more informed judgement to be made about action to be taken following the detection of a flaw.

The flaw detector has an integral battery with 12 hour operating capability before recharge and incorporates an 'on board' air pump to inflate the transducer collars.

Inflatable collars

The new one-piece collars, made out of carbon fibre reinforced Kevlar, are thinner and 60% of the weight of the current standard. The new design has reduced the necessary clearance between pipes to 65mm. This is often an important consideration, where many pipes run in close proximity. The collar is clamped around the pipe with a rapid latch mechanism and can be mounted in under a minute.

Multi-Mode modules

The new multi-mode modules accommodate five transducer elements, three to excite the longitudinal mode and two to generate torsional waves. Each mode has its pros and cons for flaw detection in a given situation. Multi-mode capability ensures that the wave mode is optimised for the specific pipe being inspected.

Multi-mode module

Mini-tools

Pi have developed 'LATCH and FIRE' mini-tools to inspect 1.5" - 5" diameter pipes. These represent a step change in efficiency compared with cumbersome 'fixed ring' tools. They have brought about a 90% improvement in set up time and only require 42mm clearance between pipes.

New software

The release of Version 2 of the Teletest^® software has been timed to coincide with the launch of the new hardware. It runs on Windows^TM 2000/XP and streamlines collection and interpretation of data with many features automated for speed and ease of use. Full data collection and interpretation at a given test location can be completed in 15 minutes. The software incorporates an automated frequency sweep facility enabling data to be collected at a range of frequencies, so that frequency can be optimised for the test pipe. It also sets the Distance Amplitude Correction (DAC) curves automatically from the peaks of weld indications. Another feature that greatly improves interpretation is the ability, with one mouse click, to switch between displays. The software also has an automated reporting facility, integrated with MicroSoft Word, for improved productivity.