Just like that smart watch monitoring exactly how many steps you have—or have not—taken in a day in the pursuit of optimal health, the use of installed sensors represents a revolutionary approach to ultrasonic thickness monitoring for pipelines. This innovative technique involves permanently attaching ultrasonic sensors to the pipeline’s exterior, and strategically distributing them along the length of the pipe, or in known high-risk locations. With unprecedented momentum, the impact of monitoring technology and its role in empowering businesses for sustainable growth cannot be ignored. This blog takes a closer look at Eddyfi Technologies’ installed sensors and how they are implemented by industry leaders in the mining sector.

Permanently Installed Monitoring Systems Are Here to Stay

Both smartPIMS® and matPIMS™ stand as non-intrusive ultrasonic-based corrosion and erosion monitoring systems meticulously crafted to deliver consistent and precise thickness data, eliminating the necessity for in-person inspections. Once implemented, these multi-point and area monitors diligently capture ultrasonic readings at user-defined intervals, providing invaluable insights into the thickness and integrity of the pipeline.

The last quarter of 2023 witnessed the dispatch of over 500 microPIMS® units, marking a significant milestone since its inception in 2014. Notably, the flagship wireless ultrasonic testing (UT) sensor, deployed in over 100 chemical plants and refineries globally, showcases the undeniable efficacy of these sensors in corrosion monitoring, complementing various inspection tools. Beyond averting unplanned downtime, these monitoring systems contribute to prolonging asset lifespan while prioritizing the safety of technicians and plant personnel.

Securing significant contracts with two of the largest downstream companies in the oil and gas sector, these victories encompass over 1,000 sensors slated for installation across 20 refineries worldwide, underscoring a profound commitment not just to permanently installed monitoring sensor technology but also to the collaborative synergy between Eddyfi Technologies and its esteemed clientele. Jeff Anderson, General Manager of Sensor Networks, affirms, "We are dedicated to bolstering our clients' capabilities in informed decision-making concerning their critical assets at the site level."

Case Study: Slurry Line Assessment

In the realm of industrial transportation, mining slurry lines play a pivotal role in conveying diverse materials, from ores and minerals to petroleum byproducts. These pipelines traverse extensive distances, navigating through remote and challenging terrains, both above and below ground. However, the abrasive nature of transported materials poses unique challenges, gradually causing metal erosion within the pipeline's interior. This erosion threatens the longevity and structural integrity of slurry lines, necessitating a proactive approach to maintenance for operational efficiency, environmental impact mitigation, and worker safety.

Traditionally, assessing erosion in slurry lines relied on manual ultrasonic or radiographic inspections. These methods, though effective, are time-consuming, expensive, and prone to periodic monitoring gaps. Manual inspections also introduce variability due to operator changes and inconsistent location placement. To overcome these limitations, an increasing number of mining sites are adopting smartPIMS and matPIMS systems.

Installed Sensors for Slurry Line Monitoring in Mining Industry

Data collected by these systems is transmitted to the webPIMS™ back-end software, where it is stored, analyzed, and trended over time. This comprehensive monitoring approach provides operators with real-time insights into the health of their slurry pipelines. Continuous monitoring of thickness data enables early detection of potential issues such as metal loss, erosion, or corrosion, facilitating proactive maintenance and minimizing the risk of pipeline failure.

The adoption of smartPIMS and matPIMS brings numerous advantages to facilities operating slurry lines. It proves more cost-effective by reducing the need for frequent manual inspections and expensive excavation works. Instead of relying on periodic assessments, operators benefit from a continuous stream of high-quality, abundant data, offering a more comprehensive understanding of pipeline conditions. Moreover, the use of smartPIMS and matPIMS enhances safety by minimizing the need for personnel to access potentially hazardous or hard-to-reach pipeline locations for inspection purposes, eliminating associated risks and costs.

Keep One Step Ahead, Stay Beyond Current

In the dynamic realm of corrosion/erosion monitoring, installed ultrasonic sensors emerge as a step change, surpassing traditional inspection methods for slurry pipelines. Eddyfi Technologies' installed sensor business is set to make 2024 a landmark year, driven by a commitment to operational excellence and global impact.

As we reinforce our team with experienced professionals to foster customer relationships across Europe, our dedication remains steadfast — delivering excellence to our existing clientele while enhancing our technological capabilities and team collaboration. This dual commitment not only ensures the integrity of your assets but also lays the groundwork for a robust global expansion into key markets worldwide.

The future holds abundant opportunities, and we invite you to join us on this transformative journey. Contact us to discuss your inspection requirements, and together, let's embark on a path of innovation, reliability, and global impact, where your success is the heartbeat of our mission.