The Power of Ultrasonic Monitoring
Eddyfi Technologies' ultrasonic monitoring sensors, available in both wired and wireless configurations, are designed to measure the corrosion and erosion rates of critical assets by tracking wall thickness values over time. Utilizing specialized software, users can trend, analyze, and set custom alerts when certain thresholds are reached. This data is invaluable for process control and inspection teams, helping them assess risks and extend the lifespan of their assets.
Tackling Buried Pipelines
One of the most significant challenges in midstream asset management is ensuring the integrity and fitness-for-service of buried pipelines. Manual inspections typically require extensive and costly excavations to access target areas. However, with Eddyfi Technologies' ultrasonic monitoring sensors, corrosion and erosion data can be collected without the need for repeated excavations. The matPIMS™ area monitors are designed for reliability and ease of access, making data collection on buried pipelines more straightforward than ever.
During manual inspection processes, where target areas are excavated, matPIMS can be installed on areas of concern. Data can be acquired via an aboveground Modbus collection system, which can be easily accessed by a corrosion technician. This allows for a more cost-effective and efficient data collection method, enabling more frequent data collection for trending and analysis.
Case Study: Dominion Transmission, Inc.
Dominion Transmission, Inc. (DTI) of Central Pennsylvania provides a compelling case study of the effectiveness of Eddyfi Technologies’ permanently installed monitoring systems, or PIMS. During a routine inline inspection (ILI), DTI discovered internal corrosion at two locations on a 24-inch natural gas transmission pipeline. Following an engineering assessment that confirmed the pipeline's safety under current operating parameters, DTI installed matPIMS ultrasonic corrosion monitoring sensors to proactively monitor these indications of internal corrosion.
The sensors allow DTI to track internal corrosion indications identified by the ILI data. A DTI corrosion technician visits the site monthly to download thickness data readings onto a tablet using Eddyfi Technologies' proprietary software, webPIMS™. This regular monitoring helps determine ongoing corrosion rates and ensures the pipeline's integrity.
In response to DTI’s success with the smartPIMS Modbus, Jim Barshinger said, “Eddyfi Technologies is very pleased and proud to work with Dominion and deploy our corrosion monitoring system on their infrastructure. Remotely tracking the growth of these individual pits and general corrosion rates in a buried pipeline is the perfect application for our technology coupled with remote client access to the data through our webPIMS software.”
For another case study, check out this blog on the applicability of installed sensors in the mining sector.
The Advantages of Ultrasonic Monitoring
Facilities leveraging manual inspections alongside installed ultrasonic monitoring are seeing substantial benefits. These include reduced downtime, extended asset life, and enhanced safety for both the facility and personnel. The cost-effectiveness and efficiency of ultrasonic monitoring make it a superior alternative to traditional methods.
See this application note on how continuous asset integrity monitoring to detect corrosion with installed ultrasonic sensors saves more than $4 million.
Eddyfi Technologies' Innovations
matPIMS
These ultrasonic area monitors are specifically designed for corrosion and erosion monitoring. Available in 3x15 and 1x15 variations, matPIMS consists of single-element ultrasonic sensors arranged in an array or matrix pattern. This configuration ensures consistent and reliable coverage of known areas of concern on critical assets. matPIMS are cost-effective, provide high-quality data, and significantly reduce the need for frequent manual inspections and costly excavations.
webPIMS
This cloud-based data management software is designed to provide users with critical information for monitoring corrosion and erosion. Accessible from any internet-enabled device, webPIMS facilitates efficient data analysis, alarm setting, trend tracking, and report generation. The software's 24/7 availability ensures that team members can review real-time data simultaneously, making informed decisions about asset integrity and operational conditions.
Looking Forward
Eddyfi Technologies is at the forefront of revolutionizing midstream asset inspection with ultrasonic corrosion monitoring sensors. By providing safer, more efficient, and cost-effective solutions, we are helping companies like DTI maintain the integrity and safety of their critical infrastructure. As the industry continues to evolve, the adoption of advanced technologies like those offered by Eddyfi Technologies will be essential for ensuring the longevity and reliability of midstream assets.
So, if you want to put a pin in it, put a PIMS on it. Contact us for expert advice today.