Traditional pipeline inspection tools, such as the legacy Teletest system, often posed logistical challenges due to their weight and bulk. For instance, a Teletest setup for a 42in pipeline weighted around 34 kilograms (kg), including 18- and 20-inch collars. In contrast, the Sonyks collar assembly weights just 18kg—a nearly 50% reduction.
This significant weight difference enhances the ease of transport, particularly in elevated or hard-to-access areas. For technicians, this means less fatigue, quicker setups, and safer operations. Whether scaling ladders or working on suspended pipelines, Sonyks reduces physical strain and improves maneuverability.
Speed and efficiency are at the heart of Sonyks’ design. During this inspection, a two-person team completed 15 test locations in just 3.5 hours. This equates to an average of 14 minutes per test location, including setup, data acquisition, and preliminary analysis. In some cases, inspections were completed in as little as 10 minutes.
Such efficiency could enable a single technician to perform inspections, further reducing resource requirements. The system’s advanced software and flexible collar design streamline every step of the process, empowering teams to inspect more pipelines in less time without compromising data accuracy.
The primary focus of this inspection was to evaluate the pipe supports using targeted short collection lengths, ensuring detailed and precise data. Over 581 meters of pipeline were assessed across 15 test locations, with data overlapping significantly to enhance reliability. Each of the 33 pipe supports were inspected from multiple angles, providing thorough coverage.
The pipe supports featured Teflon pads, effectively isolating them from the pipeline and minimizing signal interference. This favorable configuration enabled precise detection of discontinuities.
Sonyks’ detection capabilities proved exceptional. For instance, one pipe support exhibited an anomaly with a signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of 7–10dB. Upon focused analysis and verification, the discontinuity was identified as a cluster of pits measuring 60mm x 40mm x 2mm deep, equating to just 0.4% cross-sectional loss. While this feature posed no threat to pipeline integrity, the system’s ability to identify such small features demonstrates its superior capabilities.
See how Sonyks enhances GWT inspection with speed, productivity, and simplified reporting here.
Sonyks revolutionizes large-diameter pipeline inspections, offering unmatched portability, efficiency, and accuracy. For operators, this means streamlined workflows, reduced physical demands, and the ability to confidently maintain pipeline integrity. By incorporating Sonyks into inspection practices, organizations can ensure safer, more efficient operations and longer-lasting infrastructure.
In a field where precision and speed are paramount, Sonyks proves to be the ultimate tool for reliable pipeline assessments. Ready to experience the Beyond Current difference? Contact us to request a demo to see how Sonyks can transform your next inspection project.