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In-line inspection test loops commissioned

Journal Article · · Oil and Gas Journal; (United States)
OSTI ID:6938246
This paper reports that an in-line pipeline inspection test facility was commissioned last month by Tuboscope Vetco International Inc. at its Houston headquarters. It is the only one in North America, according to Tuboscope, and will be used to test current and new nondestructive testing (NDT) technologies for the pipeline inspection industry. The $1.5 million facility consists of two test loops. An 8-in., 2,790-ft loop and a 30-in., 2,700-ft loop are operated from oversized launch and receipt barrels with water as the flow medium. Flow velocity for tools in either loop is up to 10 mph. Operating pressures for the loops can range 25-100 psig. A Detroit diesel-powered (450 hp, 12 cylinder) skid-mounted centrifugal pump moves the 30-in. device. A Cummings diesel-powered (450 hp, 60 cylinder) centrifugal pump moves the 8-in. Tool. The test loop also has five full-bore valves for isolating the launch and receipt barrels as well as five quick-disconnect defect joints. The test loops run underground for a portion of the line to allow for testing of aboveground reference markers. Simulated road crossings are also part of the layout.
OSTI ID:
6938246
Journal Information:
Oil and Gas Journal; (United States), Journal Name: Oil and Gas Journal; (United States) Vol. 90:26; ISSN OIGJAV; ISSN 0030-1388
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English