From Large Metal Loss to Tiny Pinholes

The evolution of ROSEN’s MFL Technology:

MFL has always remained a vital component for the management of pipeline integrity, particularly for gas pipelines, where it is simply indispensable. Algorithms for the evaluation of MFL data have continued to evolve over time, mainly due to increasing requirements from clients and regulators. While a rough sizing of corrosion features sufficed in the past, determination of a metal loss shape is now expected with sub-millimeter variation.

The ongoing development of MFL inspection technology is a continuous challenge that ROSEN experts embrace. The knowledge gathered over the past 30 years of working with MFL technology have allowed our experts to expand the application borders, step by step, to achieve the current impressive status of ROSEN MFL. Characteristics which have been developed from these experiences include:

o   12”/18” multi-diameter MFL tool, which negotiates 1.5D bends even in 12” pipelines.

o   30”/42” multi-diameter MFL tool, with an exceptionally wide internal-diameter range of 12 inches.

o   The ability to achieve nearly double the magnetization value of what was possible 20 years ago, currently up to 47 mm wall thickness.

o   Passage of critical installations, such as wye-pieces, is now routine.

o   High-performance speed control tools allow bypass flow velocity of up to 10 m/s.

In addition to these mechanical characteristics, the tools’ run behavior has improved in the same way as the inspection technologies have become more sensitive and data and evaluation requirements have increased.

Expanding the borders reveals larger areas of both new challenges and new opportunities, an ideal climate for further future development.

If you want to know more about the history of MFL, click here.