Magnetically coupled integrated ultrasonic testing and cathodic protection measurement probe

US12044525B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• SAUDI ARABIAN OIL COMPANY · SA

Inventors

• Fadl Abdellatif · Thuwal, SA
• Ayman Amer · Thuwal, SA
• Ali Outa · New York, US
• Sahejad Patel · Thuwal, SA
• Abdullah Arab · Thuwal, SA

Key dates

• Filing date: Jul 13, 2023
• Grant date: Jul 23, 2024
• Expiry date: Jul 13, 2043

Classification

• Technology area (CPC G): Physics
• CPC primary: G01N2291/2634
• WIPO field: Measurement
• WIPO sector: Instruments

Abstract

This application discloses magnetically coupled integrated probes and probe systems, attachable to the robotic arms of a remotely operated vehicle to perform both cathodic protection (CP) voltage measurements and ultrasonic testing (UT) thickness measurements at an underwater surface. The integrated probe system can include a spring for coupling to an ROV end effector. An ultrasonic probe is disposed within and extends from the sleeve housing. A magnetic carrier, flux concentrator, and gimbal surround a portion of the ultrasonic probe, and one or more electrically conductive legs extend from the front surface of the gimbal to function as a CP probe. The legs are arranged about the ultrasonic probe, which has a flexible membrane exposed at the front surface of the gimbal, such that during inspection, at least one leg contacts the surface and the ultrasonic probe is sufficiently proximate to provide substantially simultaneous CP and UT measurements.