Method and apparatus for inspecting pipes using a digitized radiograph
US5864601A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jun 13, 1996 |
| Grant date | Jan 26, 1999 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 13, 2016 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG01N23/04
- WIPO fieldMeasurement
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
An apparatus and method using non-destructive testing and evaluation analyzes pipes to accurately measure the depth of corrosion and/or erosion in the pipe. Two penetrameter shims are attached to the outside surface of the pipe near the area of corrosion. Then, a radiograph of the pipe in the area of corrosion is generated using an X-ray source and an X-ray sensitive film. The radiograph is subsequently digitized, and the digital information is entered into a computer. A computer operator (user) is then asked to input several parameters concerning the diameter of the pipe, the thickness of the shims, etc., using, for example, a keyboard and to select the areas of interest using, for example, a computer mouse. All the while the computer operator is navigated through several user-friendly screens in a window environment driven by a Graphical User Interface. After all the required user input is entered into the computer program, the extent of corrosion in the area indicated by a cursor is displayed on the screen. In addition, the remaining wall thickness of the pipe is also indicated to the operator.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.