Pipeline inspection using variable-diameter remote-field eddy current technology
US7683611B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jun 22, 2007 |
| Grant date | Mar 23, 2010 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Apr 21, 2028 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG01N27/82
- WIPO fieldMeasurement
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
The present disclosure relates to a device and method for pipeline inspection, The inspection device may include an exciter coil capable of providing an alternating current magnetic field and producing eddy currents. A plurality of sensors may then be provided which are capable of sensing a magnetic field produced by the eddy currents and the sensors may be engaged with a sensor shoe. The sensors may then be capable of being positioned at a first distance D1 with respect to an inner pipe wall surface and capable of providing coupling to the magnetic field produced by the eddy currents. The sensor shoe may also be capable of retracting to a second distance D2, wherein D1<D2. The sensor shoe may be connected to a sensor support arm wherein the support arm may be pivotably attached to a fixed hub and to a control arm which control arm may then be pivotably attached to a driven hub.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.