Testing Grande Prairie Fort St. John

Using NDT and X-Ray Inspection to Detect Pipeline Leaks in Fort St. John and Grande Prairie

If properly maintained, pipelines are one of the safest and most economical means of transporting oil and gas. But things like corrosion, shifting, and human error can result in dangerous pipeline leaks. That’s why it’s important to look for any points of vulnerability in your pipeline before serious leaks occur.

 

Signs That You Already Have a Leak

Both natural gas and oil leaks smell like rotten eggs, but there are a few key differences to look for at the sight of a suspected leak:

Natural Gas

  • Frost, or fire, coming up from the ground
  • Bubbling pools of water
  • Blowing dirt
  • Dead plants

Oil

  • Pools of liquid around the pipeline
  • Liquid spraying from the ground
  • Discoloured ice or snow
  • Rainbow gloss on standing water
Unfortunately, if you can detect a leak yourself, significant loss and damage has already occurred. It is highly recommended that you use the services of a company like 20/20 NDT to conduct regular X-ray and corrosion inspections and avoid serious problems before they start.

 

Detecting a leak with NDT

X-Ray inspection and ultrasonic testing are just two NDT methods that we specialize in. Both tests can pinpoint the precise location of the leak so that you can repair it before any further damage occurs.

X-Ray Inspection

X-ray inspection uses radiation to uncover problems like blockage or corrosion. It is highly accurate and can be used on a variety of materials. Here’s how it works:
  1. An X-ray machine directs radiation at the pipe.
  2. Sensors detect and analyse the amount of radiation passing through the pipe.
  3. The sensor creates a radiographic image that specialists then use to identify areas in the pipe wall that need to be reinforced.

Ultrasonic testing

Detects compromises to pipe wall integrity like corrosion, pitting and pinholes. Here’s how:
  1. A probe and receiver are used to create electrical pulses.
  2. High frequency ultrasonic energy is transmitted through the pipe in waves.
  3. Discontinuities are reflected back and displayed on a screen.
  4. The reflected energy wave provides information about the integrity of the pipe and the location of any potential problem areas so that you know precisely which section of pipe needs to be repaired.
Whether you need a pipeline X-ray in Fort. St. John, or corrosion inspection in Grand Prairie, Alberta, we can help. If you have any questions about how to detect a pipeline leak or if you would like to plan an inspection contact us today! Call us toll-free at 1-866-930-6220.