Guided Wave Phased Array Applications for Storage Tank Inspection
Tracks
Energy
| Thursday, October 24, 2024 |
| 10:30 AM - 11:00 AM |
| 207/208 - Technical Session |
Details
Guided wave phased array (GWPA) is an advanced ultrasonic guided wave NDE method that utilizes a handheld or robotically-deployed probe comprised of an array of piezoelectric torsional guided wave elements in conjunction with specially-designed software and a multi-channel guided wave pulser/receiver unit. Electronic beamforming is leveraged to sweep a focused guided wave beam 360 degrees around the probe to inspect a large area of a plate, typically several meters away from the probe in all directions. Multiple GWPA scans are combined in the software to form a composite image of a structure that is overlaid on a structural drawing for reference. Typical inspection frequencies range from 100-200 kHz for metallic plates of up to 25 mm (1 inch) thickness. Flaw detection is possible on the near and far sides of the plate, through paint, and under coatings, soil, concrete, and in inaccessible areas. This emerging technology is being implemented for various in-service storage tank inspection applications in which tank access is limited. Applications include the inspection of butyl-lined storage tank walls behind concrete/ground penetrations, chime plate inspection from the storage tank floor external lip, inspection of double-shell tank primary liner floors and walls using several robotic deployment systems, and plans for in-service robotic water tank floor inspections. The GWPA technology opens up new inspection opportunities for in-service storage tank inspection (among other applications) by providing a method of screening for corrosion in otherwise inaccessible areas.
Speaker
Cody Borigo
Vice President
Guidedwave
Guided Wave Phased Array Applications for Storage Tank Inspection
Presentation Description
Guided wave phased array (GWPA) is an advanced ultrasonic guided wave NDE method that utilizes a handheld or robotically-deployed probe comprised of an array of piezoelectric torsional guided wave elements in conjunction with specially-designed software and a multi-channel guided wave pulser/receiver unit. Electronic beamforming is leveraged to sweep a focused guided wave beam 360 degrees around the probe to inspect a large area of a plate, typically several meters away from the probe in all directions. Multiple GWPA scans are combined in the software to form a composite image of a structure that is overlaid on a structural drawing for reference. Typical inspection frequencies range from 100-200 kHz for metallic plates of up to 25 mm (1 inch) thickness. Flaw detection is possible on the near and far sides of the plate, through paint, and under coatings, soil, concrete, and in inaccessible areas. This emerging technology is being implemented for various in-service storage tank inspection applications in which tank access is limited. Applications include the inspection of butyl-lined storage tank walls behind concrete/ground penetrations, chime plate inspection from the storage tank floor external lip, inspection of double-shell tank primary liner floors and walls using several robotic deployment systems, and plans for in-service robotic water tank floor inspections. The GWPA technology opens up new inspection opportunities for in-service storage tank inspection (among other applications) by providing a method of screening for corrosion in otherwise inaccessible areas.
Biography
Dr. Cody Borigo is the VP at Guidedwave and focuses on R&D for guided wave, acoustic emission, and ultrasonic technologies and applications, resulting in nearly 20 patents in these areas. He also specializes in advanced AE and guided wave field applications and training. Areas of expertise include guided wave phased array for plate inspection, robotically-deployed guided wave solutions, AE for the nuclear power and defense industries, guided wave scanners, advanced guided wave pipe inspection solutions, and nonlinear ultrasonics. He received his PhD from Penn State University under Dr. Joseph Rose and has been involved in guided wave applications since 2009.
