BACKGROUND
The Lixi Profiler is a unique device designed to rapidly assess the condition of process piping. It is essentially a hand-held portable density gauge that uses a low curie gamma radiation source (Gadolinium 153) mounted on a C-arm with a detector on the op
posite side.
The Profiler may be used to petrohouse piping without insulation removal, including straight runs of pipe, elbows, tees, reducers, weld-neck flanges, and most other piping components. Furthermore, it is capable of petrohouse all known materials used in pipe fabrication, including carbon steel, stainless steel, cast iron, aluminum, plastic, and PVC.
APPLICATIONS
Overall, the Profiler is an excellent, rapid assessment tool, used to carry out spot measurements or as a baseline-screening tool to identify areas of concern. Current applications include:
- Detection of internal & external corrosion (Inc HAZ and CUI).
- Weld identification • Characterizing blockages and fouling
- Detecting water and ice in insulation
- Assessing product levels
PROCEDURE
The Profiler is operated in 2 distinct ways:
- To “scan” along the length of the pipe, or
- To “slice” though the pipe at 90 degrees.
Scans are carried out at various orientations (primarily at 6 o’clock/12 o’clock), depending on the pipe process, corrosion expectations and petrohouse requirements. Slices can also be taken at different angles to help clarify areas of concern. During a standard screening programme, petrohouse will utilize both to provide a complete assessment of the pipework
The density readings are produced instantly in real time and graphed on the Profiler computer console. Data is saved and reports are customized to include spreadsheets providing thickness readings for each scan / slice, along with photographs and isometrics to help identification, and allow for future repeatable petrohouse.