Metal Loss or Seamless Pattern? A Complex Question

Metal Loss or Seamless Pattern? A complex question

Identifying metal loss in seamless (SMLS) pipe presents a challenge as it poses an extra degree of variability and tolerance to ILI POD, POl and sizing. MFL data of seamless pipe reveals magnetic patterns. These distinct patterns are created during the pipe’s manufacturing process when the pipe material is pierced and processed to create the pipe’s contour and shape. Striped bore patterns identified within the MFL data can range from virtually undetectable, to high-contrast and distinct, to seemingly random. Identifying these patterns and differentiating them from metal loss is both a science and an art.