US 5,313,837 A · Ultrasonic thickness gage for pipe

Abstract

The invention is a compact ultrasonic tester involving rotating sensors. The processor rotates with the sensors so that the output signal of the processor goes through the slip rings, rather than the output signal of the sensors. A spraying system is incorporated in conjunction with rollers. The rollers take the applied spray on the pipe surface and paint a film on the outer pipe surface to allow a good contact for meaningful results. A floating shoe is provided for holding each sensor against the pipe wall. The sensors are biased into contact with the pipe surface and the machine can handle different diameters of pipe. By controlling the pipe speed of advance and the rotational speed of the sensors, 100 percent coverage of the pipe wall is assured. The machine is compact and can be installed behind existing electromagnetic/gamma testers without major modifications to pipe-testing facilities.

Claims12

Dependent claims

An apparatus for testing tubular goods, comprising:

(a) a frame;
(b) sensing means mounted to said frame for detecting flaws in a tubular and for sending an output signal, said sensing means comprising at least one ultrasonic sensor, a movably mounted holder for said ultrasonic sensor, and a shoe mounted to said holder;
(c) computing means on said frame hardwired to said sensing means to process said output signal of said sensing means and deliver a second output signal;
(d) means for rotating said sensing means and computing means in tandem on said frame;
(e) means on said frame for allowing a takeoff of said second signal and for supplying power as said sensing means and computing means are rotated, said means for allowing a takeoff of said second signal and for supplying power comprising a slip ring assembly;
(f) a tubular to be inspected, said tubular being centrally located on said frame such that said means for rotating can rotate said sensing means and said computing means around the outer surface of said tubular;
(g) at least one fluid outlet directed at the outer surface of said tubular;
and
(h) a lead roller mounted to said holder.

6 more elements

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.

Ultrasonic thickness gage for pipe

Life of this patent

Ultrasonic thickness gage for pipe

Life of this patent

Abstract

Claims12