Robust, Field-Ready, Inline Tool for the Accurate Measurement of Pipe Bending Stresses and Crack Detection

The United States has a vast network of pipelines used for fuel transport. With most of our domestic pipeline infrastructure installed between 1950 and 1970, it is aging, in many cases well beyond its original design life. Further heightening the problems associated with degrading material, mechanical damage—from third-parties, seismic activity, installation, and welding—is considered to be the leading cause of all pipeline failures. Stress fields are amplified around these flaws, increasing risks of crack initiation and propagation. Although pressure-induced stress is accounted for in the initial life calculations, bending stress can also occur in practice, significantly reducing life. Building on our successful Phase II effort, we propose to complete development of a stress analyzer that can accurately measure pipeline bending stress. We are partnered with key companies for development and commercialization.