ACFM

Offshore Applications

ACFM was first developed for the oil industry as an alternative to ACPD for sizing defects underwater. It is now the most widely used subsea crack detection technique worldwide.

ACFM is routinely used to inspect welded tubular intersections as well as subsea pipelines, manifolds and other metallic structures. Although usually diver-deployed, ACFM can also deployed by remotely-operated vehicle (ROV), and by atmospheric diving suit (ADS).

Unlike some subsea inspection techniques the data is relayed to the surface where the trained ACFM operator analyses it. The diver is allowed to concentrate on deploying the probe in a simple scan along the weld.

ACFM is well suited to subsea inspection because of its ability to inspect through rust and light marine growth. Since ACFM provides depth information, as well as length and location, decisions can be made on whether to grind out, repair or leave any defects found.

When deployed by ROV limited dexterity of the manipulator usually means that "pick-and-place" array probes are used. However straight welds have been inspected by a standard ACFM probe operated via an ROV manipulator at depths up to 490m.

To complement inspection by ROV TSC recommend the services of our spin-off company, General Robotics Ltd, who produce ROV simulation software. Combined with a model of the offshore platform this software allows full inspection job simulation so that potential access problems can be spotted and solved before the inspection starts. In addition their manipulator control software allows for completely robotic deployment of the probe.

As well as subsea inspection, ACFM is regularly used for inspecting topside areas of offshore platforms, including duplex pipework and flame sprayed flare booms.

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