Current conditions and existing problems in application of AUT in oil/gas pipelines

Automated ultrasonic testing (AUT) technique has been applied for many years for oil/gas pipelines in China. In this aspect, gradual efforts are made in localization of relevant equipment and elements, and relevant technical standards are stipulated. Applications of AUT technique are facing many challenges in qualification and training of relevant operators, deployment of equipment and calibration test specimens, and availability of relevant technical standards. For example, qualification certification and training for relevant operators suffer from insufficiency of training materials, low technical levels of trainees and insufficient training programs in universities or colleges. As far as equipment is concerned, imported facilities may accompany with astronomical costs for operation and maintenance, while domestic AUT devices require on-site calibration in quality, performance and other parameters. Fabrication and acceptance of blocks may involve missing of ultimate judgment on actual processing accuracy and less significance of clients' authorization in application. Finally, necessary measures for improvements of above problems are proposed.