The new generation of more powerful patented magnetostrictive sensors from the Southwest Research Institute can withstand extreme temperatures, automatically adjust frequencies, and employ more powerful magnets. The compact magnetostrictive transducer (MsT™) can more accurately detect potential problems in metallic and non-metallic structures such as pipelines, tanks, and anchor bolts in the oil, gas, and chemical industries. “The MsT system offers a higher level of signal strength. This user-friendly technology allows for more precise location of structural problems,” said Dr. Sergey Vinogradov, a SwRI staff member leading the sensor improvements. “It is an extremely reliable, state-of-the-art, and durable sensor that can be installed anywhere from the seabed to open space.”
The circular, hard-shell MsT sensor clips around pipes and other structures and can be used in sizes ranging from half an inch to 70 inches. It can detect material defects, corrosion, and areas at risk of cracks and leaks. At only 1.1 inches wide, the MsT uses less shear wave couplant, a gel that facilitates energy transfer, and requires less clamping force when dry-coupled, meaning it is less prone to damage when not using couplant. The MsT sensor can be permanently mounted on the structure for continuous monitoring. A battery-powered hub collects and wirelessly transmits data from the sensor and can be instantly connected to multiple sensors. The hub can be programmed to automatically change the sensor frequency to meet industry safety standards that require testing the structure using at least two frequencies.
“The MsT is compact, easy to install, and also more convenient. With this improved sensor, operators don’t need to change the hardware to change the frequency. And this functionality is automated, reducing human error,” said Vinogradov. “This feature is especially useful when sensors need to be installed daily in multiple hard-to-access locations.” High temperatures accelerate the corrosion of metal structures. Therefore, the MsT can withstand pressures up to 500 degrees Celsius (932 degrees Fahrenheit). It can be installed on extremely hot structures to detect weaknesses and can also withstand temperatures significantly below freezing.
Furthermore, the sensor can now scan structures in segments, providing a more thorough inspection. MsT has also accomplished a time-consuming task: making it easier to switch from transverse guided waves to longitudinal guided waves by flipping a built-in switch. Longitudinal waves are ideal for buried pipes, while transverse waves are better suited for inspecting fluid-filled structures. This spring, the American Society for Nondestructive Testing (ASNT) awarded Vinogradov the 2018 MsT Sensor Innovation Research Award. This award recognizes outstanding achievements in nondestructive evaluation and testing research. Vinogradov and his team will showcase the MsT sensor at the ASNT Annual Meeting, October 28-30, 2018, at booth 932 in the George Brown Convention Center, Houston.
