Pipe Inspection Using the BTX-II

Category: Characterization > Monitors > Multipurpose Detectors
Reference # : OST No 1811 , DOE/EM - 0426 Model No : BTX-II

The objective of this effort is to determine (through a commercial demonstration integrated into the Plant 1-D&D project) if an effective, cost-reducing method for the inspection of piping can be found. Such a technology could dramatically reduce the overall project costs for a D&D project by greatly reducing the cost for material disposal at NTS. Two distinct technologies will be used to perform this demonstration. Visual Inspection Technologies and Radiological Services Inc provide these systems. The technologies differ in the complexity of the equipment used. The Visual Inspection Technologies system incorporates a high-resolution color camera with recording equipment. The Radiological Services system uses both video and radiological detectors. Both systems are manipulated manually through pipe sections. It is the intent of this technology demonstration to compare these technologies side by side to determine the optimal performer. Additionally, it is intended that the two technologies will be demonstrated consecutively, not concurrently. For this demonstration, both technologies will be required to inspect a series of piping with varying internal diameters of 2-4 inches. Currently, process piping is being cut in 10-ft. sections, capped and placed into a roll off box. A random sampling of piping will be taken from several of the roll off boxes and will be set aside and maintained until the execution of each demonstration. Once the demonstration is ready, the roll off boxes will be moved to an appropriate staging area for the demonstration. Piping will be selected at random, uncapped, inspected, and recapped. Fluor Daniel Fernald personnel will be used to perform all inspection operations. Dimensions of Tech Model (LxWxH):Camera diameter:1.38 inchesCamera length (including cable): 110 feetControl Unit: 5.25 in X 90 in X 13.0 in Monitor/VCR:11in X 8.0 in X 14.5 in3.0 mm with user-adjustable focus9.6 watts (six 1.6-watt quartz halogen bulbs)S-Video and NTSC composite VideoWeight of Tech Model (lb):

Benefits

The BTX-II allowed for the visible inspection of the inside of pipes that would otherwise have been impossible with the human eye. This inspection met the requirements to allow materials to be placed in the OSDF The technology has features that help it to be more efficiently Turbo light function for extra illumination Rechargeable (2hour) battery for portability and ease of use Adjustable focus for use in various applications Lightweight for ease of transport 90ø mirror for side viewing Color/sensitive CCD camera for detail images in large pipes Aside from verifying the precedence or absence of process materials, the BTX-II can be used to inspect inaccessible pipes for leaks and can be used to very welds on the inside of pipes.

Limitations

The lens cover on the camera is Lexan coated, which is not acid-proof. This could damage the lens when used on pipes that also have acid or acid residue left in the process piping The temperature of the lamp is 350 to 400 øF, which is not explosion-proof. This could present a hazard if combustible or flammable residues were present in the pipe No all DOE sites have OSDFs, and if they do, may not use visual acceptance criteria so there may not be a large enough percentage to use the BTX-II system.

Comments

Pictures

The video monitor and recording unit

Videos