Pipeline inspectors are professionals tasked with inspecting pipe systems for any flaws or defects that could cause damage or service interruption. Because pipe systems are used to transport liquids, gases, and other compounds from one point to another, the exact methods used in a given situation may vary. However, there are a few common pipeline instruction strategies that are used in a variety of situations.
A pipeline inspector can often start with a visual inspection of the exposed pipe sections when new construction is taking place. Testing the seams at each point where a section of pipe is joined is added to the visual inspection. This is critical because any leakage could cause serious damage to any type of structure.
In any situation where pipes are left exposed, on-site visual inspections are common. The pipeline inspector will walk the length of the pipe sections on a regular basis, looking for signs of deterioration, testing the system’s joints, and noting any type of surface issues that may exist. By conducting this type of inspection on a regular basis, potential problems can be addressed before they become major problems.
While visual pipeline inspection was once the only method used by a pipeline inspector, more sophisticated methods are now commonly used to identify potential problems that are not visible even after a thorough visual inspection. The use of x-ray technology is one of these strategies. A pipeline inspector can use this type of construction inspection to look at a scan of pipes that are encased in concrete or buried underground, noting any obvious defects or signs of deterioration. A pipeline inspector will use x-ray technology on a regular basis, just like a visual inspection, to spot problems before they become serious.
The pig is one of the tools used by a typical pipeline inspector. These devices, also known as robotic crawlers, are small enough to fit into a pipeline and will move along with the flow of water or gas. A pig is typically only slightly smaller than the inside diameter of the pipe, allowing it to remove obstructions that have built up in any section of the system. Pigs have equipment that sends inspection data back to the inspector, indicating the location of any defects or problems in the system.
The pipeline inspector plays an important role in the process of public safety, whether working as a construction inspector on new construction sites or assessing the current condition of an older system or pipelines beneath a city or even an irrigation system on a piece of farmland. The inspector makes it possible to repair or replace defective sections of pipe before they pose a threat to humans living or working nearby by locating issues that could lead to a system breakdown.