Recent, widely publicized catastrophic pipeline failures have produced tremendous pressure within the pipeline industry. As the infrastructure ages, operators face increasing challenges to ensure that these critical product transport networks, that literally feed our economy, remain safe and dependable. Whether the pipelines are transporting oil, gas, chemicals, or petrochemicals, or conveying water to a hydroelectric plant or natural gas to a gas distribution network, the cost of pipeline integrity failure is just too high.

Profile Technologies understands that effective non-destructive pipeline integrity inspection is one of the critical keys to the industry’s long-term viability. Our existing technologies fit perfectly into an inspection program that supports smooth operations with no unplanned downtime or dangerous equipment-failure-related accidents. Not only are our existing technologies a perfect fit for the industry, we are constantly working with our clients to refine and develop testing applications that address the technical, environmental and financial needs of our customers.

Inspection Services

External:

Profile’s External Inspection Method is similar to RADAR in the way that it works. Electromagnetic waves are launched into the space between the pipe and jacketing or casing using pipe surface attached injectors and a receiving probe. The waves travel down the tube or pipe and reflections occur at sites of anomalies such as corrosion, water, coating or insulation damage. The location of the anomaly is determined and data at the location is processed in order to further characterize the anomaly. The range and resolution of the measurement are interrelated and depend on factors such pipe and casing/jacketing diameter and insulation material, the particular mode used for the test (TE or TM) and the frequency scan range and step size used. The types of anomalies that can be detected are corrosion, water, coating and insulation or jacketing/casing damage and electrolytic shorts. In general, any anomaly that would cause a change to a uniform condition within the external pipeline system could be detected if its size is such that its response is above the threshold for the particular anomaly. Profile Technologies is continuously improving this tool by implementing new methods for data acquisition and analysis and by evaluating new equipment as it becomes available.

Internal:

Profile’s Internal Inspection Method is also similar to RADAR in the way that it works. Electromagnetic waves are launched into the hollow space of a tube or pipe using a cylindrical stub antenna. The waves travel down the tube or pipe and reflections occur at sites of anomalies such as sludge or cracks. The location of the anomaly is determined and data at the location is processed in order to further characterize the anomaly. The range and resolution of the measurement are interrelated and depend on factors such as the tube or pipe diameter and its material, the particular mode used for the test (TE or TM), the frequency scan range and step size used, and the product flowing in the line. The types of anomalies that can be detected are sludge or plaque buildup, water in a natural gas pipeline, cracks, and wall loss due to corrosion or other means. In general, any anomaly that would cause a change to a uniform condition within the pipeline could be detected if its size is such that its response is above the threshold for the particular anomaly. Profile Technologies is continuously improving this tool by implementing new methods for data acquisition and analysis and by evaluating new equipment as it becomes available.

About Profile Technologies

Profile Technologies, Inc. was incorporated in 1986 and commenced operations in fiscal year 1988. The Company is in the business of inspecting pipelines for corrosion and other anomalies that require inspection to verify pipeline integrity. Profile has developed a patented, non-destructive and non-invasive, long range inspection process, using electromagnetic waves to remotely inspect buried, cased and insulated pipelines for corrosion. Profile’s services are available to owners and operators of natural gas and oil pipelines, power plants and refineries, utilities, and most any facility with cased or insulated pipe.