Basic Monitoring of Pipelines

Pipelines - anything but rigid forms

Pipelines in operation in power stations are subjected to high static, thermal and dynamic stresses. Added to this are changes which may occur over a period of time, e.g. displacement. In time, such displacement may lead to damage.
The hot lines in particular are under great strain. There is full surface area monitoring of them.

Simple means - but effective
At given intervals of time, in particular during the annual inspection, the TÜV expert carries out both visual examinations as well as measurements, the latter using simple but effective means:

• Position measurements using markings
• Measurement of the maximum deflections, e.g. with the aid of magnets
• Measurement of the course of displacement with the aid of scratch recorders

The measured data are entered in a database, from which trend changes immediately emerge. Furthermore, the displacements are compared against the mathematical values and assessed. If deviation is excessive, we make recommendations.

Systematic procedure based on experience
Numerous examples show that use of a systematic procedure allows early recognition of any tendency towards damage occurring.

In one particular case, the bearings of four pipe runs had shifted over the course of several years into a vertical position. This was observed using position measurements.

The scratch records record the displacement curve. They provide information on thermal displacements and dynamic deflections, e.g. caused by a pressure surge. In one actual case the dynamic deflections measured using scratch recorders grew exponentially over 2 years. An accumulation of water due to blocked drainage was discovered. The warning from our expert prevented damage occurring.

Our experience- Your benefit
During basic monitoring, the TÜV expert frequently notices irregularities. In extreme cases, damage is also observed. There may be any number of reasons for it. Our experts will help you. Special measuring and analysing devices are available for targeted examinations.