Expro’s Velonix® automated pipeline inspection gauge (PIG) has successfully supported two in-line inspection (ILI) runs on an extremely challenging hydrogen-service pipeline.
The project marked a first for Velonix®, enabling the safe and successful completion of multiple ILI runs in a hydrogen service pipeline - something the customer had previously been unable to achieve.
ILIs for hydrogen pipelines are rare. Hydrogen can destroy ILI magnets and is far more compressible than natural gas or nitrogen, making it very difficult to control pig speeds and tool velocity.
Previous attempts to complete the runs without Velonix® control had been unsuccessful. An uncontrolled speed excursion had destroyed the multi-million-dollar ILI tool, resulting in the complete loss of inspection data.
However, the unique and precise control capabilities of Velonix® in such a highly complex environment reinforced its capabilities in managing and stabilizing PIG velocity during advanced pipeline integrity operations.
The digital flow skid, valves, materials, and sealing systems were reconfigured to meet the demands of hydrogen compatibility.
The system reduced and controlled flow velocity in real time, continuously monitoring flow conditions and responding instantly to developing speed excursions to suppress or eliminate them before they could escalate.
Stable tool velocity empowered the customer to achieve high-quality and live integrity data via Expro’s Data-to-Desk platform, supporting faster, more informed decision-making. It also eliminated the significant safety and financial risks from uncontrolled speed excursions.
By stabilizing PIG speed and eliminating uncontrolled speed excursions, Expro’s Velonix® protected critical inspection assets, ensured data integrity, and gave the customer confidence to efficiently validate pipeline mechanical integrity in hydrogen service.
We also transformed a previously high-risk and unreliable operation into a controlled, repeatable, and safe process.
