Laser Scanning and 3D Modeling

Laser scanning and 3D modeling services from SGS – inspect and evaluate large corrosion fields between 10 and 80 times faster, and more accurately, than manual pit gauge techniques.

Our Laser scanning and 3D modeling service enables our field technicians to quickly examine large areas of corrosion, dents or other metal loss in both straight and bent line pipe, and precisely calculate the induced stress or remaining strength of the material.

We worked with CREAFORM to design and test applications specifically for the assessment of pipe surface defects such as corrosion and dents. Not only is this technique faster than a pit gauge, but it is more accurate and more repeatable, and the data can be stored for later review.

Any object can be scanned to produce a 3D model, but at this time we can only apply the specialized inspection software to pipe inspections. Other objects can be processed and converted to other formats such as CAD for measurements.

Easy to Read Reports

The inspection reports are full of important data, but are logically formatted and easy to understand. They include:

2D or 3D color maps with river bottom path overlays
2D section generation
Worst case profile for all corrosion features

Relevant Applications

Laser scanning creates a virtual replica of the scanned surface, which can then be analyzed according to the anomalies present. On-board software includes Corrosion and Dent assessment tools. Other anomalies, such as mechanical damage and buckling, can be accurately recorded.

Real time Data Processing

Data acquisition has been reduced to 1/10th the time of manual collection. Corrosion data is processed in accordance with B31.4, ModB31.4, & Effective Area (Rstreng). Dents are evaluated for stress/strain using B31.8 App, “Calgary Method”, or operators design. All data is delivered in Microsoft Excel format, and is easily transferable to the operators current program needs.

Inspection Data Archiving

Data acquired during the inspection can be stored if desired for later data processing or independent verification. For example, Integrity engineers with proper software could independently verify the findings by taking their own measurements on the 3-D model captured in the field.

Once the measurements are taken, the data points can be archived for further analysis or future comparison or preserved as evidence if necessary.

Contact SGS today to find out more about how our laser scanning and 3D modeling services can support your organization.