AlMansoori Specialised Engineering has unveiled its integrated inspection system in the Middle East. The system features both electro magnetic inspection (EMI) and hydrostatic pressure testing.
The system uses EMI to inspect used tubing during pull-out and, hydrotests the string during completion. AlMansoori has introduced this system for its client Tatweer Petroleum in Awali, Bahrain.
The system is able to perform dual tasks such as non-destructive testing and pressure testing of the tubing string in one operation.
EMI is undertaken using a purpose built portable inspection system that is fixed on the rig floor, through which tubing is pulled out. The testing system is housed in a three-chambered unit: a pneumatic chamber-sensor combination which detects any split or holes in the tubing, and two hall-effect sensor chambers. One of the sensor chambers monitors any reduction in wall thickness due to wall thinning or rod-wear, while the other detects any corrosion, transverse cuts, cracks or scales.
An inspection engineer operates the unit remotely from a trailer, and each tubing in the string is then classified based on the results.
Tubing approved during the inspection as well as replacements for those rejected during EMI are pressure tested during the completion stage by the hydrotesting unit. A 70 feet long testing tool is assembled and lowered into the string using a winch and sheave arrangement. The testing assembly includes packers at the top and bottom, containing pressure actuated rubber seals that provide an annulus which is filled with water to test for integrity. Any drop in pressure will be recorded on the gauges, detecting holes or splits that may be present.
“AlMansoori is committed to introducing to our clients in the MENA region the most advanced and effective technology from around the world. Tatweer Petroleum was ready to incorporate this technology in their operations, which has resulted in reducing rig time as well as cost. The system is receiving positive interest from clients in the region and soon we hope to introduce it in the other MENA countries,” said P.Gangadharan, general manager of AlMansoori Inspection Services.
