Remote Inspection of Crude Oil Pipeline
Dexon successfully conducted a high-resolution inspection of a 26-km underground crude oil pipeline located in a conflict zone in Africa, where foreign engineers could not be safely deployed. The inspection was performed using the UT-MC Octopus, a specialized tool designed for detecting metal loss in highly viscous mediums like crude oil.
)
Overview
Key challenge:
Inspect a crude oil pipeline in a conflict zone where foreign engineers could not safely deploy.
Project Details
• Length: 26 km
• Diameter: 10-in.
• Type: Underground crude oil transport pipeline
• Inspection Medium: Crude oil
• Location: Onshore
• Continent: Africa
• Tool: UT-MC Octopus, specializing in high-resolution metal loss in highly viscous mediums
Challenges & Solutions
Challenge 1:
• Inaccessible site for Dexon inspectors due to security risks
Solution:
• Trained local engineers with a 3-month intensive training at Dexon HQ
• Shipped tools to certified, local engineers to deploy the tool independently
Challenge 2:
• Addressing mechanical issues without Dexon engineers on-the-ground
Solution:
• Remote support team guided full diagnostics and verification from 10,000 km away
• Advised repairs remotely, but major repairs would require shipping the tool back to HQ (in this case, there were no major repairs)
Challenge 3:
• Lack of niche, inspection goods locally
Solution:
• Shipped consumables and spare ILI parts alongside tool
Conclusion
Dexon successfully executed the inspection in a high-risk region without ever stepping on-site. The inspection is just one among dozens completed over the last decade in collaboration with Dexon-trained, local engineers.