Pipeline Crack Detection In-Line Inspection Services

High-Resolution Crack Inspection for Critical Pipeline Threats

Cracking remains one of the most challenging threats facing pipeline operators. Stress corrosion cracking, fatigue cracking, seam weld defects, and hydrogen-related cracking can develop over years before becoming critical integrity concerns.

For over 45 years, Dexon Technology has helped operators obtain high-quality integrity data from assets with complex threat profiles or operational constraints. Combining award-winning ultrasonic crack detection technology with bespoke engineering solutions, Dexon delivers the data operators need to make confident integrity decisions.

Pipeline Crack Detection In-Line Inspection Services

±1.0 mm crack sizing accuracy

Including tilted & skewed cracks

Reliable real-world performance

API level 3 verification

Detect a wide range of cracks

Crack clusters, SCC, tilted cracks, longitudinal weld cracks, and more

First-run success

92% first-run success rate

On-time reporting

98% on-time delivery of final report

Technical Capabilities

Specification	Metric
Sampling resolution	≤ 2 × 2 mm
Crack depth detection (base material/in weld)	± 1.0/1.5 mm
Length POS	± 12.5 mm
Width POS	± 10.0 mm

These technical abilities are backed by API Level 3 certification, which verifies that the stated performance metrics have been demonstrated through on-site dig verifications.

Crack Threats Addressed

Stress Corrosion Cracks

Hook Cracks

Circumferential Seam Weld Cracking

• Stress corrosion cracking (SCC)
• Hydrogen-induced cracking (HIC)
• Fatigue cracking
• Hook cracks
• Longitudinal seam cracking
• Weld-crack differentiation
• Girth weld cracking
• Spiral weld cracking
• Axial cracking
• Circumferential cracking
• Crack colonies
• Crack-like anomalies

Additional Pipeline Threats Addressed

Metal Loss

Geometric Defects

XYZ Mapping

Operational Capabilities

Short Traps

1.5D Bends

• 3-inch and larger pipeline diameters
• Able to operate in a range of temperatures
• Tight-radius bends
• Multi-diameter pipelines
• Small-bore piping
• Challenging launcher configurations

Full-Scale Testing & Validation

Engineers validate all UT-CD Hawk tools at Dexon's 7-acre test yard using simulated pipeline conditions, artificial defects, and push-through testing prior to field deployment. Custom defect spools and pipeline threads that recreate on-site pipeline geometries are installed to verify both detection capability and tool passage before mobilization. Clients are welcome to witness testing, technology demonstrations, and inspection validation activities at Dexon’s X-Base research and testing facility. 

Need a Crack Inspection Partner?

Crack threats require more than simple detection. Operators need reliable sizing, accurate locations, and confidence in the integrity decisions that follow. Combining API Level 3 verified capabilities and bespoke engineering solutions, Dexon delivers the crack inspection data operators need to safely manage their assets. Talk to Dexon’s engineering team today about your crack threat, pipeline configuration, and inspection requirements.