Advanced
Contact Point Corrosion
Monitoring Technology

VIR Systems Introduces Our New Commercially Available Tester & Multiplexer Technology

Inspect. Monitor. Protect — Without Entering the Tank.

The system offers a durable, reliable solution for continuous corrosion monitoring. The ability to perform measurements without direct access to the test surface and to integrate these measurements into a networked monitoring system represents a significant advancement over existing techniques.

Dead Legs

Bridle pipework / vessel trim
Drain piping at vessel
Low sections of piping
Piping of a closed valve

CUI

Conduct inspections of insulated pipes through UT ports to locate and size corrosion

Offshore Rust Scabs

Execute repairs during operation based on the capability to provide remaining wall loss

Pipe Supports

Carry out an expedited inspection for corrosion underneath the pipe support

Wrapped Pipe

Implement inspections or real-time corrosion monitoring through the wrap with strategically embedded permanently placed sensors

VIR Tester Applications

T-connector supports
Saddle supports
Hangers
Beam locations
Pad
Clamp
Flare stacks
Dead legs
CUI
Offshore
Water mains
Tanks
Tank welds for porosity
Underground pipe
HIC attack

Advantages of Using VIR

Quick inspection
Cost effective
Repeatable results
User friendly
Conventional training
Process does not need to be shutdown to perform the inspection.
Material needs to be bare metal.
Contact surface must be clean of dust, debris, paint, rust.

Introduction

VIR Inspection has developed a patent pending VIR System technology, which is a proven, NDT method for inspecting any conductive material using direct current. The system uses one or more pairs of sensors to collect data on corrosion or degradation in conductive materials, even in hard-to-reach areas. Notably, corrosion under pipe supports can be assessed without the need to lift or remove wrapped pipe. Doing this offers a significant advantage in maintaining the integrity and longevity of industrial equipment. The VIR System provides repeatable, consistent results, making it an effective tool for assessing material wall loss, flaws detection, growth rates and life expectancy.

The Problem

Current corrosion detection methods are often inadequate for addressing the challenges of modern industrial operations. Traditional techniques, while useful in certain contexts, come with significant limitations that hinder their effectiveness and efficiency. For instance, ultrasonic testing, though reliable for measuring wall thickness, requires direct access to clean surfaces of the equipment, making it impractical for large-scale or continuous monitoring. Similarly, electromagnetic techniques offer the potential for non-destructive evaluation but are often constrained by the need for close proximity to the test surface and can struggle with complex geometries or certain material properties. Furthermore, many existing methods often necessitate the removal of insulation or coatings and fail to measure corrosion under supports or inside equipment without consequential disruption to operations. These challenges not only increase the labor and costs associated with testing but also limit the frequency and comprehensiveness of corrosion monitoring.

The Solution

To address these challenges, VIR System technology employs corrosion-resistant stainless-steel sensors housed within a self-contained unit that can be magnetically attached, clamped or secured to the test object. Permanent sensors can also be installed using a stud welding technique or permanent adhesion. The system offers a durable, reliable solution for continuous corrosion monitoring. The ability to perform measurements without direct access to the test surface and to integrate these measurements into a networked monitoring system represents a significant advancement over existing techniques. VIR System not only addresses the technical challenges of existing corrosion detection methods but also offers a practical solution for industries seeking to enhance the safety, reliability, and longevity of their infrastructure. By providing a means for continuous, accurate monitoring of corrosion, the VIR System stands to significantly impact the maintenance strategies and operational efficiencies of facilities prone to corrosion-related issues.

Actual Data Validation

Technology validation is a crucial aspect of any technological development. VIR has successfully conducted multiple inspections with customer validation.

Corrosion Under Insulation (CUI)
Offshore Pipe Supports, Rust Nodules and Vessels (tested from the outside)
Chemical Plant Stainless Steel Piping
Power Plant Boiler Water Wall Tubes

Blind Test Performed