MTM-GMagnetic Gradient Tomography Method

The new generation of MTM. A non-destructive testing solution for anomaly detection and pipeline integrity evaluation, for above-ground, underground and offshore pipelines of all types and sizes.

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MTM-G inspecting a pipeline running from the seabed up onto land
90–97%
Agreement with conventional NDT
Up to 1,500 m
Subsea inspection depth
Over 80%
Offshore probability of detection
50 mm
Minimum pipe diameter

Overview

MTM-G is based on the Villari effect: the change in magnetisation of a ferromagnetic metal when it is subjected to mechanical deformation or stress. A portable magnetometer scans the pipeline and measures its magnetic field, and changes in that field are used to identify anomalies and stress concentrations in the pipe.

Operator scanning a buried pipeline with a portable magnetometer
An operator walks the pipeline route with a portable magnetometer.

Advantages of MTM-G

  • No blind spots

    Inspects the entire length of a pipeline, including bends and turns.

  • No interruptions

    Pipelines stay in operation during inspection.

  • No special preparation

    No cleaning or depressurisation of the pipeline is needed.

  • Detects all types of anomalies

    Finds anomalies inside and outside the pipe, including metal loss, corrosion and cracks.

  • Identifies stress concentrations

    Locates areas of stress concentration, where failure is most likely.

  • Accurate and reliable

    Shows 90–97% agreement with conventional NDT methods.

Subsea MTM-G

Subsea MTM-G is a variant designed for underwater pipelines. It inspects pipelines up to 1,500 metres deep and detects metal anomalies such as metal loss, corrosion and cracks.

Combining the MTM-G anomaly map with a seismic activity map adds further analysis and integrity assessment capability.

Subsea MTM-G inspects offshore pipelines along their entire span with a probability of detection above 80%.

Subsea MTM-G vehicle scanning an underwater pipeline

Scanning and calibration

  1. We locate the pipeline axis below the ground surface.

  2. We scan the pipeline with a portable magnetometer that records magnetic data and GPS tracks automatically.

  3. We process the data and review it for quality.

  4. If data quality is not acceptable, we rescan the pipeline.

  5. We deliver a final report listing the dangerous (anomalous) areas of the pipeline, located on the map with their danger degree.

Calibration chart of magnetic readings against measured defects

Requirements and limitations

Distance from pipe axis to magnetometer
25D to 30D maximum
Operating pressure
No minimum or maximum
Pipe diameter
50 mm minimum, no maximum
Wall thickness
2.8 mm minimum, no maximum
Section length
No limit
Access
A clear path at least 1 m wide for the operator to walk above the pipeline

Technology partner

IGSAT logo

MTM-G is developed by IGSAT. El-Eman delivers MTM-G inspection to pipeline operators in Egypt.

Visit the IGSAT website (opens in a new tab)

Technical documents

Get a quote for MTM-G

Tell us about the asset and its location. We will reply with scope and pricing.

Email info@elemancs.comCall +20 13 341 4420

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