IRIS Inspection
IRIS is an ultrasonic inspection method used for the Non-Destructive Testing of tubes and pipes. The IRIS probe is inserted into the tube or pipe and flooded with water, the probe is pulled out slowly and the data is displayed & recorded. IRIS stands for Internal Rotary Inspection System, and it is a non-destructive testing (NDT) technique used primarily for inspecting the integrity of tubes, pipes, and other cylindrical structures. IRIS inspection is particularly valuable in industries such as oil and gas, power generation, and petrochemicals, where the condition of tubing is critical for safety and efficiency.
Here are key points about IRIS inspection:
Principal:
The IRIS inspection method relies on the use of ultrasound to assess the thickness and integrity of the tube or pipe wall. It is especially effective for detecting and sizing defects such as corrosion, erosion, pitting, and wall thinning.
Applications:
IRIS inspection is commonly used in various industries where tubular structures are prevalent. It is frequently employed for inspecting heat exchanger tubes, boiler tubes, steam generator tubes, and other critical components in industrial plants.
Challenges:
While IRIS is a powerful technique, it may face challenges in inspecting tubes with complex geometries or tight bends. Additionally, the inspection speed can be relatively slow compared to some other methods. In summary, IRIS inspection is a valuable NDT technique for assessing the condition of internal surfaces in tubular structures. It plays a crucial role in ensuring the integrity and safety of components in industries where tubing is a critical part of various processes.
Advantages:
Some advantages of IRIS inspection include its ability to provide detailed images of internal features, its accuracy in measuring wall thickness, and its sensitivity to various types of defects. It is also capable of inspecting non-ferrous materials.
Equipment:
The IRIS inspection system typically consists of a probe with an ultrasound transducer mounted on the end of a rotating shaft. The probe is inserted into the tube or pipe, and the shaft is rotated as the inspection progresses.
Ultrasound Emission:
The ultrasound transducer emits pulses of ultrasonic waves into the material. These waves travel through the material and are reflected back to the transducer when they encounter changes in material properties, such as defects or the tube wall.
Reflection Analysis:
By analysing the time taken for the ultrasound waves to travel through the material and the amplitude of the reflections received, the IRIS system creates a cross-sectional image of the tube or pipe. This image provides detailed information about the condition of the internal surface.
Capabilities:
IRIS inspection is capable of producing high-resolution images and accurately measuring wall thickness. It is particularly well-suited for detecting and characterizing defects in thin-walled tubing, and it can provide valuable information about the extent of corrosion or other forms of deterioration.