Guided Wave Ultrasonic Testing uses low-frequency ultrasonic waves that propagate along the length of a pipe wall — guided by the pipe geometry — from a single accessible transducer position. A transducer ring clamped around the pipe transmits guided wave pulses in both directions along the pipe, with inspection range extending tens of metres in each direction.
Long Range UT Capabilities
LRUT — Long Range Screening
Inspection range typically 10–50 metres in each direction from the
transducer location. Used for rapid screening of long pipe runs, buried
crossings, and insulated lines. Detection sensitivity to cross-sectional area
loss of approximately 2–9% depending on pipe condition and coating. The most
cost-effective method for screening large pipe populations for localised
corrosion — identifying the locations that need targeted direct inspection.
MRUT — Medium Range Assessment
Inspection range typically 1–5 metres. Used where LRUT range is
insufficient due to attenuation from heavy coatings, insulation, or corroded
pipe condition — or where higher defect sensitivity is required in a targeted
zone around a known anomaly. Provides better resolution and sensitivity at
shorter range compared to LRUT.
CUI Screening Through Insulation Windows
Guided wave inspection through insulation at defined inspection windows
— reducing the insulation removal required for CUI screening of long insulated
piping circuits. LRUT from a single inspection window can screen 10–30 metres
of insulated pipe in each direction, with anomalies followed up by targeted
insulation removal and direct UT or PAUT.
LRUT reports include the full waveform trace with feature identification
and classification, anomaly location table referenced to the transducer ring
position, anomaly cross-sectional area loss estimate, and prioritised follow-up
action for each identified anomaly. Integration with direct UT or PAUT
follow-up findings is included where confirmation inspection is conducted as
part of the same programme.