UT 03543 Rev 0 - TURQUIA

Number : UT-03543
Revision : A0 GENERAL AUT PROCEDURE

Date : 29.04.2003 BTC Project
Page : 1 of 23
Röntgen Technische Dienst bv
Copyright RTD Delftweg 144, 3046 NC ROTTERDAM
Project : Baku – Tblisi – Ceyhan Crude Oil Pipeline Project
Pipeline contractor : Streicher – Haustadt & Timmermann – Günsayil – Alarko JV.
Pipeline Owner : Botas Petroleum Pipeline Corporation
UT contractor : Röntgen Technische Dienst bv
Scope : Mechanised Ultrasonic Inspection of Pipe to Pipe Butt Welds

For specific materials and configurations see attachments.
Requirements : API 1104 19th edition September 1999 and

BOTAS Document ILF SPC EPC PLG 011 rev 0
Validity : This procedure is valid only for UT-examination of

welds with a surface temperature up to 99°C.
A0 29.04.2003
Rev. Approval Approval Approval
Date
No. Level III RTD Client Third party
Number : UT-03543
Page : 2 of 23
© 2003 Röntgen Technische Dienst bv
This document has been produced by Röntgen Technische Dienst bv (RTD).
Each copy is controlled and remains property of RTD.
No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system,

or transmitted in any form or by any means without the prior permission of:
Inquiries can be directed to;

Delftweg 144, P.O box 10065
3004 AB Rotterdam
The Netherlands
Phone : +31 10 2088208
Fax : +31 10 4158022
E-mail : rtd@rtd.nl
Number : UT-03543
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1 Scope __________________________________________________________ 5
2 Reference & Definitions ___________________________________________ 5
2.1 References ________________________________________________________5
2.2 Definitions ________________________________________________________5
3 Rotoscan Equipment Description ____________________________________ 6
3.1 Multi channel ultrasonic equipment ___________________________________6
3.2 Recording_________________________________________________________7
3.3 Scanner and Umbilical ______________________________________________8
3.4 Calibration block Set-up ____________________________________________8
4 Rotoscan Set-up Configuration______________________________________ 8
4.1 Inspection Set-up Configuration ______________________________________8
4.2 Parameters of Rotoscan Inspection Program____________________________8
4.3 Calibration block __________________________________________________9
5 Equipment Calibration ____________________________________________ 9
5.1 General___________________________________________________________9
5.2 Setting of Inspection Gates___________________________________________9
5.3 Sensitivity Settings ________________________________________________10
5.4 Essential Variables ________________________________________________11
5.5 Signal to noise values in the gated area________________________________12
5.6 Encoder calibration _______________________________________________12
5.7 Scanning Preparation & Surface Condition____________________________12
6 Acoustic Coupling _______________________________________________ 13
6.1 Coupling Set-up __________________________________________________13
6.2 Coupling verification ______________________________________________13
7 Examination____________________________________________________ 14
7.1 Circumferential Scanning Direction __________________________________14
7.2 Circumferential Scanning Speed _____________________________________14
7.3 Step by Step Description of a Rotoscan Examination ____________________14
8 Interpretation of results___________________________________________ 15
8.1 Determination of Weld Acceptability _________________________________15
8.2 Inspection result __________________________________________________18
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9 Acceptance/Rejection criteria ______________________________________ 20

9.1 API 1104 Section 9 Criteria _________________________________________20
10 Reporting ____________________________________________________ 21
10.1 Storage of data ___________________________________________________22
11 Personnel qualifications ________________________________________ 23
11.1 The Rotoscan operator _____________________________________________23
11.2 The Manipulator operator __________________________________________23
Specific Project Attachments document for each diameter and Wallthickness are
established containing system configuration, set-up parameters for each pipe size and
wallthickness having the same
General AUT procedure number, recognised by the prefix T.
Number : UT-03543
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1 Scope
This procedure details methods for Automated Ultrasonic Weld Inspection

(via the RTD Rotoscan Unit) of Mainline Girthwelds.
2 Reference & Definitions
2.1 References
2.1.1 National codes & Specifications
- API 1104 19th Edition September 1999

- SNT – TC – 1A 1996 "Personnel Qualification and Certification in Non
destructive Testing".
- ILF SPC EPC PLG 011 BOTAS Specification for Non Destructive Testing
- ASTM-E-1961-98 “Mechanised Ultrasonic Examination of Girth welds using
zonal discrimination with focussed search units”
- ASTM E317 "Practice for Evaluating Performance Characteristics of
Ultrasonic Pulse-Echo Testing Systems without the use of Electronic
Measurement Instruments"
- DIN 54-127 Part 1 ”Calibration of Ultrasonic Flaw Detection Equipment and
Echo Height Evaluation"
- ASTM 1212 “Standard practice for Establishment and Maintenance of Quality
Control Systems for Non destructive Testing Agencies”
- ASTM E543 “Standard Practice for Agencies Performing Non destructive
Testing”
- BS 7706 1993 Calibration and setting up of the ultrasonic time of flight
diffraction technique for the detection, location and sizing of flaws
2.2 Definitions
- “Scanner technician” refers to the person maintaining AUT equipment,

recording, and interpreting results.
- “Band setter technician” refers to the person adjusting the band to meet the
scribe line.
- “Scribe technician” refers to the person inspecting the weld bevel scribing the
reference line.
- “Search unit” is a transducer with appropriate wedge.
- “Interzonal imperfection” is one that occurs at the overlap of two adjacent
ultrasonic zones.
- “Stacked imperfection” consists of multiple discrete imperfections in different
weld passes occurring at the same circumferential location.
- “Procedure” is a step by step description of the application of an NDT method..
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- “Instruction” is a description of the steps to be followed when performing an

NDT procedure.
- “UT channel convention” is the way ut channels are called from the inside out,
i.e. From centre screen and are called root, hot pass, fill-channels, and cap.
- “AUT” is automatic ultrasonic testing
- “MUT” is Manual Ultrasonic Testing
- “Shall” a mandatory term
- “Should” a recommended practice or action.
- “Defect” an imperfection of sufficient magnitude to warrant rejection based on
the criteria referenced in and by this procedure.
- “Imperfection” a discontinuity or irregularity that is detectable by methods
outlined in this procedure.
- “Indication” evidence obtained by non destructive testing.
3 Rotoscan Equipment Description
3.1 Multi channel ultrasonic equipment
The Rotoscan is an automated ultrasonic inspection system for pipeline girth

welds, based upon the ‘Pulse Echo Method’, enhanced with mapping images and
‘Time of Flight Diffraction’.
The weld is divided into a number of discrete zones, which are each, inspected by an
array of probes.
The probes are arranged such that the entire weld is examined from both sides in a
single circumferential scan.
The ultrasonic data is transferred to a computer for data presentation and analysis.
Inspection results are stored on hard disc and backed up to removable hard disc, a
hardcopy of each weld is printed in a compressed black & white image covering the
pipe circumference.
3.1.1 Global parameters
- Number of Sequences : 32
- Main Gain : 0 – 40 dB
- Digitizer Sampling Frequency : 50-100 MHz
- Overall System P.R.F : 4 kHz
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3.1.2 Gate Parameters
In each sequence, the following parameters are selectable:

- Transmitter and Receiver channel 1- 32
- Gain 0 - 40 dB ( 1dB increments )
- Gate start and length. ( min increment 0,1mm )
- Delay ( mm )
- Threshold level 5% - 100% Full Screen Height ( FSH ).
- Recordable output selection between; Amplitude and/or Transit
distance, Mapping, TOFD and Coupling.
- Selection between First / Highest amplitude detection within gated
section
3.2 Recording
Inspection results are presented on-line on a colour monitor.

The screen layout and number of sequences are configured to present the
thickness of the weld to be examined. Radial distance delays are applied to the
output channels to compensate for variable transducer circumferential positions.
The presentation shows the following information;
- Amplitude and relevant transit distance (superimposed )

- Mapping image sections
- Go-Nogo image section
- Coupling check section
- TOFD image section
- Circumferential position information recorded with increment of 2mm.
- Header section, presenting job specific information
- Time and date of inspection
- Imperfection mark-up
- Geometry mark-up
The data of each inspected weld will be stored on a hard disc, in addition a back-
up is made on an second removable harddisc.
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3.3 Scanner and Umbilical
The scanning system provides the following:
- Mechanised operation during examination.

- Capable of taking individually spring loaded ultrasonic probes, of
which the distances to the weld centreline can individually be set.
- Coupling supply controllable per probe, or per set.
- 15-45 metres of umbilical cable.
- Equipped with an encoder for accurate measurement of the scanner
position on the pipe circumference.
3.4 Calibration block Set-up
The calibration Set-up consists of a support (dummy), being a part of thin wall
pipe. On the dummy support a guiding band is mounted at the same nominal
distance from the weld centreline as the guide band on the weld to be tested.
The dummy support contains a cut-out area in where a calibration block is
mounted
4 Rotoscan Set-up Configuration
4.1 Inspection Set-up Configuration
The inspection set-ups are detailed in the attachments. They show the selected
probe angle(s), probe configuration and probe frame layout for the selected pulse
echo, tandem and TOFD technique for the zones to be examined within the
given weld bevel configuration.
4.2 Parameters of Rotoscan Inspection Program
During inspection the parameter settings of the Rotoscan program are stored on
hard-disc together with the inspection data. The settings for inspection gates and
gain are subject to adjustments within the defined essential variables.
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4.3 Calibration block
The calibration block made from project pipe, reflectors for the pulse echo
technique are flat-bottom holes and notches, which are positioned at the
theoretical weld bevel, with exception of the transverse notch, which is placed at
90° to the weld axis.
V-notches are used to calibrate the TOFD performance. The calibration block
will be certified by the manufacturer. The calibration block shall be identified
with a hard stamped unique serial number.
Calibration block drawings are within the attachments.
Note:
* Through-holes ø 2mm in both ends of calibration block at centre line.

These reflectors are to locate weld centre position only.
5 Equipment Calibration
5.1 General
The ultrasonic equipment shall be electronically calibrated at least once per

3- month period according to ASTM-E-317.
5.2 Setting of Inspection Gates
Pulse echo and Tandem channels
With each transducer positioned for the peak signal response from the
calibration reflector the detection gates are to be set. The gate must start
nominally 4-5 mm before the theoretical weld bevel preparation, the gate end
position will end approximately at the weld centreline. Gate threshold level of
the pulse echo channels shall be set below the 20% evaluation level. All gates
will be programmed to record amplitude and/or transit distance information.
The gate length of the transit distance in the root channel will be extended to
enable root penetration registration.
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Mapping channels
The mapping gates in the body of the weld starts nominally 2-5mm before the
theoretical weld bevel preparation. The gate length will be extended to enable
cap reinforcement registration. Transmitters or Receivers of Tandem probes
inspecting the Fill area(s) will be used for detection of porosity, alternatively
independent volumetric probes may be used
The mapping gates in the root will be set identically to the root pulse echo
transit distance channels to enable the registration of the root penetration.
TOFD channel
The TOFD gate start will be set nominally 3 mm before the arrival of the
lateral wave and should extend up to slightly beyond the first backwall echo, to
achieve full cover of wall thickness.
Note: The gate settings may be altered if geometry indications dictate.
5.3 Sensitivity Settings
The equipment sensitivity ( echo amplitude ) for all inspection channels shall be
set at nominal 80% FSH.
Mapping channels in the body of the weld are used to detect the presence of
volumetric imperfections, and in addition to identify the position of the external
cap reinforcement.
The sensitivity is set in a way that the signal of the volumetric ø 2.0 mm FBH
are set at 80 % FSH increased with typically + 8-14dB, but should not be so
great as to cause interfering electrical or geometric noise that could be
misinterpreted
Mapping channels in the root are used to identify the position of the root
geometry. The sensitivity as a minimum is equal to the related pulse echo
channels increased with typically + 8-14dB, but should not be so great as to
cause interfering electrical or geometric noise that could be misinterpreted.
The lateral wave (RF signal) of the TOFD channel sensitivity is set at nominal
80% FSH.
The probes for the detection of transverse indications are set at nominal 80% FSH
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For Example
SCANNING COUPLING
REFERENCE THRESHOLD SENSITIVITY THRESHOLD
ZONE REFLECTOR LEVEL
Root 1 mm Notch 20% 80% 40%
Hot 40%
3 mm FBH 20% 80%
Pass
FILL 1 3 mm FBH 20% 80% 40%
FILL 2 1 mm Notch 20% 80% 40%
MAP 2 mm FBH 20% 80% + 8- 14 dB N/A
MAP 1.5 mm FBH 20% 80% + 8 - 14 dB N/A
TVD TV Notch 20% 80% N/A
TOFD TOFD NOTCH 40% 40% N/A
Essential Variables
- Set-up
Change resulting in the addition or subtraction of an internal reflection.
Change resulting in beam angle of +/- 2° in steel.
- Probe parameters
Change in Frequency, Crystal size, performance, make, angle and or
specification.
- Multiplexer
A change from conventional to phased array or other type of multiplexer.
- Software Version
A change of software version (unless written permission is provided by the
Company)
- Material (steel all grades)

Change in nominal wall thickness; change in nominal pipe diameter.
- Gates
Change in gate by >2 mm or threshold greater than +/- 10% FSH.
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5.4 Signal to noise values in the gated area
To determine the signal to noise value each transducer, the transducer will be
positioned to detect its calibration reflector at 80% full screen height the gain
level will be recorded (initial gain setting).
The transducer will be moved clear of any calibration reflectors.
The ambient noise level will then increased to 80% full screen height and the
gain level recorded.
The difference between the two gain settings will be the value recorded as the
signal to noise level.
For all gates applies ;
- Electronic noise shall be lower than acoustical noise in all

- sequences, for the probes and sensitivities to be used during the inspection.
- The signal to noise ratio of each sequence during examination shall be at least
20-1 dB for shear waves probes.
5.5 Encoder calibration
The encoder accuracy shall be checked.

The scanner is moved around in, circumferential direction, exactly from the
0-point to 0- point.
The encoder reading of the system shall be compared with the actual measured
circumferential distance.
The difference between the two readings shall be within the specified tolerance.
During scanning the correct functioning of the encoder shall be continuously
checked, at the end of a scan, checking the end position of the last probe within
the scanning frame related to the 0-point of the weld.
5.6 Scanning Preparation & Surface Condition
Spiral welds or long seams shall be ground flush over the scanning area.
The scanning area shall be free of weld spatters and other irregularities which
may interfere with the inspection.
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5.6.1 Reference line
- Prior to welding a reference line shall be scribed on the pipe surface at a distance
of 40mm ±0.5 mm from the end preparation.
- All markings shall be done on the inspection band side of the weld.
- In the event of the reference line being inaccurate or missing the centre of the
weld cap may be used until the problem is rectified.
5.6.2 Datum Point
- The “0” datum starting point and the scanning direction shall also be clearly
marked on the surface of the pipe.
6 Acoustic Coupling
- Water shall be used as acoustic coupling fluid.

- The coupling is supplied between probe contact surface and the pipe via supply
channels incorporated in the probe housing.
6.1 Coupling Set-up
Coupling is utilised with the pitch catch technique, and shall be set-up by the
following method:
- Setting of sensitivity shall be done with probes placed on the weld to be

inspected.
- Of each pair of probes within the probe array the zone identical functions (
Upstream & Downstream ) the sensitivity is established to set transmission
amplitude on nominal 80% FSH + 12 dB.
- Check this basic setting while performing a scan, adjust sensitivity if necessary
such that sound coupling is established.
- Coupling responses shall not be set at excessive amplitudes.
- Coupling loss will be displayed if the signal drops below the 40% threshold of
the coupling gate
6.2 Coupling verification
The re-examination of the calibration block with its surface wiped dry shall
produce a record showing a lack of coupling i.e absence of recording signal.
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7 Examination
7.1 Circumferential Scanning Direction
The circumferential scanning direction shall be clockwise when viewed from

the upstream side of the pipe in the direction of construction.
Reverse scanning may only be used where geometry or coating prohibits clockwise
scanning.
All reverse scans shall be clearly marked.
7.2 Circumferential Scanning Speed
Scanning speed will be set to 40-80mm/second and be nominally the same as

the calibration scan speed and in the same direction.
7.3 Step by Step Description of a Rotoscan Examination
Before starting the step by step description the UT-system is already calibrated
and a calibration scan with a record has been made.
a Cool down the weld area with seawater, rinse with fresh water.
b Adjust guiding band on the pipe to a distance from the marks
(weld centreline) and parallel to the weld.
c. Scanner Operator will mark zero-point on the 12 ‘o clock position of the pipe.
d. Attach the scanner to the band. Do not attach if the cooling water is still
boiling.
e. Locate the scanner over the top of the pipe and make sure that all probes are
past the zero point and are in proper contact with the pipe surface.
f. Switch on coupling supply.
g. Switch on system and automatically the weld will be scanned in clockwise
direction.
h. Systems and coupling supply will switch off automatically after a full scan
with an overlap of minimum10 cm.
i. Check the inspection results on imperfection indications and proper coupling.
Use the transit distance recording and mapping and images for validation of
imperfection indications within the root area and proper alignment of the
guiding band. In case of lack of coupling a second scan will be necessary.
j. Remove the scanner from the band and attach it to the calibration block.
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8 Interpretation of results
8.1 Determination of Weld Acceptability
- Review scan and assess geometry and imperfection signals

If imperfections exist mark and measure length
- Determine height
Use TOFD, Amplitude or inherent pass height.
TOFD will be used to establish defect height, when both upper defect tip and
lower defect tip signals can be defined in TOFD channel. In the event that they
cannot be defined the reflection in the relating pulse echo channel will be
utilised for sizing defect based off of the amplitude received.
- Determine imperfection depth

Use TOFD, Amplitude or pass position as appropriate
Defect depth location can be pin pointed with TOFD.

TOFD will be utilized for this by locating the defect tip signal and recording
the depth from the ID surface that is related to that signal.
In the event that no signal is seen in TOFD channel defect location will be
defined by the reflections that appear in the relating pulse echo channels.
The location in gate will also be taken in account.
- Determine if surface interaction exists

Use the interaction module if needed
- Determine if radial interaction exists

Use the interaction module if needed
- Mark rejectable areas and record on the NDE report
- Inform welding personnel
- Mark rejectable areas on the weld
8.1.1 Coupling criteria
The coupling channels will be checked for coupling loss.

Loss of coupling must be compensated by supplementary inspection channels
or methods to maintain full volumetric inspection.
Supplementary inspection channels include
“Time of Flight Diffraction” and "Mapping" displays.
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8.1.2 Lamination Detection
Lamination detection will be performed during the inspection scan by using

data from the TOFD and couplant channels.
Where laminations are suspected or detected a supplementary manual
inspection will be performed on the area and the result reported.
8.1.3 Imperfection Length
“Imperfection Length” is the length of a imperfection defined by considering

all continuous channel responses.
The threshold level is 20% amplitude, i.e. the starting point of the imperfection
is located where the signal crosses the 20% amplitude level, the defined
imperfection length stops once the amplitude drops below the 20% amplitude,
if using an ECA imperfection interaction must be considered.
8.1.4 Imperfection Height
“Imperfection Height” is the through wall dimension of the imperfection.
8.1.5 Imperfection Depth
“Imperfection Depth” is the through-wall distance to the bottom of the

imperfection as measured from the outside surface of the pipe.
8.1.6 Reference Level
Reference level is 80% FSH
8.1.7 Scanning Level
Scanning level is reference level
8.1.8 Evaluation Level
A scan evaluation level is 20% FSH. Except for Volumetrics in the mapping
channels.
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8.1.9 Classification of Indications
8.1.9.1 Indications (General)
Indications produced by ultrasonic testing may or may not be defects.

Changes in the weld geometry due to alignment offset of abutting pipe ends;
changes in weld reinforcement profile of ID root and OD capping passes;
internal chamfering; and ultrasonic wave mode conversion due to such
conditions may cause geometric indications that are similar to those caused by
weld imperfections but that are not relevant to acceptability.
8.1.9.2 Linear Indications
Linear indications are defined as indications with their greatest dimension in

the weld length direction.
Typical linear indications may be caused by, but are not limited to, the following
types of imperfections:
- Inadequate penetration without high-low (IP)
- Inadequate penetration due to high-low (IPD)
- Inadequate cross penetration (IPC)
- Incomplete fusion (IF)
- Incomplete fusion due to cold lap (IFD)
- Elongated slag inclusion (ESI), cracks (C)
- Undercutting adjacent to the cover pass (EU) or root pass (IU)
- Hollow bead porosity (HB).
8.1.9.3 Transverse Indications
Transverse indications are defined as indications with their greatest dimension

across the weld. Typical transverse indications may be caused by, but are not
limited, to the following types of imperfections:
- Cracks (C)
- Isolated slag inclusions (ISI)
- Incomplete fusion due to cold lap (IFD) at start/stops in the weld
passes.
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8.1.9.4 Volumetric Indications
Volumetric indications are defined as three-dimensional indications. Single or

multiple inclusions, voids, or pores may cause such indications. Partially filled
voids, pores, or small inclusions at start/stops in weld passes may cause larger
indications in the transverse direction than in the weld length direction.
The following types of imperfections may cause typical volumetric indications:
- Internal Concavity (IC)

- Burn-Through (BT)
- Isolated Slag Inclusions (ISI)
- Porosity (P)
- Cluster Porosity (CP).
8.1.9.5 Relevant Indications
Relevant indications are those caused by imperfections.

Relevant indications shall be evaluated at the evaluation level.
8.2 Inspection result
The inspection results should be evaluated and/or reported as follows:
- All indications in the pulse echo channels should be evaluated which exceed
the threshold level of 40 % FSH.
- Imperfection length in the pulse echo channels shall be measured at the
threshold level of 40 % FSH.
- Volumetric clusters in the mapping channels if they exceed the 40%
threshold level ( white colour in mapping image ).
- The TOFD channel may be used to determine if indications are buried or
surface breaking.
- TOFD may be used for measuring imperfection depth and when possible
imperfection height.
8.2.1 Beam Spread Correction
Possible overestimating of defect length must be considered in interpreting

allowable imperfection lengths.
Imperfection length may be evaluated as shown below.
If two indications are spaced closer together than the width of the beam, the
lateral beam spread correction must be conservative.
That is, the beam-spread correction can be applied all to one indication or
partly to both indications, but the total beam spread correction can not be
applied separately to both imperfections.
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8.2.2 Imperfection Height Measurement
The accepted methods of vertical height measurement of imperfections are ;
- TOFD method
The upper and /or lower diffraction signals of the imperfection are used to
determine the defect height and position within the weld volume.
- Amplitude method
The amplitude height is measured and the height of the imperfection calculated
using the applicable system sizing curves.
- Inherent pass height method

The imperfection pass height is used to determine the imperfection height
where evidence can be achieved that imperfection is not present in adjacent
channels confirmed by the TOFD method.
8.2.2.1 Interzonal Imperfection
“Interzonal” imperfections are evaluated differently than “Stacked”.

An “Interzonal” imperfection is defined as a single flaw, which is seen by
adjacent channels. To be considered “Interzonal”, the echo dynamics and the
circumferential positioning should be the similar. In the case of “Interzonal”
imperfection only the imperfection and not the overtraces of the imperfection
are sized. Where the echo dynamics differ the imperfection will be considered
larger than the beam or stacked and reported as such.
8.2.2.2 Stacked imperfection
Stacked imperfection consists of multiple discrete imperfections in different

weld passes occurring at the same circumferential location or imperfections
that are larger than the beam.
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8.2.2.3 Interaction of imperfections
Interaction of indications is defined when criteria as outlined in

API 1104 Appendix A are met.
9 Acceptance/Rejection criteria
Acceptance / Rejection criteria for pipeline girth weld discontinuities shall be to

Botas Qualification Criteria for API1104 Section 9 welds
The following additional points shall also be encountered into the evaluation criteria:
- All rules of the Appendix must be followed

- Porosity is to be addressed as a linear imperfection.
- Imperfections interaction as defined in A-6 must be determined.
9.1 API 1104 Section 9 Criteria and Botas Doc ILF PC EPC PLG 011
Unless otherwise documented the following will apply:
Indications determined to be cracks (C) shall be considered imperfections.

Linear surface (LS) indications (other than cracks) interpreted to be open to the
I.D. or O.D. surface shall be considered imperfections should any of the
following conditions exist:
* The aggregate length of LS indications in any continuous 300 mm length of

weld exceeds 25 mm.
Linear Buried (LB) indications (other than cracks) interpreted to be subsurface
within the weld and not I.D. or O.D. surface-connected shall be considered
imperfections should any of the following conditions exist:
* The aggregate length of LB indications in any continuous 300 mm length of
weld exceeds 50 mm.
* Transverse (T) indications (other than cracks) shall be considered volumetric
and evaluated using the criteria for volumetric indications. The letter T shall be
used to designate all reported transverse indications.
* Volumetric Clusters (VC) indications shall be considered imperfections when
the maximum dimensions of VC indications exceeds 13 mm.
* Volumetric individual (VI) indications shall be considered imperfections when
the maximum dimension of VI indications exceeds 6 mm in both width and
length.
* Volumetric root (VR) indications interpreted to be open to the I.D. surface
shall be considered imperfections should any of the following conditions exist:
* The maximum dimensions of VR indications exceeds 6 mm.
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* The total length of VR indications exceeds 13 mm in any continuous

300 mm length of weld.
* Any accumulation of relevant indications (AR) shall be considered a
imperfection when any of the following conditions exist:
* The aggregate length of indications above evaluation level exceeds 50 mm in
any continuous 300 mm length of weld.
* Pipe or Fitting Imperfections detected by ultrasonic testing shall be reported to
the company. Their disposition shall be as directed by the company.
Reportable and unacceptable indications will be marked on the Rotoscan

result print out.
Note:
All linear indications interpreted to be cracks are unacceptable.
If cracks have been found, the reason / cause of the crack shall be thoroughly
investigated and the WPS immediately reviewed or modified such that they do
not reoccur.
This may result in halt of welding until resolved
10 Reporting
The RTD Rotoscan site report will be issued in conjunction with

Ultrasonic Weld Report, with the following information listed ;
• Job No. • UT Equipment

• Report No. • Calibration / Reference Block
• Test Date • UT Probes
• Order No. • Test Results
• Client • Weld No.
• Client Job Ref / Contract No. • Interpretation of the weld scan
• Work Instruction No. • (A) Accept & (NA) Not Acceptable
• Material Type & Thickness • Technician
• NDT Procedure • Signature
• Test Specification • Date
• Sizing Method • Evaluation %
• Acceptance Criteria •
For a sample of the Rotoscan site report, see attachments

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The circumferential start and stop points, height, depth & type of each
recordable imperfection shall be noted, additionally if “stacked” or
”Interzonal” and if interactive are noted. Where “stacked” or “interactive” the
individual imperfection will be recorded in descending order on the recording
sheet
10.1 Storage of data
Each shift and/station will store scans and calibrations in a windows folder of
that date e.g. 261203D(DJ), a letter will designate the shift and station.
Welds will be stored in shift directories, which will be created at the beginning
of each shift. Operators are responsible for shift directory on main hard disk and
should insure that all welds are present and readable.
- The AUT NDE report will be kept consecutively in a folder or binder.
- The official record of inspection will be the AUT NDE report and will bear the
original signature or the AUT technician.
- A back-up will be made on an second removable hard disc the disc will be
stored according to manufacturer requirements. All scans made will be backed
up on back up drive as well as main drive. File storage system will be identical
to main drive. Files on back up drive are not to be removed with out permission
of RTD supervisor.
- Date and time function will be used to insure that all welds scanned are
accounted for. By selecting this function date and time of each scan made
becomes part of the file name, removing the chance of overwriting any file.
Number : UT-03543
Page : 23 of 23
11 Personnel qualifications
All NDE personnel must be able to speak the English language.
11.1 The Rotoscan operator
The ultrasonic lead operator performing the examination shall:
- Be qualified in accordance to RTD written-practice A-512 which conforms to

SNT-TC-1A 1996 and EN-473 (level II).
- Be Certified to SNT TC 1A in UT Level II in accordance to RTD written-
practice A-512.
- Has documented experience with multichannel UT-equipment;
- Be trained and passed the RTD in-house testing for Mechanised
Ultrasonic Inspection.
11.2 The Manipulator operator
The manipulator operator, handling of scanner mechanism shall:
- Be trained in using mechanised UT-manipulator to satisfaction of

- Rotoscan operator

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Number : UT-03543

Revision : A0 GENERAL AUT PROCEDURE

Project : Baku – Tblisi – Ceyhan Crude Oil Pipeline Project

Pipeline contractor : Streicher – Haustadt & Timmermann – Günsayil – Alarko JV.

Pipeline Owner : Botas Petroleum Pipeline Corporation

UT contractor : Röntgen Technische Dienst bv

Scope : Mechanised Ultrasonic Inspection of Pipe to Pipe Butt Welds

Requirements : API 1104 19th edition September 1999 and

Validity : This procedure is valid only for UT-examination of

© 2003 Röntgen Technische Dienst bv

This document has been produced by Röntgen Technische Dienst bv (RTD).

Each copy is controlled and remains property of RTD.

No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system,

Röntgen Technische Dienst bv

Inquiries can be directed to;

Röntgen Technische Dienst bv

9 Acceptance/Rejection criteria ______________________________________ 20

This procedure details methods for Automated Ultrasonic Weld Inspection

2 Reference & Definitions

2.1.1 National codes & Specifications

- API 1104 19th Edition September 1999

- “Scanner technician” refers to the person maintaining AUT equipment,

- “Instruction” is a description of the steps to be followed when performing an

3 Rotoscan Equipment Description

3.1 Multi channel ultrasonic equipment

The Rotoscan is an automated ultrasonic inspection system for pipeline girth

3.1.1 Global parameters

3.1.2 Gate Parameters

In each sequence, the following parameters are selectable:

Inspection results are presented on-line on a colour monitor.

- Amplitude and relevant transit distance (superimposed )

3.3 Scanner and Umbilical

The scanning system provides the following:

- Mechanised operation during examination.

3.4 Calibration block Set-up

4 Rotoscan Set-up Configuration

4.1 Inspection Set-up Configuration

4.2 Parameters of Rotoscan Inspection Program

4.3 Calibration block

* Through-holes ø 2mm in both ends of calibration block at centre line.

The ultrasonic equipment shall be electronically calibrated at least once per

5.2 Setting of Inspection Gates

Pulse echo and Tandem channels

Note: The gate settings may be altered if geometry indications dictate.

5.3 Sensitivity Settings

FILL 2 1 mm Notch 20% 80% 40%

MAP 2 mm FBH 20% 80% + 8- 14 dB N/A

MAP 1.5 mm FBH 20% 80% + 8 - 14 dB N/A

TVD TV Notch 20% 80% N/A

TOFD TOFD NOTCH 40% 40% N/A

- Material (steel all grades)

5.4 Signal to noise values in the gated area

For all gates applies ;

- Electronic noise shall be lower than acoustical noise in all

5.5 Encoder calibration

The encoder accuracy shall be checked.

5.6 Scanning Preparation & Surface Condition

5.6.1 Reference line

5.6.2 Datum Point

- Water shall be used as acoustic coupling fluid.

6.1 Coupling Set-up

- Setting of sensitivity shall be done with probes placed on the weld to be

6.2 Coupling verification