Emdqp Ins 212

Special End Area, Magnetic Particle
Inspection, and Full Body Inspection

System Prove-Up
EMDQP-INS-212
Revision 0
August 2016
Scope
This procedure outlines the minimum ExxonMobil requirements for special end area (SEA)
inspection, magnetic particle inspection (MPI), and full body inspection prove-up techniques
used to inspect Oil Country Tubular Goods (OCTG) and line pipe. The Inspection Company
standard operating procedures (SOPs) shall be used to perform the inspections referenced in
this specification. As a minimum, the Inspection Company SOPs (through addendum or
process/quality plans) shall comply with the requirements of this specification.
Printed copies are "Uncontrolled" and not maintained. Unless a copy is identified as "Controlled,"
see the Drilling Website for the current version.
Special End Area, Magnetic Particle Inspection,
and Full Body Inspection System Prove-Up Revision 0
Table of Contents
1. Purpose ............................................................................................................................. 4
2. References ........................................................................................................................ 4
3. Acronyms and Definitions ............................................................................................... 4
4. Equipment......................................................................................................................... 5
5. Personnel Requirements ................................................................................................. 5
6. Reference Standards........................................................................................................ 6
7. SEA, MPI, Prove-Up Inspection ....................................................................................... 6
7.1. Inspection Area ....................................................................................................... 6
7.2. Inspection Technique .............................................................................................. 6
7.3. Surface Preparation ................................................................................................ 6
7.4. Direct Current Prods ............................................................................................... 6
7.5. Magnetic Particles .................................................................................................. 7
7.6. Lighting Requirements ............................................................................................ 7
7.7. Circular Field Magnetization.................................................................................... 7
7.8. Longitudinal Field Magnetization ........................................................................... 10
7.9. Multidirectional Magnetization ............................................................................... 12
7.10. Electromagnetic Yoke Magnetization .................................................................... 12
7.11. Procedure ............................................................................................................. 13
8. Ultrasonic Testing Wall Thickness Measurement ........................................................ 14
8.1. Approved Equipment ............................................................................................ 14
8.2. Calibration Procedure ........................................................................................... 15
9. Ultrasonic Prove-Up (Flaw Sizing) ................................................................................ 16
9.1. Instrument............................................................................................................. 16
9.2. Standardization ..................................................................................................... 16
9.3. Procedures ........................................................................................................... 16
9.4. Midwall Inspection ................................................................................................ 18
9.5. Inspector Qualifications......................................................................................... 18
10. Final Check on Tubular Condition ................................................................................ 18
10.1. Demagnetization ................................................................................................... 18
10.2. Thread Protection ................................................................................................. 18
11. Acceptance and Rejection Criteria................................................................................ 19
12. Reports ........................................................................................................................... 19
13. Identification, Marking, and Color Coding .................................................................... 19
Revision History...................................................................................................................... 20
August 2016 Page 2 of 20 EMDQP-INS-212

Table of Tables
Table 7-1: Summary of Circular Field Requirements ............................................................ 8
Table 7-2: Summary of Electromagnetic Yoke Requirements ............................................13
Table 8-1: Summary of Ultrasonic Thickness Meter Requirements ...................................15
Table of Figures
Figure 7-1: Through-Bore Conductor Circular Magnetization – Short Pulse ...................... 8
Figure 7-2: Through-Bore Conductor, Circular Magnetization – Long Pulse ..................... 9
Figure 7-3: End Area Inspection with DC Coil Pipe .............................................................11
Figure 7-4: End Area with Loose Couplings with DC Coil Pipe ..........................................12

1. Purpose
This document provides a standardized method for MPI, SEA inspection, and full body
inspection system prove-up of tubular goods.
2. References
Unless otherwise noted, all referenced documents are the latest revision. This document shall
govern for any conflicts between this document and the referenced documents.
Reference Title
API RP 2X Recommended Practice for Ultrasonic and Magnetic Examination of Offshore
Structural Fabrication and Guidelines for Qualification of Technicians
API RP 5A5 Field Inspection of New Casing, Tubing and Plain End Drill Pipe
API RP 5UE Recommended Practice for Ultrasonic Evaluation of Pipe Imperfections
API Spec 5CT Specification for Casing and Tubing
SAE AS 5371 Reference Standards Notched Shims for Magnetic Particle Inspection
ASNT SNT-TC-1A Recommended Practice for Personal Qualification and Certification in
Nondestructive Testing
ASTM E 1316 Standard Terminology for Nondestructive Examination
ASTM E 1444 Standard Practice for Magnetic Particle Examination
ASTM E 164 Standard Practice for Ultrasonic Contact Examination of Weldments
ASTM E 213 Standard Practice for Ultrasonic Examination of Metal Pipe and Tubing
ASTM E 317 Standard Practice for Evaluating Performance Characteristics of Ultrasonic
Pulse-Echo Testing Systems without the Use of Electronic Measurement
Instruments
ASTM E 587 Standard Practice for Ultrasonic Angle-Beam Examination by Contact Method
ASTM E 709 Standard Guide for Magnetic Particle Examination
ASTM E 797 Standard Practice for Measuring Thickness by Manual Ultrasonic Pulse-Echo
Contact Method
EMDQP-EVL-203 Full-Length Pipe Body Inspection Facility Evaluation
EMDQP-INS-209 OCTG Reporting, Color Code, and Identification Procedure
EMDQP-PRE-202 OCTG Thread Protector Requirements
EMDQP-TRG-201 ExxonMobil Representative Qualification and Reporting Requirements
SPE 13065 Methods for Evaluating the Quality of Oilfield Tubular Inspections
3. Acronyms and Definitions

For the purposes of this specification, the terms and definitions given in ISO 9000 and the
following additions and enhancements apply.
Acronym/Term Definition
AC Alternating Current
ADDT Amplitude Distance Differential Technique
CD Capacitive Discharge

Acronym/Term Definition
CRT Cathode Ray Tube
DAC Design Acceptance Criteria: Limits placed on characteristics of materials or
products (e.g., dimensions/material properties/assembled product testing)
established by the Supplier or Contractor to ensure conformance to product
design, applicable industry standards, and Company requirements
dB Decibels
DC Direct Current
DQT ExxonMobil Development Company Drilling Quality Team
EMR ExxonMobil Representative: DQT-appointed qualified professional (TPI) who
witnesses, monitors, reviews, assesses, or performs activities on behalf of
ExxonMobil, Affiliates, or Joint Ventures
FBH Flat Bottom hole
ID Inside Diameter
Independent A Contractor, separate from the Suppler, that conducts nondestructive
Inspection Company examination on well asset equipment
Inspection Company Entity conducting nondestructive examination on well asset equipment.
Inspection Companies may or may not be associated with the Supplier.
MHz Megahertz
MPI Magnetic Particle Inspection
OCTG Oil Country Tubular Goods
OD Outside Diameter
Post-Mill Inspection Final inspection of OCTG by an Inspection Company that is not associated with
the Supplier, after the OCTG has left the Supplier's facility
SEA Special End Area
SOP Standard Operating Procedure
Supplier Entity manufacturing Well Asset Equipment
UT Ultrasonic Testing
UV Ultraviolet
4. Equipment
Inspection equipment shall be in compliance with the Inspection Company's SOPs. As a
minimum, the Inspection Company shall calibrate inspection equipment in accordance with API
RP 5A5 and the requirements listed in this specification.
5. Personnel Requirements
Personnel performing pipe inspection prove-up shall be qualified and certified in accordance
with the Inspection Company's SOPs, which shall comply as a minimum with the personnel
requirements identified in EMDQP-EVL-203.

6. Reference Standards
The Inspection Company shall use the same reference indicators used during the full-length
pipe-body inspection to perform the prove-up and evaluation of indications. Reference
standards are used to verify that the prove-up flaw detection equipment is performing properly
and that the proper sensitivity is obtained to evaluate defects and flaws in the material being
inspected. The prove-up or inspection technician shall verify that the standard to be used is
certified and meets the requirements for the inspection being performed (e.g., correct notch
depth, size, weight, and grade of material).
7. SEA, MPI, Prove-Up Inspection

The Inspection Company shall perform SEA inspection to detect flaws and defects within the
pipe. As a minimum, the Inspection Company shall conduct inspection in the longitudinal and
transverse orientations. The magnetic fields required to perform the SEA shall be in compliance
with the requirements of this procedure.
The Inspection Company shall perform MPI for the prove-up on indications using the
magnetization techniques described in this procedure. To maximize detection of flaws during
the prove-up inspection, the magnetic fields should be as close as possible to 90 degrees or
perpendicular to the suspected flaw orientation.
7.1. Inspection Area

For prove-up inspection, the Inspection Company shall determine/mark areas to be evaluated in
accordance with the Inspection Company's SOPs. The methods of marking the areas for prove-
up shall be consistent with the method identified in the unit qualification. The SEA or end area
(EA) shall be per the Inspection Company's SOP and as a minimum be the same length as that
determined when the full body inspection unit was qualified.
7.2. Inspection Technique

For casing, SEA inspections shall utilize the wet fluorescent technique. For MPI prove-up of
indications found during full-length pipe-body inspection, as well as for SEA inspection on small
diameter tubing (<4 1/2 in.) where there is an absence of a suitable ultraviolet (UV) light source
because of restricted access to the inside diameter (ID), the Inspection Company may substitute
dry MPI for the wet MPI method.
7.3. Surface Preparation

The surface area of the material to be inspected shall be dry, free of grease, oil, etc., and
cleaned free of any foreign material that will interfere with MPI or the transmission of ultrasound
into the material. Methods used to clean and prepare the material surface shall not be
detrimental to the base metal or surface finish.
7.4. Direct Current Prods

The Inspection Company shall not use any prods or prod-like contacts during any phase of
inspection due to the possibility of arc burns associated with the use of this type of inspection
equipment. The Inspection Company shall not use any equipment that might produce arc
burns. Additionally, the Inspection Company shall not use the pipe or coupling being inspected
as an electrical conductor.

7.5. Magnetic Particles

The magnetic particles and medium used shall be per the Inspection Company SOPs and as a
minimum shall meet the requirements listed in this Section 7.5.
7.5.1. Particle Size

The dry magnetic powder shall be a mixture of particles of different sizes, with at least 75% by
weight being finer than 120 ASTM sieve size and a minimum of 15% by weight being finer than
325 ASTM sieve size.
7.5.2. Particle Type

Dry and wet magnetic particle powders shall have high permeability and low retentivity and
meet the requirements listed in ASTM E709. For evaluation of magnetic powder suppliers, the
Inspection Company should use the test criteria for magnetic inspection powders that are
described in SPE 13065.
7.5.3. Particle Concentration

Wet fluorescent magnetic particles shall have a volumetric concentration of between 0.2 and
0.4% in liquid solution. The Inspection Company shall use a settling centrifuge for this
determination (refer to ASTM E709 or ASTM E1444 for a complete description of bath
concentration checks).
7.5.4. Contrast
The Inspection Company shall select wet fluorescent magnetic particles so that they provide
reasonable contrast to the material being inspected. Wet magnetic particles shall fluoresce to a
yellow-green color when subjected to black light.
7.6. Lighting Requirements
7.6.1. Ultraviolet Light

Minimum light intensity at the pipe surface shall be 1000 microwatts. The Inspection Company
shall measure light intensity with a UV meter calibrated every 4 months. Maximum background
visible light shall not be greater 2 ft/candles.
7.6.2. Visible Light

Minimum visible light strength at the surface of the pipe to be inspected shall be 50 ft/candles.
The Inspection Company shall calibrate the visible light meter a minimum of every 4 months.
7.7. Circular Field Magnetization
7.7.1. Current Requirements

The pipe shall be magnetized with a through-bore or central conductor. The magnitude of the
applied current is dictated by the pulse duration time. The current requirements are provided in
Table 7-1, Figure 7-1, and Figure 7-2.

Table 7-1: Summary of Circular Field Requirements

Magnetization Source Decay time Δt1/2 (millisec) Current Requirement Equation
Long Pulse Over 100 I = 300 (D)
Moderate Pulse 40–100 I = 110 (W)
Single Short Pulse 10–40 I = 240 (W)
Double Short Pulse 10–40 I = 180 (W)
Triple Short Pulse 10–40 I = 145*(W)
Legend:
I = current (amps supplied by the central conductor
D = pipe OD
W = pipe weight
Δt1/2 = time for pulse amplitude to rise and decay to half of the maximum pulse amplitude (msec)
Figure 7-1: Through-Bore Conductor Circular Magnetization – Short Pulse

Figure 7-2: Through-Bore Conductor, Circular Magnetization – Long Pulse
7.7.2. Pulse Duration

As a general rule, the following shall apply regarding magnetizers:
 Battery and rectified alternating current (AC) units shall be long-pulse magnetizers.
 Capacitive discharge (CD) units with 6 farads or more shall be moderate-pulse
magnetizers.
 CD units with less than 4 farads shall be short-pulse magnetizers. The vast majority of
oilfield CD units are short-pulse magnetizers.
7.7.3. Centralization
Centralization is not required on tubular with an outside diameter (OD) less than 16 in. For
tubular with a diameter greater than or equal to 16 in centralization is required or the conductor
shall be positioned close to the internal surface of the tubular and the circumference shall be
inspected in increments to ensure inspection of the entire surface. The magnetic field limits of
each inspected increment shall be determined with a magnetic field strength indicator.
7.7.4. Safety and Insulation

CD units used as the power supply for the central conductors shall be of the low-voltage type
(less than 100 volts) with current control switching controlled by a silicon-controlled rectifier.
Additionally, the central conductor shall not be ferromagnetic and shall be electrically insulated
from the pipe.
7.7.5. Current Meter

The power supply shall have a functioning ammeter that is calibrated a minimum of every
4 months. The meter shall be capable of holding the peak current reading until manually reset
or for at least 5 seconds after the current is pulsed.

7.8. Longitudinal Field Magnetization
7.8.1. Magnetizing Source—DC Coil

The Inspection Company shall use a direct current (DC) coil for longitudinal field magnetization
of the OD and ID surfaces. The Inspection Company can specify coil in either amp-turns or in
terms of the field produced (gauss).
7.8.2. Coil Placement

The Inspection Company shall place the coil over the area to be inspected, apply current, and
then move the coil over the length to be investigated. This length shall not exceed 24 in. for a
single pass. The Inspection Company shall reverse (or switch polarity on) the coil from one pipe
to the next when inspecting pipe in close proximity to one another to lessen the demagnetization
effect.
7.8.3. Calibration
The Inspection Company shall mark the coil as to the number of turns and ensure that the
power supply has an ammeter that is calibrated every 4 months.
7.8.4. Magnetizing Source

The Inspection Company shall not use AC coils for residual field inspection.
For Equation 7-1 through Equation 7-4, the symbols are defined as follows:
Dcoil = average coil diameter (inch)
Dpipe = pipe OD (inch)
R = coupling length/coupling OD
N = number of coil turns
I = current applied to coil (amps)
B = magnetic field (gauss)
For EA with DC coil pipe less than 8 in. OD, amp turns or gauss measured at the center of the
coil in air must be equal to Equation 7-1. For end area with DC coil pipe greater than 8 in. OD,
amp turns or gauss measured at the center of the coil in air must be equal to Equation 7-2.
Equation 7-1: End Area with DC Coil Pipe < 8 in. OD
NI = (440 + 65 Dpipe)Dcoil
B = 200 + 30 Dpipe
Equation 7-2: End Area with DC Coil Pipe > 8 in. OD

NI = 960 Dcoil
B = 440

Figure 7-3 provides a graphical description of Equation 7-1 and Equation 7-2.
Figure 7-3: End Area Inspection with DC Coil Pipe
For end area with short-pulse CD box with coil, amp turns or gauss measured at the center of
the coil in air must be equal to Equation 7-3. For loose couplings with DC coil pipe, amp turns
or gauss measured at the center of the coil in air must be equal to Equation 7-4.
Equation 7-3: End Area with Short-Pulse CD box with Coil
NI = (1300 + 200 Dpipe)Dcoil, for pipe < 8 in.
NI = 2900 Dcoil, for pipe > 8 in.
NI = 5800 Dcoil, for drill collars and tool joints
Equation 7-4: Loose Couplings with DC Coil Pipe

NI = (1200 – 130R)Dcoil, for R < 2.0
NI = 940Dcoil, for R > 2.0
B = 550 – 60R, for R < 2.0
B = 430, for R < 2.0

Figure 7-4 provides a graphical description of Equation 7-4.

Figure 7-4: End Area with Loose Couplings with DC Coil Pipe
Exceptions to the requirements provided in Equation 7-1 through Equation 7-4 are acceptable if
approved in writing based upon a demonstration of capability to ExxonMobil. For example, the
Inspection Company may conduct an inspection operation at lower magnetic fields if approved
by the ExxonMobil Development Company Drilling Quality Team (DQT). However, the
inspection coils must have the capacity described in Equation 7-1 through Equation 7-4 to
inspect magnetically hard (low permeability) materials and/or material in an unfavorable
magnetic state.
7.9. Multidirectional Magnetization

The Inspection Company may utilize the multidirectional magnetization method for SEA only.
This is not an acceptable method for prove-up.
The Inspection Company may utilize multidirectional magnetization to fulfill the requirement for
magnetization in two or more directions if it is demonstrated in all areas that require
examination. The specific magnetization technique used shall be the same used to successfully
complete the evaluation of the equipment in accordance with EMDQP-EVL-203. The Inspection
Company shall perform system verification every 4 hours using shims manufactured in
accordance with SAE AS5371.
7.10. Electromagnetic Yoke Magnetization

The Inspection Company shall only utilize the electromagnetic yoke technique for prove-up
inspection and active field inspection (e.g., iron particles must be applied while the current flows
through the yoke). The Inspection Company shall not utilize this technique for SEA inspection.

7.10.1. Power Requirements

The Inspection Company shall define the power requirements of an electromagnetic yoke by
either a lifting force or by the tangential field produced at the surface of the material being
inspected. These requirements are provided in Table 7-2.
Table 7-2: Summary of Electromagnetic Yoke Requirements
Magnet Pipe Wall Thickness (in.) Lifting Force (lbs.)
3
DC Yoke Under /8 65
3 1
DC Yoke Between /8 and /2 115
AC Yoke All (only surface defects) 10
In addition to the requirements in Table 7-2, the Inspection Company can also apply an optional
tangential field requirement of 30 gauss or greater on any AC or DC magnet employed to
magnetize pipes of all wall thickness. If the tangential field requirement is to be used instead of
the dead weight lift test, the Inspection Company shall utilize a Hall element meter with a probe
placed directly on the pipe surface midway between the poles of the yoke. The probe shall be
tangential to the pipe surface.
Note that most commercial AC yokes are capable of a 10 lb. lift while most DC yokes are
capable of less than a 100 lb. lift. Therefore, the Inspection Company shall only utilize an AC
yoke inspection for surface flaws and only on OD or ID surfaces where its poles can be placed
directly on the surface to be inspected. The Inspection Company shall measure lifting force with
the pole spacing that is to be used for inspection.
7.11. Procedure
7.11.1. Processing
The Inspection Company shall electrically insulate all pieces being magnetized from
earthground and isolate these pieces from any other pieces of material. The elapsed time
between magnetization and the subsequent evaluation, classification, and disposition of a single
piece shall be no longer than 4 hours unless it’s magnetized condition is clearly marked. This is
to prevent confusion about which parts have been magnetized (field remains indefinitely). After
magnetization, the material is not to be mechanically shocked.
7.11.2. Orientation and Strength

For at least a random sampling of the order to be inspected by the magnetic particle method,
the Inspection Company shall check magnetic field orientation and strength using one of the
following:
 ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code Section V-type magnetic penetrometer
 Calibrated magnetometer (e.g., R. B. Annis-type gauss meter)
 Burmah-Castrol strip
 Ballistic fluxmeter
 Calibrated Hall element gauss meter

The Inspection Company shall calibrate these instruments every 4 months. The final
determination of proper magnetization shall be based upon the amp-turns of the magnetizing
source or a calibrated gauss meter. Therefore, calibrated ammeters and permanent records of
the number of turns or a permanent record of the magnetic field intensity are required.
7.11.3. Cleaning
The surfaces on which MPIs are performed shall be free of grease, oil, dirt, loose scale, and
other extraneous materials that would prevent magnetic powder from moving freely on the
surface. The Inspection Company shall thoroughly clean and dry external and internal surfaces
(24 in. form each end of the pipe) prior to any SEA inspections.
7.11.4. Environment
The Inspection Company shall not conduct dry powder MPIs in the rain, when the inspection
surface is damp, or when any other conditions (e.g., excessive wind, etc.) prohibit the mobility
and placement of powder. The Inspection Company shall not conduct dry powder MPIs in the
dark or at any time without adequate lighting.
7.11.5. Application of Particles

Dry powder magnetic particles are to be lightly dusted or sprinkled onto the inspection surface in
order to obtain appropriate inspections. They are not to be applied by pouring, throwing or
spreading with the fingers. The preferred method is a powder bulb with multiple holes in the
end cap.
7.11.6. Coupling Separated From Pipe

If ExxonMobil requests MPI on loose couplings, the required method is wet fluorescent MPI of
both the OD and ID surfaces. Both circumferential and longitudinal magnetic orientations are
required. If the inspection is performed in the residual magnetic state, then the magnetizing
source must be a non-reversing current, such as DC, half-wave rectified alternating current
(HWAC) or full-wave rectified alternating current (FWAC).
8. Ultrasonic Testing Wall Thickness Measurement

The Inspection Company shall take ultrasonic testing (UT) wall thickness measurements in
areas where pipe-body inspection systems have determined that there may be a thin wall area.
Additionally, the Inspection Company shall check the remaining body wall to confirm that pipe
meets minimum body wall requirements on ground areas either from previous inspections or
current inspections. For areas that have been ground, the Inspection Company shall verify by
magnetic particle or liquid penetrant inspection that the flaw has been completely removed prior
to acceptance.
8.1. Approved Equipment

The Inspection Company shall only utilize ultrasonic units and transducers that have been
shown to meet the sensitivity and resolution requirements provided in Table 8-1.

Table 8-1: Summary of Ultrasonic Thickness Meter Requirements

Meter Capability Performance Requirements
1
Sensitivity at 0.5" metal travel distance A No. 2 ( /32") FBH
Near Surface Resolution at 0.075" metal travel 3
A No. 3 ( /64") FBH
distance
Nominal Accuracy 0.001" or 1.5%, whichever is less
8.2. Calibration Procedure

The Inspection Company shall follow the calibration techniques discussed in this Section 8.2
prior to taking measurements.
8.2.1. Gauge Standardization

Gauge standardization shall be per the Inspection Company's SOPs, which shall address the
following requirements:
 A minimum of a two-step calibration to set the linear range of the UT wall thickness meter to
encompass a range above and below the minimum wall thickness requirements of the
material being inspected.
 A check on the material to be actually inspected to compensate for any differences in
acoustic properties or curvature. If a difference exists, the procedure shall address the
adjustment of the gage velocity to correctly measure the wall thickness of the pipe as
measured by a micrometer.
 Accuracy shall be as described in Table 8-1.
8.2.2. Thickness Measurement Technique

Thickness measurements shall be per the Inspection Company's SOPs, which shall address the
following requirements:
 When measuring the wall thickness from the outside of the pipe, remove all dirt and loose
material from the pipe surface and apply couplant to the area to be gauged. The couplant
must not be detrimental to the material being inspected. Press the transducer firmly onto
the surface to ensure that it is normal to the pipe surface to obtain the most accurate
readings.
 Allow the readout to stabilize; then compare each reading with the minimum allowable wall
thickness. A stable reading is one that maintains the same value (+ 0.001 in.) for at least
3 seconds.
 If a wall thickness reading classifies the tube as a reject, scrape all surface coating and
loose scale from the surface, smooth the surface, and re-check the gauge accuracy on the
test block. Do not remove base metal.
 Re-check the pipe wall thickness.
 If the reading is still less than that allowed, immediately outline the spot with red paint.

9. Ultrasonic Prove-Up (Flaw Sizing)

Any Inspection Company that operates automated pipe-body inspection equipment shall have at
least one inspector and one manual shear-wave ultrasonic unit available during the pipe
inspection process that meets the requirements of this Section 9. The purpose of this type of
inspection is to quantify the size, depth, and length of the flaws that are not accessible with
grinding or other metal removal processes and mechanical depth gauges.
9.1. Instrument
The ultrasonic shear-wave prove-up instrument shall be an A-scan-type meter with a cathode
ray tube (CRT) display.
9.2. Standardization
The inspector shall calibrate the ultrasonic shear-wave prove-up instrument using the calibration
standard from the full-length pipe-body inspection or a permanent standard of the same
diameter, wall thickness, and surface condition as the pipe being inspected. The inspector shall
use a "Gain Correction Factor" when a permanent reference standard is used and the amplitude
response from the permanent reference standard is greater than the pipe to be inspected. The
inspector shall add the additional gain required to bring the amplitude response of the pipe up to
the level of the reference standard to the gain set-up for the inspection and evaluation of flaws.
9.3. Procedures
The inspector shall follow the Inspection Company's SOPs, which shall follow the guidelines of
ASTM E587. This Section 9.2 provides acceptable methods for quantifying flaws.
9.3.1. dB Drop Method

API RP 2X and ASTM E164 provide detailed descriptions of the dB drop method or beam
boundary intercept technique. The inspector shall only use this method to determine the
dimensions of midwall or laminar flaws and the length of radial flaws. This method is applicable
to flaws larger than the sound beam diameter. Initially, the inspector scans a component and
manipulates the probe to obtain the maximum or peak response from the individual flaw. At this
point, the assumption is that the beam is centered on the flaw. Since the probe angle and the
distance between the probe and the flaw (determined from the distance scale of the flaw
detection screen) are known, the position of the flaw center relative to the probe position can be
plotted.
To size the flaw, the inspector must to determine the position of the flaw edge or edges if the
flaw is completely internal. The inspector can accomplish this in two ways, as follows:
 The 6 dB drop method utilizes the center or axis of the beam. The assumption is made that
the axis of the beam is coincident with the edge of the flaw when the amplitude of the flaw
reflection is half of its peak amplitude. At this point, half of the ultrasonic energy is being
reflected, while the other half continues through the material. Using the logarithmic decibel
scale that defines signal amplitudes, the amplitude of the reflection with the beam centered
at the flaw edge is 6 dB lower than the peak amplitude. Having identified this position by
further manipulation, the inspector can plot the flaw edges(s) and measure the flaw length
directly.
 The 20 dB drop method utilizes the edge of the ultrasonic beam. In this case, the edge of
the beam is aligned with the flaw edge. Since the edge of the beam is arbitrarily defined as

the point where the beam energy has dropped to one tenth of its peak energy at the axis,
this alignment occurs when the signal amplitude is 20 dB lower than the peak amplitude.
Again, the edge position is plotted to allow for a measurement of flaw dimensions.
The preferred instrument for the dB drop method is a combined digital and analog ultrasonic
flaw detector that can instantaneously calculate the position of the beam.
9.3.2. Amplitude Comparison Method

The inspector may use the amplitude comparison for prove-up inspection provided that all of the
following conditions are met:
 The shear-wave ultrasonic system is calibrated on both 5% deep and 10% deep notches or
flat bottom holes with a significant (approximately 6 dB) difference demonstrated.
 The acoustic beam is operated beyond the near field.
 A distance amplitude correction (DAC) curve is calculated and used.
 The flaw is investigated from various orientations until a maximum reading is obtained.
The amplitude comparison method is primarily applicable if the flaw size is less than the sound
beam diameter. This method is described in API RP 5UE, ASTM E164 and ASTM E587.
9.3.3. Amplitude Distance Differential Technique

As stated in API RP 5UE, the amplitude distance differential technique (ADDT) technique uses
a combination of amplitude comparison and 6 dB drop techniques to determine the radial depth
of a flaw. The technique is based on the premise that the radial depth of a flaw affects both the
amplitude of the received signal and the differential time of flight of the transmitted ultrasonic
wave as it is manipulated over the flaw. The inspector shall employ the ADDT technique as
follows:
 Only personnel that have been trained and that have demonstrated proficiency shall utilize
this technique.
 Shear-wave ultrasonic is used to accurately locate the flaw position.
 After location of the flaw and based on the type of shear wave equipment available at the
inspection facility, the applicable ADDT techniques described in API RP 5UE shall be used
to determine the flaw depth.
 The preferred instrument for the ADDT method is a combined digital and analog ultrasonic
flaw detector that has an active peak memory feature and can instantaneously calculate the
position of the beam.
9.3.4. Radial Sizing Method

The radial sizing method is only applicable when the flaw is on the ID and is surface breaking.
This technique is as follows:
 Shear-wave ultrasonic is used to accurately locate the flaw position.
 A high frequency (5 MHz or greater) compression-wave ultrasonic transducer is used to
measure the remaining wall thickness above the flaw and the total wall thickness adjacent
to the flaw. The flaw depth is the difference of these two readings. This method is only
valid if a significant difference (over 3%) is found between the two readings, which indicates

an adequate flaw reflector area. This method is applicable for pits, laps, and other flaws
with adequate reflector area but is not an acceptable technique for tight cracks and seams.
9.3.5. Other Methods

The inspector may use other methods of quantifying the flaw provided that the procedure is
described in written detail and approved in advance by ExxonMobil.
9.4. Midwall Inspection

The inspector shall detect and measure midwall flaw indications using a compression-wave
ultrasonic transducer with a frequency of 5 MHz or greater. The inspector shall determine sizing
of the flaw by the probe movement method (refer to the techniques and equipment described in
Section 9.3.1).
9.5. Inspector Qualifications

The inspector shall have written documentation that verifies inspector training, experience, and
qualifying examinations (including a practical test). The inspector's qualifications shall be at
least ASNT SNT-TC-1A Level II or equivalent.
10. Final Check on Tubular Condition

To ensure that the pipe is free of iron particle residue, the inspection company shall remove all
magnetic powder, cleaning materials, and couplant materials from the pipe and coupling
surfaces.
10.1. Demagnetization
To ensure that the pipe is free of iron particle residue, the Inspection Company shall either
demagnetize the pipe or ensure that the pipe has a circular residual magnetic field. A part is
considered acceptably demagnetized if it has less than ± 5 gauss as measured with a calibrated
gauss meter or magnetic field strength indicator. Residual longitudinal fields left in the pipe are
discouraged as they attract ferrous particles to the threads that can impair the connection's
performance.
10.2. Thread Protection
10.2.1. Corrosion
The Inspection Company shall check that all exposed threads are completely covered with
thread compound or an ExxonMobil-approved thread storage compound. The Inspection
Company shall not apply thread compound over threads that show evidence of corrosion until a
repair or removal of the corrosion has been effected.
10.2.2. Thread Protectors

Thread protectors shall meet the requirements of EMDQP-PRE-202.
10.2.3. Separation of Pipe

The Inspection Company shall identify and mark rejected pipe as rejected before movement to
subsequent racks or storage and separate rejects from acceptable pipe as soon as practical.

10.2.4. Pipe Cutting

The Inspection Company shall not use flame cutting as a method to cut off thread protectors or
to cut a rejected portion of a pipe. The use of this method is cause for rejection of the entire
joint of pipe or tube. Cutting shall be by saw only.
11. Acceptance and Rejection Criteria

Acceptance and rejection of flaws found for the inspections referenced in this procedure shall be
dispositioned in accordance with the requirements set forth in API 5CT, API RP 5A5, and the
applicable EMLRFD Product and/or Threading Requirement(s).
12. Reports
 Reports shall contain enough detail to re-create the inspection or test. The Inspection
Company's procedures shall describe reporting requirements and, as a minimum, provide
the following:
– Complete description of the material inspected
– Quantity inspected
– Traceability information
– List of any identification or color code markings
– List of the inspection(s) performed
 When an Independent Inspection Company conducts Post-Mill Inspection, the Inspection
Company shall submit reports to the DQT in accordance with the requirements set forth in
EMDQP-INS-209.
 ExxonMobil Representatives (EMRs) shall submit reports in accordance with the
requirements of EMDQP-TRG-201.
13. Identification, Marking, and Color Coding

Standard identification, marking, and color code requirements are acceptable for mills and
threading facilities. When an Independent Inspection Company conducts Post-Mill Inspection,
the Inspection Company shall identify, mark, and color-code pipe, couplings, and coupling stock
in accordance with EMDQP-INS-209.

Revision History
Date Revision History
August 2016 0 New edition replaces EMQSP-6.5 Rev. 2 with addition of multidirectional
technique. Included inspector requirements from EMQSP-6.10 (deleted).
Modified reporting section.

Emdqp Ins 212

Uploaded by

Document Information

Original Description:

Original Title

Copyright

Available Formats

Share this document

Share or Embed Document

Sharing Options

Did you find this document useful?

Is this content inappropriate?

Copyright:

Available Formats

Emdqp Ins 212

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

Special End Area, Magnetic Particle

Inspection, and Full Body Inspection

August 2016 Page 2 of 20 EMDQP-INS-212

August 2016 Page 3 of 20 EMDQP-INS-212

3. Acronyms and Definitions

August 2016 Page 4 of 20 EMDQP-INS-212

August 2016 Page 5 of 20 EMDQP-INS-212

7. SEA, MPI, Prove-Up Inspection

7.1. Inspection Area

7.2. Inspection Technique

7.3. Surface Preparation

7.4. Direct Current Prods

August 2016 Page 6 of 20 EMDQP-INS-212

7.5. Magnetic Particles

7.5.1. Particle Size

7.5.2. Particle Type

7.5.3. Particle Concentration

7.6. Lighting Requirements

7.6.1. Ultraviolet Light

7.6.2. Visible Light

7.7. Circular Field Magnetization

7.7.1. Current Requirements

August 2016 Page 7 of 20 EMDQP-INS-212

Table 7-1: Summary of Circular Field Requirements

Figure 7-1: Through-Bore Conductor Circular Magnetization – Short Pulse

August 2016 Page 8 of 20 EMDQP-INS-212

Figure 7-2: Through-Bore Conductor, Circular Magnetization – Long Pulse

7.7.2. Pulse Duration

7.7.4. Safety and Insulation

7.7.5. Current Meter

August 2016 Page 9 of 20 EMDQP-INS-212

7.8. Longitudinal Field Magnetization

7.8.1. Magnetizing Source—DC Coil

7.8.2. Coil Placement

7.8.4. Magnetizing Source

Equation 7-2: End Area with DC Coil Pipe > 8 in. OD

August 2016 Page 10 of 20 EMDQP-INS-212

Equation 7-4: Loose Couplings with DC Coil Pipe

August 2016 Page 11 of 20 EMDQP-INS-212

Figure 7-4 provides a graphical description of Equation 7-4.

7.9. Multidirectional Magnetization

7.10. Electromagnetic Yoke Magnetization

August 2016 Page 12 of 20 EMDQP-INS-212

7.10.1. Power Requirements

7.11.2. Orientation and Strength

August 2016 Page 13 of 20 EMDQP-INS-212

7.11.5. Application of Particles

7.11.6. Coupling Separated From Pipe

8. Ultrasonic Testing Wall Thickness Measurement

8.1. Approved Equipment

August 2016 Page 14 of 20 EMDQP-INS-212

Table 8-1: Summary of Ultrasonic Thickness Meter Requirements

8.2. Calibration Procedure

8.2.1. Gauge Standardization

8.2.2. Thickness Measurement Technique

August 2016 Page 15 of 20 EMDQP-INS-212

9. Ultrasonic Prove-Up (Flaw Sizing)

9.3.1. dB Drop Method

August 2016 Page 16 of 20 EMDQP-INS-212

9.3.2. Amplitude Comparison Method

9.3.3. Amplitude Distance Differential Technique

9.3.4. Radial Sizing Method