Patent ID: 6404189
Filing Date: 2002-06-11
Classification: G01N

Abstract:
A system for the non-destructive evaluation of a pipeline structure comprising:a mobile in-line transport vehicle for translational movement through the interior of said pipeline structure; a linear displacement sensor positioned on said vehicle for generating a signal indicative of said translational movement of said vehicle through the interior of said pipeline structure; at least one magnetostrictive sensor positioned on said vehicle, said magnetostrictive sensor comprising; an elongated core, said core having a length much longer than dimensions of its cross-section; a coil wound around said length of said elongated core; and means for establishing a bias magnetic field proximate to said elongated core; wherein said at least one magnetostrictive sensor is positioned on said transport vehicle so as to maintain a generally constant close-spaced position with respect to an inside wall of said pipeline structure as said transport vehicle is moved through the interior of said pipeline structure.