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Pipe Scan Online Gamma Pipe Scanning for Blockages & Deposits

Scansolution® Pipe Scan service is a non-intrusive, on-line diagnostic method that identifies internal conditions within pipelines without interrupting operation. The technology detects blockages, coking, sediment buildup, and liquid levels along the pipe, providing accurate real-time insights for process optimisation and preventive maintenance. It enables quick identification of flow restrictions, stuck pigs, or irregular deposits that could affect system performance and safety.

Overview

Scansolution® Pipe Scan service provides a non-intrusive, online diagnostic of your process piping. Using external gamma scanning, we detect internal blockages, deposits, liquid holdup, and flow restrictions without shutdown, cutting, or removing insulation.

Designed for refineries, petrochemical plants, gas processing plants, and pipelines, Scansolution® Pipe Scan helps operations and maintenance teams make fast, data-driven decisions to restore flow and prevent unnecessary downtime.

Key Benefits at a Glance

  • No shutdown required scan online at normal operating conditions
  • Zero pipe cutting or internal access all measurements performed externally
  • Precise location and severity of blockages & deposits
  • Real-time detection of liquid holdup and slugging behaviour
  • Minimise trial-and-error cleaning and pigging work
  • Support accurate turnaround planning
  • Applicable to onshore, offshore & subsea pipelines

What Is Pipe Scan?

Pipe Scan uses gamma transmission scanning to evaluate the internal condition of pipelines from the outside. A shielded gamma source and detector measure the changes in radiation intensity through the pipe, producing a density profile that reveals:

  • Solids or coke build-up
  • Partial or full blockages
  • Liquid holdup or carryover
  • Slugging or unstable flow patterns

Because the technique is entirely external, Pipe Scan can be applied online, even on insulated or hard-to-access lines.

Problems Pipe Scan Solves

  • High differential pressure across sections of pipeline
  • Reduced throughput despite stable feed conditions
  • Frequent pigging with recurring build-up
  • Suspected sand, scale, wax, coke or polymer accumulation
  • Liquid accumulation in gas or multiphase lines
  • Slugging causing trips or vibration

By identifying the exact location of abnormalities, maintenance becomes targeted and efficient.

Onshore & Offshore Applications

Onshore Facilities

  • Crude, product & intermediate transfer lines
  • Reactor feed & slurry lines (FCC, RFCC, hydroprocessing units)
  • Polymerisation, coking, scaling-prone pipelines
  • Flare, vent & fuel gas systems
  • Condensate & multiphase flowlines

Offshore & Subsea Systems

  • Flowlines and risers with suspected restriction
  • Stuck pig scenarios
  • Water or sand accumulation in subsea lines
  • Lines feeding separators, scrubbers or slug catchers

Typical Deliverables

Every Pipe Scan job with Scansolution includes:

  • Executive summary with key findings and recommended actions
  • Pipe profile plots showing relative density vs distance along the line
  • Identified blockage zones marked with approximate length and severity
  • Liquid holdup or slugging indication, where applicable
  • Photographic record of scan locations (for easy future reference)
  • Optional integration with TomosScan 360 scans where more detailed cross-sectional imaging is required in critical areas.

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Why Choose Scansolution for Pipe Scanning?

  • Specialist in gamma-based diagnostics with extensive track record
  • Fully online, non-intrusive methodology
  • Fast mobilisation across Asia and international locations
  • Strict radiation safety controls & regulatory compliance
  • Integratable with other Scansolution diagnostics:

    • Column Scan
    • TomosScan
    • Leak Study
    • Flooded Member Detection (FMD)

When to Request a Pipe Scan

  • Unexplained pressure drop
  • Reduced production rate
  • Recurring fouling after cleaning
  • Suspected solids deposition
  • Turnaround planning to prioritise lines
  • Unit instability related to inconsistent flow

Frequently Asked Questions

Is shutdown required?

No. Pipe Scan is performed online, with the plant fully operational.

Often yes, depending on insulation type and thickness.

From small process lines to large transfer pipelines.

Yes. All work is conducted with small, shielded sources under strict radiation safety procedures.

Typically accurate to a short distance along the line, with the option to tighten scan spacing for critical areas.

Talk to Scansolution About Pipe Scan

Identify flow restrictions quickly and cost-effectively. Contact Scansolution today to discuss your pipeline symptoms and receive a tailored Pipe Scan assessment.

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