Application of Insulator Damage Survey of Heat Transport Pipes Using DRM Techniques

DRM 진단기술을 이용한 열수송관의 절연체결함 진단사례

The corrosion control methods for buried pipelines typically involve insulation techniques such as coating application, supplemented by cathodic protection. Non-destructive survey technologies for detecting defects in the insulation of buried pipelines are essential for safety management. Existing ground-based measurement technologies are influenced by soil parameters, making it challenging to detect defects in deeper sections of the pipeline and in areas such as waterways and roads. A new survey technology, Differential Reflectometry Mapping (DRM), utilizes the reflection measurement method to directly assess the pipeline itself. Due to its minimal influencing parameters, DRM maintains high sensitivity, allowing for the detection of early corrosion defects and the ability to assess the extent of these defects. DRM surveys and field verification were conducted on heat pipes in an urban environment. This method proved effective for measuring buried pipelines, which are difficult to assess with existing ground-based technologies, and field verification indicated an accuracy of approximately ±1meter. Additionally, the size of the pipeline defects was quantified, enabling effective prioritization of the issues.