how to measure pipe wall thickness without removing the insulation?

[ayoseyi]

We want to measure pipe wall thickness without removing the coat/insulation. What methods and equipment can we use?

 

[EdDanzer]

More information about the materials, and size would help.

 

[TD2K]

Frequently, there will be plugs removed from the insulation to allow the Inspection group access to the pipe to take ultrasonic readings to monitor corrosion. Talk to an insulation supply company for some suppliers of these.

If you are something like foamglass rather than fiberglass, this might not be practical.

 

[zakmoh]

Try NDT Sales of Houston, Tel 800-261-6261. We bought plugs to penetrate fiberglass insulation and measure steam line wall thickness. Plugs come with caps that close the opening and can be pulled out for re-measurements.

 

[GenB]

From inside, also depends on the size of the pipe, if small size is impossible!!!
ER

 

[11echo]

Use an ice pick! I do a lot of "field walk downs" and have to determine pipe sizes. A lot of the time I'm dealing with insulated steam & flow lines. So I found using an ice pick lets me accurately determine insulation thickness, from there I can also determine pipe size. All with minimum damage to aluminum cladding. Good luck! ...Mark

 

[WoolfMan]

check with control-o-tron they have equipment that is non intrusive, it uses ultrasonic transmitters