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GE’s Computed Radiography System Makes Weld Inspection History at Petrobras

Petrobras approves GE’s computed radiography system for the first qualified and validated CR inspection of pipes up to 3.5-inches in diameter

Billerica, MA, USA —November 12, 2009 —For the first time in the world, computed radiography for weld inspection has been qualified and validated for inspection of steel pipes up to 3.5- inch (89 mm) in diameter. Petrobras has qualified this technique using the CR 50P, a portable computed radiography scanner and patented phosphor imaging plates (IP) from GE Sensing & Inspection Technologies. This qualification will increase productivity by eliminating the time and cost associated with conventional X-ray techniques.

“The speed and efficiency of the CR 50P were two critical factors that helped Petrobras complete the computed radiography qualification process for weld inspection of such small diameter pipes,” said Eugenio Soldá, Latin American Region Leader for GE Sensing & Inspection Technologies. “Working closely with Petrobras allowed GE the opportunity to fully understand its specific needs and provide a cutting edge solution.”

Computed radiography eliminates the need for industrial X-ray films and the materials and darkrooms needed for film processing, while increasing productivity and safety. Digital images are available for analysis within minutes, compared with hours it may take using conventional techniques. Productivity gains are also realized from the reduced exposure and cycle times of computed radiography. In addition, energy and space are saved, as traditional images must be stored in temperature and humidity controlled rooms for up to 10 years.

GE’s CR 50P is designed for applications where speed, portability and efficiency are critical. It weighs only 48.5 lb (22 kg) and offers excellent image quality through its optimized optics. Multiple imaging plates can be fed simultaneously on a continuous basis, which eliminates wait time between scanning, elevating productivity.

Petrobras has been studying computed radiography and its inspection methods since 2001 through its certification, qualification and inspection department and research center. The inspection of 3.5- inch in diameter pipes using GE’s computed radiography system was qualified and validated in partnership with the Brazilian inspection company Qualitec.

About GE Sensing & Inspection Technologies
GE Sensing & Inspection Technologies is part of GE Enterprise Solutions, a $5 billion business helping customers compete and win in a changing global environment by combining the power of GE’s unique expertise and intelligent technology to drive customers’ productivity and profitability.  GE Sensing & Inspection Technologies is a leading innovator in advanced measurement, sensor-based and inspection solutions that deliver accuracy, productivity and safety to its customers.  The company designs and manufactures sensing instruments that measure temperature, pressure, moisture, gas and flow rate for demanding customer applications.  It also designs, manufactures and services inspection equipment, including radiographic, ultrasonic, remote visual and eddy current, that monitors and tests materials without disassembly, deforming or damaging them.  GE Sensing & Inspection’s products are used in a wide range of industries, including oil & gas, power generation, aerospace, transportation and healthcare.  The company has 4,700 employees at more than 40 facilities in 25 countries worldwide.