Non-destructive testing (NDT) stands out as a reliable, non-intrusive method for assessing the condition of critical components without dismantling or damaging them — and often without interrupting operations — when carried out under safe conditions.
A key tool for ensuring the integrity of your facilities without halting production.
In the Oil & Gas industry, piping plays a central role in transporting fluids under high pressure. Continuously exposed to mechanical, chemical and thermal stresses, these structures must be inspected regularly to prevent any risk of failure.
Non-destructive visual inspection allows internal pipe condition to be assessed without dismantling – and, in many cases, without interrupting operations.
Challenges of Internal Inspection in the Oil & Gas Sector.
Internal inspections of piping and welded components in the Oil & Gas industry face several technical constraints:
• Restricted access (narrow diameters, bends, extended lengths).
• Residual oil, deposits, or corrosion within the system.
• Poor lighting or completely dark environments.
• Internal roughness or welds that are difficult to assess with the naked eye.
Industry-Driven Technical Solutions
Industrial videoscopes used in these environments incorporate advanced technologies:
• Ultra-thin probes starting from Ø0.85mm to navigate extremely narrow sections.
• Articulated cameras (2-way or 4-way) to inspect the full circumference of internal welds.
• Forward-view (0°), side-view (90°), or dual-view (0° and 90°) optics for complete angle coverage.
• White or UV lighting (for detecting cracks invisible to the naked eye), with high-intensity LED or fibre optic illumination to overcome total darkness.
• Inspection capability over several metres inside the piping, with high-resolution video recording.
• Built-in reporting features including photos, videos, and annotations.
Common defects identified through NDT visual inspection.
Internal visual inspection enables fast identification of anomalies such as:
• General or localised internal corrosion (pitting).
• Poorly executed welds: lack of penetration, porosity, inclusions.
• Longitudinal cracks caused by thermal or vibrational stress.
• Delamination of internal coatings or anchor linings.
• Partial blockages or solid deposits that may restrict flow.
Benefits for Maintenance and Inspection Teams.
Quick Diagnosis – Inspection completed within minutes, with no complex disassembly required.
Accuracy – Direct visual access to critical areas with digital zoom capability.
Traceability – Photo and video archiving for long-term comparison and monitoring.
Adaptability – Compatible with a wide range of flanges, bends, and configurations.
Planning – Enables targeted corrective actions or replacement planning.
A key approach to anticipating failures.
Videoscope inspection has become a vital solution for maintaining the reliability and safety of piping systems in the Oil & Gas sector. It enables early detection of defects before they lead to unplanned shutdowns or critical incidents.
Want to learn more about inspection solutions tailored to your specific constraints? Our team members are available to help you choose the right equipment.
