Borescopes in the oil and gas industry help ensure the integrity and safety of critical infrastructure. Borescopes, a versatile inspection tool, are becoming increasingly essential for non-destructive inspections.
They provide high-resolution imaging, enabling detailed internal inspections without disassembly. This guide explores the benefits, applications, and types of borescopes used in the oil and gas industry.
What is a Borescope & What Does It Do?
A borescope is a specialized optical device used for inspecting the interiors of hard-to-reach spaces without the need for disassembly. It consists of a tube equipped with lenses, mirrors, and a light source, and often includes a camera that transmits real-time images to a display screen.
Borescopes come in various forms, such as rigid, flexible, video, and fiber-optic, each designed to suit different inspection needs.
In essence, a borescope allows technicians to visually inspect the internal condition of machinery, pipelines, engines, and other components. It provides high-resolution images and videos, enabling the detection of issues like corrosion, cracks, blockages, and wear.
By using a borescope, inspectors can diagnose problems, verify repairs, and ensure the overall integrity of critical infrastructure—all without the need for dismantling the asset or expending extensive downtime.
This capability not only enhances safety and efficiency but also significantly reduces inspection costs.
Other Names for Borescopes
Borescopes are known by various names depending on their specific features, applications, and industry terminology. Here are some alternative names for borescopes:
- Endoscope. Often used in medical and industrial contexts, referring to flexible and rigid scopes used for internal inspections.
- Videoscope. Refers to borescopes equipped with video capabilities, including live video transmission and recording.
- Fiberscope. Indicates a borescope that uses fiber optics to transmit images from the inspection site to the eyepiece or display.
- Inspection Camera. A general term for any camera system used to inspect hard-to-reach areas, including borescopes.
- Remote Visual Inspection (RVI) Device. A broader term encompassing all types of devices used for visual inspections in inaccessible areas.
- Snake Camera. Informal term often used to describe flexible borescopes used in plumbing and other applications requiring maneuverability.
- Industrial Endoscope. Specifically refers to endoscopes used in industrial settings for inspecting machinery, pipelines, and other equipment.
- Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) Camera. Used to describe borescopes used in non-destructive testing to inspect and evaluate materials without causing damage.
Benefits of Using Borescopes in the Oil & Gas Industry
The use of borescopes in the oil and gas industry offers several significant benefits.
Non-Destructive Inspection
Borescopes allow for thorough inspections without the need to disassemble equipment. This non-destructive approach saves time and reduces the risk of damage to components, making it a cost-effective inspection method.
High-Resolution Imaging
Modern borescopes are equipped with high-resolution cameras, providing detailed images and video. This capability allows for precise inspections and accurate documentation of findings, essential for maintaining safety and operational efficiency.
Flexibility
Borescopes come in various sizes and lengths, making them suitable for a wide range of applications. Whether inspecting straight pipelines or curved turbine blades, borescopes offer the flexibility needed for different inspection scenarios.
Enhanced Safety
By allowing for remote inspections, borescopes reduce the need for personnel to enter hazardous areas. This enhances safety by minimizing the exposure of workers to potentially dangerous conditions.
Applications of Borescopes in the Oil & Gas Industry
Borescopes have a wide range of applications within the oil and gas sector. Below are some of the primary uses.
Pipeline Inspections
Pipelines are crucial for transporting oil and gas, and their internal condition must be regularly inspected for corrosion, cracks, and other defects.
Borescopes allow inspectors to verify the cleanliness and integrity of the pipeline interior without the need for extensive disassembly, saving time and reducing the risk of damaging the pipeline.
Engine & Turbine Inspections
Engines and turbines are critical components in the oil and gas industry, often used in drilling rigs and production facilities.
Inspecting these components without disassembly is vital for maintaining operational efficiency. Borescopes enable the inspection of internal components for wear, corrosion, and damage, ensuring that these machines operate safely and effectively.
What is Borescope Inspection in a Gas Turbine?
Borescope inspection in gas turbines involves using a borescope to examine the internal components of the turbine without the need for extensive disassembly.
This type of inspection is crucial for detecting wear, corrosion, and damage within the turbine blades, combustion chambers, and other critical areas.
By performing regular borescope inspections, operators can ensure that gas turbines remain in optimal condition, preventing potential failures and extending the lifespan of the equipment.
This non-invasive inspection method also reduces downtime and maintenance costs, contributing to more efficient and cost-effective operations.
Wellhead & Christmas Tree Inspections
Wellheads and Christmas trees are essential for controlling the flow of oil and gas from wells.
Inspecting valves, seals, and other components for wear and damage is crucial to prevent leaks and ensure the integrity of these systems. Borescopes provide a non-invasive method to perform these inspections efficiently.
Pressure Vessel & Storage Tank Inspections
Pressure vessels and storage tanks are used to store various fluids in the oil and gas industry. Their internal surfaces must be inspected for corrosion, cracks, and other defects to prevent leaks and ensure safety.
Borescopes allow inspectors to verify the condition of welds and other critical areas, ensuring the vessels and tanks are in good condition.
Heat Exchanger Inspections
Heat exchangers play a vital role in maintaining efficient operations by transferring heat between fluids.
Inspecting the internal tubes and components for blockages, corrosion, and damage is essential for optimal performance. Borescopes provide a way to ensure efficient heat transfer and operation without the need for extensive disassembly.
Drilling Rig Inspections
Drill pipes, casings, and other downhole equipment are subjected to extreme conditions. Regular inspections for wear and damage are necessary to maintain drilling operations.
Borescopes allow for thorough inspections of these components, helping to identify potential issues before they become significant problems.
What is the Purpose of a Borescope Inspection?
The primary purpose of a borescope inspection is to enable the detailed examination of internal components and areas that are difficult or impossible to access without disassembly.
In the oil and gas industry, borescope inspections help identify issues such as corrosion, cracks, blockages, and wear within pipelines, engines, turbines, storage tanks, and other critical infrastructure.
By providing high-resolution imaging, borescopes allow for precise diagnostics and maintenance planning, ultimately enhancing safety, efficiency, and reliability.
What are the 3 Types of Borescopes Used in Oil and Gas?
Different types of borescopes are used depending on the inspection requirements.
1. Rigid Borescopes
Rigid borescopes provide high image quality and are best for straight-line access inspections. They are durable and offer excellent clarity for inspecting pipelines, pressure vessels, and other straightforward applications.
2. Flexible Borescopes
Flexible borescopes are designed for inspecting areas with bends and curves. They provide the flexibility needed to navigate complex pathways, making them ideal for engine and turbine inspections.
3. Video Borescopes
Video borescopes come equipped with a camera at the tip, transmitting live video to a display. Many models also have recording capabilities, allowing for detailed inspections and easy documentation. They are suitable for a wide range of applications, including pipeline and storage tank inspections.
MFE’s Oil & Gas Borescope Picks
The following borescopes are our top recommendations for the oil and gas industry.
Wöhler VIS 700
The Wohler VIS 700 is a high-quality camera system widely used in the oil and gas industry for its advanced imaging capabilities and versatility. This borescope can assess corrosion, signs of wear, blockages, and structural integrity in the following types of inspections:
- Pipeline Inspections. The Wohler VIS 700 is used to inspect the internal condition of pipelines. The flexible camera probe can navigate through bends and turns in the pipeline, providing a comprehensive view of the interior.
- Tank & Vessel Inspections. The Wohler VIS 700 is used to inspect the internal surfaces of tanks and pressure vessels. Its ability to provide clear, detailed images helps in assessing the condition of welds and other critical areas.
- Heat Exchanger Inspections. The Wohler VIS 700 can be used to inspect the internal tubes and components of heat exchangers. This helps in ensuring optimal performance and preventing costly downtimes.
- Engine & Turbine Inspections. The Wohler VIS 700 allows for the inspection of internal components of engines and turbines without disassembly.
- Wellhead & Christmas Tree Inspections. The Wohler VIS 700 is also used to examine valves, seals, and other components for wellheads and Christmas trees, which are crucial for controlling the flow of oil and gas from wells.
- General Maintenance and Safety Checks. The Wohler VIS 700’s portability and ease of use make it ideal for regular checks on a variety of equipment and infrastructure.
- Documentation & Reporting. The Wohler VIS 700 includes features for capturing images and recording videos, ensuring that all inspection data is accurately recorded and easily accessible for analysis, helping in the planning and execution of maintenance activities.
Olympus IPLEX LT
The Olympus IPLEX LT is a widely used borescope in the oil and gas industry due to its versatility, durability, and advanced imaging capabilities. Here’s how it is used across various applications in this sector:
- Pipeline Inspections. Inspects the internal condition and quality of welds in pipelines to ensure integrity and compliance.
- Engine & Turbine Inspections. Examines internal components of engines and turbines for wear, damage, and operational efficiency without disassembly.
- Wellhead & Christmas Tree Inspections. Inspects valves, seals, and other components for wear and leaks, ensuring system integrity and reducing downtime.
- Pressure Vessel & Storage Tank Inspections. Checks internal surfaces and welds for corrosion, cracks, and defects to prevent leaks and maintain structural integrity.
- Heat Exchanger Inspections. Inspects internal tubes and components for blockages, corrosion, and damage to ensure efficient heat transfer and operation.
- Drilling Rig Inspections. Inspects drill pipes, casings, and downhole equipment for wear and damage, ensuring safe and efficient drilling operations.
Wöhler VIS 350 PLUS
The Wöhler VIS 350 is a versatile video inspection system used in the oil and gas industry for a variety of inspection tasks. Here are some specific applications of the Wöhler VIS 350 in this sector:
- Internal Condition Assessment of Pipelines. The Wöhler VIS 350 is used to inspect the internal condition of pipelines, detecting corrosion, cracks, blockages, and other defects without the need for disassembly.
- Storage Tanks & Pressure Vessel Inspections. The Wöhler VIS 350 is employed to inspect the internal surfaces of storage tanks and pressure vessels for corrosion, cracks, and other structural issues.
- Tube & Component Inspection. The system is used to inspect the internal tubes of heat exchangers for blockages, corrosion, and damage.
- Valve & Seal Integrity Inspections. The Wöhler VIS 350 is utilized to inspect the condition of valves, seals, and other components of wellheads and Christmas trees.
- Downhole Equipment Examination. The system can be used to inspect drill pipes, casings, and other downhole equipment for signs of wear and damage.
- Component Examination. The Wöhler VIS 350 is used to inspect internal components of engines and turbines, such as blades and combustion chambers. This enables the detection of wear, corrosion, and damage, ensuring that these machines operate safely and effectively.
Final Thoughts on Borescopes in the Oil and Gas Industry
Borescopes are transforming how inspections are conducted in the oil and gas industry. By providing high-resolution imaging and non-destructive inspection capabilities, they help ensure the integrity and safety of critical infrastructure.
Whether you are a service provider or asset owner, understanding the applications and benefits of borescopes can lead to more efficient and safer operations.
By incorporating borescope technology into regular maintenance and inspection routines, the oil and gas industry can achieve greater operational efficiency, reduce downtime, and enhance safety protocols, ultimately leading to more sustainable and cost-effective operations.