Patent for NDT Testing Apparatus to Detect Corrosion

Heading up Matco Services' newest of innovative solutions to complex materials problems is the invention of a non-destructive corrosion detecting sensor that is used to identify graphitic corrosion, or graphitization, which is a type of corrosion that is commonly found on the internal portions of pipelines and other structures at the below grade level.  Early detection of graphitization enables decision makers the opportunity to decide which approach, repair, replacement or no action, of the affected area is the right approach for your company. 

Graphitization occurs when metallic constituents of gray iron are selectively removed or converted into corrosion products. This process leaves behind the graphite matrix of the gray iron, in the shape of the original casting. While pipes undergoing graphitization may appear sound and may conduct water adequately, the metallic portion of the pipe wall may, in places, be significantly thinner than the apparent thickness of the wall. Graphitized regions of pipe wall will be brittle and subject to failure under load as the result of temperature variation, heavy traffic, or shock.  The pictures below show a cross section of a pipe that had experienced failure and was brought to Matco's full service testing lab to determine the root cause and mode of failure.  The pipe was later used for experimental testing in order to identify graphitic corrosion of the internal areas in order to perfect this newly invented test apparatus.

As experienced materials and corrosion engineering experts, Matco Services is geared towards identifying the underlying cause, or root cause, and mode of failure, and then providing engineering solutions to limit the potential for risk of additional failures to our clients.  The use of cathodic protection, protective coatings, select backfill, or a combination of these corrosion mitigation methods are often useful in preventing further damage from occuring.  As there are a variety of issues that should be considered prior to implementation of any of these methods, it is recommended that a qualified corrosion engineering firm with an advanced understanding of the methods used to mitigate corrosion is consulted.