Automated Laser Ultrasonic Inspection of Hybrid Laser Arc Welding for Pipeline Construction

Hybrid laser arc welding (HLAW) is a technology that promises to increase the efficiency of welded fabrication. By incorporating automation, and integrating an automated inspection system, HLAW can produce high quality welds at higher production rates and lower costs compared to even the most advanced pipeline welding system that is in use today. As the HLAW technique is developed and implemented for pipeline construction, it is important to develop an associated automated technique for weld inspection. We have applied automated laser ultrasonic testing (ALUT) to the important requirement of the in-line monitoring of new HLAW welds in the field. Laser ultrasonic testing (LUT) offers the advantage of true in-process measurement, providing immediate information on weld integrity. In this paper, we will describe our efforts to apply LUT to pipeline girth weld inspection. The technology development process and the integration into an HLAW system will be described.