FAQ-235: Use of Guided Wave Ultrasound as part of ICDA
Question: If Guided Wave UT is used as part of the ICDA process, is it considered "other technology" requiring notification to OPS/states?
Answer: ICDA is based on the use of a model to predict areas within which internal corrosion is most likely to occur. Once identified, those areas must be examined to determine if corrosion exists. (The number and required location of examinations differs depending on the circumstances of the assessment).
If guided wave technology is being used as a tool to examine the predicted locations to determine if corrosion exists, then it is being used in a manner consistent with the
ICDA process and would not be considered "other technology". If, on the other hand, the intent is to use guided wave technology in some other manner to assess internal corrosion (e.g., not first analyzing the pipeline to determine likely locations for internal corrosion), then its use would be different from the normal
ICDA process and it would be considered "other technology".
These Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) are intended to clarify, explain, and promote better understanding of the pipeline integrity management rules. These FAQs are not substantive rules and do not create rights, assign duties, or impose new obligations not outlined in the existing integrity management regulations and standards. Requests for informal interpretations regarding the applicability of one or more of the pipeline integrity management rules to a specific situation may be submitted to PHMSA in accordance with 49 C.F.R. § 190.11.
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