OMS releases Autotool MK2
More laser sensors, deeper longitudinal end measurement, wider range of automated reporting , long seam weld assessment: how the newly released Autotool provides clients with the most comprehensive data available for higher quality asset integrity.
OMS is pleased to announce the release of the Autotool MK2 hardware and software, an updated version of our pioneering laser pipe-end measurement device.
The original Autotool made its debut in 2006 and has since been deployed successfully on major global oil and gas pipeline construction projects, measuring more than 1,000,000+ (1 million+) pipe ends. Using laser sensors on a rotating head to complete a pipe-end scan provides an the highest quality of data for customers interested in whether the pipe meets specification – or to discern the pipe shape, which is important at the fit-up stage. This information can be used to group, sort and sequence pipe for optimum fit-up – even pipe previously considered out-of-specification can be matched with a similarly shaped pipe with minimal HiLo.
Remaining largely unchanged since its first job nearly 20 years ago, the Autotool has been a huge success story. Over the past couple of years, however, with more and more requests to integrate our equipment into pipe mills, our team identified ways to improve its features and software, and so have developed the MK2, which can provide even better quality data for our customers.
New features
Autotool MK2’s new features include an increased number of lasers – now up to four lasers can be deployed to measure at four positions of a pipe end, providing more detailed information on pipe shape and size. The new tool can measure at various depths up to 200mm on the OD with a cantilevered arm, allowing clients to compare data between two planes and identify whether any their pipe has any tapering or end-flaring. Recognising these kinds of issues early saves time, and therefore money, at the pipeline construction stage.
Updated PipeChecker software
The MK2 update also includes new PipeChecker software which has a completely new and refreshed interface with better control over tool configuration and an integrated analysis suite. In addition to its ability to measure inner and outer diameter, wall thickness and out-of-roundness, the new Autotool has an expanded suite of analysis methods for assessing potential issues in long seam welds, such as surface and weld peaking, welded area height, trim depth and surface offset.
This new product is also CE and UKCA marked – which benefits our customers who are interested in integrating it into their production facilities. Because OMS is trusted as a third party verifier with the highest standards and vast experience – there is high interest in having our equipment integrated at an early stage of pipe production.
Marcus Smiles, Middle East Regional Head, said, ‘The Autotool has been a hugely successful product for OMS, revolutionising pipe-end measurement and making a significant contribution to improving pipeline integrity. Our new MK2 edition improves on this success, essentially providing double the amount of data to our clients, who use it to identify issues such as tapering or end-flaring. Any cut-outs required then do not require remeasuring onshore or offshore, thus improving efficiency in the pipe-laying process and helping to manage costs.’
Alex Felce, CEO, said, ‘While we agree with the sentiment – “if it’s not broken, don’t fix it” – the team have done an excellent job with the new Autotool, and made it into an even more useful product for our customers. Particularly having some many new automated reporting features within the collection software which means detailed results can be provided in real-time – which those in this industry know can be useful’