New SmartGrind iteration brings improvements to ground-breaking weld repair service
OMS is pleased to announce the release of a new iteration of our SmartGrind targeted weld repair system. SmartGrind combines our award-winning AUGA.node camera and laser inspection technology with a targeted repair system that can grind and smooth the weld. It identifies and quantifies defects, resolves them, then rescans to confirm weld quality, leaving stronger weld surfaces that are in an ideal condition for coating. Since we released the initial prototype system in 2023, we have completed several successful remediation projects that have helped our clients meet stringent weld criteria. Recently, demand for the service has increased significantly as energy majors introduce stricter weld standards.
SmartGrind system
Since 2023 our highly skilled R&D and mechatronics teams have been working on ways to improve the system even further. The new iteration brings several important changes that extend its capabilities. The robot now runs off a higher voltage which enables longer-range deployments, as well as a custom designed motor – designed by the OMS engineers specifically for operating in high ambient temperatures, with very high RPM. This is our own custom solution, designed and built in-house, giving us complete control over quality and functionality. The automated grinding routine has also been improved, with the algorithm now accounting for HiLo and ensuring a smooth transition when HiLo is present at the joint.
Alongside this, the team has made changes to the system to improve its manufacturability, enabling the company to produce many more SmartGrind systems without compromising on quality.
Andrew Gillham, Mechatronics Manager, said, ‘‘Although the new SmartGrind system looks similar to and performs the same functions as the original prototype, the performance is significantly improved. Increasing the umbilical voltage and generating the compressed air supply onboard the crawler means our clients can now tackle weld remediation in longer pipelines much more effectively and reduces the amount of supporting equipment required on site. We are also now utilising a custom designed high speed brushless motor and in-house designed electronics throughout. The new design has been qualified for operation at higher power levels and in higher temperature environment than we could manage previously. Our team has unrivalled experience in developing solutions in this space, so retaining full control over the entire design process means our clients will benefit from the best possible technology.’
Alex Felce, CEO, said, ‘As an innovation-focused business with customer need at its heart, we have responded to clear demand from the market for in situ internal weld repair. Our outstanding mechatronics, R&D and software teams have improved the already successful SmartGrind system even more. Furthermore, the changes our team made have improved the robot’s manufacturability significantly, allowing us to produce more units and tackle more projects, something which is vital as demand for weld repair continues to increase throughout energy production.’
If you are interested in our weld inspection and remediation solutions please contact our team on info@omsmeasure.com or +44 1279 656038.
Grinders under construction
Grinders under construction