Pipeline periodic inspection determines, through testing and examination, whether lines carrying liquids and gases remain safe to operate. FKT NDT inspects gas, steam, compressed air and water lines using hydrostatic testing and non-destructive testing methods.
Pipelines are built to transport liquids and gases over long distances economically and safely. They typically carry air, water and gas-based substances.
Lines Covered
- Gas lines (coke oven gas, oxygen, argon, nitrogen, etc.)
- Compressed air lines
- Steam lines
- Cooling water lines
- Natural gas lines
For process and utility piping inside a plant, see our piping page.
Why Periodic Inspection Matters
Pipelines operate under pressure. Without regular inspection, internal and external corrosion, erosion, weld defects, support damage and leaks pose a serious risk to life and property. On lines carrying flammable or oxidising gases, even a small leak raises the risk of fire and explosion.
Periodic inspection of pressurised lines is among the employer’s obligations under Türkiye’s Regulation on Health and Safety Conditions in the Use of Work Equipment (2013). Inspections refer to the standards that match the line’s design, such as ASME B31.4 for liquid transportation lines and ASME B31.8 or TS EN 1594 for gas transmission and distribution.
What the Inspection Includes
- Document review: routing and isometric drawings, material data, design and operating pressure, previous inspection and maintenance records.
- Visual inspection: pipe surface, welded joints, flanges, valves, supports, coating and insulation checked for corrosion, deformation and leaks. See visual inspection.
- Safety device checks: safety valves, pressure reducers, pressure gauges and other protective devices on the line.
- Hydrostatic test: inspections are carried out by hydrostatic testing wherever possible.
- Non-destructive testing: where a hydrostatic test cannot be performed, the NDT methods described in the standards are applied. Wall thickness and corrosion loss can be measured by ultrasonic inspection, and welds can be examined by radiographic examination where required.
Report and Follow-up
The report records the line sections inspected, the tests and methods applied, measurement results, any deficiencies and an assessment of fitness for use. Each deficiency is stated with its location and a recommendation, which makes maintenance planning easier.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is periodic pipeline inspection mandatory?
Lines operating under pressure are work equipment under the regulation, and arranging their periodic inspection is the employer’s responsibility.
How is a pipeline inspected if a hydrostatic test is not possible?
If the line cannot be drained or taken out of service, the inspection is carried out using the NDT methods defined in the standards.
What is checked on a natural gas line?
Routing and supports, welded joints, corrosion condition, tightness and safety devices.
Can a pipeline be inspected while in service?
Visual inspection and ultrasonic thickness measurement can usually be done in operation. A hydrostatic test requires taking the line out of service.
See our other periodic checks, or contact us for a quote on inspecting your pipelines.