ISO 9001 Certification – A Very Significant Milestone in the ICorr Calendar

ISO 9001 Certification – A Very Significant Milestone in the ICorr Calendar

Institute News

On 30th October 2023 along with our HQ Staff, the Institute of Corrosion was independently Audited for its Quality Management System in compliance with ISO 9001.

This was a very significant milestone in the ICorr Calendar for which we are indebted to HQ Staff – Becky Hurst and Trish Bridge, Chris Williams, our QMS Lead, also to Bill Hedges who instigated our new Document Share Point system and for auditing guidance to Kevin Harold, our Correx (ICATS Training Arm) Managing Director.

Our auditor, Gordon Newstead (LRQA) took time to learn about our processes, ICorr’s operations as a Charitable Institution and Correx’s role as our commercial Training provider and was very impressed with what he saw.

We learned a lot about ourselves and each other going through this review, and we have identified some further opportunities for improvements that we shall implement over the coming twelve months.

For more information on ISO certification, please refer to the BSI Website: www.bsigroup.com/en-GB/iso-9001-quality-management/.

Advanced Techniques for Detecting and Mitigating Corrosion in Reinforced Concrete Structures

Advanced Techniques for Detecting and Mitigating Corrosion in Reinforced Concrete Structures

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Understanding Corrosion Prevention in Concrete Structures

Corrosion in reinforced concrete is a pervasive issue that compromises the structural integrity and longevity of infrastructure. This phenomenon primarily stems from the deterioration of steel reinforcement within the concrete matrix. The resultant rust formation is bigger than steel, causing cracking, spalling, and eventual weakening of the concrete.

Failure to mitigate corrosion can lead to catastrophic structural failures, economic losses, and increased maintenance costs. Therefore, implementing advanced detection and mitigation strategies is essential for preserving the functionality and lifespan of these structures.

Mechanisms of Corrosion in Reinforced Concrete

Understanding the mechanisms behind corrosion in reinforced concrete is crucial for developing effective prevention and remediation strategies.

Corrosion in reinforced concrete is fundamentally an electrochemical process involving anodic and cathodic reactions. At the anodic sites, iron from the steel reinforcement oxidizes, releasing electrons. These electrons travel to the cathodic sites, where they reduce oxygen in the presence of water, forming hydroxide ions. This redox process results in the formation of iron oxides and hydroxides.

Two primary factors accelerate the corrosion process in reinforced concrete: chlorides and carbonation. Chlorides, often originating from de-icing salts or marine environments, penetrate the concrete and disrupt the passive oxide layer protecting the steel. Carbonation occurs when carbon dioxide from the atmosphere reacts with the hydrated cement paste, reducing the alkalinity of the concrete and allowing corrosion to initiate.

Advanced Techniques for Detecting Corrosion in Reinforced Concrete

Advanced detection techniques are crucial for identifying corrosion at its early stages, allowing for timely intervention. While tapping with a hammer can tell us much about the condition of a structure, more advanced detection techniques include:

1.    Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR)

Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) utilizes electromagnetic waves to identify anomalies within concrete structures. By analysing the reflected signals, GPR can detect areas of corrosion-induced damage, such as voids and delamination, without causing any damage to the structure. This non-destructive method offers a rapid and efficient means of assessing the condition of reinforced concrete.

2.    Half Cell Potential Mapping

Half Cell Potential Mapping measures the corrosion activity in concrete structures. Concrete is removed around a suitable bar, and the resistance is checked between two separated points to determine a continuous flow of current. The area is mapped by taking readings across a grid of points, thus allowing us to assess for potential corrosion and the need for further investigation.

 

corrosion mapping is an effective method for assessing the severity of corrosion activity in concrete structures. It is the most well-known procedure to identify the likelihood of active corrosion; however, the test does not provide any information about the kinetics of corrosion activity.

Mitigation Strategies

Mitigating corrosion requires innovative approaches that address the root causes of corrosion in reinforced concrete and prevent further deterioration.

The most common method is Cathodic Protection, which controls corrosion by converting the anodic sites on the steel surface to cathodic sites. This is achieved by applying an external electrical current or by connecting a more easily corroded sacrificial anode to the steel. This technique effectively halts the corrosion process and prolongs the service life of the structure.

Another commonly used strategy is to add chemical compounds that act as corrosion inhibitors to the concrete mix or applied to the surface to impede the corrosion reactions. These inhibitors function by forming a protective film on the steel reinforcement, thus preventing the ingress of aggressive ions like chlorides. Various organic and inorganic inhibitors are available, each with specific mechanisms of action, though there is much debate as to how they work (repassivation or as a pore blocker).

Advanced Coatings serve as a barrier to protect steel reinforcement from environmental aggressors. These coatings, often comprising epoxy, polyurethane, or zinc-rich formulations, provide excellent adhesion and durability. The application of such coatings is a proactive measure to prevent the initiation and progression of corrosion – waterproof first, and worry about other things after.

Materials and Technologies in Corrosion Mitigation

The development of advanced materials and technologies is also proving critical in enhancing corrosion resistance in concrete strictures.

High-Performance Concrete (HPC) exhibits superior durability and resistance to environmental stressors due to its optimized mix design and enhanced material properties. The use of supplementary cementitious materials like fly ash, slag, and silica fume in HPC improves its impermeability, thereby reducing the risk of chloride ingress and carbonation.

Self-Healing Materials (such as NitCal) represent a another approach to corrosion mitigation. These materials can autonomously repair cracks and micro-damage within the concrete matrix through mechanisms such as autogenous healing, encapsulated healing agents, or microbial action. This self-repair capability significantly enhances the longevity and resilience of concrete structures.

Nanotechnology Applications in corrosion mitigation involve the use of nanomaterials to enhance the protective properties of coatings and concrete. Nanoparticles such as nano-silica, nano-clay, and carbon nanotubes can improve the mechanical strength, density, and durability of concrete, offering a robust defence against corrosive elements.

Future Directions in Corrosion Management

Several real-world examples illustrate the successful application of advanced corrosion detection and mitigation techniques. For instance, the use of EIS in monitoring the corrosion state of bridges in coastal regions (such as the Machico Stayed Bridge project in Portugal) can provide valuable data for maintenance planning. Similarly, the implementation of cathodic protection systems in historic structures has preserved their integrity for future generations.

However, the future of corrosion management lies in the continuous evolution of technologies and methodologies. In this regard, the importance of corrosion science cannot be overstated. Emerging research in the field of corrosion management is focused on developing more efficient and sustainable solutions. Innovations such as bio-inspired materials, smart monitoring systems, and environmentally friendly inhibitors will enhance corrosion resistance and extend the lifespan of concrete structures.

Though anode materials, monitoring devices etc have remained largely unchanged since the early 1990s, potential technological developments include the integration of artificial intelligence and machine learning algorithms to predict corrosion patterns and optimise maintenance schedules. Additionally, future advances in material science are expected to yield new high-performance composites and coatings with unparalleled protective properties.

By leveraging advanced detection techniques, innovative mitigation strategies, and cutting-edge materials, we can significantly mitigate the impact of corrosion on reinforced concrete structures. This requires a proactive approach that not only ensures the durability and safety of infrastructure but also contributes to sustainable development by reducing the need for frequent repairs and replacements.

The Institute of Corrosion’s (ICorr) Corrosion Science Division (CSD) is at the heart of promoting advances in corrosion knowledge and capability in the UK and around the world. Become a member of ICorr today and join the CSD to play your part in the scientific advance of the corrosion industry.

Pipeline Corrosion Detection and Management – An Essential Overview

Pipeline Corrosion Detection and Management – An Essential Overview

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Innovation, Integrity, and Expertise in Pipeline Sustainability

Pipeline corrosion is a and inescapable phenomenon that represents one of the most significant challenges for many industries. Manifesting in a variety of forms, it impacts longevity and integrity of liquid and gas transportation systems. Consequently, significant investment is made in the detection and identification of pipeline corrosion and its management.

In this article, we provide an overview of what is – and will continue to be – a critical field in pipeline management.

Why Is Management of Pipeline Corrosion So Important?

When poorly managed, the ramifications of pipeline corrosion can be extensive and influence safety, environmental and economic aspects of an operation.

Economically, pipeline corrosion leads to immense costs related to maintenance, repairs, and lost efficiency. For example, there are estimated to be around 2.15 million kilometres of oil and gas pipelines around the world, and corrosion is the most important factor in pipeline integrity. In the United States alone, the annual yearly cost of pipeline corrosion is estimated at $7 billion.

A real-life example of the potential economic impact of pipeline corrosion was demonstrated in the Alaska Pipeline system where, in 2011, severe corrosion led to a spill of approximately 200,000 gallons of oil – despite pipeline corrosion caused by faulty coating having been identified 20 years earlier.

From a safety perspective, the stakes are incredibly high. Corrosion can compromise the structural integrity of pipelines, leading to failures that might cause explosions, fires, and oil spills. These incidents not only endanger human lives, but also have devastating effects on the environment. In a study of 1,063 pipeline accidents, 21% were found to have been caused by corrosion.

Effective detection and management of pipeline corrosion is not simply a case of technical and regulatory compliance. Fundamentally, it is an ethical imperative regarding the safeguarding and wellbeing of employees, surrounding environments, and local communities. Consequently, regulatory bodies across the globe impose stringent requirements for corrosion management to mitigate these risks.

Key Methods for Detecting Pipeline Corrosion

Detecting, measuring, and monitoring pipeline corrosion involves a multifaceted approach that includes non-destructive testing, electrochemical probes and sacrificial coupons

Corrosion coupons – sacrificial metal strips exposed to pipeline conditions – are analysed to determine corrosion rate within the pipeline.

·       Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) Methods

NDT methods help to provide a more comprehensive view of pipeline corrosion. Techniques such as acoustic emission (AE), magnetic flux leakage (MFL), and liquid penetrant inspection enable early detection without damaging pipelines. Advanced NDT methods include:

  • Visual Inspection, despite being the most basic form of corrosion detection is a very valuable inspection tool. It involves regular surveys and manual inspections of accessible pipeline sections.  Of course this can only be used on the external surfaces of pipelines.

Techniques that allow both internal and external inspection:

  • Radiographic Testing (RT) is an extension of visual testing involving the use of X-rays or gamma rays to capture sub-surface images that reveal corrosive damage.
  • Ultrasonic Testing (UT), which employs high-frequency sound waves to detect imperfections or changes in material properties like the use of UT in medical applications.
  • Electromagnetic Testing (ET), which utilises electromagnetic induction to detect surface and sub-surface irregularities

In addition, Intelligent pigs – often referred to as ‘Smart Pigs’ – can travel internally along pipelines to detect anomalies using methods like ultrasonic testing and magnetic sensors, providing comprehensive data regarding the condition of the pipeline.  They can often provide inspection of almost 100% of both the internal and external surfaces of a pipeline.

Other forms of robots such as drones and crawlers can also be fitted with the above technologies to carry out inspections in locations that are difficult to reach.

The integration of modern technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT) and predictive analytics represent a revolutionary step in corrosion management. Data is continuously transmitted in real time to be analysed so that potential failure points can be identified. This will allow pre-emptive repairs and significantly reduce downtime.

Corrosion coupons – sacrificial metal strips exposed to the internal pipeline conditions – are analysed to determine corrosion rate within the pipeline.

Electrochemical Probes can be inserted into a pipeline to measure the corrosivity of the fluid inside it.  They can provide a continuous output of corrosion rates that can be fed to a pipeline control room and corrosion engineers.

Pipeline Corrosion Prevention Techniques

When taking action to prevent corrosion of pipelines, utilising a combination of techniques and methods is crucial. Such methods include:

·       Cathodic Protection

An electrochemical process that reduces the oxidation within metal pipelines by making them the cathode of an electrochemical cell. The main cathodic protection techniques are to use sacrificial anodes or impressed current cathodic protection.  This technique is primarily used to protect the external surface of a pipeline – usually in combination with coatings and linings.

·       Coatings and Linings

Coatings and linings can be made from organic, metallic and inorganic materials.  They provide   an anti-corrosive layer that acts as a barrier between the pipe material and the corrosive environment. When designing pipelines to minimise the risks of corrosion, it’s crucial to select materials that are inherently resistant to corrosion.  They can be used on both internal and external surfaces of pipelines.

·       Corrosion Inhibitors

Corrosion inhibitors are the most widely used method for protecting the internal surfaces of pipelines.  They are added to the pipeline fluids and absorb onto the metal surface to provide a barrier to corrosion.

Future Trends in Corrosion Management of Pipelines

Corrosion detection and management of pipelines has evolved rapidly in recent years, and will have to continue to do so – to tackle new corrosion threats such as the transportation of hydrogen and carbon dioxide from carbon capture plants. From regulatory frameworks to materials science to sensing technologies, corrosion science and corrosion engineering continue to advance.

·       Advances in Material Science

The development of new alloys and composite materials is pivotal in combatting pipeline corrosion. These materials are engineered to endure harsh environments and aggressive chemicals that accelerate corrosion in conventional materials.

Additionally, the incorporation of nanotechnology into material fabrication has given birth to nano-coatings and nanocomposites that enhance durability and resilience by improving barrier properties and reducing molecular wear and tear.

A key breakthrough has been in the use of graphene, which acts as an impermeable barrier to gases and liquids, minimising oxidation, which is a key factor in corrosion.

·       Enhanced Sensing Technologies

Technological innovations in sensing technologies are revolutionising corrosion management by enabling more precise and comprehensive monitoring capabilities. Modern sensors now incorporate features like higher resolution, greater coverage areas, and advanced data analytics to detect and predict corrosion sites before they manifest into larger issues.

For example, fibre optic sensors provide real-time data on pipeline integrity by detecting changes in temperature, pressure, and structure. These sensors are immune to electromagnetic interference, making them versatile for diverse environments. Moreover, drones equipped with hyperspectral imaging sensors can perform aerial surveys to detect corrosion under insulation or in inaccessible areas.

·       Regulatory and Standards Evolution

The evolution of international standards and regulatory requirements is crucial in pushing the envelope of what is technologically feasible and economically viable in corrosion management. Updating of standards ensures that the newest technological advances and best practices are implemented to safeguard public and environmental health.

Advancing Knowledge and Expertise in Corrosion Management

As the complexities of pipeline corrosion evolve, so too must the expertise of those tasked with managing it. The Institute of Corrosion (ICorr) plays a crucial role in this dynamic landscape. By sharing knowledge, expertise, and best practices, ICorr ensures that corrosion professionals are well-prepared to tackle current and future challenges. We are also at the forefront of policy discussion, giving our members a voice in the future regulation of the industries in which they operate (as demonstrated by our sponsorship of the Reuse, Repair, Replace Conference).

Our commitment to education and continuous professional development is evident through our industry-leading training programs. These are designed and delivered to elevate the technical competence of personnel across the corrosion industry. Through initiatives such as our membership pages, social media, Corrosion Management magazine and more, we provide a collaborative environment in which all our members (and the wider corrosion community) can benefit from insight and innovation in corrosion science and corrosion engineering.

In an era where technological advancements are critical to economic viability and environmental stewardship, the role of institutions like the Institute of Corrosion is indispensable. Through its efforts, ICorr not only contributes to the global economy but also fortifies the industry’s capacity to manage corrosion effectively, safeguarding infrastructure and ecosystems alike.

Here’s feedback from a recent Level 2 Pipeline Coating Inspector certification course, presented to the Quality Team at Tenaris in Villamarzana, Italy:

“This course has been a unique opportunity to enhance our knowledge and formalize the highest level of competency within the company, as recognized by ICorr, which selected us for the deployment of this new training.”

To learn more about the Institute of Corrosion, our membership schemes, and our comprehensive training packages, email admin at ICorr.

Institute of Corrosion 2024 AGM at Neville Hall

Institute of Corrosion 2024 AGM at Neville Hall

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Photo 1 The Historic Lecture Theatre at Neville Hall

On Wednesday 13th November the North-East Branch of the Institute of Corrosion hosted the Institute of Corrosion 2024 AGM at Neville Hall in Newcastle upon Tyne.

The day commenced with a Technical Offshore Wind Program, followed by the AGM and concluding with an evening dinner. Almost 70 people from all over the UK attended the Technical Program and 60 attended the evening dinner, attendees included the ICorr Council, Sustaining Members, Professional members, general members and potential future members. The day was a great success with the variety of engaging content keeping the attendees entertained for almost 9 hours from start to finish.

Photo 2 The Lord Mayor of Newcastle upon Tyne Opening the Technical Program

Matt Fletcher, Chair of the North-East Branch of ICorr, opened proceedings and who was followed by the formal opening of the Technical Program by the Lord Mayor of Newcastle, who welcomed everyone to Newcastle and described how offshore wind and the project to re-paint the Tyne Bridge brought valuable jobs to the region. Lord Mayor also explained that as he did not have his “driver” available he was unable to wear his full collection of Mayoral Medals as they were too valuable to be worn in public without the extra security of his “driver”!

The Offshore Wind Technical Program then opened, consisting of 4 presentations:

Environmental considerations for offshore wind foundations corrosion protection.
Dr. Anthony Setiadi Chief Consultant / Associate Director Wood Thilsted

Photo 3 Dr Anthony Setiadi of Wood Thilsted presenting

Anthony described how the offshore wind industry growth is accelerating as the world is pushing towards renewable energy sources. These wind turbines need to be installed on foundations located in aggressive environments and are prone to corrosion if not protected and / or designed with corrosion in mind. There are various offshore wind foundation types, such as, monopiles, jackets tetrabases, gravity bases and floating structures. The presentation discussed what level of protection is required, what the options are and how would all of this impact the structural integrity throughout the design life, also how fabrication, transport and installation limitations would affect the corrosion protection design. Anthony explained how equally important, the environmental considerations need to be taken into account with respect to carbon equivalent in producing and protecting these foundations, as well as the potential byproducts expected. In discussing the creation of habitats for nature, Anthony made an interesting point, that if habitats are created on the foundations, what happens to these environments when the foundation is decommissioned in the future?

Assessment of Thermal Spray Aluminium Coating in Synthetic Seawater By Using Complementary Techniques

Dr. (candidate) Adriana Castro Vargas Research Associated – Materials Innovation Centre University of Leicester and NSIRC

Photo 4 Dr Adriana Vargas of the Materials Innovation Centre University of Leicester presenting

Adriana presented the results of her PhD that used complementary techniques, such as in-situ imaging and an analytical rotator, to understand the performance of thermally sprayed aluminum (TSA) coating in simulated marine immersion service. The experimental work involved evaluating TSA in quiescent and flowing synthetic seawater at room temperature. The coating (300µm thick) was obtained by twin-wire arc spraying of 1050 aluminium alloy on an S355 carbon steel substrate. In quiescent condition, TSA-coated steel samples were evaluated by the optical analysis of sequential images captured in-situ: (i) with defects machined before immersion (5% of exposed steel surface); and (ii) with a defect machined after 35 days of immersion (10% of exposed steel surface). When the defect is machined before the immersion, initial dissolution of iron occurs until the air-formed oxide layer degrades, the electrolyte penetrates the coating, and the aluminium surface is activated. Conversely, when the defect is created after immersion, the aluminium activates rapidly, and the system reaches the range of protective potentials (according to DNV-P-B401) providing immediate protection to the exposed steel. In flowing synthetic seawater, cylindrical coupons were tested in an analytical rotator at 50 rpm and 600 rpm for 10 days. Open Circuit Potential (OCP) and Linear Polarisation Resistance (LPR) measurements were carried out to assess the flow velocity effect and calculate the corrosion rate.

An introduction to the Offshore Renewable Energy (ORE) Catapult and its key role in advancing and derisking technology in offshore wind.

Mr. Tom Chaplin Marketing Manager Offshore Renewable Energy Catapult

Tom Chaplin provided an introduction to the Offshore Renewable Energy Catapult and described the key role it plays in advancing and derisking technology in offshore wind. ORE Catapult is one of the world’s leading offshore renewables technology centres, with an unrivalled set of test assets that aim to accelerate the creation and growth of UK companies in the offshore renewable energy sector. Established in 2013, ORE exists to accelerate the development of offshore wind, wave and tidal energy technologies in the UK. Through its world-class testing and research programmes and its unique centres of excellence, ORE works with industry, academia and government to improve technology reliability and enhance knowledge, directly impacting the cost of offshore renewable energy. ORE delivers products and services in four main areas: research, engineering, testing and validation, and supply chain growth.

Photo 5 Tom Chaplin of ORE Catapult presenting

Tom showed the scale of the ORE Catapult testing facilities showing a video of testing a 107m blade (which needed to be cut down to 100m to fit in the test facility) and the 14GW powertrain, which as a result of the testing, had its capacity increased. Tom also revealed plans to increase the capacity at ORE Catapult to be able to handle wind turbines well into the future with capability to test blades up to 150m long (and expansion potential to 180m) and a significant increase in drive train capacity to 23MW (with potential expansion to 28MW). After the presentation Tom was asked about catastrophic failure during testing, although unable to share images, Tom said it had happened and was quite dramatic. All was not lost as the fractured blade provided insightful data on blade failure to the owners

Development of ISO 25249 – Corrosion protection of offshore wind structures
Mr. Simon Daly Consultant – Energy & Infrastructure Safinah Limited

Photo 6 Questions following Simon Daly’s (Safinah) presentation

Simon described how a series of parts of a new international standard, ISO 25249, are currently being worked upon. The standard will address the issues of developing a corrosion protection approach for the protection of offshore wind farms. With the growth in offshore wind will come the need for large scale construction of assets which will be placed in a corrosive offshore environment. Whilst the corrosion of steel structures offshore is well documented through experiences in the oil and gas industry the offshore wind energy has encountered its own challenges when it comes to providing corrosion protection. The ISO 25249 standard will address key issues and develop a framework for a more standardised approach to the selection, execution and operation of a variety of different corrosion protection methods. Simon presented on behalf of the program managers for the first 5 parts of this new standard the development of which will shortly commence within the International Standards Organisation (ISO) framework. During the questions after the presentation the sharing of experiences gained in the Oil and Gas industry was discussed, it was generally agreed that to prevent mistakes from 30 years ago being repeated, experiences should be reviewed and shared. It was hoped that with more of the traditional Oil and Gas companies entering the offshore wind market that this will be more likely to take place.

Following the Technical Program the ICorr AGM took place, details of the AGM can be found in the AGM minutes. At the AGM Stephen Tate passed on the Presidency of ICorr to Yunnan Gao and Yunnan passed on the Vice-Presidency to Anthony Setiadi.

Photo 7 New Vice President – Dr Anthony Setiadi, New President – Dr Yunnan Gao, Past President – Stephen Tate

The evening saw a three-course dinner, enjoyed in the library at Neville Hall. As can be seen in the photographs, the library is a beautiful wooden clad room, with many original features such as elevated bookshelves, bookshelves hidden behind wooden doors and stained-glass windows. A jazz band played throughout the evening and the dinner was opened by the new president of ICorr – Dr Yunnan Gao.

Photo 8 Dinner in the impressive Library at Neville Hall

Feedback following the event was overwhelmingly positive:
• “NE Hospitality is famous and you certainly lived up to that.” – Stephen Tate: outgoing ICorr President.
• “Please accept my thanks for the superb organisation and excellent day yesterday.” – Brian Wyatt of CPGB and Council.
The Chair of the NE Branch of ICorr grateful thanks the NE Branch Committee for all their hard work in creating a most successful day, all are volunteers and worked tirelessly to make the event a success – Simon Daly, Patrick Johnson, David Mobbs, Bruno Ravel, Barry Turner and Josie Watson

Future Meetings
Due to a date clash with London Branch Dinner, NE Branch will now hold its Xmas (Branch) event at the end of January 2025.

There will be a tour of the Newcastle Castle Keep – the cost for which will be £20 a head.
Please contact nechair@icorr.org for further details.

ICorr Wales and South-West: Bristol Event

ICorr Wales and South-West: Bristol Event

Institute News

The new Wales and South West of England regional branch held its first event in Bristol on September 19th. The event was held at Mott MacDonald with presentations from Dr Rene Brueckner of Mott MacDonald and Erik Fabre of Inductosense.

Rene Brueckner leads the Materials and Corrosion team at the Mott MacDonald Bristol office and has been involved in condition assessments of reinforced concrete and steel structures, design and monitoring of cathodic protection systems, durability assessments and forensic engineering.
Rene’s presentation titled “Selection of Cathodic Protection Systems for Reinforced Concrete Structures” offered an insight into the various systems which can be utilised for reinforced concrete structures. The presentation provided an overview of their advantages and disadvantages to inform the option selection process with a focus on sustainability and environmental impact.
The second presentation was by Erik Fabre who is the head of R&D projects at Inductosense.

Inductosense are a UK-Based technology developer, specialising in ultrasonic solutions for monitoring internal corrosion and erosion. Erik’s expertise focuses on ultrasonic testing and sensors, supporting multiple clients with technology projects and sensor deployments. The presentation, “A Pathway to Thickness Measurement Locations (TMLs) Digitalisation” provided an insight into an alternative approach to permanently installed sensors which due to their cost, are normally used for monitoring critical areas for corrosion rate estimation.

Inductosense have developed a technology that combines passive sensors and a different data collection method to enable a more cost-effective, consistent, and deployable solution. The talk discussed how the handheld data collector, robotics, and online solutions work together to address different applications with accessibility and inspection frequency.

The talks gained lots of interaction from the audience with many questions and plenty of further discussion. With 18 delegates in attendance along with the ICorr President, the first Bristol event was deemed a successful one!

The next branch event will take place in Southampton on October 24th and will be reported in the November/December issue. For further information or if you are interested in attending or presenting at future events, 
please contact swchair@icorr.org

You can also keep up to date on events by visiting our LinkedIn page;
https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12992293/ and https://www.icorr.org/events/
For past branch presentations, please visit: 
https://www.icorr.org/wales-and-south-west-branch/ and scroll down to Local Technical Programme where copies of past presentations may be found.

Photo: Delegates Networking.
Photo: Delegates Observing Rene Brueckner’s Presentation.
Photo: Delegates Observing Erik Fabre’s Presentation.