Inspecting challenging offshore pipelineswith DTI Trekscan in Sarawak, Malaysia

Because of the pipelines’ configuration, conventional pigging and inspection technologies were not suitable. To overcome these constraints, Applus+ deployed its proprietary DTI Trekscan free-floating inspection system, designed to inspect pipelines with operational or geometric conditions that limit the use of traditional in-line inspection tools.

Trekscan travels with the product flow inside the pipeline and operates without the need for pig launchers or receivers, enabling inspection of pipelines typically considered “unpiggable.” This capability allowed the system to successfully navigate the pipelines’ challenging internal geometry, including consecutive 1D bends, while maintaining reliable data acquisition.

The tool uses ultrasonic inspection technology to measure wall thickness and detect metal-loss anomalies, such as corrosion. It can also identify geometric features including dents, ovalities, and buckling, providing a detailed assessment of the pipeline’s structural condition.

Trekscan can operate in pipelines transporting crude oil, refined petroleum products, or water, and is well suited for systems with complex features such as tight bends, bore restrictions, heavy wall transitions, and non-standard fittings. The technology can also inspect small-diameter pipelines up to 10.75 inches (273 mm NPS) and pipelines without pigging infrastructure.

During the Sarawak project, the inspection generated a high-resolution dataset on the condition of both pipelines, allowing the operator to accurately identify and characterize integrity threats. This information enables more effective maintenance planning and repair prioritization, while also supporting risk-based inspection programs and long-term asset integrity management.

The client commended Applus+ for its efficient execution and collaborative approach, which contributed to the successful completion of the project despite the operational challenges associated with offshore infrastructure.

By deploying technologies such as DTI Trekscan, Applus+ enables operators to assess pipelines that were previously difficult to inspect. Combined with services including subsea inspection, engineering support, risk-based inspection planning, plant life management, and metallurgical analysis, Applus+ provides comprehensive solutions for pipeline integrity management.

This project demonstrates how advanced inspection technologies are helping operators gain greater visibility into the condition of non-piggable offshore pipelines, improving safety, reliability, and long-term asset performance.