Built on Experience.
Trusted in the Field.
In pipeline inspection, results can vary widely depending on the technician performing the work. Differences in training and field experience can lead to inconsistent evaluation, even when the same tools and data are used.
That inconsistency creates uncertainty for operators when planning repairs, prioritizing digs, and managing integrity programs.
Circle B focuses on consistent evaluation through standardized training, real-world experience, and a field-driven approach to NDE inspections. Our goal is to provide data that operators can act on with confidence.
Digs Completed
Years of Experience
NDE Inspection for Complex Anomalies
Our team specializes in complex, difficult-to-interpret anomalies, including conditions where accurate characterization of defects directly affects repair decisions.
Cracks
Fracture-related defects that can grow over time and impact pipeline integrity.
Dents
Deformations in the pipe wall that may affect strength and long-term performance.
Hard Spots
Localized areas of increased hardness that can be prone to cracking.
Metal Loss
Material reduction caused by corrosion or erosion that can weaken the pipeline.
Pinholes
Small, localized defects often associated with corrosion or coating breakdown.
Welding Flaws
Defects in welds that may compromise the integrity of the joint.
Inspection and Testing Capabilities
Identifying a pipeline anomaly with testing is only part of the process. The challenge is understanding how real defects present and behave in the field.
Circle B maintains one of the largest privately held libraries of real-world pipeline flaw samples used to train technicians on actual defect conditions rather than simulated scenarios. This exposure helps reduce interpretation gaps and improves how anomalies are evaluated across projects.
Ultrasonic testing uses sound waves to detect internal defects, measure wall thickness, and evaluate weld integrity in pipelines, supporting accurate assessment of material condition and flaw characterization.
Ultrasonic Testing Methods
- Standard Ultrasonic Testing (UT)
- Automated Ultrasonic Testing (AUT)
- Phased Array Ultrasonic Testing (PAUT)
Advanced Techniques
- Full Matrix Capture (FMC)
- Total Focus Method (TFM)
- Phase Coherence Imaging (PCI)
Common Applications of Ultrasonic Testing
- Crack and crack-like feature evaluation
- Weld defect identification
- Porosity, slag, laminations, and inclusions
- Corrosion, metal loss, and wall thickness measurement
- Internal geometry and tool-related condition assessment
Magnetic particle testing is used to detect surface-breaking defects in ferromagnetic materials by identifying disruptions in a magnetic field, making it effective for evaluating welds and surface discontinuities.
Magnetic Particle Testing Methods
- Dry Particle Inspection
- Wet Fluorescent Inspection
- White Contrast Assisted Magnetic Particle Testing (WCAMT)
Common Applications of Magnetic Particle Testing
- Detection of surface-breaking cracks and stress corrosion cracking (SCC)
- Weld defect identification, including lack of fusion
- Porosity, laminations, and other surface-breaking discontinuities
- Inspection of heat-affected zones and high-stress areas
- Evaluation of fabrication-related and in-service surface defects
Electromagnetic testing uses electrical currents to detect surface and near-surface defects, evaluate material properties, and identify changes in conductivity and permeability.
Electromagnetic Testing Methods
- Eddy Current Array (ECA)
Advanced Techniques
- Pulsed Eddy Current Array
- Tangential Eddy Current Array
Common Applications of Electromagnetic Testing
- Detection of surface-breaking cracks and crack-like features
- Identification of corrosion, pitting, and localized metal loss
- Evaluation of coating conditions and surface integrity
- Inspection of welds and heat-affected zones
- Assessment of material variations and conductivity changes
3D laser scanning uses high-resolution laser technology to capture precise surface data and create detailed 3D models of pipeline features and conditions.
Common Applications of 3D Laser Scanning
- External metal loss (EML) and surface corrosion
- Dents, deformation, and out-of-round conditions
- Bends, wrinkles, and geometric irregularities
- Detailed surface mapping for engineering analysis
- Baseline and repeat inspections for change detection
Positive Material Identification (PMI) is used to verify the chemical and mechanical properties of pipeline materials, supporting material traceability, regulatory compliance, and integrity assessments.
PMI Testing Methods
- X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF)
- Optical Emission Spectroscopy (OES)
- Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS)
- Frontics (IIT)
- Plastometrix (PLX)
- Micro Mechanical Testing (MMT)
Common Applications of PMI
- Verification of materials in legacy or undocumented pipeline segments
- Support for PHMSA compliance and MAOP validation requirements
- Evaluation of materials for pressure testing, uprating, or capacity changes
- Failure investigations and material performance analysis
- Inspection of cutouts, repairs, and tie-ins
- Assessment of materials in high consequence areas (HCA)
Cathodic protection testing is used to evaluate corrosion risk and environmental conditions that impact pipeline integrity, supporting effective corrosion control and long-term asset protection.
Cathodic Protection Testing Methods
- Pipe-to-Soil Potential Testing
- Soil Resistivity Testing
- Soil pH Testing
- Microbial Induced Corrosion (MIC) Sampling & Testing
Common Applications of Cathodic Protection Testing
- Evaluation of cathodic protection system performance
- Identification of areas at risk for external corrosion
- Assessment of soil conditions influencing corrosion rates
- Detection of microbial activity contributing to corrosion (MIC)
- Support for integrity management and corrosion mitigation strategies
Consulting and training services support pipeline operators with program development, technical guidance, and workforce training across NDT activities.
Consulting Services
- NDT/NDE program development and implementation
- Review and improvement of existing inspection programs
- Technical consulting for pipeline integrity and inspection planning
Training Services
- Full Matrix Capture - Total Focusing Method for Carbon Steel Pipelines
- NDT for Pipeline Integrity Engineers Course
- ASNT ISQ UTT Prep
Additional Support Services
- Coating Inspection
- Welding Inspection
Join Our Team
Build your career in pipeline NDE with hands-on training, real field experience, and a team committed to developing the next generation of technicians.
Let’s Get
Started
Contact our team to discuss your project, request pipeline inspection services, or learn more about our NDE capabilities.