Oilfield tubular inspection method and apparatus

Abstract

A system 10 for elongate metal goods comprises automated tubular inspection equipment 12 within an inspection area 13 for initially inspecting goods, and particularly oilfield tubulars, and a monitor 32 within a prove-up area 30 for viewing inspection data. An inspection computer 16 electronically records the inspection data and cooperates with a prove-up computer 38 to verify that all flagged suspect tubulars have been tested. Prove-up data may be input to the prove-up computer either directly from test equipment 40 or through a keypad 36. The prove-up report generated by the computer 38 may be electronically transmitted in real time to a monitor 24 outside the prove-up area for viewing the prove-up report data. According to the method of the invention, the prove-up operator may display inspection data on the monitor 32 to facilitate the inspection of suspect tubulars within the prove-up area. The prove-up operator electronically inputs prove-up data to the computer 38, which generates both interim and final prove-up reports which are then electronically transmitted to an inspection office and, if desired, to the customer of the tubular inspection service. Real time prove-up reports substantially assist the inspection service company and the customer to control the inventory of tubulars shipped to the inspection area, to adjust inspection limits for the automated inspection equipment, and to facilitate invoicing and claim filings.