Development of an inspection robot for long‐distance transmission pipeline on‐site overhaul

Purpose – Damage of oil and gas long‐distance transmission pipelines caused by corrosion, stresses, geological change, and other factors can result in catastrophic failures. The purpose of this paper is to describe a mobile out‐pipe inspection robot for the pipeline inspection. Design/methodology/approach – This paper adapts to the requirements of long‐distance transmission pipelines on‐site overhaul, the robot developed in this paper utilizes a local magnetic flux leakage testing method for the pipeline inspection. Detection, walking, attachment, steering, and control units are designed for the robot. Findings – The detection apparatus of the robot plays dual roles as detection and attachment unit. So, the structure of the robot is relatively simple and it is relatively small in size and relatively light. Practical implications – A prototype of the robot has been manufactured according to the design. Results of the test in lab show the robot can be used to inspect pipe. Originality/value – The robot is able to scan and inspect the pipeline along the planned route automatically.