Laser Profiling
High-precision surface defect imaging and measurement for accurate defect sizing and remaining material assessment.
Overview
Laser profiling is a high-precision measurement technique used to assess surface defects and determine remaining material thickness. It provides accurate, high-resolution imaging of external defects — producing data that is directly applicable to fitness-for-service calculations and repair decision-making.
How the method works
Laser profiling uses structured light or laser displacement sensors to capture dense surface geometry data at high resolution. The resulting point cloud or profile map reveals the exact geometry of corrosion pits, erosion damage, mechanical gouges, and other surface discontinuities.
Unlike conventional manual gauging, laser profiling captures the full three-dimensional shape of a defect — not just a single depth reading. This enables accurate volume and area calculations required by fitness-for-service codes such as API 579.
The technique is particularly valuable for assessing external corrosion on pipelines, vessels, and structural members where the depth, length, and width of defects must be precisely characterized before a repair or fitness-for-service decision can be made.
Why AUTRESONUS for LP
- 29+ years of experience characterizing surface defects across heavy industry.
- High-resolution laser profiling combined with engineering-grade reporting.
- Data output formatted for direct input into fitness-for-service assessments.
- Experienced technicians capable of operating in confined and elevated-risk environments.
- Combined laser profiling and ultrasonic inspection in a single mobilisation where required.
Key Benefits
- Accurate defect sizing including depth, length, and area
- High-resolution imaging of external surface damage
- Data directly applicable to fitness-for-service calculations
- Non-contact measurement — no surface damage or disturbance
- Rapid scanning of large surface areas
- Permanent digital records for trending and re-inspection
Our Inspection Process
- 1
Access and surface preparation
Confirm access requirements and apply light surface cleaning where necessary.
- 2
Scanner setup and calibration
Calibrate laser scanner against reference targets for dimensional accuracy.
- 3
Surface scanning
Systematic laser scan captures full geometry of the inspection area.
- 4
Data processing
Generate 3D surface map, extract defect dimensions, and flag areas of concern.
- 5
Engineering report
Defect characterization with dimensions and fitness-for-service recommendations.
Applications
- External corrosion assessment on pipelines
- Erosion and wear measurement on process equipment
- Mechanical damage sizing on pressure vessels
- Structural integrity evaluation of supports and frames
- Pre- and post-repair condition documentation
- Fitness-for-service data acquisition
Codes & Standards
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