Mechanical testing solutions leader, Plastometrex, has announced that Audubon Engineering Company (Audubon), an EPC solutions provider to energy and industrial operators, has employed PLX-Portable, a non-destructive pipeline material verification system that delivers reliable, immediate data to support integrity management and regulatory compliance.
Building on its reputation for excellence in pipeline integrity solutions, Audubon’s field services division has chosen the PLX-Portable system to deliver reliable stress-strain data quickly, non-destructively, and in-situ, critical for supporting gas pipeline operators in reducing risk, extending asset life, and complying with the US Department of Transportation’s PHMSA Mega Rule.
The PLX-Portable system is powered by Plastometrex’s proprietary PIP (Profilometry-based Indentation Plastometry) technology, a test method already widely used by heavyweight institutions and organizations like NASA, MIT, Air Liquide, and Babcock.
The system boasts industry-leading accuracy and is built for maximum data reliability, with a simple test process and in-built system safeguards to remove any data uncertainties. Data are delivered in a fully compliant report format, so Audubon’s field customers will gain immediate access to test results via a cloud-based digital platform, straight from the dig. The test itself is quick, with minimal surface preparation requirements and a 30-minute test time (per quadrant). Because of the system’s simple and largely automated operating procedure, Audubon technicians can be trained to use the system in just two days, enabling them to roll out the technology quickly and at scale to meet the growing test demand.
Joel Troyer, Audubon’s Vice President of Industrial Solutions, commented on the news: “Audubon is dedicated to innovation in all we do. Applying cutting-edge technologies for pipeline integrity management enhances our service offerings to the benefit of our customers and our communities. The PLX-Portable tool enables us to provide fast and reliable material verification, which will result in safe, compliant pipelines and facilities over their lifetime.”
Plastometrex CEO, Dr. James Dean, had this to say about the adoption: “We are excited to support Audubon in its mission to enhance pipeline integrity with our PLX-Portable system. This collaboration highlights the value of our PIP technology in delivering accurate, non-destructive material verification data swiftly, setting a new benchmark in the field.”
Plastometrex is a world leader in obtaining stress-strain curves non-destructively, and in providing fast and insightful mechanical testing solutions. Established by former University of Cambridge scientists, Plastometrex combines deep expertise in materials science with advanced numerical modelling and optimisation methods to create next-generation materials testing solutions.
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