Automated Reformer Tube Inspection System (ARTiS).

Automated Reformer Tube Inspection System (ARTiS) is a specialized robotic inspection solution designed for internal inspection of reformer tubes operating under high-temperature and high-pressure conditions. Reformer tubes are critical components in hydrogen, ammonia, and petrochemical plants, and their failure can result in severe operational and safety consequences.

ARTiS enables accurate, repeatable, and efficient inspection of reformer tubes without requiring extensive dismantling or prolonged shutdowns.

Why ARTiS Inspection Is Required

Reformer tubes are exposed to severe service conditions that can lead to progressive damage. ARTiS inspection helps address challenges such as:

• Creep and material degradation at high temperatures

• Ovality, bulging, or dimensional distortion

• Internal surface damage and metallurgical degradation

• Limited inspection access using conventional techniques

• Need for reliable data for life assessment and replacement planning

Automated inspection ensures consistent coverage and reliable results.

Scope of ARTiS Inspection

ARTiS inspection is applicable to:

• Primary and secondary reformer tubes

• High-temperature alloy tubes

• Tubes operating in hydrogen and reforming environments

• Furnace tube banks and critical tube zones

The inspection scope is tailored based on tube geometry and operating history.

Inspection Methodology

ARTiS inspection follows a controlled and automated process.

Pre-inspection planning including tube selection and inspection objectives.

Deployment of the ARTiS robotic system inside reformer tubes.

Automated scanning to measure wall thickness, ovality, and internal condition.

Continuous data acquisition along the full tube length.

Real-time monitoring and validation of inspection coverage.

Post-inspection data analysis to identify damage trends and critical locations.

Reporting with tube-wise condition assessment and recommendations.

Tools, Techniques and Standards

ARTiS inspection is supported by:

• Automated robotic inspection platforms

• High-temperature ultrasonic thickness measurement

• Dimensional and ovality measurement systems

• Data acquisition and analysis software

The inspection methodology aligns with industry best practices for reformer tube integrity management.

Key Benefits

• Accurate assessment of reformer tube condition

• Early detection of creep-related damage

• Reduced inspection time and shutdown duration

• Improved safety compared to manual inspection

• Reliable input for remaining life and replacement decisions
  

Industries and Applications

ARTiS inspection is widely used in hydrogen plants, ammonia units, petrochemical facilities, refineries, and fertilizer complexes.

Applications include inspection of reformer tubes operating under severe temperature and pressure conditions.

Automated Reformer Tube Inspection System (ARTiS) provides a reliable and repeatable solution for evaluating the integrity of reformer tubes. By combining automation with advanced inspection technology, this service supports safe operation and informed life management decisions.