What is a Customized Calibration Sleeve?

It’s a precision-engineered sleeve or pipe section made to mimic:

Pipeline internal diameter (ID)

Wall thickness

Ovality, dents, weld seams, or other features

Specific defect profiles (for ILI tools)

Used for:

Calibrating pig passage

Validating sizing and gauging tools

Training smart pigging or inline inspection (ILI) tools

✅ How to Effectively Use a Customized Calibration Sleeve

1. Design for Application

Customize based on:

Pipeline diameter and material

Known anomalies (e.g., dents, weld beads, ovality)

Tool specs (mandrel pigs, caliper pigs, EMAT, MFL tools, etc.)

Work with the tool vendor to ensure compatibility with inspection equipment.

2. Pre-Calibration Prep

Ensure the sleeve is:

Clean, rust-free, and dry

Stored in a controlled environment

Measure and verify tolerances (often within ±0.1 mm)

3. Tool Insertion

Mount the sleeve on a horizontal test bed or frame

Carefully insert the pig or inspection tool

Use lubricants if needed (especially with metal-on-metal contact)

4. Run Calibration

Pass the tool through at controlled speed or pressure

Confirm:

Smooth passage

Sensor or caliper readings match sleeve dimensions

Proper detection of defects or internal features (for smart tools)

5. Record Data

Compare tool data to known calibration sleeve profile

Analyze results for tool accuracy and sensitivity

Document all calibration runs for compliance and QA

6. Post-Use Cleaning and Storage

Clean the sleeve (especially around simulated welds or defects)

Store in a dry, padded rack to prevent mechanical damage

Inspect regularly for wear or deformation

Benefits of Customization:

Matches real-world pipe conditions

Improves accuracy and repeatability

Helps qualify tools before expensive field runs