A method for improving the accuracy of evaluating the dimensions of flaws in walls of tubular elements of structures

An algorithm for evaluating the real accuracy of the basic measuring instrument (exterior or in-tube flaw detector) in measuring parameters of flaws of a particular inspected tube was proposed on condition that the basic measuring equipment has no systematic error, while a verification instrument is considered as “absolutely” precise or “reference.” A statistical method of increasing the accuracy of evaluating the dimensions of flaws in thin-walled tube elements was developed on the basis of a correlation between the dimensions of flaw parameters. It can be taken as a basis for finding real values of parameters of flaws and for performing reliable calculations of the residual strength and residual life, for scheduling optimal periods for the next inspection of pipelines, and for ranging segments of a pipeline by a risk criterion, thus providing optimal scheduling of repairs.