With its acquisition of Qi2 Elements, Baker Hughes stated that it will be able to complement its existing capability in gas pipeline inspection and deliver new technology to support storage tank inspection.
Qi2 Elements is a leader in advanced robotic sensor systems that inspect, assess, and monitor the integrity of critical energy infrastructure, according to a statement from Baker Hughes.
The company’s Electro Magnetic Acoustic Transducer (EMAT) technology enables the detection and measurement of cracks and crack-related features that may occur in gas pipelines.
Baker Hughes also elaborated that Qi2 Elements’ EMAT capability will extend Baker Hughes’ technology to serve customers with small and medium diameter pipelines up to 24 inches and this will include transmission, distribution, gathering as well as process pipelines. The combined expanded EMAT capability provides direct support for energy operators’ requirements to regularly ensure asset safety and integrity, in addition to supporting future hydrogen infrastructure inspections.
“As we continue to partner with operators to drive enhanced environmental and public safety, the acquisition of Qi2 Elements significantly expands our asset inspection offering,” said Michael Bellamy, vice president, Process & Pipeline Services at Baker Hughes. “As an energy technology company, Baker Hughes delivers a broad range of inspection services for critical infrastructure, and Qi2 Elements is another example of how we continue to invest for growth in this space.”
Customers of Baker Hughes will have the opportunity of benefitting from an increasingly competitive scope offering in the asset integrity market. In addition to EMAT, Baker Hughes’ current asset inspection solutions include technologies from its Waygate Technologies and Process & Pipeline Services product lines. Available technologies include high definition remote visual inspection, portable ultrasound solutions along with pipeline inspection and integrity services.
The acquisition is expected to be completed in Q1 of 2022 and will be integrated into the Process & Pipeline Services product line within Baker Hughes’ Digital Solutions segment.
