Guided Wave Ultrasonic Testing Tools for Long-Range Inspection
Non-intrusive GWUT systems offering high-efficiency pipe and structure monitoring across inaccessible areas
Overview
Guided Wave Ultrasonic Testing (GWUT) tools use low-frequency ultrasonic waves that travel along the length of pipes or other structures, enabling the inspection of long sections from a single location. This method is ideal for evaluating areas that are difficult to access or insulated, such as underground or elevated pipelines. By generating and analysing guided waves that reflect off defects like corrosion, pitting, or cracks, GWUT systems provide rapid, efficient, and cost-effective structural assessments.
This page provides a full breakdown of guided wave ultrasonic technology, highlighting its features, use cases, and industry relevance. Acoustic Testing Pro delivers high-performance GWUT tools across North America. As a growing B2B leader based in Atlanta, GA, we support infrastructure operators and industrial clients with advanced tools designed for reliability, safety, and long-term performance. Our goal is to make critical inspections easier, faster, and more accurate—no matter the environment.
Trusted Technology Partners for Guided Wave Ultrasonic Testing Tools
In addition to offering products and systems developed by our team and trusted partners for Guided Wave Ultrasonic Testing Tools, we are proud to carry top-tier technologies from Global Advanced Operations Tek Inc. (GAO Tek Inc.) and Global Advanced Operations RFID Inc. (GAO RFID Inc.). These reliable, high-quality products and systems enhance our ability to deliver comprehensive technologies, integrations, and services you can trust. Where relevant, we have provided direct links to select products and systems from GAO Tek Inc. and GAO RFID Inc.
Core Components
Hardware Products (from GAO Tek & GAO RFID)
- GAO Tek Long-Range Guided Wave UT System
Designed for pipe inspections up to 300 feet in both directions with high-resolution defect detection. - GAO Tek Clamp-On Guided Wave Transducer Rings
Easy-to-install collars with multi-element arrays for quick deployment on pipelines of various diameters.
- GAO RFID Wireless Structural Integrity Sensor
Collects guided wave signals from remote pipelines and transmits data for centralized analysis. - GAO Tek Pipe Surface Calibration Kit
Includes reference standards to ensure accurate guided wave signal calibration across different materials.
Software
- GAO Tek Guided Wave Signal Interpretation Suite (GW-SIS)
Visualizes time-domain and frequency-domain signals to locate defects and assess wall loss.
- GAO RFID IoT Gateway
Enables cloud-based remote monitoring of pipeline integrity using data from guided wave sensors.
- Long-Range Scanning: Inspect up to 600 feet from a single location (300 feet in each direction)
- Non-Intrusive Testing: Eliminates the need to remove insulation or coatings
- Defect Localization: Accurately identifies corrosion, cracks, weld anomalies, and wall loss
- Quick Deployment: Clamp-on tools and fast setup reduce time on site
- Data Visualization: Real-time signal graphs and reporting tools support rapid decision-making
- Compatible with pipe diameters ranging from 2″ to 48″+
- Works with steel, aluminum, composite, and multi-layered pipe materials
- Integrates with GAO Tek signal analysis platforms and third-party asset management tools
- Wireless and IoT-ready for long-term or remote monitoring applications
- Inspection of insulated or buried pipelines
- Monitoring of offshore risers and subsea piping
- Tank farm piping and above-ground transfer lines
- Refinery and petrochemical process piping
- Structural monitoring in bridge supports and steel beams
- Oil & Gas and Petrochemicals
- Power Generation (Nuclear, Coal, and Renewable)
- Water and Wastewater Utilities
- Transportation and Civil Infrastructure
- Chemical Manufacturing
- Maritime and Offshore Engineering
- ASME PCC-2 – Inspection Planning Using Guided Wave
- API RP 583 – Integrity Operating Windows
- ISO 18211 – Guided Wave Testing of Pipes
- CSA Z662 (Canada) – Oil and Gas Pipeline Systems
- NACE SP0208 – Risk-Based Inspection Practices
Case Studies
United States
Pipeline Integrity Assessment – Natural Gas Utility, Oklahoma City
A utility company used GAO Tek’s guided wave system to inspect buried gas lines beneath road crossings. The system identified corrosion threats without excavation, allowing targeted repairs and preventing unnecessary disruption.
United States
Offshore Riser Inspection – Energy Operator, Galveston, TX
Acoustic Testing Pro deployed clamp-on GWUT tools to monitor offshore risers for wall thinning. The team delivered safe, efficient inspections in high-risk environments, reducing downtime by over 50%.
Canada
Pulp Mill Pipeline Survey – Industrial Facility, Prince George
A Canadian pulp mill used guided wave tools to scan long runs of steam and chemical pipelines under insulation. Results revealed early-stage corrosion, allowing for timely preventive maintenance with no insulation removal.
Contact Us
Acoustic Testing Pro provides guided wave ultrasonic testing tools engineered for precision, efficiency, and safety. Contact Us to schedule a demo, speak with our experts, or request a quote for your project.