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Hexagon Digital Wave (Centennial, Colo., U.S.) announces the successful completion of its 750^th Mobile Pipeline and Virtual Pipeline­ trailer test using its modal acoustic emission (MAE) technology. The growing demand for alternative fuels has led to a significant increase in compressed gas transport, which is driving fleet owners to seek a safe and efficient method for requalification of composite tube trailers, which is regulated to occur every 5 years.

MAE uses electronics and sensors that capture broadband waveforms, which are then analyzed using proprietary algorithms to validate the structural integrity of composite cylinders. MAE is an authorized periodic inspection method allowed by the Department of Transportation/Pipeline of Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) and Transport Canada (TC) jurisdictions. 

Hexagon Digital Wave’s MAE technology in particular is designed to be a non-invasive inspection method that reduces trailer downtime for requalification as compared to the alternative of hydrostatic testing, while simultaneously providing information about the structural integrity of the composite laminate that cannot be obtained by hydrostatic testing. Testing with this methodology is said to eliminate the need to vent gas into the atmosphere, which can significantly reduce the environmental impact of GHG emissions.

The 750 composite tube trailers, tested across North America, demonstrate the capability, reliability and efficiency of MAE testing technology.

“We’re proud to offer our customers the most advanced technology available to requalify their gas distribution modules,” says George Siedlecki, CEO, Hexagon Digital Wave. “This is a testament to our position as a trusted partner of the gas transportation industry. This milestone demonstrates our commitment to providing fleet operators with enhanced safety and optimized operations.”