EngD student 2007-2012

University: Imperial College London

Sponsoring company: BP

EngD research: Use of Microwaves for the Detection of Corrosion Under Insulation

Insulated pipelines are susceptible to an aggressive form of corrosion degradation if water ingress into the insulation occurs. The concept behind this project was to monitor insulated pipelines for the first ingress of water using microwaves guided by the metallic components of the pipeline. Through the four years of working on the project, the technique was taken from an initial concept to a successful practical demonstration on an oilfield pipeline.

Current role: Inspection Engineer at BP.

I am currently working as an inspection engineer in a technology team within BP. The focus of the team is the research and development of technologies to assist in maintaining the reliability of our facilities worldwide. The kind of work that I get involved in includes the qualification of new inspection tools, developing software to assist in inspection technique selection, and providing specialist technical support to operating regions in the analysis of inspection results.

The EngD course was excellent preparation for my role in BP. The research aspect of the course helped to develop general problem solving and analytical skills, as well as an in-depth understanding of a particular field of NDE. The taught-course component was crucial in providing the background knowledge necessary for a career in this fascinating field of engineering. I use the skills and knowledge acquired during my EngD on a daily basis and consider it to have been a very valuable experience.