Phoenix Inspection Systems Limited has launched its latest pipe weld inspection scanner at the British Institute of Non-Destructive Testing (BINDT) Materials Testing 2026 exhibition.
The CLiP Weld Scanner is a modular chain-link scanner designed for circumferential weld inspection and corrosion mapping of pipes ranging from 4.5″ to 48″ outside diameter (OD).
The new scanner is part of Phoenix ISL’s new Circular Link Platform (CLiP) range of scanning solutions. Developed in response to demand for a flexible chain-link solution, CLiP offers a different approach to scanner positioning.
Instead of magnetic wheels, CLiP uses low-profile chain links to secure the scanner around the pipe. This design allows the scanner to be used on ferrous, non-ferrous and composite pipes, while helping maintain a straight circumferential scanning path and eliminating steering issues.
Why chain links?
For operators carrying out circumferential weld inspection, maintaining a consistent path around the pipe is an important consideration.
The CLiP chain links are designed to keep the scanner aligned as it travels around the circumference, helping to maintain a straight scanning path without the steering issues associated with conventional scanner designs.
The chain links can also be utilised to rotate the scanner around the pipe where obstructions or restricted access make conventional movement difficult.
The result is a scanner designed around the practical challenges of inspecting pipework, providing a secure and flexible scanning solution across a wide range of pipe materials and applications.
Fast changes between pipe sizes
Another key feature of the CLiP Weld Scanner is its ability to adapt quickly to different pipe diameters.
The scanner is available in configurations covering 4.5″–12″, 4.5″–24″, 4.5″–36″ and 4.5″–48″ OD, using different numbers of chain links.
The clip-fastening chain links enable quick diameter changes, allowing operators to configure the scanner for different pipe sizes efficiently. The design incorporates tool-free adjustments, while the robust low-profile links provide secure attachment around the pipe.
This flexibility can be particularly valuable for inspection teams working across different pipe diameters, helping to reduce setup time when moving between inspection applications.
A modular scanner designed for practical inspection
The CLiP Weld Scanner combines the chain-link carriage with features designed to simplify inspection setup and operation, including:
- UT, TOFD and phased array inspection capability
- 4.5″ to 48″ OD inspection range
- Quick diameter changes
- Tool-free adjustments
- Straight circumferential scanning path
- Encoder for circumferential position
- Capacity for up to four probes
- Low-profile lockable toolposts
- Lightweight aluminium construction
- Integrated cable management
The scanner is compatible with OEM acquisition systems, providing flexibility for inspection teams using a range of ultrasonic inspection equipment.
The CLiP Weld Scanner is the latest addition to Phoenix ISL’s new Circular Link Platform range, which also includes solutions for corrosion mapping, nozzle inspection and M-SKIP applications. By applying a common chain-link platform across multiple inspection tasks, Phoenix ISL aims to provide operators with a flexible approach to scanner deployment while addressing the practical challenges associated with inspecting complex geometries.
For more details about the CLiP range of solutions or to request a quote for the CLiP Weld Scanner please contact the Sales team at sales@phoenixisl.com