Innovative Technology Award 2025 Best Inspection Method for CUI and CUPS (Corrosion Under Insulation and Pipe Supports) Winner: Phonon Diagnostics Technique (PDT)

This award recognizes outstanding achievements in the deployment and successful implementation of innovative, cutting-edge non-destructive testing (NDT) technologies, including new inspection methods for Corrosion Under Insulation (CUI) and Corrosion Under Pipe Supports (CUPS).

CUI is one of the most challenging degradation mechanisms to detect, as it remains hidden beneath insulation. Traditional inspection approaches often require insulation removal, scaffolding, and extensive manual intervention, resulting in high costs, complex logistics, and increased safety risks. As a result, CUI is frequently detected only at an advanced stage, sometimes following visible leakage, leading to unplanned shutdowns, emergency repairs, or loss of containment.

To address these challenges, the oil and gas industry is increasingly seeking innovative NDT solutions that enable inspection without removing insulation and that can access hard-to-reach areas within piping systems. This shift formed the basis of the Industry Challenge, an initiative sponsored by Stratum Energy and Mercuria Energy, and led by EINDT, aimed at identifying demonstrable and practical NDT solutions for CUI and CUPS inspection.

From four shortlisted companies participating in the Industry Challenge, Phonon Diagnostics Technologies Ltd. (UK)was selected as the winning manufacturer, and SHARK Consulting FZ LLC (UAE) as the winning service provider, for the Phonon Diagnostics Technique (PDT) — recognized as the best new Advanced NDT solution for CUI and CUPS inspection on piping systems.

The PDT system was distinguished by its innovative design, suitability for hard-to-reach locations, and strong applicability in upstream oil and gas environments. The technology demonstrated fast and reliable inspection performance, optimized execution time, reduced personnel on board (POB), and the ability to achieve complete scope-of-work coverage during normal in-service operation, without preparatory work or production shutdowns.

Evaluation results highlighted PDT’s advantages over traditional inspection methods, including high accuracy, full coverage of complex piping geometries (straight pipes, elbows, tees, and pipe bottoms), and significant reductions in maintenance costs and safety exposure. These characteristics position PDT as a strong candidate for inclusion in the future of NDT inspection and maintenance strategies.

As winners of the Industry Challenge, Phonon Diagnostics Technologies Ltd. (UK) and SHARK Consulting FZ LLC (UAE) receive the Innovative Technology Award 2025 and the opportunity to further develop and apply the Phonon Diagnostics Technique through the next phases of a multi-year CUI and CUPS development program.

All participating companies demonstrated notable strengths and innovation potential; however, the PDT solution presented by Phonon Diagnostics Technologies Ltd. and SHARK Consulting FZ LLC was commended as a well-engineered, highly effective inspection system with significant potential for broader industrial application.

Statement from JR Fernandez, Managing Director – SHARK Consulting FZ LLC

“Working with EINDT, its sponsors, and participating energy companies in the CUI & CUPS Challenge was an exceptional opportunity. The challenge was designed around real operational needs and provided valuable feedback. It confirmed where SHARK can immediately add value in CUI and CUPS detection through the application of the Phonon Diagnostics Technique developed by our technology partner, Phonon Diagnostics Technologies Ltd. We are honored to be selected as the winner.”

More Information – 2025 Award Winners

• SHARK Consulting FZ LLC:https://www.thesharkholding.com

• Phonon Diagnostics Technologies Ltd.:https://www.phonondiagnostics.com