Dear Experts,

Following a phased array inspection of a desalter vessel we have discovered a band of mid-wall indications, this band of non-continuous defects are measured at a depth of approximately 15mm to 20mm from the external surface of the vessel .

There are also some others localised inclusions of approximately 1 to 5 mm Ø which are located approximately at 4 to 5 mm from the internal surface of the vessel. The same defects are present throughout the wall of the vessel.

My questions are :

Has anyone faced the same situation during the inspection of a desalter vessel and has an idea about the nature of these indications ?

Is that these defects can propagate and grow whilst the vessel is in service?

If someone has a good knowledge of this process, what are the others types of defects in addition to the corrosion that can occur on such a vessel when is in service for more than ten years ?

Thank you in advance for your help.

Best regards