ROSEN improves classification and reporting of pinhole anomalies without changes to inspection execution
15/09/2026
The ROSEN Group has extended its RoCorr MFL-A service portfolio with MFL-A Plus, following feedback from pipeline operators on classification consistency and reporting of pinhole anomalies in routine inspections.The extension builds on ROSEN’s axial magnetic flux leakage (MFL-A) inspection services and enables more consistent characterisation of corrosion-related metal loss without altering inspection requirements, tool configuration or operational execution.
Unlike developments that focus on sensor technology or data acquisition, MFL-A Plus focuses on the data analysis stage. The inspection principle remains based on MFL-A: the pipeline wall is magnetised and local disturbances in the magnetic field, caused by metal loss, are measured and recorded.
 | ||
| ROSEN’s RoCorr MFL-A Plus Tool Image courtesy of The ROSEN Group |
MFL-A Plus retains this data acquisition methodology unchanged and applies an enhanced data analysis workflow to the existing dataset. The analysis process is supported by models trained on laser-mapped corrosion features, enabling classification based on previously observed geometries.
The approach reduces variability caused by manual interpretation and improves consistency in the classification of smaller-scale metal loss features, which have historically posed challenges in the detection and sizing of those anomalies.
Compared to standard MFL-A data analysis, MFL-A Plus enables more consistent classification across feature types, improved identification of small corrosion geometries and systematic reporting of all anomaly categories defined in Pipeline Operators Forum (POF) specifications, including pinhole corrosion and axial slotting.
“The extension of the MFL-A data analysis addresses specific feedback from operators on classification improvements and the reporting of pinhole corrosion,” said Johannes Spille, Head of Market & Service Line Strategy, Metal Loss & Deformation. “MFL-A Plus enables pipeline operators to identify critical pinhole anomalies without changing inspection execution.”
The refined analysis workflow supports a more complete representation of corrosion populations within the inspection dataset by reducing discrepancies in classification and reporting. This provides a clearer basis for integrity assessments, particularly in cases with complex corrosion morphology or high feature density.
From an operational standpoint, RoCorr MFL-A Plus is fully compatible with ROSEN’s existing MFL-A tool fleet. There are no changes to inspection procedures, tool logistics or deployment strategies required.
This compatibility enables integration of the enhanced evaluation into standard inspection programmes, including combined inspection runs, without affecting planning assumptions or execution workflows. The evaluation can be applied within existing reporting processes where required.
Within ROSEN’s corrosion inspection portfolio, RoCorr MFL-A Plus is positioned between RoCorr MFL-A and RoCorr MFL-A Ultra, which provides an ultra-high-resolution feature characterisation. The structure allows operators to select the appropriate level of evaluation detail based on corrosion morphology, feature complexity and asset criticality.
The service has been deployed in commercial operations since 2023, with initial application in the Canadian market followed by implementation across North America and selected regions in Asia. To date, more than 150 inspection projects have been completed using the MFL-A Plus methodology across a range of pipeline configurations and operating conditions.
The ROSEN Group is a leading global provider of data-enabled, cutting-edge solutions and services in all areas of the integrity process chain. Since its beginnings as a one-man business in 1981, ROSEN has grown rapidly and is today a technology group that operates in more than 110 countries with over 4000 highly qualified employees.
ROSEN’s products and services include:
- Inspection of critical industrial assets to ensure asset availability, reliable operations of the highest standards and effectiveness
- Customised engineering consultancy providing efficient asset integrity management
- Insights from unique and extensive datasets, combined with its advanced machine learning capabilities
- Production and supply of customised novel products and systems
- Market-driven, topical state-of-the-art research and development providing ‘added-value’ products and services.
