Abstract: The disclosure describes methods, devices and tools useful in the non-destructive inspection and the characterization of mechanical damage such as dents in pipelines. Methods, devices and tools described herein make use of a strain severity indication combined with a material loss indication such as magnetic flux leakage to determine whether a dent comprises at least one of a crack, a gouge and corrosion. The characterization of the mechanical damage in dents of pipes may be used to determine whether and when any corrective or preventive action should be carried out.