Abstract: Representative embodiments of a system and method of reducing obstruction formation in a pipe, pipeline, or other container are disclosed. A representative system includes: a plurality of transducers and a controller, with the controller including a memory circuit configured to store a plurality of operational parameters; and a processor circuit configured to control energizing of the plurality of transducers in response to the plurality of operational parameters. Representative systems may also include a coupling ring or a coupling stub coupled to the transducers and coupleable to the pipe or workpiece. The operational parameters may include a frequency or frequency range, a location, a selection of transducers, and an ordering, mode, and duration or time period of energizing the selected transducers. In a representative embodiment, the transducers are operable in an ultrasonic frequency range.

Abstract: In accordance with one aspect of the present disclosure a method of hardening an article of manganese steel is shown. The method includes applying an ultrasonic impact treatment (UIT) on a surface of the article of manganese steel, the ultrasonic impact treatment corresponding to operational parameters, the operational parameters may include an operating ultrasonic frequency, mechanical energy, treatment travel speed, applied force, pattern, or coverage percentage, and each of the operational parameters are independently controllable.