Conventional NDT

Volumetric examination using high-frequency sound to detect internal discontinuities and to measure remaining wall thickness.

Working Principle

A transducer introduces ultrasonic energy into the component. Reflections from interfaces and discontinuities are timed and amplitude-assessed to locate and size indications.

Typical Indications

• Lack of fusion
• Internal cracks
• Slag inclusions
• Laminations
• Wall loss / thinning

Applications

• Weld examination on piping and vessels
• Thickness surveys on pipework and tanks
• Plate and forging inspection
• Corrosion monitoring locations

Equipment

Portable digital flaw detectors and thickness gauges with appropriate probes and calibration blocks.

Reporting

Indication location, sizing data and thickness readings recorded against the applicable acceptance criteria.

Volumetric examination producing a permanent radiographic record of the internal condition of a weld or component.

Working Principle

Penetrating radiation passes through the component onto film or a digital detector. Variations in density and thickness appear as contrast differences on the resulting image.

Typical Indications

• Porosity
• Slag inclusions
• Incomplete penetration
• Cracks
• Undercut

Applications

• Butt weld examination on pipe and plate
• Casting and fabrication inspection
• Fabrication shop and site scopes

Equipment

Radiographic sources and imaging media suitable for the material and thickness range.

Reporting

Radiographic interpretation reports with technique details and film or image identification.

Radiographic operations are subject to radiation safety requirements, site permits and regulatory authorisation where applicable.

Surface and near-surface examination of ferromagnetic materials for cracks and linear discontinuities.

Working Principle

The component is magnetised and ferrous particles applied. Flux leakage at a discontinuity attracts the particles, forming a visible indication.

Typical Indications

• Surface cracks
• Near-surface cracks
• Laps and seams
• Weld toe cracking

Applications

• Weld surface examination
• Structural steel and supports
• Shafts, hooks and lifting components
• In-service crack detection

Equipment

Yokes, prods and appropriate wet or dry particle media with contrast background as required.

Reporting

Indication type, length and location documented against the acceptance criteria in use.

Surface-breaking discontinuity detection on non-porous metallic and non-metallic materials.

Working Principle

Penetrant is applied and allowed to enter surface-breaking discontinuities. After removal of excess penetrant, developer draws the penetrant back to the surface as a visible indication.

Typical Indications

• Surface cracks
• Porosity
• Laps
• Leak paths

Applications

• Stainless steel and non-ferrous welds
• Machined and fabricated components
• Root and final pass examination

Equipment

Visible dye or fluorescent penetrant systems with appropriate cleaners and developers.

Reporting

Indications recorded with dwell and development times and applicable acceptance criteria.

Direct and remote visual examination of surfaces, welds and general asset condition.

Working Principle

Systematic examination under controlled lighting and access conditions, supported by gauges and remote visual aids where direct access is limited.

Typical Indications

• Weld profile deviations
• Undercut and overlap
• Corrosion and mechanical damage
• Misalignment

Applications

• Pre-, in-process and final weld inspection
• General plant condition surveys
• Fabrication and assembly checks

Equipment

Weld gauges, measuring equipment, lighting and remote visual aids where required.

Reporting

Findings recorded with location references and supporting photographs where permitted.