Blog Post

The Importance Of NDT

  • By Eric Kivlin
  • 26 Sep, 2017
Non-destructive testing (NDT) is often thought of as broad field. However, at its core it refers to a wide group of proven inspection methods used to analyze the soundness of a material, component or structure – without chemically or physically altering it.
Safety. Peace-Of-Mind. Affordability.
Non-destructive testing is conducted to locate and characterize material conditions and flaws that if left overlooked could cause planes to crash, reactors to fail, or trains to derail. Useful in a variety of industries with volatile or high-pressure equipment and machinery, non-destructive testing as a preventative measure saves lives. It is also safe to both the tested product, as well as the tester.
Different industries have different safety standards, and different types of machinery have to be regularly inspected at different intervals. Regardless of what needs to be inspected, a non-destructive test is always the most affordable option. Destructive testing methods, such as an automobile crash tests, typically cost an order of magnitude more. Additionally, non-destructive tests can result in insights that lead to the replacement or repair of equipment before malfunctions can occur.
When it comes to accurate results, non-destructive testing is reliable because of the variety of available and complementary options. Any given piece of equipment or machinery can be subject to a number of non-destructive tests, which eliminates the risk of oversight or inaccuracy.
Around much longer than you may think, one of the oldest non-destructive testing techniques was developed in 1895, when German physicist Wilhelm Conrad Rontgen first invented the X-ray! Today, non-destructive testing has become much more robust and now includes:
Knowing your equipment is functioning the way it should, and that future accidents can be prevented with affordable check-ups, creates incredible peace-of-mind. Not to mention that when workers know they are safe, work productivity goes up!
From complex inspections to simple tests, Specialized NDE will ensure you get quality results. For more information on the many NDT and NDE services we provide, please browse our extensive website or contact us directly. 
By Erin M 29 Aug, 2018

Developing and implementing an inspection strategy is a process driven by competing requirements for speed, cost and accurate characterization of anomalies, including location and size. Today, three technological advancements that are having a significant impact on inspection technology are; miniaturization of electronic components , fast data-transfer rates , and greatly increased computer processing power .

Over the past 40 years there has been much development in the area of ultrasonic real time imaging through application phased array technologies. This technology is now making rapid inroads in the industrial sector. The many benefits of this technology are already driving rapid development that will lead to gains in performance, ease of use and industry acceptance.

Ultrasonic inspection can generally be described by six operations:

signal generation

data acquisition

signal processing

data visualization

interpretation

reporting

The more of these operations that can be performed in near real time the more cost effective the inspection.

Conventional ultrasonic transducers (UT), for non destructive testing (NDT) commonly consist of either a single active element that both generates and receives high frequency sound waves, or two paired elements, one for transmitting and one for receiving. Phased array probes, on the other hand, typically consist of a transducer assembly with from 16 to as many as 256 small individual elements that can each be pulsed separately.

The benefits of phased array technology over conventional UT come from its ability to use multiple elements to steer, focus and scan beams with a single transducer assembly. Beam steering, commonly referred to as sectorial scanning, can be used for mapping components at appropriate angles. This can greatly simplify the inspection of components with complex geometries.

The small footprint of the transducer and the ability to sweep the beam without moving the probe also aids inspection of such components in situations where there is limited access for mechanical scanning. Sectorial scanning is also typically used for weld inspection. The ability to test welds with multiple angles from a single probe greatly increases the probability of detection of anomalies.

Electronic focusing permits optimizing the beam shape and size at the expected defect location, thus further optimizing probability of detection. The ability to focus at multiple depths also improves the ability for sizing critical defects for volumetric inspections. Focusing can significantly improve signal-to-noise ratio in challenging applications, and electronic scanning across many groups of elements allows for C-Scan images to be produced very rapidly. And this is only the beginning. Further advances in phased array hardware, processing power and automated interpretation are expected, which will further reduce inspection costs, while enabling novel and automated processing solutions optimized for specific applications.

As the prime NDT contractor for Oil and Gas, Power Generation, Manufacturing and Infrastructure clients across the country, Specialized NDE is always staying abreast of the latest in industry standards and certifications. For more information on the many NDT and NDE services we provide, please browse our extensive website  or contact us link to contact page directly!

By Erin M 25 Jul, 2018

One of the most common NDT test performed today are surface tests, such as dye penetrant or magnetic particle technologies. Widely used in power generation, oil and gas, manufacturing, and other industries, Eddy Current testing is a fast, accurate way to inspect sheets, pipes, tubing, bolt holes, bars, and other ferrous and non-ferrous components, as it is capable of detecting both surface and sub-surface defects. However, the use of Eddy Current Arrays can make many of these tests better, faster and more repeatable.  

Here’s How it works:

A probe or coil applies an electromagnetic field to metal, and the current swirls through the material in loops…like eddies in a river. Any cracks or changes in thickness or metallurgical structure will distort the flow. These distortions are captured and analyzed by an instrument and displayed for the technician to review.

Several factors (besides flaws) can affect the response from a probe, including the conductivity and permeability of the metal and the geometry (edges and curves) of the piece being inspected. One element that can be controlled is test frequency:

  • raising the frequency will increase the test’s sensitivity to surface or subsurface flaws
  • lowering the frequency will increase the depth of penetration into the material

What’s New?

The biggest evolution in Eddy Current sensor technology is Eddy Current Arrays. Eddy Current Array technology increases productivity and detection capabilities for surface inspection. The inspection of large surfaces has always been problematic due to the low Probability of Detection (POD), for the defects of interest, if the inspection is done manually or by the complexity and cost associated with scanner and fixture. Inspection times can be long and therefore costly or present a bottleneck in a production environment.

Also, visual surface techniques like dye penetrant, fluorescent penetrant or magnetic particle require development time, can mean production of chemical wastes, and provide data that can only be recorded by photograph. In many cases, the repeatability of the test is highly operator dependent. Eddy Current Array techniques can be done cleanly and nearly instantly without the need of complex scanner or chemical clean-up afterwards. The outcome is a better, more uniform test with a digital record. Since the resolution of Eddy Current Arrays is a design parameter (application specific) a known surface coverage with a known sensitivity and resolution results in a dramatically increased POD for the defects of interest, compared to manual single channel Eddy Current inspection.

As the prime NDT contractor for Oil and Gas, Power Generation, Manufacturing and Infrastructure clients across the country, Specialized NDE is always staying abreast of the latest in industry standards and certifications. For more information on the many NDT and NDE services we provide, please browse our extensive website   to  or contact us   directly!

By Erin M 27 Jun, 2018

Imagine taking non destructive testing (NDT) technology from the healthcare industry and using it to “fingerprint” BOPs?  That’s what GE has in development, along with other GE companies across many businesses aimed at technology transfer.

In 2015, a GE company (BHGE), formerly GE Oil & Gas, piloted its NDT BOP Inspection Technology System that leveraged 4-D scanning using digital fingerprinting to deliver rig-based inspection and re certification of BOPs without disassembly.

How?

Using robotics, analytics and phased array ultrasonic testing, periodic inspections created a 4-D comparison of BOP components. The fingerprint becomes the baseline for equipment condition at any point in its life cycle. By digitally comparing the current scan against previous scans, changes are highlighted and mapped. The system has been used with several customers, including four BOP stacks for Diamond Offshore , as part of the contractual services agreement the companies entered into in 2016. Enhancements made to the system since the start of the pilot program include the ability to see the individual threads of the bolts, nuts and studs securing flanges.

Why?

The method reduces downtime, improves productivity and reduces costs.

“A rough example of that is on some of the older units that we’ve inspected offshore where we’ve been able to reduce inspection time by 75% by leaving the equipment in place and using this inspection technology. That way we don’t have to disassemble the equipment to perform the inspection. That’s just a great example of how we leverage what we’re doing in other industries to drive productivity, reduce the cost and decrease the intrusive amount of inspection time,” says Chuck Chauviere, president of drilling systems, GE.

“Obviously, the fourth dimension is going to be change over time. Digital fingerprinting is our simple word for effectively getting a fingerprint of the equipment. Then at periodic intervals we can run this technology to monitor how it changes over time.”

GE estimates a, “40% savings just in the time to do the inspection itself.” In addition to time savings, scanning the equipment is a far safer process than breaking down and inspecting the components. It takes a day for the technicians to set up the equipment, with the scanning occurring on the second day. Depending on the component being inspected, the entire process would take six to seven days.

But what it doesn’t calculate—which is going to be just very dependent rig to rig—is the amount of time it takes to go break down a BOP in a confined space and in a very tough environment. It represents a big safety hazard to the individuals at work. It also represents the opportunity for significant damage to that equipment that can occur from disassembling and reinstalling.

GE Boasts, The Benefits of Condition Based Maintenance Include:

 

Reducing the unnecessary replacement of parts

Providing advance warning of potential issues

Enabling flexible inspection and certification events due to advanced knowledge of condition

Utilizing a digital record, dispositioning and change detection over time for proactive diagnosis

Targeting customers’ response, addressing only affected parts

To learn more about this cool new NDT BOP Inspection advancement, click here . 

As the prime NDT contractor for Oil and Gas, Power Generation, Manufacturing and Infrastructure clients across the country, Specialized NDE is always staying abreast of the latest in industry standards and certifications. For more information on the many NDT and NDE services we provide, please browse our extensive website  or contact us  directly!

By Erin M 28 May, 2018

Since 1966, SNT TC-1A has been widely used by employers as a framework for in-house NDT certification programs in America.

Why?

SNT TC-1A practice helps ensure a minimum level of competency for NDT practitioners and applies to NDT methods such as:

eddy current testing

liquid penetrant testing

magnetic particle testing

radiography

ultrasonic testing

visual testing

Updated annually, SNT TC-1A provides guidelines for employers establishing an in-house certification program for non destructive examination. Boasting three levels of qualifications, each with more duties and responsibilities than the last, examinations for advancement are made up of four parts.

These include:

an eye exam for vision acuity and colour contrast discrimination

a written portion to gauge general knowledge of basic principles of methodology

a second written portion to gauge knowledge of specific equipment and techniques that will be used on the job

a practical examination based on the specific equipment that will be examined on the job. Each section requires at least a 70 to pass, while the total score of 80 for all four sections is usually required

Personnel at each of the three levels tend to require re-certification every five years. The three levels are described as follows, according to the American Society For Non Destructive Testing

An NDT Level I individual should be qualified to properly perform specific calibrations, specific NDT and specific evaluations for acceptance or rejection determinations according to written instructions and to record results. The NDT Level I should receive the necessary instruction and supervision from a certified NDT Level II or III individual.

An NDT Level II individual should be qualified to set up and calibrate equipment and to interpret and evaluate results with respect to applicable codes, standards and specifications. The NDT Level II should be thoroughly familiar with the scope and limitations of the methods for which he is qualified and should exercise assigned responsibility for on-the-job training and guidance of trainees and NDT Level I personnel. The NDT Level II should be able to organize and report the results of NDT tests.

An NDT Level III individual should be capable of developing, qualifying and approving procedures, establishing and approving techniques, interpreting codes, standards, specifications and procedures, as well as designating the particular NDT methods, techniques and procedures to be used. The NDT Level III should be responsible for the NDT operations for which he is qualified and assigned and should be capable of interpreting and evaluating results in terms of existing codes, standards and specifications. The NDT Level III should have sufficient practical background in applicable materials, fabrication and product technology to establish techniques and to assist in establishing acceptance criteria when none are otherwise available. The NDT Level III should have general familiarity with other appropriate NDT methods, as demonstrated by an ASNT Level III Basic examination or other means. The NDT Level III, in the methods in which he is certified, should be capable of training and examining NDT Level I and II personnel for certification in those methods.

Although the ASNT system popularized SNT-TC-1A in America, it is non-existent in the Canadian System, here’s why. If the recommended practice is used correctly, then it is a great system because it allows NDT companies to ensure that their employees are trained to their SPECIFIC and UNIQUE needs.

However , the SNT-TC-1A practice can also, as with most self-governing things, be easily abused. For example, it gives the company the opportunity to “cut corners” in terms of how diligently they find flaws. It can definitely question the integrity of the NDT if the company that is producing the part can also inspect it for deficiencies. It is for this potentially questionable reason, that the CGSBin Canada does not accept this recommended practice.

As the prime NDT contractor for Oil and Gas, Power Generation, Manufacturing and Infrastructure clients across the country, Specialized NDE is always staying abreast of the latest in industry standards and certifications. For more information on the many NDT and NDE services we provide, please browse our extensive website or contact us   directly!

By Erin M 24 Apr, 2018

Virtually every manufacturer must perform some kind of testing or inspection to ensure their products meet their own internal quality standards, governmental requirements or the standards their customers set. A growing number of industries use some form of non destructive testing (NDT) to ensure structural and mechanical components perform their function in a safe, reliable, and cost-effective manner. Given that NDT doesn’t alter the article being inspected, it can save both money and time in product evaluation, troubleshooting, and research.

Advanced NDT inspection technologies become important solutions where manual or conventional testing techniques are impractical or simply impossible. At Specialized NDE, we’re experienced in both conventional NDT, as well as advanced NDT.

Examples of some of the advanced NDT services we offer include:  

ToFD – Time of Flight Diffraction

ToFD was first developed in the late 1970’s for crack sizing but is also an excellent tool for the inspection of welds, in particular heavy welds. It is fully accepted in the ASME code for the inspection of boiler and pressure vessel welds in lieu of X-Ray. It also a great tool for the detection and sizing of cracks such as ERW welds in pipeline long seams.

PAUT – Phased Array Ultrasonic Testing

Specialized NDE are leaders in PAUT testing and have many years of experience when it comes to this method of testing. This Ultrasonic inspection method allows us to acquire data from inspections and archive and analyze for future reference. It is fully ASME code compliant and is used extensively for the inspection of boiler and pressure vessel welds as well as pipeline welds and process piping welds.

AUT – Automated Ultrasonic Inspection

At Specialized NDE we can incorporate a variety of methods to provide you with AUT solutions, whether it's automated inspection of pipeline girth welds or corrosion mapping of a pressure vessel shell, we have what you need for your inspection solution. AUT can incorporate PAUT and ToFD techniques in to the inspection.

With our state-of-the-art NDT inspection technologies, you will save overall maintenance costs, improve production quality and ensure reliable operating processes. We can provide a full range of services in the field of advanced NDT. All our operators are qualified and certified and we have the ability to perform inspections to any international code, standard, or customer specification.

As the prime NDT contractor for Oil and Gas, Power Generation, Manufacturing and Infrastructure clients across the country, Specialized NDE is always staying abreast of the latest in industry standards and certifications. For more information on the many NDT and NDE services we provide, please browse our extensive website or contact us  directly!

By Eric Kivlin 08 Jan, 2018

There’s no denying that safety in the workplace is of utmost importance. Learning and maintaining the safest practices for when you are on the job could save lives. The not-for-profit, self-funded organization, Technical Standards and Safety Authority (TSSA),has been dedicated to promoting and enforcing public safety since 1997.

Accountable to the Government of Ontario, they are responsible for providing safety services in key sectors, including:

-Boilers and pressure vessels, and operating engineers

-Elevating devices, amusement devices and ski lifts

Acting as both a regulator and an advocate of safety standards throughout the province, The TSSA is required to enforce the Technical Standards and Safety Act and regulations, as well as promote and enforce actions to continuously improve safety, and educate users and industry participants about safety practices, new codes, regulations and requirements.

During recent work in Hamilton, Ontario, the team at Specialized NDE received a bulletin from the TSSA, outlining the importance of periodic inspection requirements for pressure vessels at pressures greater than 15 psig, such as deaerators and high temperature (212°F and above) hot water storage tanks, in order to prevent steam generation that could potentially cause failure due to corrosion and fatigue cracking.

“Seams and their heat affected zone and all structural attachment welds of vessels shall also be wet-fluorescent-magnetic particle examined for the presence of cracks, pinholes or other defects. Light surface preparation may be necessary to obtain meaningful results from wet-florescent-magnetic particle examination.As a minimum, internal visual examination (IVF) and WFMPE of not less than 20% of the highly stressed weld areas, including the longitudinal weld seams and adjacent heat affected zone are to be performed at the following intervals:

- No cracks shown 3 years

- Cracks have historically shown 2 years

- Cracks have shown in the year previous 1 year”

-         TSSA Safety Information Bulletin SB00-18 Rev. 3

As it is the organizations job to review everything from new technology to modifications on existing equipment to ensure they comply with all codes and regulations, we are very pleased with their commitment to safety, and pleased to offer our services,  to similar inspections, such as:

DeaeratorsInspections, Pressure Vessel inspections, Visual Inspection, Magnetic Particle Inspection, NDE, NDT, CGSB and much more!

As the prime NDT contractor for Oil & Gas, Power Generation, Manufacturing and Infrastructure clients across the country, Specialized NDE is always staying abreast of the latest in industry standards and certifications. For more information on the many NDT and NDE services we provide, please browse our extensive website   or contact us  directly!

By Eric Kivlin 24 Nov, 2017
Established in 2001, ISNetworld  is the global leader in contractor and supplier management. Maintaining safety, insurance, quality and regulatory information on contractors and suppliers can be a strain on internal resources. ISN streamlines these processes, saving time and improving safety standards. Hiring Clients use ISNetworld to standardize contractor management across multiple sites and geographic regions, clearly communicate requirements and expectations and exchange data with other internal systems. The result is lower incident rates and higher compliance numbers.
By Eric Kivlin 24 Oct, 2017
Non-destructive testing (NDT) plays a crucial role in everyday life. It can be used to find, size and locate surface and subsurface flaws and defects to assure safety and reliability. Typical examples are found in aircraft, pipelines, bridges, trains, power stations, refineries, buildings and oil platforms – all of which are all inspected using NDT.
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