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Ultrasonic testing is a Non-Destructive Testing method involving transmission of sound waves of short wavelengths at high frequencies in order to identify flaws and/or measure the thickness of materials, as well as to detect corrosion. The technique is also commonly used to determine the thickness of the test object, for example, to monitor pipework corrosion.
What is Conventional Ultrasonic Testing?
Conventional Ultrasonic Testing equipment works by sending a pulsed beam of high-ultrasound from a handheld transducer which is placed upon the surface of the object being tested. This wave will be disturbed and then partially returned from spots with internal imperfections or from the back of the material wall. Capturing and analyzing the return sound provides useful information which is displayed on the ultrasonic equipment, presenting the amplitude of the pulse and the duration taken for return to the transducer. By measuring this sound, a skilled operator can identify the location and orientation of an imperfection, as well as the thickness of the material’s wall.
Especially for pipelines the recommended or required way of inspection – a balance between radiographic and ultrasonic testing - has been changing during the last couple of years towards stronger use of ultrasonic testing.
Ultrasonic Inspection is a very useful NDT method. Some of the advantages of Ultrasonic Inspection often cited include that:
- It is sensitive to both surface and subsurface discontinuities
- Only single-sided access is needed when the pulse-echo technique is used
- It has greater accuracy than other non-destructive methods in determining the depth of internal flaws and the thickness of parts with parallel surfaces
- Minimal part preparation is required
- Electronic equipment provides instantaneous results
- Detailed images can be produced with automated systems
- It has other uses such as thickness measurement and ultrasonic flaw detection
SGS provides relevant NDT/NDE training courses where experienced instructors share knowledge that complies with guidelines and local and international NDT/NDE standards such as ASNT and EN 473.
Get a quotation on NDT Ultrasonic Testing via our Online Inquiry Form.
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