NON-DESTRUCTIVE EXAMINATION

Our American Society of Non-Destructive Testing (ASNT) certified staff provide quality testing and inspections for many industries throughout the United States and abroad. We follow the guidelines set forth in ASME BPVC Section V and relevant API standards.

VISUAL TESTING (VT)

Visual testing/examination is the most commonly used test method in the industry. This test method requires the operator to look at the surface of the part being inspected using direct, remote, or translucent examination methods. VT/VE is a key human element in the inspection work flow to identify defects, flaws, and anomalies that may require additional testing or analysis. Supplemental tools include mirrors, gauges, borescopes, cameras, drones, measuring tools and other technologies to improve the ability to observe, characterize, and analyze defects and anomalies.

MAGNETIC PARTICLE TESTING

Magnetic Particle Testing uses magnetic fields to locate surface and near-surface discontinuities. Using an electromagnet, the field is present when the current is being applied.  When magnetic particles are applied to the surface they will fall into the discontinuity and show a visible indication.  PEI uses both a dry powder or a liquid solution, and they and the results are examined under an ultraviolet/black light.

Magnetic Particle Testing is an integral part of the PEI’s Post-Repair inspection process.

ULTRASONIC THICKNESS TESTING

Ultrasonic Thickness (UT)  is an important part of PEI’s integrity testing.  It is used to measure the thickness of various surfaces such as shell, floor plates, roof, sump, etc. These measurements are then compared over time to calculate the corrosion rate and determine the life of the asset. UT is also a critical test for performing flaw sizing.

During ultrasonic testing, an ultrasound transducer connected to a machine is passed over the object being measured. The transducer is separated from the test object by a couplant.

LEAK TEST: VACUUM BOX

A leak test vacuum box (VBT) is a tool used to check the integrity of welds and other fabricated joints in structures such as storage tanks, pipelines, and pressure vessels. Its primary purpose is to identify and locate any leaks or defects in the welds, seams, or connections. By creating a vacuum or low-pressure environment around the area to be tested, the vacuum box allows technicians to detect the presence of even the smallest leaks by observing bubble formation or other indications of gas or liquid escaping from the joints. This process helps ensure the safety and functionality of the structure, prevents the product loss, and reduces the risk of environmental contamination.

MFL TANK BOTTOM EXAMINATION

Magnetic Flux Leakage (MFL) is a qualitative NDT method of detecting anomalies below tank bottoms and inside pipes. Changes in normal magnetic flux patterns are monitored and flagged during scans which can indicate discontinuities in the metal. UT or other quantitative methods is usually partnered with MFL to prove-up or size any identified flaws.

LEAK TEST: HELIUM

Helium Leak Testing (LT)  is an effective liquid tight test on tank bottoms. This leak test method uses an inert compressed gas like helium (or a mix gas hydrogen), one of the smallest molecular structures as a tracer gas to penetrate through the smalleset leak paths.  A helium gas detector “sniffer” is used to locate leaks along the test subject.

LIQUID 
PENETRANT 
TESTING

Liquid penetrant testing (PT) involves applying a penetrating liquid to a surface to get into fissures and voids open to the surface. The surface is then cleaned to remove excess penetrant. The penetrant trapped in those voids will flow back out. Contrast paint is used to vividly show any identified flaws or indications.

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