Thursday, June 10, 2010

Effectiveness of Ultrasonic testing and rope access

Industrial units have to deploy a variety of techniques to inspect and counter corrosion and other flaws that might crop up in components of strategic importance. This is done with the purpose of maintenance and for averting accidents. Ultrasonic testing and rope access are two such methods that enhance the efficiency of inspection mechanism.

Ultrasonic testing

This technique utilizes ultrasonic pulses with short frequencies to chart out the internal flaws and characteristics of the material. The pulses can determine the thickness of the object and such a pattern can be used to figure out the corrosion in inside surfaces of the pipelines. The ultrasonic testing is characterized by its high sensitivity and high penetrating power which can expose minor flaws as well as those that are seated deep inside. It is one of the most accurate of all nondestructive methods of testing and can determine the dimensions of flaw very closely. The best part is that this method is completely non-polluting and does not affect personnel or environment in any way.

There are, however, few off-sides. The surface has to be regular and even otherwise it becomes quite difficult to administer the test. It requires heavy technical preparation and paint, scale, etc. on the surface needs to be removed.

Rope Access

There are places, requiring inspection, that are not accessible from bottom but from the top, for instance the top of a chimney or the building. In such cases, rope access comes in handy. The allow workers to reach such places using scaffolding, cradles and work platforms. The rope access finds great application in oil platforms, telecommunication towers, etc.






1 comment:

  1. Very interesting article, thanks for posting.

    Ultrasonic Testing and Rope Access go hand in hand and are very complementary.

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