Conventional NDT Services

Ultrasonic Flaw Detection (UFD)

Ultrasonic Flaw Detection (UFD) is a non-destructive testing method that utilizes high-frequency sound waves to detect internal flaws in materials such as metals and composites.

By emitting sound waves through a test material and analyzing the reflected signals, UFD identifies cracks, voids, and other discontinuities. It is highly valued for its accuracy, ability to detect deep or subsurface flaws, and its suitability for inspecting a wide range of materials and components, from welds to pipelines.

Ultrasonic Thickness Gauging (UTG)

Ultrasonic Thickness Gauging (UTG) is a non-destructive testing (NDT) method that utilizes high-frequency sound waves to measure the thickness of materials, such as metals or composites, typically to detect corrosion or erosion in structures like pipelines and pressure vessels.

This technique is highly effective in assessing the integrity of components without causing any damage. By sending ultrasonic pulses through the material and measuring the time it takes for them to return, technicians can precisely gauge the thickness and condition of the surface, ensuring safety and reliability in various industries, including petrochemical, aerospace, and manufacturing.

High Temperature Thickness Gauging

High-temperature thickness gauging uses specialized ultrasonic transducers designed to withstand extreme heat, allowing for accurate measurements on hot materials. These probes are typically capable of handling temperatures without compromising measurement integrity, making them essential in industries like power plants, refineries, and chemical processing. The probes, such as those from Dakota NDT, are designed to remain temperature-stable, ensuring reliable readings even as the probe heats up. This technology is particularly useful for monitoring corrosion or material degradation in high-heat environments.

Magnetic Particle Inspection (MPI)

Magnetic Particle Inspection (MPI) is a non-destructive testing (NDT) method used to detect surface and near-surface defects in ferromagnetic materials.

By applying a magnetic field to the material and then applying iron oxide particles, defects such as cracks or inclusions can be revealed through the pattern of the particles that accumulate around areas of flux leakage.

MPI is highly effective for detecting surface-breaking discontinuities in materials like steel, and is commonly employed in the aerospace, automotive, oil & gas and manufacturing industries.

Liquid Penetrant Testing (LPT)

Liquid Penetrant Testing (LPT) is a widely used non-destructive testing method that detects surface-breaking flaws such as cracks, porosity, and seams in materials.

This technique involves applying a liquid penetrant to the surface of a material, which seeps into any surface defects. After a period of dwell time, the excess penetrant is removed, and a developer is applied to make the defects visible under ultraviolet light or visible light.

LPT is particularly useful for materials like metals, ceramics, and plastics, offering a cost-effective and efficient way to ensure structural integrity.

Onsite Metallographic Testing (IMG – REPLICA)

Onsite Metallographic Testing, also known as metallurgical replication (IMG – Replica), is a valuable tool for analyzing the microstructure of materials directly in the field without the need for disassembling equipment.

This method involves preparing a metal surface by grinding, polishing, and etching, followed by applying a special acetate tape to capture the surface’s microstructure. The replica is then analyzed using an optical microscope.

This technique is commonly used to assess material degradation, detect high-temperature damage, identify creep damage, and verify the quality of welded components.

Onsite Hardness Testing (HT) – UCI and Rebound Method

Onsite Hardness Testing (HT) using the Ultrasonic Contact Impedance (UCI) and Rebound methods offers a portable and efficient solution for assessing material hardness in industrial components.

UCI testing measures the hardness by analyzing the frequency shift of ultrasonic waves in contact with the surface, providing an accurate reading of hardness without creating large indentations.

This method is particularly useful for fine-grain, homogenous materials and requires careful probe selection and surface preparation. The Rebound method, on the other hand, measures hardness by recording the rebound velocity of a spring-loaded hammer striking the material, offering quick and non-destructive results for surface hardness assessments. Both techniques are widely used in power generation, refineries, and other high-stress environments.

Positive Material Identification (PMI)

Positive Material Identification (PMI) is a non-destructive testing technique that verifies the chemical composition of materials, ensuring that they meet the required specifications for specific applications.

This process is crucial in industries such as manufacturing, petrochemicals, and construction, where material integrity is paramount for safety and performance. PMI utilizes various methods, including X-ray fluorescence (XRF) and optical emission spectrometry (OES), to accurately identify alloys and materials in real time.

It helps prevent material mix-ups, ensures compliance with standards, and supports quality control.

Onsite Hardness Testing (HT) – UCI and Rebound Method

Coating Thickness Measurement

Coating thickness measurement is essential in non-destructive testing (NDT) to assess the integrity and quality of protective coatings applied to materials.

This process can be achieved using several techniques, including magnetic, ultrasonic, and eddy current methods, depending on the substrate and coating type. For ferrous materials, magnetic methods are commonly used, while eddy current and ultrasonic techniques are preferred for non-ferrous substrates.

These NDT methods ensure the coating’s effectiveness in protecting against corrosion, wear, and other environmental factors.

Visual Testing (VT)

Visual Testing (VT) involves the direct observation of a component’s surface to identify flaws such as cracks, deformations, or corrosion. VT can be performed using the naked eye or with tools like magnifying lenses, borescopes, or cameras.

This method is highly versatile, cost-effective, and typically the first step in the inspection process for various materials, including welds, castings, and structural components.