Automated Ultrasonic Testing Services

AUT is widely recognized as the most accurate method of detecting and sizing weld flaws in high-production environments. 

Ultrasonic inspection of pipeline girth welds AUT system offers fast scanning speed, reduced weld-to-weld inspection times, operational flexibility, low operating costs, and extremely high reliability. Zonal pulse echo, coupled with ToFD and sectorial scanning delivers the ability to efficiently and reliably detect the presence of both fabrication and service-induced defects while providing the data necessary for accurate assessment of their size.

Automated Ultrasonic (AUT) inspection services are advanced, accurate, and effective techniques to monitor discontinuities over successive inspection intervals, calculate growth rates of discontinuities, and plan repair or replacement activities.

AUT works by using a scanner which is held on to the equipment with magnetic wheels, emitting ultrasonic waves that propagate through the vessel. These waves then travel through the material until they encounter a surface; this causes some of the energy to be reflected. Once acquired, the amount of reflected energy can then be measured and, from this, the thickness of the component and the size of any flaws can be detected. Compared to other inspection techniques, AUT has a high degree of repeatability and multiple scans can be taken over time to track the progress of corrosion. On the other hand, it has similar limitations as well. The preparations that are required to use this method are extensive and the process requires a great deal of interaction between the operating personnel and AUT inspectors, especially in high temperature examination environments, which can make it more difficult in some situations.