NDE Inspection of Pipeline Welds
An example of a semi-automated Phased Array Ultrasonic Testing (PA-UT) would be the inspection of stainless steel pipe long seam welds.
AIT developed a semi-automated scanner to inspect long seam welds from both sides simultaneously. The inspection utilized two sixteen element probes to effectively cover 100% of the weld and Heat Affected Zone (HAZ). This inspection met the requirements of Code Cases 2235 and 181 ways to make it happen.
Using conventional methods as a screening tool to identify areas with possible blisters and then following up with phased array to validate and size the affected areas, is the ideal approach and the best use of time and technology.
An example of PA-UT would be the inspection of piping spool welds at a fabricator whose delivery time was improved by using PA-UT in lieu of RT. The welds were inspected during the day without affecting production. A calibration scan is depicted below and the 3% deep ID notch is clearly visible.
