Non-Destructive Testing
Dye Penetrant Inspection
As a non-destructive test, dye penetrant inspection is used for finding discontinuities that are open to the surface of the component being inspected. The test involves the application of a liquid dye penetrant. The wetting action of the dye will cause it to fill any cracks present. Then the part is cleaned, and a developer applied to draw the colour out of the crack, which makes the crack visible.
In-Situ Field Metallography
Often used in assessments of industrial, high-temperature equipment such as steam lines, in-situ field metallography can also be used in other applications. It creates a replica which allows the examination of the equipment’s microstructure without the need to cut it.
This non-destructive, metallographic replication is performed in-situ. It involves grinding and polishing the sample’s surface to a mirror finish, chemical etching to expose the microstructure, and applying a plastic foil to make an impression of the microstructure. This carbon copy impression can then be microscopically analyzed.
The microstructure of the tested material can assist with the remaining life assessment of high-pressure and high-temperature components.
Magnetic Particle Inspection
Magnetic particle inspection locates surface and sub-surface cracks in ferromagnetic material. A magnetic field is applied to the tested component and a break in the magnetic field is created at the points of discontinuity. When fine ferromagnetic particles are applied in conjunction with the magnetic field, they are drawn into the discontinuity, making it visible to the naked eye.
Testlabs International offers both wet and dry magnetic particle inspection, as well as fluorescent and visible-light magnetic particle inspection.
On-site Digital Microscope
The on-site digital microscope can be easily set up at any job site. The magnified, high-definition examination of surface imperfections (magnifications: approx.. 25X to 50X) offers an excellent depth of field and clarity. This tool can view and evaluate any surface defect, including:
Ultrasonic Thickness Measurement
This test is a non-destructive method of determining the thickness of a component when it is not possible to measure by conventional means, such as a micrometer or ruler. The test involves introducing a high-frequency sound wave to the area of interest. When the beam reaches the other side of the sample, it returns, and a sensor determines the sample thickness.