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Phased Array Ultrasonic Testing

Present day structural assessment, flaw analysis, fitness-for-service assessment and engineering critical assessments require flaw data in a more accurate and precise way with regard to their location, shape and size. Phased array ultrasonic technology with its associated flaw evaluation software can provide flaw data accurately and precisely for the fracture mechanics based acceptance standard.

This technique is used to detect flaws that cannot be easily found with conventional non-destructive testing methods such as radiography and manual ultrasonic testing. Intertek specialises in the use of phased array in the oil and gas, power generation and chemical industries, especially for the construction of new piping, pipelines, vessels and structural welded members. We also use the technique in petrochemical plants, when quick and accurate inspections are necessary due to time constraints during outages.

A phased array probe is made up of multiple small ultrasonic transducers, each of which can be pulsed individually. By varying the timing of the pulse of each individual transducer, the ultrasonic beam can be ‘steered’ to a specific angle and focal distance – i.e. the beam can be swept through the examined object.

Global NDT highly qualified phased array inspectors undergo regular training to stay on top of the latest advances in phased array technology and techniques.