Automated phased-array inspection system: Achieving efficiency through advanced technology
We have made use of our own phased-array technology to put together the most versatile automated system for pressure vessel weld inspection available. The PV-200 AUT (automated ultrasonic testing) system uses a variety of
inspection techniques to achieve greater inspection thoroughness than is required by the basic ASME code. The phased-array technology allows the scanner to adapt to different weld inspection without changing the probe position.
This dramatically reduces setup time and eliminates many of the mechanical components needed with conventional ultrasound probes. Fewer mechanical parts means fewer mechanical failures.
- Fast setup without manual probe adjustment
- Easy adjustment of the ultrasound beam angle
- Smaller scanner with fewer probes
- Complete weld coverage in a single pass
The PV-200 inspection system comes complete with an acquisition unit, a scanner, and software tailored to suit your needs. The acquisition unit controls all the multielement-probe channels. The software is equipped with a
dedicated calculator to guide the operator in changing beam angle, depth, and focus without moving the probe. You can see the exact depth of any defect because the software not only shows you the defect from the top of the
weld, just like radiography, but also shows it from the side and from the end.
The PV-200 system can be used with a hand scanner for convenience and economy. It can also be used with magnetic-wheel scanners, robots, or other options, as well as in a rotating-vessel type inspection.
PV-200 allows you to:
- Inspect immediately after welding to help you control the quality process.
- Determine the presence of suspected vertical defects using the tandem-probe technique.
- Maximize the probability of detection with controlled focusing.
- Create an automatic setup procedure for any weld profile.
- Cut down on result analysis and reporting time.
Special application:
- Inspection of austenitic and dissimilar welds
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