NDT - Phased Array Ultrasonic testing (PAUT)

LMATS ’s  PAUT experts have been involved in various research and development programs and have been pioneers in some of the techniques in Australia. The research and development program focused on PAUT as an emerging technique for the advanced inspection of critical discontinuities in the power industry. LMATS ’s personnel have conducted literature reviews and published local conference papers of PAUT on compliance to Standards and the use of qualification blocks to increase the probability of detection. Research investigations have been conducted on the effects of PAUT signal responses to temperature, surface conditions and complaints beyond those prescribed in Standards. Specially designed calibration blocks were also fabricated for PAUT testing on different materials such as aluminium, stainless steel, low carbon steel and Inconel. Undertaking the research and development program has produced sound fundamentals for understanding the theory and practical aspects behind PAUT.

PAUT fits into the NDT inspection repertoire and is complimentary just like any other technique. The technique has many potential applications, but can be inhibited by limitations such as geometry, time and access. In general, a scan plan is required as an initial step to ensure suitable beam coverage is achieved. LMATS ’s team of PAUT operators are capable of developing PAUT scan plans and can offer technical justification summaries to account for test parameters. Furthermore, they have vast experience in developing PAUT procedures and work instructions for the traceability and repeatability of inspections

 Our Site Experience

LMATS ’s personnel have experience performing PAUT inspections locally and overseas. They have vast experience in many industries ranging from power generation, mining, transport and petrochemical. LMATS ’s personnel are certified by AINDT, BINDT, TWI CSWIP Phased Array Level 2 and are competent at performing PAUT in these environments through regular safety training and inductions. 

LMATS provide regular PAUT / TOFD services from our branches in Victoria, NSW, Queensland and Western Australia. From one of these branches, PAUT / TOFD services are also offered in Tasmania, South Australia, Northern Territory and overseas in Malaysia, Indonesia, Philippines and PNG.

LMATS offer 3D Corrosion Mapping Reports

Depending on client needs, LMATS has capabilities to deliver the following expertise:

• Perform encoded scans on complex geometries
• Individually tailor the development of qualification blocks, configuring rigs for data collection and levels of post-analysis reporting
• 100% weld volume coverage at scanning intervals of 1mm,  of high pressure and high-temperature piping welds at power station sites using encoded scanning  on circumferential and seam welds between 20mm to 75mm wall thickness
• Inspection of small-bore tubes - internal diameter of 50mm down to 6mm.
• Inspection of complex geometry branch welds with variable weld profile using encoded scanning for accurate sizing of internal defects
• Turbine and generator components inspections with special  focus on areas of high-stress concentration  such as fur tree serrations of turbine blade roots and geometry changes along exciter cooling fans
• Detection of corrosion wastage in wind tower foundation bolts with reliable monitoring of corrosion wastage along the length of bolts up to 5 times its diameter.
• Corrosion inspection of storage tanks
• In-situ inspection of transverse cracks along shafts and axles for the public transport sector.
• Provide accurate analysis and reporting on the presence of any cracks to enable the client to make an informed decision for repair or continued operation
• Countrywide inspection of pipeline welding, high-pressure vessels, bifurcation lines and valve bodies and provision of detailed analysis reports.
• Inspection of  various flat and shaped Aerospace CFRP (Composite Fibre Re-enforced Polymers) for delaminations and other discontinuities