Non destructive visual inspection of internal pipe surfaces for cracks

Remote fluorescent penetrant replica testing of internal surfaces

Cracks inside a tube visualised in a replica sampled by Remote fluorescent penetrant replica testing

Remotely operated technologies are the only feasible methods for inside inspection of pipes or tubes in condensers, heat exchangers or in complex nuclear installations. Ultrasound and eddy current can solve many of the important inspection tasks. However, sometimes there is a need for alternative methods to visualise and supplement the surface inspection. One recently developed and patented method is the Remote fluorescent penetrant replica testing that can make a replica of surface breaking cracks and other indications of the internal surface structure of pipes, tubes or similar components.

Advantages Provides visual documentation of surface breaking cracks Tests can be done on pipes or tubes with internal diameter down to 6 mm The length of cracks or indications can be sized Testing can be done in bending sections The test area can be limited to locations where ultrasound or eddy current inspections have indicated defects.

2559-1-en

Chamber (A)

Chamber (B)

EC Transducer

Probe with eddy current transducer penetrant exposure chamber (A) and replica sampling chamber (B)

Principle The internal section in focus is cleaned and then exposed to fluorescent penetrant fluid by a remotely operated probe. After a suitable exposure time the surplus penetrant liquid is drained off and the area washed and dried. Any cracks or other linear indications in the surface are by now filled with penetrant fluid. A special type of plastic material is then by remotely operation pressed against the internal surface for a few minutes. Penetrant fluid in the surface cracks or other indications migrate onto the plastics, which after removal from the pipe section can be examined under ultra-violet light. Any crack in the surface of the inspected section is clearly visible as a replica pattern on the plastic material.

Application Remote fluorescent penetrant replica testing can be used to detect surface cracks in a variety of materials including steel, aluminium, copper, plastics and ceramics. Remote fluorescent penetrant replica testing singles out cracks from other types of defects such as scratches. Remote fluorescent penetrant replica testing of underwater objects is possible.

Specifications and performance Pipe diameters (ID) Crack detection, depth from approx. Crack detection, width from approx. 6 mm 67 mm 5 m (micrometer) 0.25 m (micrometer)

Instrumentation The instrumentation includes three main units: The remotely operated probe. The probe is a two-chamber device. Chamber A is used for penetrant fluid release, draining and washing. Chamber B holds the inflatable impression pad of plastic material for replica sampling. The probe may also be equipped with an eddy current transducer for identification of the target zone. Instrumentation for control of the multi step remote operation of the probe. These steps include inflation of seals of chamber A, injection of penetrant fluid, draining, washing and drying. In the following steps chamber B is pulled to the target section for impression of the plastic pad. After release of pressure the probe is finally retrieved. Photo unit with camera and ultra-violet light for examination of replica samples.

Options The probe can be designed to fit structures with complicated geometries.

Inspection service As a company offering advanced NDE inspection services based on ultrasonic and eddy current techniques worldwide, FORCE Technology also provides inspection service with the Remote fluorescent penetrant replica testing equipment.

Further information: Hans Ole Olsen, tel. (direct) +45 43 26 73 57, hoo@force.dk Jens Erik Olsen, tel. (direct) +45 43 26 73 69, jeo@force.dk
FORCE Technology Netherlands B.V. Tel. +31 71 523 5212 FORCE Technology Russia Tel. +7(812) 326 80 92 FORCE Technology USA Inc. Tel. +1 713 975 8300 FORCE Technology Canada Inc. Tel. +1 403 286 0606 FORCE Technology Brazil Ltda. Tel. +55 21 2610 7400 FORCE Technology Norway AS Claude Monets all 5 1338 Sandvika, Norway Tel. +47 64 00 35 00 Fax +47 64 00 35 01 info@forcetechnology.no www.forcetechnology.no

Subject to changes without notice

FORCE Technology Sweden AB Tallmtargatan 7 721 34 Vsters, Sweden Tel. +46 (0)21 490 3000 Fax +46 (0)21 490 3001 info@forcetechnology.se www.forcetechnology.se FORCE Technology Headquarters Park All 345 2605 Brndby, Denmark Tel. +45 43 26 70 00 Fax +45 43 26 70 11 force@force.dk www.force.dk