Ultrasonic testing is a non-destructive testing method whereby high frequency acoustic
wave energy is collected and analyzed. The energy is either initiated by the testing
apparatus or the test item. In both cases, reliability professionals have significant
opportunities to apply ultrasonic technology to improve their
PdM
programs and integrate ultrasonic testing with other
PdM
technologies.
Source initiated energy testing
is ideal for monitoring leak detection, non-driven high-speed mechanical systems
and many electrical systems. Ultrasonic testing offers benefits over other
PdM
technologies in that no direct contact is required and competent testing professionals
can scan large areas quickly from safe locations. The limitations of this testing
include sometimes having less comprehensive data than vibration analysis and the
potential data uncertainty resulting from non-contact data collection. For electrical
systems, ultrasonic testing is often an ideal technology to use in conjunction with
IR
thermography because together, most potential failure modes are considered.
Ultrasonic testing
applied to the right assets, in the right circumstances, by competent technicians
and analysts is a powerful
PdM
tool.
ITR
reliability professionals help organizations use their reliability process to align
assets to
PdM
technology, including the use of ultrasonic testing for source initiated energy,
to ensure the best use of resources.
Some benefits of partnering with
ITR
to implement ultrasonic testing:
-
ITR
analysts are former maintenance managers or maintenance professionals
- Average analyst experience analyzing with
ITR: 10+ years
- Ultrasonic testing integrated with vibration, oil,
IR
thermography, motor testing and special studies by
ITR
engineers
- Data and information integrated online via
ITR
information management tools
- Jointly managed programs:
ITR
manages 100%, you manage 100% using
ITR
technology or we jointly manage the process
Ultrasonic Service Specification and Deliverables:
- Full
PdM
program review/design by asset and
PdM
discipline
- Asset routes created and maintained for all surveys
- Proprietary analysis and reporting technologies
- Analysis by experienced maintenance professionals and/or electricians
- Identifiable problems explained by cause, ranked by severity, and inclusive of recommended
actions; some identifiable problems include:
|
Leak detection
|
Bearing problems
|
|
Loose electrical connections
|
Damaged or corroded electrical connections
|
|
Coupling integrity
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Lubrication
|
|
Belt problems
|
Special studies
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- High risk / major issues reported immediately onsite for corrective action
- Full reports completed and issued within 5 business days
- Services customized to customer internal processes as requested
Please contact us
for more information, to discuss implementing or improving your ultrasonic testing
efforts, or to arrange an onsite demonstration.
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