Non-destructive testing (NDT) represents a critical step in the process of protecting critical parts to prolong the life of industrial equipment.
Consider this roadmap of success to ultimately extend the life of your equipment:
- Identify a potential problem with an industrial part.
- Utilize a Non-destructive testing method to gather information about the problem.
- Use the information to determine the best protective coating or finishing treatment for the part.
- Perform the coating or treatment on the part.
- Place the part back into service to ensure the equipment continues to operate properly and in its intended design.
The question is which NDT methods work best to prolong the life of your equipment.
The Advantages of 3 Non-Destructive Testing Methods
We will identify three NDT methods that are proven to support the process of prolonging equipment life.
1. Electromagnetic Testing (ET)
NASA relies on electromagnetic testing to evaluate the condition of materials used in the U.S. space program. Therefore, you know this is a reliable method to prolong equipment life.
ET uses electrical currents to identify the presence of defects, including cracks, deformities, and other irregularities. The measurements are very precise, creating reliable conclusions about where the problem exists.
Once the evaluation is complete, the part can be treated in the specific location where the problem exists, reducing the cost of treatment. The treated part can then be placed back into the equipment to ensure proper usage.
2. Magnetic Particle Testing (MPT)
Magnetic particle testing is the ideal NDT method to treat parts that consist of nonferrous metals such as iron, cobalt, nickel, and related alloys.
MPT will not work on other types of parts because it requires the presence of a magnetic field to perform the analysis. When the test is performed, a magnetic current is sent through the part. Defects such as cracks or deformities will interrupt the current, causing a magnetic reaction.
The result of the reaction is flux leakage, which indicates the precise location where the defect exists. Once the source of the leakage is identified, the part can be treated and then placed back into the equipment.
3. Visual Testing (VT)
A third type of NDT method that is useful to support equipment is a visual test or visual inspection. This requires a highly-trained and skilled inspector to perform a visual examination of the part to identify the presence of defects.
An inspector will utilize tools, measurement devices, and technology to aid in the visual inspection to ensure a thorough examination of the part. Using the information gathered about the problem areas, the proper treatment can be applied to the part. Then, the part is placed back into the equipment to extend usefulness.
Consider Superior Shot Peening & Coatings to Prolong Equipment Life
Our company offers in-house or on-site Non-destructive Testing on critical parts used for industrial purposes. We utilize a variety of NDT methods that are specific to your parts to make determinations about the integrity of the parts.
We can then apply one of our finishing treatments or protective coatings to the part to address deformities, cracks, and other irregularities. We boast an industry-leading turnaround time to ensure that your equipment remains operable with limited downtime.
Contact our company to inquire about utilizing our NDT service to support the process of prolonging the life of your equipment.
