Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) evaluates the properties of materials, components, or systems without causing damage. NDT Inspection Plugs (Seals / Ports) ensure the safety, reliability, and longevity of equipment and structures while allowing continuous monitoring.
1. Access Point for Inspection: The plug provides an access point for technicians to perform various NDT procedures. Depending on the type of test being conducted, this might involve inserting probes, sensors, or other equipment through the plug.
2. Seal and Insulate: Once inspections are done, the plug can be closed to maintain the integrity of the system or structure it’s installed on. This often means it needs to have properties such as resistance to high temperatures, certain chemicals, or pressure to ensure the system remains safe and functional.
3. Repeated Use: A key feature of NDT inspection plugs is that they can be opened and closed multiple times.
This allows for regular inspections over the lifespan of a structure or piece of equipment without the need to create new access points each time.
4. Minimize Heat Loss: In thermal systems or those with insulation, an NDT inspection plug can be designed to minimize heat loss.
After the inspection is done, the plug is replaced, ensuring that the insulation’s efficiency isn’t compromised.
5. Safety: The plug should be designed to ensure the safety of the technicians. This might involve features that prevent accidental opening or ensuring that, when opened, there aren’t risks associated with sudden releases of pressure or exposure to harmful substances.
In-Line Inspection (ILI) verification is a process used in pipelines to ensure their safety and integrity. By detecting issues early, companies can prevent leaks or ruptures, which can cause environmental damage and be very costly to repair.
Like sending a robotic doctor through a pipeline to check for health issues and collect data, which engineers then analyze and verify to ensure the pipeline is in good condition.
What is In-Line Inspection?
Over time pipelines develop issues like cracks, corrosion (rust) or dents. To check for these problems without digging up the pipeline, companies use a special tools called “smart pigs” that travels through the pipeline.
Smart Pigs?
The smart pig is an inspection device equipped with sensors that can detect various issues inside the pipeline as it travels through including:
Magnetic Flux Leakage (MFL): Detects metal loss due to corrosion or cracks.
Ultrasonic Testing (UT): Measures the thickness of the pipeline walls.
Caliper: Detects dents or deformations in the pipeline.
Verification Process
Engineers then analyze this data to verify the condition of the pipeline.
Data Analysis:
Engineers look at the data collected by the smart pig.
They identify areas with potential issues.
Field Verification:
Engineers physically inspect the pipeline at locations where the smart pig found potential problems.
They might dig up sections of the pipeline to confirm and repair any issues.
Repair and Maintenance:
If issues are found, they are fixed to prevent any future problems.
The pipeline is then monitored regularly to ensure it remains in good condition.
Nondestructive testing (NDT), also known as nondestructive evaluation (NDE) and nondestructive inspection (NDI) blends quality assurance and materials science.
NDT is used to inspect and evaluate materials, components, or assemblies without destroying their serviceability.
Through a set of test methods, skilled technicians identify cracks, voids, inclusions, and weld discontinuities, as well as identify misassembled subcomponents.
NDT Inspection & Testing is a multifaceted field that requires a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skills.
NDT Certification Levels NDT certification is a testament to a professional’s competence in performing specific tasks within the field. The certification process is categorized into three main levels:
Level I: This entry-level certification is designed for individuals beginning their journey in NDT.
Level I NDT professionals are trained to perform specific calibrations and evaluations under direct supervision.
They are introduced to basic concepts and methodologies, laying the foundation for further growth.
Level II: At this intermediate level, professionals are expected to have a deeper understanding of NDT methods.
They are trained to set up and calibrate equipment, interpret and evaluate results, and prepare written instructions.
Level II certification opens doors to more opportunities within the industry.
Level III: This advanced level emphasizes the development of new techniques, interpretation of codes, and supervisory responsibilities.
Level III professionals are considered experts in their field, often taking on leadership roles and contributing to the advancement of NDT practices.
