Ultrasonic Survey
Taking soundings
Corrosion inevitably lessens the strength of all metal hulls, particularly steel. By employing 250 - 350 point thickness measurements in different areas of the hull, an ultrasonic survey will give readings of the plate thickness of a steel (or aluminium) vessel making an estimate of the hull's structural integrity possible.
The vessel will need to be ashore or held in slings for the survey to be conducted effectively. The advanced testing equipment used applies the triple echo method, comparing three echoes at each point improves the accuracy of the gauge since the the readings are cross-checked as they are taken, eliminating distortions from aberrant readings caused by surface corrosion, especially on the, often inaccessible, inner face. The readings are scrupulously interpreted, which may result in further detailed testing across multiple points in any area where the primary readings indicate concern.
As well as reporting the overall condition of the hull, the survey may recommend necessary areas for repair as well as measures to improve the condition of areas not yet in need of essential restoration as a precaution against future weakening.
The survey will consider the diminution (erosion of thickness) and recommend repairs where plating has lost significant strength.
Equipment
RB Marine Surveys use the latest non-destructive testing equipment, including;
Sovereign moisture meters which are specifically designed for marine use and includes a self-calibration facility. Both near surface and in depth readings can be compared and the moisture content displayed as a numerical readout from 1 – 100, or as % H2O WME (Wood Moisture Equivalent).
Cygnus ultrasonic thickness gauges manufactured in the UK by the world leading innovators in measurement technologies. Founded in 1983 and based in Dorchester, Cygnus pioneered the digital multiple echo technique that has long since become the marine industry's standard for accurate measurement of material thickness.
Cygnus have successfully developed multiple echo digital thickness gauges which measure metal thickness even through protective coatings in a reliable and repeatable way. The complete range is engineered to withstand the harshest environments while delivering accurate readings that help determine the condition of the subject hull.
www.cygnus-instruments.com
Flir thermal imaging cameras, form an image using infrared radiation, similar to a common camera that forms an image using visible light, these images allow us to create a visual representation of the integrity of various materials and spot any potential problems before they occur.
