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		INSPECTION TECHNIQUES

Inspection Techniques

There are almost as many inspection techniques as there are defect types and for every technique there are countless beliefs (and many misconceptions) regarding their capability and validity.

But the fact of the matter is that every technique (and every product variant) has limitations.

Some of the most comprehensively prescribed, longest established and frequently used techniques have the most profound limitations.

There is no panacea, no rod of gold, no magic wand.

These limitations do not just relate to technical effectiveness. They also affect practicability and cost.

For instance, the established use of internal visual assessment for pressure vessel condition assessment and re-certification is all well and good. But visual examination alone cannot determine through wall condition of the pressure containment fabric of the vessel and the technique can only be applied when access is available, i.e. during shut down.
The value and cost of performing this type of inspection is therefore questionable.

However, most techniques are effective if used appropriately for what they are intended and many are continuously improving through technology advancement and increased awareness of their suitability.

As an entirely independent provider of inspection services with 35 years continuous trading experience and a team of people who have a great deal of experience with most inspection methods and their benefits and limitations.

We have no axe to grind in terms of which technique and which particular product to use. We are able to deliver most and we can afford to be highly objective in our choice of product.

The factors which influence technique suitability and those which we consider before applying any of the techniques we are able to deliver include -

- Technique Limitations
- Probability of Detection
- Coverage
- Resolution
- Reproducibility

We have produced a number of Selector Charts to help in the process of understanding the overall pros and cons of most of the available techniques. These charts are not intended to be definitive or fully comprehensive. They are made available to serve as a guide and an aid to assessing general suitability.

For further information on which technique may best suit your needs, contact Colin Mortimer