Phased Array Ultrasonic Testing (PAUT) is increasingly being adopted for corrosion mapping large surface areas of in-service assets like storage tanks found in the mining industry. The technique offers significant time savings and better Probability of Detection (PoD) to help calculate remaining useful life. This article provides a great explanation of the efficiency of PAUT for corrosion mapping.
The Eddyfi Technologies automated phased array inspection solution is the industry’s answer for complete corrosion coverage of critical assets including storage tanks. This powerful scanner can inspect more than 10 times faster compared to conventional ultrasonic testing. Moreover, it delivers high-resolution imaging with standard 1x1 millimeter (0.04x0.04 inch) resolution for high detection and characterization of any defects present.
Given that storage tanks in the mining sector typically contain harsh chemicals leading to extreme and erratic damage mechanisms, the entire tank shell is susceptible and must be regularly inspected. Working closely with NDE Solutions in Australia, the robotic system has become a powerful tool for the inspection of chemical storage tanks on mining sites. The following video shows data collected during assessment of a rubber-lined, 16mm(0.6in) wall thickness, carbon steel tank containing a chemical thickening agent. This includes sulfuric acid, arsenic, jarosite, and water. The 40-meter (130-foot) tank featured two strakes. Examination identified a very localized but severe area of corrosion that had passed through the protective internal lining. The corrosion location was verified after the removal of the internal rubber lining.
Eddyfi Technologies offers a range of complementary NDT solutions for all inspection requirements, including but not limited to, preventative maintenance solutions and versatile robotic inspection crawlers for safely accessing hazardous environments and confined spaces with leak-proof results
Check out this article on NDT data that’s as good as gold for mining inspection applications discussing mining asset health and enabling proactive risk-based management. Be sure to stop by our eStore to access instant pricing.
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