The role of non-destructive examination in improving the quality for pipeline and pressure vessels—case studies

• Published in: International journal of pressure vessels and piping 1997-08, Vol.73 (1), p.33-37
• Main Authors: Palaniappan, M., Subbaratnam, R., Baskaran, A., Chandramohan, R.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Applied sciences; Exact sciences and technology; Industrial metrology. Testing; Mechanical engineering. Machine design; Non-destructive testing: methods and equipments; Pipe; Pipelines; Pressure vessels; Ultrasonic applications; Welds
• ISSN: 0308-0161; 1879-3541
• DOI: 10.1016/S0308-0161(97)00031-8

Non-destructive examination (NDE) method with its technological developments and ingenuity of applications offers enormous scope in assuring and improving the quality and reliability of the components/systems meant for pipe-line and pressure vessels. This paper discusses the judicious selection of conventional NDE methods in proper combination depending on the component's geometry in achieving the high quality demands. A few typical case studies such as (i) measurment of gap between concentric pipes, (ii) ultrasonic examination of thin-walled nozzle groove weld with focused probe and (iii) development of volumetric NDE procedures for typical weld geometries in pressure vessels are explained. These case studies go to prove that NDE methods can find multifarious applications apart from being useful as an effective tool for assessing the internal soundness of materials.