Ultrasonic Testing (UT)

Ultrasonic Testing (UT) is a non-destructive testing method that uses high-frequency sound waves to examine materials and components without causing damage. UT can be used to detect internal discontinuities, evaluate weld integrity, and measure material thickness.

Because ultrasonic testing provides information from within the material, it is particularly valuable when surface examination alone cannot provide sufficient information about the condition of a weld or component.

Common Applications

Rivest Technologies provides conventional manual Ultrasonic Testing for applications including:

  • Weld and welded component inspection

  • Pressure piping and pressure equipment welds

  • Structural and fabrication welds

  • Material thickness measurement

  • Corrosion and material-loss assessment

  • Forgings

  • Castings

How Ultrasonic Testing Works

During an ultrasonic examination, a transducer introduces high-frequency sound waves into the material being inspected. A couplant is used between the transducer and the test surface to allow ultrasonic energy to enter the material effectively.

As the sound travels through the component, it is reflected by material boundaries and discontinuities. These returning signals are received by the transducer and displayed on the ultrasonic instrument.

A qualified technician interprets the location, amplitude, and characteristics of these signals to evaluate indications in accordance with the applicable inspection procedure, code, standard, or client specification.

For conventional weld examination, straight-beam and angle-beam techniques may be used depending on component geometry and examination requirements.

Advantages of Ultrasonic Testing

Ultrasonic Testing offers several advantages for industrial inspection:

  • Detection of internal and surface-connected discontinuities

  • Examination from one side of a component in many applications

  • Accurate determination of indication location and depth

  • Material thickness measurement

  • Immediate inspection results

  • No ionizing radiation

  • Portable equipment suitable for field inspection

  • Minimal interruption to surrounding work

Ultrasonic techniques are particularly effective for detecting planar discontinuities when the sound beam is appropriately oriented to the discontinuity.

Rivest Technologies Ultrasonic Testing Services

Rivest Technologies Inc. provides conventional manual Ultrasonic Testing (UT) for industrial, fabrication, and construction applications. Our ultrasonic examinations are performed by CGSB Level II certified UT technicians using established procedures and the applicable code, standard, or client specification.

Our conventional UT capabilities include:

Weld Inspection — Ultrasonic examination of welded joints for internal discontinuities and evaluation in accordance with applicable acceptance criteria.

Thickness Testing — Measurement of remaining material thickness for evaluating corrosion, erosion, and general material loss.

Forging Inspection — Ultrasonic examination of forged components for internal discontinuities and material integrity.

Casting Inspection — Ultrasonic examination of cast components where material, geometry, and applicable inspection requirements permit effective examination.

Conventional manual UT provides immediate inspection results and allows technicians to evaluate indications directly in the field. Examination techniques, calibration requirements, and acceptance criteria are selected according to the component and applicable inspection requirements.

Rivest Technologies focuses on providing accurate inspection results, clear documentation, and responsive service for both shop and field applications.

Codes, Standards and Inspection Requirements

Ultrasonic examination requirements vary according to the component, industry, governing construction code, and client specification.

Depending on the application, examinations may be performed in accordance with applicable CSA, ASME, ASTM, or other industry codes, standards, procedures, and client specifications.

Inspection techniques, calibration requirements, examination coverage, evaluation criteria, and acceptance criteria are determined by the requirements applicable to the specific inspection.

Qualified Inspection Personnel

Rivest Technologies' conventional ultrasonic examinations are performed by CGSB Level II certified UT technicians.

CGSB certification provides an established framework for the qualification and certification of non-destructive testing personnel, including requirements relating to training, experience, and examination.

Our technicians combine this qualification with practical field experience to provide reliable ultrasonic examinations and clear reporting of inspection results.

Need Ultrasonic Testing Services?

For information about ultrasonic testing, inspection requirements, scheduling, or pricing, contact Rivest Technologies Inc.

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