Alternative Process/Technology for Radiographic Testing (RT) of Pipe Welds

Project Number (JTEG Assigned) NS-09-0004
Project Title Alternative Process/Technology for Radiographic Testing (RT) of Pipe Welds
Service NAVSEA
Command NAVSEA / Naval Shipyards
Implementation Depot PSNSY&IMF
Project Lead Kurt Doehnert, SEA 04XP, kurt.doehnert@navy.mil
TI Goals Supported C-1, S-2, P-3
Focus Area Inspection/Test
Platform General Ship
Platform Specific All
Implemented Technology Phased Array Ultrasonic
Problem Definition RT is comparatively very high cost due to control, logistics, and operating requirements of radiographic sources
Proposed Solution Latest developments in Ultrasonic Testing (UT) technology, such as phased array (PA), have increased its resolution and added capability to record inspection results.
Expected Result Allow use new enhanced ultrasonic testing (UT) methods instead of RT where feasible.
Benefits UT Advantages:

  •  Inspection with a single operator quickly.
  •  Does not have health risks of RT – other work is not shut down.
  •  UT can be more sensitive.

– Some defects not seen by RT, especially laminar flaws and lack ofpenetration between weld layers
Unfunded Requirement  
Start FY FY09
Completion Date  
WIP Yes
Implemented Yes
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