Ultrasonic Examination

Using ultrasonic sound waves to identify structural flaws in metallic cylinders

Our Ultrasonic Examination (UE) test equipment makes it easy for operators to detect even the smallest defects in metallic cylinders without removing the valve or product! Our system is not only faster to operate, but much better for the environment than other test methods. UE is far superior to hydrostatic testing because it significantly reduces cost, cylinder downtime and water consumption.

Our UE machines offer four key advantages:

  1. They are extremely easy to operate

  2. They use ultrasonic sound waves to identify even the most minute structural flaws

  3. They far outperform other test methods with their accuracy, efficiency and versatility

  4. They test a wide array of cylinder sizes – from 3.2” to 10.5” (8.1cm to 26.7cm) in diameter and from 8” to 66” (20.3cm to 1.68m) in height

How it works

During UE testing, a transducer produces an ultrasonic beam that hits the inner wall of a cylinder and then reflects back to a receiver up to a thousand times a second. The returned echo produces an image of a defect, if one is present.

As ultrasonic scanning continues through a cylinder from top to bottom, a two-dimensional picture (much like an X-ray) is produced of the wall of the cylinder. At the same time, the scan reveals the amplitude (voltage) versus time of the actual waveforms – like an oscilloscope display. This allows operators to analyze whether there are structural integrity issues or not.

Hexagon Digital Wave provides installation and training services on the use of our UE test equipment. We can also provide required Level 3 oversight and audits for customers who operate our machines.

Why UE?

  • Globally recognized requalification method
  • Tests wide range of cylinders with unrivaled performance
  • Produces defect images across entire cylinder sidewall
  • Very affordable pricing, low maintenance and low operating cost
  • Intelligent design, reduced footprint and little water needed to operate
  • No impact on integrity of cylinder

Our in-depth user interface reveals a wealth of information about cylinder viability and safety. It shows the:

  • Cylinder type
  • Vessel thickness
  • Test progress
  • Flaws found
  • Axial and radial positions
  • Pass/fail grade

Special Permit 14149

This special permit from the Department of Transportation (DOT) authorizes the use of 100% ultrasonic examination in lieu of internal visual and hydrostatic testing for the commercial transportation of compressed gases using 3AL cylinders and cylinders manufactured under DOT-SP 12440.

Special Permit 14206

This special permit authorizes the use of 100% ultrasonic examination in lieu of internal visual and hydrostatic testing for the commercial transportation of compressed gases using certain DOT Specification 3A, 3AA, 3AX, 3AAX, 3BN, 3T, 107A and UN/ISO 11120 cylinders as well as cylinders manufactured under DOT-SP 9001, DOT-SP 9370, DOT-SP 9421, DOT-SP 9706, DOT-SP 9791, DOT-SP 9909, DOT-SP 10047, DOT-SP 10869 and DOT-SP 11692.

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