NDT SERVICES  

SPECIALIZED TESTING

LOW FREQUENCY ELECTROMAGNETIC TECHNIQUE
Low frequency electromagnetic testing (LFET) measures the changes in electro-magnetic fields while the scanner passes over the metal. Defects and corrosion maps are calculated and video displayed in real-time, high resolution, 3-D color graphics that can be saved for further data analysis or permanent record archiving The system is light weight and modular. Very low frequency magnetic signals are not affected by iron oxide or any non-magnetic surface deposits which allows for accurate testing on base metals in tubing, on flat surfaces and water walls.

LFET sends an electromagnetic signal into test material. The signal is measured for changes by trained Premier technicians and compared with established calibrations to determine wall thickness loss. The test detects and quantifies I.D. and O.D. defects in ferrous and non-ferrous materials. LFET is adaptable to many applications allowing inspection of different diameters of tubing, bend inspections and testing off scaffolding, mechanical lifts or in space-constricted areas Tank floors, shells and decks.

POSITIVE MATERIAL IDENTIFICATION
Positive material identification (PMI) is often required during the construction, installation maintenance and inspection of new and existing industrial equipment including piping systems covered by ASME B31.3 and API 570 codes. Premier NDT Services knowledgeable PMI technicians can quickly identify and verify ferrous and nonferrous alloys with portable XRF equipment. PMI testing equipment sends a low voltage radioactive signal into the tested material. The exposed material returns a group of specific element signals. Each element signal has its own atomic structure which generates a specific energy level. The energy levels are detected and carefully measured to identify the alloys contained in the material. Radiation levels are very low and testing does not damage the material. Results are available immediately after the inspection is completed.

HOLIDAY COATING TESTING
Holiday Coating testing detects pinholes and flaws in protective coating that have been applied to conductive materials to protect against corrosion. It is important that flaws are detected early, preferably immediately after the coating is applied. The Holiday Coating test is suitable for most coatings including bonded epoxy, coal tar epoxy, paints, polyester, polyurethane, pipeline tapes, heat shrinks and asphalt. Low voltage tests are conducted on thin coating films. Coatings over .05 mm generally require use of the Higher Voltage Spark Tests. The coatings test is performed by moving a probe across the coated surface until flaws or pin holes are located by voltage “sparks” escaping through the coating and registering on the Holiday Coating testing devise. Discontinuities are marked by Premier NDT technicians for repair.

VACUUM BOX TESTING
Vacuum Box Testing is used to examine small and specific areas for defects, flaws, leaks or other imperfections. A vacuum box test can be used anywhere a pressure differential can be created across the examination area. Premier NDT technicians commonly use Vacuum Box Tests in piping systems, pressure vessels, and storage tanks. The test is performed by coating the examination area with soapy water before placing the Vacuum Box. A vacuum pump creates a vacuum in the box; soap bubbles reveal leaks or weld defects locations.

TANK STRAPPING
Premier Services NDT certified technicians provide tank measurement, commonly known as “Tank Strapping” to provide required dimensions in order to calculate tank capacity. All tank strapping work is performed using American Petroleum Institute (API) standards (API-653). Tank Calibration work is done in house, including calculations and chart production.