Ultrasonics in Specialized Industries
Marine Applications
Ultrasonic inspection can be used in practically every phase
of the maritime industry. There are applications for marine vessels
dry docks ship repair and ship building Some of the major areas
of inspection cover water tightness integrity of bulkheads, leak
detection of hatches and vapor recovery systems, condensers,
steam systems, pressurized gas systems (including nitrogen blankets),
valve leak detection/blockage and steam traps. Hatches and bulkheads
may be tested with the patented ultrasonic Warble Tone Generator.
Place the generator on one side (i.e. of the bulkhead) and scan
the other side for sonic penetration which will have a distinctive
chirping sound. Scan the area to the loudest point of emission
which will indicate the leak site.
Aviation Applications
Aircraft have many systems that can be checked ultrasonically.
Some of the more common applications include: testing leaks
in fuel cells, oxygen systems, hot air ducts, cabin pressure,
tire leaks, floatation devices, hydraulic valves and actuators.
It is also used to locate leaks in cockpit windows as well
as to locate problems with bearings, pumps, motors and gears.
Transportation Applications
The most common areas for ultrasonic inspection in the transportation
industry are: wind noise, water leaks, air brakes, and emission
systems (especially as it relates to 1M240). Until the advent
of ultrasound, water leak and wind noise detection involved many
hours of trial and error with a water hose and flashlight. Often
a few trips around the block, listening with a doctor's stethoscope
for a wind noise captured two people for many hours, Air brake
leaks and emission leaks can take hours to locate using conventional
soap and water bubble testing. Not only can service shops benefit
from Ultrasonic Inspection, so can Quality Assurance departments
by providing accurate, fast and simple testing.
