Ultrasonic probe produces radar maps of corrosion

Citation

(2004), "Ultrasonic probe produces radar maps of corrosion", Anti-Corrosion Methods and Materials, Vol. 51 No. 1. https://doi.org/10.1108/acmm.2004.12851aab.003

Ultrasonic probe produces radar maps of corrosion

Ultrasonic probe produces radar maps of corrosion

Keywords: Corrosion, Ultrasonic, Inspection

A rotating ultrasonic probe which provides a “radar map” of its surrounds promises to be a major step forward in the field of corrosion surveys.

The Robulk probe, a new product from Phoenix Inspection Systems, was designed for testing storage tanks, but is ideal for any inspection which involves large areas of metal plate.

Normally, surveys of metal plate consist of a series of spot checks. A probe is placed on the surface at regular intervals to test the condition of the metal at those locations and the technician then uses the results to build-up an overall picture. By contrast, the Robulk with its rotating probe allows the ultrasound beam to “sweep” the surrounding plate so each individual inspection provides a “radar map” of an area up to 2 m diameter.

The result is faster, more thorough corrosion surveys.

The idea for the Robulk came out of an EU research project in which Phoenix is working with South Bank University and organisations in Spain and Portugal to find a reliable method to detect corrosion and leakage in industrial storage tanks. In this development work, the probe is being deployed by a submersible robot.

As the Robulk can detect the edges of the plate and other objects, it is also performing an important secondary role as a navigational aid.

John Turner, Development Manager at Phoenix, says: “The Robulk transducer provides very real benefits to those who have the task of scanning large areas of metal plate. Since it produces a “radar map” of the plate, it could dramatically reduce the need for point to point scanning and might also remove the need for ladders, track or crawlers as the technician will simply be able to place it at a few strategic points and let it quickly scan around”.

The Robulk can scan an area of up to 1 m radius and is designed for use on plate from 3 to 25 mm thick.