ABC Testing

Uses Top-Rated Non-Destructive Testing Methods - ABC Testing Inc.

2010-01-10T22:04:00.000-08:00

ABC Testing Inc. is one of premier company that utilizes non destructive and destructive testing techniques for conducting quality assurance checks. The non-destructive techniques that they make use of during the various inspection processes are ultrasonic, radiographic, magnetic particle, liquid penetrant, eddy current, visual, leak testing, mechanical, welder/welding procedure qualification, Positive Material Identification, Hydrostatic, Ground Penetrating Radar, and Digital Imaging. One or more of non-destructive techniques are used to conduct the inspection procedures. The selection of the testing methods is made by inspectors who are the authorized to conduct the tests.

The inspectors are highly qualified and hold years of experience and expertise in conducting the quality checks utilizing the non-destructive testing methods. They have complete knowledge about quality compliance regulations and standards of various industries and make use of only the approved procedures to specific industry standard. ABC Testing Inc. offers non destructive testing techniques that are widely used in forensic engineering, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, civil engineering, systems engineering, medicine, and art for product evaluation, troubleshooting, and research.

The mission statement of the company is to help the manufactures increase the quality standards of their goods but cutting down on their cost. They offer inspection services to various industries which include automotive, aviation, construction, power plants, manufacturing, railways, military, and naval industry. They utilize state-of-the testing equipments and tools in order to generate absolute accurate results. The company only uses safe and secures non destructive testing techniques that do not hamper the quality of the goods in anyway. They follow great brilliance parameters when it comes to conducting inspection utilizing non destructive testing techniques.

Vacuum Box Testing

2009-11-09T02:24:00.000-08:00

Vacuum Box Testing is a test method that is used to detect leaks. It is a practical way of testing in comparison to the quantitative measures used to examine objects. Vacuum Box Testing can be used to test objects on which a pressure differential can be created across the area to be examined. The common application areas of Vacuum Box Testing include piping systems, pressure vessels, and storage tanks.

There are various types of boxes or frames used in Vacuum Box Testing depending upon the application area. Vacuum box inspection of lap welds, butt welds and fillet welds. These vacuum boxes are used to examine a small and specific portion of the welded area to produce accurate results. The vacuum boxes used in vacuum box testing are fabricated of thick, clear Perspex with a closed cell foam seal along the bottom edge.

Before proceeding with the vacuum box testing, a vacuum gauge and hose coupling are fitted in the box. Then a soapy solution is put on the line of welding in the testing object. After that the vacuum box is placed over the testing object and a vacuity is created inside the box. Now, the object is observed, if there any drop in the vacuum or bubble formation on the surface then it shows that there is leak in the weld and the object is defected or faulty.

Vacuum Box Testing is a very popular non-destructive testing method that is widely used to test various objects against defects, flaws, leaks, or other imperfections. It is very efficient and effective way of testing various welded objects for any kind of leaks or defects. There are basically two main types of Vacuum Box systems used for performing vacuum testing (a) High Pressure Models that are mainly used for inspection of above ground storage tanks that have been in service. (b) Low Pressure Models used for weld integrity checks on new tank builds where gross defects are the main concern.

Abcndt.com use Vacuum box testing in non-destructive and destructive testing methods to increase customer satisfaction and lower manufacturing costs. They cater to industries, such as automotive, aviation, construction, power plants, manufacturing, railways, military, and naval industry. ABC Testing Inc. have Certified Welding Inspectors (CWI) doing welding inspections for steel, aluminum, specialized metals like Inconel, Monel and NiAlBrz, and many other alloys. The company uses approved procedures to specific industry standard. Browse through www.abcndt.com for more information.

Non-destructive testing is a proven technique used to discover equipment flaws

2009-10-14T05:41:00.000-07:00

ABC Testing Inc is a leader in providing new non-destructive testing (NDT) techniques in the area of structural testing. Our processes are proven to discover flaws or weaknesses your equipment may have. Many of our non-destructive testing services are completed in state-of-the-art NDT laboratories. Below are some of the NDT services we offer.

Ultrasonic Testing

Using an ultrasonic flaw detector, our non-destructive testing technicians can provide instantaneous results to reveal the structural design intentions were met.
This technique is used in NDT laboratories to ascertain whether there are any incomplete fusion points, cracks inclusions within a particular structure. Email us to learn more about ultrasonic testing.

Ground Penetrating Radar

Ground penetrating radar is used to collect high resolution subsurface data. This highly effective, non-destructive examination (NDE) technique helps to eliminate mistakes that can occur while drilling.
With this procedure, our certified NDE technicians are able to get fast, accurate data about the quality of subsurface concrete structures that would otherwise be difficult to reach..

Liquid Penetrant

With non-magnetic materials (aluminum, stainless steel, titanium, etc.) liquid penetrates are used to detect surface flaws that would be difficult to discover during a visual inspection.
Our non-destructive testing experts can apply various types of dye to a surface. This dye is then removed and replaced by a white developer that will act as a blotter, drawing out any remnants of the penitent that is left in voids in the structure. The penetrant stains the developer revealing the presence and location of surface breaking structural flaws.

Nondestructive Testing

2009-10-05T04:12:00.000-07:00

Nondestructive testing (NDT) includes an extensive range of analysis techniques that are used to assess the physical attributes of a component or a system. Some of the most popular Nondestructive testing (NDT) methods include ultrasonic, radiographic, magnetic particle, liquid penetrant, eddy current, visual, leak testing, mechanical, welder/welding procedure qualification, Positive Material Identification, Hydrostatic, Ground Penetrating Radar, and Digital Imaging.

With the success rate of Nondestructive testing (NDT) methods, they have become an integral part of the forensic engineering, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, civil engineering, systems engineering, medicine, and art. The three main things that play major role during Nondestructive testing are (1) Electromagnetic Radiation, (2) Sound, and (3) Inherent Properties of Materials to be tested.

The application areas where Nondestructive testing (NDT) is used include automotive, aviation, construction, power plants, manufacturing, railways, military, and naval industry. NDT has been proved extremely beneficial for product evaluation, troubleshooting, and research as it does not affect the object that being tested in any way. Some of the applied examples of Nondestructive testing are given below:

Weld Verification

The NTD or Nondestructive testing techniques used in welds testing include as industrial radiography using X-rays or gamma rays, ultrasonic testing, liquid penetrant testing or via eddy current and flux leakage. All these tests help to identify cracks in the surface area which are not visible to the naked eye. Welding technique is basically for joining metals, usually the metal joints or connection is prone to extra wear and tear during the product life therefore it is very important to ensure that welding is properly done and all the testing procedures are carefully conducted.

Radiography in Medicine

Radiography has been widely used to image parts or functions of the body. Some elements of human body act in response to radiographic inputs like x-rays or magnetic resonance which help the medical professionals to study the functionality of the human body. It is used to detect bone fractures and diseases and also examine the interior of mechanical systems. Radiography is majorly used in many types of medical treatments and due to its accurate and efficient results has become an integral part of the medical science.

Abcndt.com use reliable non-destructive and destructive testing methods to increase customer satisfaction and lower manufacturing costs. They cater to industries, such as automotive, aviation, construction, power plants, manufacturing, railways, military, and naval industry. ABC Testing Inc. have Certified Welding Inspectors (CWI) doing welding inspections for steel, aluminum, specialized metals like Inconel, Monel and NiAlBrz, and many other alloys. Browse through www.abcndt.com for more information.

Ground Penetrating Radar

2009-07-22T05:15:00.000-07:00

Ground-penetrating radar (GPR) is a very popular non-destructive testing method that is used in industries dealing in geophysics. Although, there are many non destructive and destructive testing methods in this branch geology which includes study of physics of the earth and its atmosphere, including oceanography, seismology, volcanology, and geomagnetism but, Ground-penetrating radar (GPR) is one of the most steadfast non-destructive testing method. In this highly reliable non-destructive testing method radar pulses are used to test the subsurface of rocks soil, ice, fresh water, pavements and structures.

Ground-penetrating radar, a non-destructive testing method in which electromagnetic radiation in the microwave band (UHF/VHF frequencies) of the radio spectrum are used test the subsurface structures. The signals reflected back from the tested subsurface structures help to detect metamorphism, voids, cracks, fractures, splits and fissures in the surface. In this non-destructive testing method, transmitting and receiving antennas are used to record the signals. The transmitting antenna transmits high-frequency radio waves in the form of short pulses which penetrate into the ground or tested subsurface structure. On the other hand, the receiving antenna record the signals reflected from the tested subsurface. The variation in the signals helps in generating results of the non-destructive testing procedure.

Working of non-destructive testing method – Ground penetrating radar

The penetration depth of radio waves is inversely proportional to the electrical conductivity of the subsurface structure. If the electric conductivity of the subsurface increases the penetration depth will automatically decrease. The depth range of Ground-penetrating radar is dependent on three things electrical conductivity of the subsurface, frequency of the transmitted centre, and the radiation power. The penetration depth of ice is very high up to several hundred meters. Dry sandy soils or massive dry materials such as granite, limestone, and concrete have average penetration depth in the range of 15 m. In moist and/or clay-laden soils the penetration depth in very low up to few centimetres only.

Applications areas of non-destructive testing method –Ground penetrating radar

There number of application areas where GPR, non-destructive testing method is widely used, such as:

• Earth sciences like geography, geology, or meteorology to study bedrock, soils, groundwater, and ice.
• Engineering applications like civil engineering for non-destructive testing of structures and pavements.
• Environmental remediation for identify landfills, contaminant plumes and other related sites.
• Archaeology for mapping archaeological features, such as graves, buildings, tools, pottery or other remaining material evidence.
• Military for the detection of mines, unexploded ordnance, and tunnels.

Contact www.abcndt.com, for ground penetrating radar of concrete structures. They use minimum equipment yet deliver instant, radiation free results.

Ultrasonic Testing

2009-06-23T04:03:00.000-07:00

Ultrasonic Testing is a Nondestructive Testing (NDT) method but it is used in various application areas, such as aerospace, automotive and transportation sectors. It is used for the inspection of metals, components, assemblies and composite structures. The process of Ultrasonic Testing involves introducing ultrasonic pulse-waves into the testing object to identify internal defects or to distinguish materials.

The frequency range of the ultrasonic pulse-waves is somewhere between 0.1-15 MHz. Ultrasonic Testing helps to determine the thickness of the object and check things like pipework corrosion. When Ultrasonic testing is done on steel and other metals and alloys high frequency waves are penetrated into the object. In case of concrete, wood and composites less resolution frequency waves are launched into the object.

Ultrasonic Testing – Working Explained

An Ultrasonic Testing system is used for the inspection procedure. The system comprises of certain functional units like pulser/receiver, transducer, and display devices.

• Pulser/Receiver: It produce high voltage electrical pulses
• Transducer: It produce high frequency ultrasonic energy
• Display Devices: Reflects signal strength

The high voltage electrical pulses produced by pulser/receiver are driven to the transducer which in turn generates high frequency ultrasonic energy. This energy wave propagates through the test object in the form of waves. If there is some obstacle in the wave path like a crack then some part of the energy is reflected back. The reflected energy shows that there is a flaw in the surface of the test object. The transducer transforms the reflected wave signal into electrical signal and displays it on the screen of the display device. Imperfections or other conditions in the space between the transmitter and receiver reduces the time of transmission of the signal and reveal the presence of defects.

Advantages Ultrasonic Testing

• Ultrasonic testing makes detection of the deep rooted flaws easy due high frequency waves that penetrate into the testing object.
• Ultrasonic testing also allows to spot flaws that are extremely small and otherwise not visible due to the high sensitivity of ultrasonic pulse-waves.
• Ultrasonic testing requires access to only one surface to detect the flaws and transmit the results.
• Ultrasonic testing produces extremely accurate results in comparison to the other nondestructive methods.
• Ultrasonic testing helps to determine the in-depth internal flaws with easy and also identify thickness of parts with parallel surfaces.
• Ultrasonic testing helps to estimate the size, orientation, shape and nature of defects as well.
• Ultrasonic testing is a highly automated operation and is not affected by the surrounding equipment and materials in the area.

Industrial Radiography

2009-05-19T06:13:00.000-07:00

Radiography is a procedure that helps to see objects that cannot be seen with naked eye. The use of electromagnetic radiation helps to view these objects without any hindrance. The concept of Radiography came into existence in 1895 when X-rays were discovered. Radiography soon became widely applicable in various areas for testing and inspection. Today, Industrial Radiography has become an integral part of nondestructive testing (NDT). The electromagnetic radiations penetrate deep into the object and help to inspect it from inside. The technology allows identifying the hidden flaws, and rectifying them at early stage.

Use of Industrial Radiography for Inspection of materials

Industrial Radiography is being widely used for testing and grading of welds of equipments to ensure their quality. It is used to carry out welding inspection in various areas and check the welds on pressurized piping, pressure vessels, high-capacity storage containers, pipelines, and other structural welds. While conducting a welding Inspection with radiography, it is advisable to inspect the component for any external defects. It is very difficult to inspect an irregular welded surface and identify internal defects.

Industrial Radiography can be used to inspect any flat or solid material, such as walls and floorings. It allows testing concrete and locating rebar or conduit and also inspecting pipe walls against anomalies that are caused because of corrosion and mechanical damages. Industrial Radiography is one of the most essential methodologies to maintain high quality standards and carry out welding inspection efficiently and effectively.

Industrial Radiography Equipment

Radiography (X-ray) or high energy X-ray machines are used in Industrial Radiography. These machines generate a radiograph of the object and show internal and external defects. The radiography is generated in variations of black, white and gray. These state-of-the-art machines also help to check the thickness variations and assembly details of inspected object. They are widely used in welding inspections and carry out the welding operations successfully.

Industrial Radiography Safety Precautions

Industrial Radiography is a critical task and involves use of high energy radiations and gamma rays; therefore, it is very important to take safety precautions for the people using this technology. Some of the safety tools used in Industrial Radiography inspections are radiation survey meter an alarming dosimeter, a gas-charged dosimeter, and a film badge or thermo-luminescent dosimeter (TLD). Use of these safety devices help to protect the radiographer against the injuries that can be caused due to overexposure to radioactive rays.

Need of Non-Destructive Testing

2009-04-24T06:31:00.000-07:00

Non-Destructive testing methods is to increase customer satisfaction and lower manufacturing costs. Non-destructive tests use to detect variations in structure, minute changes in surface finish, the presence of cracks or other physical discontinuities, to measure the thickness of materials and coatings and to determine other characteristics of industrial products.

Non-destructive tests are performed:-
(1) Ensure product integrity, and reliability
(2) Prevent accidents and save human life
(3) Ensure customer satisfaction and maintain the manufacturer's reputation
(4) Control manufacturing processes
(5) Lower manufacturing costs
(6) Maintain uniform quality level

Visual examination

2009-04-12T22:38:00.000-07:00

Visual examination is performed to check weld size and appearance. This test is perform to detect surface cracks, fusion between weld bead, gas hole, excessive undercut and more. It is used in conjunction with all other NDT methods. For visual examination required several CWI’s staff.

Visual Testing is a cost effective method used for quality control. A minimum of equipment is needed.

Many Non Destructive Testing (NDT) techniques used for the inspection of welding is surface crack detection. We shall briefly examine the two most common methods of surface crack detection, Liquid Penetrant Testing (PT), sometimes referred to as Magnetic Particle Testing (MT).

non destructive testing application

2009-04-07T05:00:00.000-07:00

NDT(non destructive testing) is used in a variety of settings that covers a wide range of industrial activity.

Automotive

Powerplants

Construction

Structures
Bridges

Maintenance

Bridges

Manufacturing

Machine parts
Castings and Forgings

Industrial plants such as Nuclear, Petrochemical, Power, Refineries, Fabrication shops, Mine processing and Risk Based Inspection programmes.

Pressure vessels
Storage tanks
Welds
Boilers
Heat exchangers
Turbine bores
In-plant Piping
Pipelines

Pipeline integrity
Leak Detection

Railways

Rail Inspection
Wheel Inspection

Ultrasonic Testing

2009-03-31T05:36:00.000-07:00

Advantages

High penetrating power, so that detection of flaws deep in the part.
High sensitivity, permitting the detection of extremely small flaws.
Greater accuracy than other nondestructive methods in determining the depth of internal flaws and the thickness of parts with parallel surfaces.
Some capability of estimating the size, orientation, shape and nature of defects.
Nonhazardous to operations and has no effect on equipment and materials in the vicinity.
Capable of portable or highly automated operation.

Adavantages of GPR

2009-03-23T23:46:00.000-07:00

Advantages of GPR(Ground Penetrating Radar) :-

GPR is Cost effective technique.
GPR is Hi resolution, vertically and laterally.
GPR is used in Numerous areas of application.

working principal of GPR(Ground-Penetrating Radar)

2009-03-23T23:22:00.000-07:00

Working Principal:-

GPR(Ground-Penetrating Radar) is a impulse radar system that has been designed to penetrate earth materials.The GPR unit provides a continuous real-time profile of subsurface features in soil and geologic deposits. In GPR radar transmits high frequency when we transient electromagentic wave then waves are refleted and diffracted by changes in conductivity and praprties.
By the time travel by waves is used for analyzied tand material type information.

Ground penetrating radar (GPR)

2009-03-23T22:32:00.000-07:00

Ground penetrating radar (GPR) is a non-destructive testing (NDT) method of collecting high resolution sub-surface data. There is no harmful radiation that will affect your personnel or the environment.

Ground Penetrating Radar Applications

pipes and utilities
tank and drum location
concrete and rebar imaging and inspection
landfill and burial trenches
unmarked cemetery and grave location
archaeological sudies

non destructive testing (NDT)

2009-03-23T04:46:00.000-07:00

Non destructive testing (NDT) perform to determine the reliability and operational readiness of materials you are using whether you are in the automotive, aviation,construction,power plants, railways,military or haval industry.

Non destructive testing (NDT) testing include:-

Ultrasonic Testing:-This testing method include frequency waves detect thickness, cracks, cavities, gas holes, slag inclusions, incomplete fusion, incomplete penetration and lack of bond in a materials.

Radiographic Testing:- This testing include x-ray materials for hidden flaws to insure part reliability.

and many more like:- Magnetic Particle testing
Liquid Penetrant testing
Leak Testing
Positive Material Identification
Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR)

X-Ray Aprons a New Way to Protect Against Radiation

2009-01-05T03:58:00.000-08:00

X-ray aprons are an important part of any doctor’s wardrobe. Doctor’s that perform surgeries are constantly surrounded by large amounts of radiation. Surgeons rely heavily on the images that x-rays allow them to see. However, taking these x-rays can be extremely harmful to the physician’s health. The patients do not have to be nearly as cautious as the physicians because they are not surrounded by radiation as frequently as the surgeons.

One of the best ways for physicians to protect themselves from this radiation is to wear an x-ray apron. These aprons used to be traditionally only made out of lead, however newer alloys are being manufactured that are equally as protective. There are significant downsides to wearing x-ray aprons made of lead.

Lead while it is a great element for protecting against radiation it is extremely heavy. This can really pose a problem for physicians because in some cases they must wear these aprons for long spans of time. Lead has a very high density which why it is able to protect against x-rays so well. Unfortunately its dense nature also makes it very difficult to wear due to its weight. Physicians who have been wearing lead aprons for many years are now developing back problems from having the excessive weight on their bodies for extended periods of time.

Doctors have begun to demand a better solution to radiation protection. While they know that x-ray aprons are a necessity to their work they have asked for a more ergonomically feasible solution to this problem. New technologies have come to light to help these physicians in during these long procedures. New x-ray aprons have begun development from several manufactures that are significantly lighter than their lead counterparts.

These new aprons contain other protective agents to shield from harmful radiation. These new alloys are significantly lighter than the traditional lead x-ray apron. While they are lighter they do protect from radiation at the same rate and in some cases can actually protect better than the old lead aprons. Old aprons that are made of lead should be replaced by these ergonomically suitable substitutes. Doctors are taking on unnecessary risks if they continue to use their old lead x-ray aprons. Upgrading to a new x-ray apron is highly recommended to most surgeons that are wearing the apron for a long period of time. However, there are also concerns for disposal of the old lead aprons since they cannot be simply disposed of in the trash.

Physicians should always dispose of old lead x-ray aprons properly by sending them to a recycling plant. It is vital that doctors take this precaution when getting rid of their old apron because of the contamination factor of lead. This is just another benefit of the newer x-ray aprons. Since they are not made from harmful materials themselves, such as lead, they do not need special disposal procedures. These new elements are not harmful to the environment and will not contaminate areas liked lead will. Physicians should make the switch to a new x-ray apron that is not made from lead if they haven’t already, for both their sake and the environments.

About the Author: Stephen Is CEO of Medical Equipment Today a website updating physicians of the latest medical equipment or more information on x-ray aprons

Source: www.isnare.com

Permanent Link: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=274597&ca=Medical+Business

Points To Remember For Home Improvement

2009-01-02T02:41:00.000-08:00

After many years of living in the same house, there may be a time when the house will need a facelift. Some parts of the house may need some renovation, while other parts may need some remodeling. All this work is collectively called home improvement of the house.

A home improvement project has to be thought of clearly to be successful without any confusion. Consider what part of the work you think you can do by yourself, without the help of the constructor, like perhaps the painting of the newly added room. You can also lower home improvement costs by considering less expensive alternatives when additions are being designed. For example, choose between a prefabricated fireplace unit and a traditional masonry. Plan all the work that you can do, before giving the contract to the constructor as additional changes made after the contract only leads to additional charges. It is always better to schedule your home improvement schedule to be completed in an off time period of the year. Like it is cheaper installing central air conditioning in winter and not in summer!

If you intend to take on the home improvement project on your own, you have to make sure you have the essential tools for the respective jobs. It is also necessary to be experienced in using the tools, lest you end up with injuries if the equipment is not used correctly. You may find a few home improvement tips on the Internet; but these tips are only feasible for minor repairs. However, it is very important that you have the skills to do the home improvement job. You should undertake any intricate work or a job that needs a high degree of craftsmanship only if you possess the necessary competence. However, it is always better to hire a professional as they will supervise the job from start to finish, and do it at a much better time than you would have taken to do it on your own!

The first thing that has to be done to get a good contractor is, to look around for a good contractor! Good contractors have a fine reputation, and do not mind entering into a contract. It is always better to have an idea of what home improvement you want to be done, before looking for a contractor. Then get recommendations for contractors through friends, neighbors and co-workers. It is always better to approach not one, but 3 to 4 contractors to get estimates of the job to be done. On meeting them, get written estimates for the same work from all of them, to make comparisons. If you want, you can also get references from them, to be contacted. You can then approach the references to find out how the contractors work is.

Once you are satisfied with the contractor, you have to get a written and complete contract. Include the contractors name, address, the total cost of the job, the start and completion date and a description of the project, including the materials to be used, the changes in the order and a written statement giving you the right to cancel the contract within three business days. Add a broom clause in the contract that makes the contractor responsible for all cleanup work of the job, including spills and stains. If you feel that there is something wrong with the contract, it is better to contact an attorney before signing.

Once the contractor is chosen, you have to choose your finance options. If you have cash, then it is fine. Otherwise, you will have to get a home improvement loan that are available in many banks. Consider the interest rates and the benefits of various banks before actually settling down to a choice for your home improvement project. Once the loan is sanctioned, it is always better to avoid paying cash to the contractor. Instead, pay by check and try to limit the down payment. Then make payments during the length of the project contingent on the completion of a definite amount of work. Always keep the final payment and the signing of the affidavit till you are satisfied with the work done, and that you are sure that all the subcontractors and suppliers have been paid.

Instead of getting the contractor to buy all the material, you can supply the materials. In this way, you can shop for materials that are on sale. You are likeable to find building supply stores having various items like tile or wood flooring on sale at one time or the other, due to overstocks or any other factor. If you have the time you could also consider doing the light demolition, painting, garbage removal and landscaping work of the home improvement project. By doing so, you save the money you would have had to pay for labor. Keep all these home improvement tips in mind as it is greatly going to help you in your next major home improvement project!

About the Author

Gregg Forscher founder of Discount Web

Content Provider offers website content

at low membership cost for keywords of

your choice such as

articles for your home improvement site.

http://discountwebcontentprovider.com

Article Source: Content for Reprint

Is Doing An X Ray Safe

2008-12-28T21:49:00.000-08:00

X-rays use invisible electromagnetic energy beams to produce images of internal tissues, bones, and organs on film or digital media. Standard x-rays are performed for many reasons, including diagnosing tumors or bone injuries.

X-rays are made by using external radiation to produce images of the body, its organs, and other internal structures for diagnostic purposes. X-rays pass through body structures onto specially-treated plates (similar to camera film) or digital media and a "negative" type picture is made (the more solid a structure is, the whiter it appears on the film).

When the body undergoes x-rays, different parts of the body allow varying amounts of the x-ray beams to pass through. The soft tissues in the body (such as blood, skin, fat, and muscle) allow most of the x-ray to pass through and appear dark gray on the film or digital media. A bone or a tumor, which is more dense than the soft tissues, allows few of the x-rays to pass through and appears white on the x-ray. At a break in a bone, the x-ray beam passes through the broken area and appears as a dark line in the white bone.

X-ray technology is used in other types of diagnostic procedures, such as arteriograms, computed tomography (CT) scans, and fluoroscopy.

When medical X-rays are being produced, a thin metallic sheet is placed between the emitter and the target, effectively filtering out the lower energy (soft) X-rays. This is often placed close to the window of the X-ray tube. The resultant X-ray is said to be hard. Soft X-rays overlap the range of extreme ultraviolet. The frequency of hard X-rays is higher than that of soft X-rays, and the wavelength is shorter.

Hard X-rays overlap the range of "long"-wavelength (lower energy) gamma rays, however the distinction between the two terms depends on the source of the radiation, not its wavelength; X-ray photons are generated by energetic electron processes, gamma rays by transitions within atomic nuclei.

Since antigen's discovery that X-rays can identify bony structures, X-rays have been developed for their use in medical imaging. Radiology is a specialized field of medicine. Radiographers employ radiography and other techniques for diagnostic imaging. Indeed, this is probably the most common use of X-ray technology.

X-rays are especially useful in the detection of pathology of the skeletal system, but are also useful for detecting some disease processes in soft tissue. Some notable examples are the very common chest X-ray, which can be used to identify lung diseases such as pneumonia, lung cancer or pulmonary edema, and the abdominal X-ray, which can detect ileus (blockage of the intestine), free air (from visceral perforations) and free fluid (in ascites).

In some cases, the use of X-rays is debatable, such as gallstones (which are rarely radiopaque) or kidney stones (which are often visible, but not always). Also, traditional plain X-rays pose very little use in the imaging of soft tissues such as the brain or muscle. Imaging alternatives for soft tissues are computed axial tomography (CAT or CT scanning), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or ultrasound. Since 2005, X-rays are listed as a carcinogen by the U.S. government.

Diagnostic x-rays are safe. But who hasnt wondered about them when undergoing a chest x-ray, mammogram, routine dental x-rays, or an x-ray for a broken bone?

The safety of routine X-rays has been called into question following the unexpected discovery that cells exposed to low doses avoid or delay repairing damaged DNA.

Puzzlingly, cells given higher doses of X-rays were faster and more efficient at patching up any damage. But the German researchers who made the discovery say it is not clear whether the sloppy repairs that follow low level exposure is a good or bad thing.

Kai Rothkamm and Markus Brich, at the University of Saarland in Homburg, acknowledge that unrepaired breaks in DNA could well lead to cells becoming cancerous. But it is equally possible, they say, that the failure to repair low-level DNA damage has evolved as a safety measure.

Other experts state that no scientific data indicate any danger. In fact, there is evidence that low doses may actually reduce the chance of cancer. The question about the amount of radiation you receive is difficult for x-ray technicians and doctors to answer because very few x-ray units have an instrument to measure the radiation to the patient.

You may have heard that even the smallest amount of radiation may cause cancer. Based on this unscientific assumption, the risk of causing a fatal cancer from a chest x-ray is 10 times greater than the risk of dying in a commercial airline flight. Or a CT scan of the kidneys has a greater risk of inducing a fatal cancer than a cigarette smoker has of dying from any cancer. These statements produce unnecessary worry. There is no data to show any risk from diagnostic x-rays.

Lastly, radiation during pregnancy may lead to birth defects. Always tell your radiologist or physician if you suspect you may be pregnant.

About the Author

Jigfo.com is a global platform for sharing and learning knowledge. For more information on this article topics visit:

http://www.jigfo.com

http://x-linked-agammaglobulinemia.jigfo.com/

http://x-rays-of-the-orbit.jigfo.com/

http://abuse.jigfo.com/

http://centralcoastrays.jigfo.com/

Article Source: Content for Reprint

Techniques for Hydrostatic test

2008-11-17T04:22:00.000-08:00

Leaks in pressure yacht such as pipelines, plumbing, etc can be found with one of the most ordinary methods knows as hydrostatic test. In short it is utilized to test mechanisms for leaks by pressurizing them within with a liquid. This testing technique can be utilized or tested on piping, tanks, valves and containers with fused or fixed sections. This technique of testing should not be perplexed with the Hydrostatic Body Fat Test that utilizes the philosophy of resilience to analyze a person's body fat. Hydrostatic tests, as a supplementary recital authenticate fluid stress vessels. By utilizing this mean of test we can uphold protection standards and sturdiness of a vessel eventually. Recently manufactured portion are firstly competent by means of the hydrostatic test and repeatedly re-qualified at usual hiatus by the proof pressure test which is also known as modified hydrostatic test. With the help of Hydrostatic we can check gas cylinder or a boiler is checked for leaks or defect. This method is very vital as such containers can blow up if they fail when containing dense gas.
Normally the benefits of this test is that it helps to measure the pressure capacity, manually control the systems, is fully automatic, precise control, is fully instrumentation and data logging, has strain measurement system, temperature control, etc.
This method requires that a constituent be entirely filled with a liquid such as water. Pressure is gradually applied to the liquid until the required pressure is reached. This pressure is detained for the necessary time at which point the constituent is examined visually to establish leaks.
There are two types of hydrostatic measures that are included in the method:
Firstly the pressure drops method with compassion. This technique would never place leaks but can be used to determine entirety system leakage. It is important that the technique be familiar with that water additives can speed up the flow of water through leaks and make the test more responsive.
Secondly is the Visual examination. This practice can attain compassion. This extensive bound in compassion is accomplished by not only plummeting confrontation to the liquid flow through leaks but by also enhancing the visibility of leakage proposition.One of the more attractive proposals is that it is frequently more helpful to pulsation the pressure throughout a test than it is to clutch a steady pressure. This is particularly true when the organization being tested will not function at a stable pressure or it is being tested at pressures well over those predictable during standard use. The cause for this prerequisite is that little leaks are not forever still. Several enlarge under pressure, several indentures Severe over pressurization may in reality close some leaks overall.

Salt Spray Weathering

2008-11-05T02:41:00.000-08:00

Salt spray testing under ASTM B117 conditions subjects the test samples to conditions that are actually more corrosive than usual “real world” exposure. This is because the test uses sodium chloride in de-ionized water and usually lacks the moderating effects of other dissolved salts such as those containing calcium and magnesium, which tend to be somewhat protective.

is the most popular form of testing for protective coatings. These tests have been used for more than 90 years as accelerated tests in order to determine the degree of protection afforded by both inorganic and organic coatings on a metallic substrate. The most widely used salt spray (fog) tests are described below.

The neutral salt spray (fog) test (ASTM B 117): is perhaps the most commonly used salt spray test in existence for testing inorganic and organic coatings, in particular where such tests are used for material or product specifications. The duration of the test can range from 8 to over 3000 hours, depending on the product. A 5% sodium chloride solution containing not more than 200 parts per million (ppm) total solids and with a pH range of 6.5 to 7.2 is used. The temperature of the salt spray chamber is controlled to maintain 35 + 1.1 or – 1.7Þ C (95 + 2 or -3Þ F) within the exposure zone of the closed chamber.

The acetic acid salt spray (fog) test (ASTM G 85, Annex A1): is also used for testing inorganic and organic coatings, but is particularly applicable to the study or testing of decorative chromium plating and cadmium plating on steel or zinc die castings, as well as for the evaluation of product quality. This test can be as short as 16 hours, although it normally ranges from 144 to 250 hours or more. Similar to the neutral salt spray test, a 5% sodium chloride solution is used, but the solution is adjusted to a pH range of 3.1 to 3.3 by the addition of acetic acid. The temperature of the salt spray chamber is controlled to the same temperature range as for neutral salt spray.

The copper accelerated acetic acid salt spray (fog), or CASS test (ASTM B 368): is primarily used for the rapid testing of chromium plating on steel and zinc die castings. It is also useful in the testing of anodized, chromated, or phosphated aluminum. The duration of this test ranges from 6 to 720 hours. A 5% sodium chloride solution is used, with one gram of copper (II) chloride dihydrate added to each 3.8 liters of salt solution. The solution is then adjusted to a pH range of 3.1 to 3.3 by adding acetic acid. The temperature of the salt spray chamber is controlled to the same temperature range as for neutral salt spray and for acetic acid salt spray.

Basic Principles of Ultrasonic Testing

2008-10-27T01:06:00.000-07:00

Ultrasonic Testing (UT) uses high frequency sound energy to conduct examinations and make measurements. Ultrasonic inspection can be used for flaw detection/evaluation, dimensional measurements, material characterization, and more. To illustrate the general inspection principle, a typical pulse/echo inspection configuration as illustrated below will be used.

A typical UT inspection system consists of several functional units, such as the pulser/receiver, transducer, and display devices. A pulser/receiver is an electronic device that can produce high voltage electrical pulses. Driven by the pulser, the transducer generates high frequency ultrasonic energy. The sound energy is introduced and propagates through the materials in the form of waves. When there is a discontinuity (such as a crack) in the wave path, part of the energy will be reflected back from the flaw surface. The reflected wave signal is transformed into an electrical signal by the transducer and is displayed on a screen. In the applet below, the reflected signal strength is displayed versus the time from signal generation to when a echo was received. Signal travel time can be directly related to the distance that the signal traveled. From the signal, information about the reflector location, size, orientation and other features can sometimes be gained.

Ultrasonic Inspection is a very useful and versatile NDT method. Some of the advantages of ultrasonic inspection that are often cited include:

It is sensitive to both surface and subsurface discontinuities.
The depth of penetration for flaw detection or measurement is superior to other NDT methods.
Only single-sided access is needed when the pulse-echo technique is used.
It is highly accurate in determining reflector position and estimating size and shape.
Minimal part preparation is required.
Electronic equipment provides instantaneous results.
Detailed images can be produced with automated systems.
It has other uses, such as thickness measurement, in addition to flaw detection.

As with all NDT methods, ultrasonic inspection also has its limitations, which include:

Surface must be accessible to transmit ultrasound.
Skill and training is more extensive than with some other methods.
It normally requires a coupling medium to promote the transfer of sound energy into the test specimen.
Materials that are rough, irregular in shape, very small, exceptionally thin or not homogeneous are difficult to inspect.
Cast iron and other coarse grained materials are difficult to inspect due to low sound transmission and high signal noise.
Linear defects oriented parallel to the sound beam may go undetected.
Reference standards are required for both equipment calibration and the characterization of flaws.

The above introduction provides a simplified introduction to the NDT method of ultrasonic testing. However, to effectively perform an inspection using ultrasonics, much more about the method needs to be known. The following pages present information on the science involved in ultrasonic inspection, the equipment that is commonly used, some of the measurement techniques used, as well as other information.

Leak Testing

2008-10-24T01:27:00.000-07:00

Leak testing equipment is used to measure the escape of liquids, vacuum or gases from sealed components or systems. Some configurations require a separate leak detector or sensor as an input. Such types of leak testing equipment are often equipped with various other components such as pumps, calibrators, gauges and cases. Output options include analog voltage, analog current, frequency or modulated frequency, and switch or alarm signal. Some leak testing equipment includes an analog front panel with potentiometers, dials, and switches. Other features a digital front panel that is set up with a keypad or menus. Leak testing equipment with a serial interface, a parallel interface, and/or integral application software is also available.

Leak test method is an important specification to consider when choosing leak testing equipment. Methods include bubble testing, colorimetric development, electronic gas detection, mass flow, mass spectrometry, and hydrogen leak detection. Bubble testing is used for applications which do not require high sensitivity. A pressurized test object is submerged in a water tank so that the emergence of bubbles indicates a leak. Colorimetric development uses a chemical developer which reacts with the leaking fluid, causing a visible color change to occur at the place of leakage. Leak testing equipment that uses electronic gas detection pressurizes the test object with a tracer gas so that a sniffer probe can be used to find the leak. Mass flow devices direct the leakage across a heating element. The temperature change produces an output voltage proportional to mass flow. Mass spectrometers are used with helium leak detection. Leak testing equipment that is designed to detect hydrogen leaks is also available.

Leak testing equipment may use test methods such as pressure differential (decay) and ultrasonic leak detection. A pressure decay test involves the initial inflation of the test object and the establishment of a reference pressure. After a designated amount of time, the pressure is measured again and the initial and final measurements are compared. The change in pressure can be used to calculate the leak rate given the internal volume of the device. Ultrasonic leak detection (sonic flow, choked flow) involves the turbulent flow of a fluid across a pressure boundary to create acoustic waves. These waves are transmitted through the medium of the fluid itself, through the containment structure, or through the air surrounding the containment structure. Leak testing equipment that uses other test methods is also available.

Positive Material Identification

2008-10-11T03:45:00.000-07:00

ABC Testing was incorporated in December 1982 by Carleton A. Richardson. Since then the company’s number one commitment has been customer service. The company is certified as ASNT SNT TC 1A, level III in Ultrasonic, Radiography, Magnetic Particle, Liquid Penetrant and Visual Testing.

ABC Testing provides inspectors certified by the NYDOT in ultrasonic testing. This testing can be used to identify defects such as cracks, laminations, shrinkage cavities, gas holes, slag inclusions, incomplete fusion, incomplete penetration and lack of bond in a wide variety of materials. Radiographic testing is used when volumetric inspections are necessary to insure part reliability and a permanent record gets stored on film.

Magnetic particle helps detect surface flaws that would not be visible otherwise on ferrous materials. Liquid penetrant, on the other hand, helps detect surface flaws on non-magnetic materials that would not be seen visually. Visual testing is a cost effective examination used to check weld size and appearance. The company also offers various destructive tests to aid in welding procedure qualifications. It has several AWS Certified Welding Inspectors on its staff. They use Bend Testing, Tensile Testing and Charpy Impact Testing to test ductility, strength and material resistance, respectively. Destructive tests also include Hardness Testing which is used to verify whether heat treatment was done properly and Salt Spray Testing which helps in determining corrosion resistance.
Positive Material Identification is another technique that is used to give immediate results about the alloy in question with minimum surface penetration. It uses X-ray fluorescence to identify ferrous and non-ferrous materials without having to cut the sample out for analysis. Eddy current is normally used to check chiller system tubing for detecting defects, sorting materials, testing thickness and conductivity.

for more information please visits here http://www.abcndt.com

Pressure Testing

2008-08-13T02:39:00.000-07:00

ABC Testing Incorporated is certified as ASNT SNT TC 1A, level III in Ultrasonic, Radiography, Magnetic Particle, Liquid Penetrant. and Visual.

We have several AWS Certified Welding Inspectors on staff. We can provide inspectors certified by the NYDOT in ultrasonic testing. We are also certified by ABS to perform ship hull thickness surveys. We are Veriforce certified for inspection of gas pipelines.

For more details visit www.abcndt.com