From manufacturing and construction to aviation, automotive and beyond, Non-Destructive Evaluation (NDE) is an indispensable tool in ensuring safety across a growing number of industries. NDE determines the integrity, quality, and reliability of materials, components, and structures without causing damage.
Here are some industry examples of how NDE is advancing safety.
Civil Engineering
Throughout the structural and civil engineering world, bridges, buildings, and infrastructure must withstand various environmental stressors and daily wear and tear. NDE methods, such as ultrasonic testing, radiographic testing, and magnetic particle inspection, allow engineers to identify hidden defects, corrosion, or stress fractures.
By detecting potential issues early, maintenance and repairs can be made before catastrophic failures occur, preventing accidents and safeguarding the public.
Aerospace
Throughout the aerospace industry, aircraft undergo rigorous inspection and testing during their manufacturing and maintenance processes. Many forms of NDE testing (including Eddy Current, Liquid Penetrant, X-Ray, Etc.) are used to identify flaws in critical components like engine turbine blades, landing gear, and fuselage.
Energy
The consequences of a failure in a nuclear power plant can be catastrophic, not only endangering the lives of those in the vicinity but also causing long-lasting environmental damage. NDE is, therefore, an essential tool in maintaining the safety and integrity of such facilities. Radiographic testing and ultrasonic testing can detect cracks, leaks, or weakening in reactor vessels and coolant systems.
Oil & Gas
Pipelines that transport oil and gas over vast distances are susceptible to corrosion, stress, and other forms of damage. Non-destructive testing methods, including magnetic particle inspection and radiography, can detect flaws in these pipelines without interrupting operations. By identifying potential weaknesses early, NDE helps prevent dangerous leaks, fires, and environmental disasters.
Medical
Knee, hip, shoulder, spine, medical implants are growing in popularity. And techniques like X-Ray and Liquid Penetrant are helping to ensure longevity and advance the quality of life by making sure that that these devices are structurally sound.
Automotive
NDE techniques like liquid penetrant, radiographic along with visual inspection help identify structural defects and flaws in critical components such as the vehicle chassis and engine components. By using NDE, manufacturers can ensure that their vehicles meet safety standards and minimize the risk of accidents due to structural failures.
Entertainment
You may not have NDE on your mind the next time you visit your local theme park. But as you’re making that long uphill climb on a towering steel roller coaster, you’ll be thankful that NDE is a part of the park’s maintenance program.
Your NDE Partner
Non-Destructive Evaluation allows the thorough inspection and evaluation of materials, components, and structures, thereby preventing accidents, environmental disasters, and potential harm to human life. It is an invaluable tool in ensuring the structural integrity, quality, and reliability of critical systems, from infrastructure and aerospace to healthcare and automotive industries.
Contact us to learn more about our NDE services.