ACFM – Surface Crack Detection
The ACFM was developed originally for offshore applications but over the last twenty years this has grown into a very diverse array of applications. This technology is accepted by both ASME & EN standards.
The system software allows placement of markers that allow positioning of indications that enable large scans of welding to be inspected without interruption.
Benefits include:
The ACFM technology has significant benefits and cost savings with regard to coating removal and preparation prior to inspection. The technology is also able to determine the accurate through wall crack height.
ACFM applications:
- Power Industry:Tank Farms; Dearator Heater and Storage Tanks; HEP piping systems; Valve Bodies; Hydro Stations (Draft Tube & Spiral Casing Welds).
- Petrochemical: ACFM technology has greatly reduced the extent of grinding out minor indications on internal inspections routinely and it is also the ideal technique for Coke Drum cracking with the added advantage that these inspections can be performed while the units remain in-service.
- Leisure Parks: monitoring the condition of welding associated on the high speed rides with the large scale inspection programs.
- Tank Storage facilities:These storage facilities utilize ACFM for internal / external inspection of circumferential seams and nozzles to avoid removing paint coating to allow magnetic particle testing to be carried out. ACFM units are also used in performing tank floor inspection surveys.
- Cargo Crane Operators:Due to minimal preparation and advanced sizing capability the ACFM inspection technique has become common practice for weld examination surveys for Cranes and other lifting equipment.
Other applications include Bridges, Stadium Structures and Railway tracks.