Applus+ successfully performed Non-Intrusive Inspection (NII) for a downstream manufacturer in Australia

Our team conducted post-NII on the client's four pressure vessels with a combination of PAUT/ToFD & MUT. The group, comprised of a Project Manager and PAUT technicians, completed the inspection using the Olympus X3 PAUT/ToFD unit and AccuTrak scanner.

The chemical storage vessel at the client's plant was due for internal inspection, and  we decided to perform NII as it offers the potential for the same or a greater degree of confidence in the knowledge of the internal condition of the vessel than an Internal Visual Inspection (IVI). If  NII provide sufficient confidence,  the requirement for IVI in the forthcoming planned inspection can be removed, and this avoids any risks associated with vessel isolation and entry.

Before the inspection, our experts assessed whether NII could be applied to the chemical storage vessels. The assessment concluded that NII was applicable, and a work scope was developed based on the inspection requirements. The inspection of the vessel shell, domes, and welds met the conditions outlined in the recommended practice for NII. The completed NII is deemed adequate to be used as a replacement for IVI for all areas of the vessel for the complete IVI interval of 4 years and can support the re-assessment of the inspection grade of the vessel.

During a recent external visual inspection of the vessel, we discovered some minor issues, including corrosion staining and deposits and some areas of heavier corrosion scale. Our experts recommended removing the heavy corrosion scale, assessing the affected areas, and blasting and painting the affected areas. A 6-monthly visual inspection is carried out on the nozzle crevice corrosion areas to check for leakage and corrosion  until repairs occur.

With experienced teams of vessel inspection engineers and skilled technicians, Applus+ can provide careful and systematic consideration to optimize inspection practices and ensure the ongoing integrity of our client's equipment. Our inspections offer numerous benefits, such as reduced risks to personnel, downtime for shutdowns/turnarounds and system contamination, improved efficiency with no entry into the system, cost savings, and data recorded in a comprehensive RBI system. Through our NII approach, we strive to provide our clients with the best possible service while minimizing any potential risks or downtime.