The RTD Group provides a comprehensive range of Non-Destructive Testing services for the Oil, Gas and Petrochemical industrial fields on a worldwide basis . We specialize in pipeline and high tech inspection services On & Off Shore.
RTD™ visual inspection
The human eye is an important component for performing NDT in general. It is an excellent sensor and makes it possible to easily perceive many material characteristics, discontinuities, flaws and forms of degradation. Therefore visual examination is not only the oldest and most common method of NDT, but despite all technological developments also one of the most carried out methods of NDT.
With visual examination it is possible to examine material surfaces for flaws, discontinuities and degradation.
Application
Visual examination is mostly carried out on pipe lines, pressure vessels, storage tanks, steel structures, welds, insulation and coating.
Equipment
There are various aids to visual examination. Optical aids such as magnifying glasses, endoscopes and telescopes, but also measuring devices to measure for example pit depths, weld leg lengths and surface profiles.
The optical aids are essentially for magnification purpose and for examining areas where access is restricted and examination with the naked eye is not possible.
Supplementary information
- Visual examination is often carried out prior to or simultaneously with other NDT methods
- Visual examination is performed in accordance with applicable codes, standards, specifications and procedures, which can vary from simple to very complex
- Visual examination can roughly be separated into two forms being internal and external visual examination
- In most situations, it is specified that the surface should be free of slag, dirt, grease, weld spatter or other contaminants
- Personnel is given basic near vision acuity and color recognition screening tests
- Personnel is educated, trained and certified