Many industries use compressed gas cylinders to store substances such as oxygen, propane, acetylene, or fire suppressants. Structural flaws in a cylinder can turn dangerous resulting in leaks, ruptures, or even deadly explosions. The two primary methods of testing cylinders to detect these potential flaws are hydrostatic testing and ultrasonic examination. The processes of these two testing methods are vastly different in technique, time, and cost.
This 3 part article discusses the different testing methods for re-qualification of portable cylinders. The information addressed includes:
- Hydrostatic Testing
- Ultrasonic Examination
- Benefits of Ultrasonic Examination
Part 1 addressed Hydrostatic Testing, Part 2 addresses Ultrasonic Examination and Part 3 will address the Benefits of Ultrasonic Examination.
Ultrasonic Examination
Ultrasonic examination consists of sensors that send and receive signals along longitudinal waves and shear waves. Longitudinal waves are directed straight down at a 90-degree angle. These waves can detect defects that are angled perpendicular to the wave and measure flaws in the wall thickness. Shear waves enter the cylinder at a 45-degree angle. These waves can locate and identify cracks in the material from any direction. The sensor does not have to be directly over the defect to find it due to the refraction of the shear waves. By using ultrasonic examination, a technician can successfully find flaws that are missed during hydrostatic testing.
Ultrasonic examination details information about the cylinder that includes wall thickness and relevant defect information that was detected. One of the main benefits of ultrasonic examination is the prevention of moisture and other contaminants into the cylinder during testing since the cylinder does not need to be emptied. Ultrasonic examination is the preferred option of cylinder testing and is recognized by the United States Department of Transportation (U.S. DOT), the Compressed Gas Association (CGA), and referenced in many publications of the International Organization for Standardization (ISO). Ultrasonic examination testing also reduces common issues that result from hydrostatic testing.
The Jay L Harman Fire Equipment team understands your fire fighting and cylinder re-qualification needs and is ready to help
Jay L Harman’s DOT Hydrostatic Testing and Ultrasonic Examination facility and equipment meet all NFPA requirements for the hydrostatic testing and Ultrasonic Examination of compressed gas cylinders and portable fire extinguisher cylinders.
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