Brief Introduction of Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) Methods

1. Brief Introduction of Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) Methods "Prevention is better than cure" and it is absolutely appropriate in the context of bridge inspection which is a preventive method. Without regular and proper bridge inspection, even sturdy and complex bridge can fail in due course of time. Bridges inspection not just report about the minor or major deterioration but it help the decision makers to take the right decision about any repairing or replacement of any component of the bridge. Many past tragedies such as bridge collapses and failures have alerted the public and authorities and guidelines have been issued to determine the structural well-being of the bridges on a definite interval of time. Bridge inspections are of various types ranging from routine inspections to detailed inspection which cover different purposes. Generally, conventional bridge inspection is done manually with the help of a handheld or power- operated tools which take a large amount of time. Moreover, the height on which the bridges are located also poses a threat to crew's life during the inspection. The results are also not very accurate and many fine cracks or other deteriorations used to go unnoticed by the inspection crew which becomes a problem in future. The non destructive testing method is an advanced technology utilizing various non-invasive procedures like a Magnetic particle, Ultrasonic waves, Infrared waves, Radiography, Laser, Acoustic emission, vibration analysis etc. This testing method simplifies the complicated procedure of bridge inspection and reduced the time of completion. The results obtained by the Non destructive testing method is accurate and more reliable than the manual testing. Moreover, data can be analyzed in real time and can also be stored for later use. It can be shared with client's over internet to get their remarks and decision regarding the replacement or repairing of any component. Here listed some non-destructive methods used during bridge inspection Magnetic particle testing It uses one or more magnetic fields to locate surface and near-surface discontinuities. The magnetic field can be applied with a magnet or electromagnet. Liquid Penetrating Technique This test can be performed on a magnetic and non-magnetic surface but doesn't work well with the porous material. In this test, a low viscosity liquid is applied to the surface and it penetrates into the voids or fissures if present. When the liquid is removed, the trapped liquid in cracks or voids flows back indicating the structural defects.

2. Ultrasonic testing Sound waves are used to locate any kind of deterioration on the surface and the ground beneath it. In this procedure, sound waves are transmitted to the surface and if the wave hits a material of different density or acoustic velocity then it will be reflected back to the recording unit for real-time analysis. Thermal or infrared testing This is a very popular non-destructive testing method and also used in robotics. It is used to determine the surface temperatures based on the infrared radiation emitted by an object as heat flows through, to or from that object. Special devices known as "infrared cameras" are used to collect the infrared data. Infrastructure Preservation Corporation (IPC) is utilizing the non-destructive testing methods from a long time to ensure the safety of the crew and public and make the inspection time and cost-effective for the client. We have a range of customized inspection system for different components of the bridge and other complex structures. To know about our products and services in detail, log on to our website https://www.infrastructurepc.com/. You can also get a free estimate for our services by providing your details at our site. We will get back to you as soon as possible. Infrastructure Preservation Corp info@infrastructurepc.com Office: 727-372-2900 727-329-8794