| Abstract Scope |
The nondestructive examination (NDE) of pressure vessels involves the use of different methods and techniques for raw materials, components and the final assembly of the vessels. For new constructions, the procedures and acceptance criteria are well defined in construction codes, for example, ASME BPVC Section VIII. For in-service vessels, there are codes as well as end-user specific procedures and acceptance criteria for NDE. In this presentation, the focus will be on the new construction of pressure vessels. First, accepted NDE methods and procedures are reviewed, for the examination of raw material, components and welding of the vessel. Then, common pitfalls and challenges when using NDE are discussed, with a focus on the examination at the vessel manufacturing shops. Suggestions are provided at the end with a purpose to improve the effectiveness of NDE in the building of code vessels. |