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  • PMI, or Positive Material Identification, is a powerful technique that allows for the precise analysis of metallic alloys. By using advanced technology such as X-ray fluorescence (XRF), experts are able to quickly and accurately determine the composition of a material, including the percentage of each constituent element present. This non-destructive method can be applied to a wide range of components and assets, making it a versatile tool for a variety of industries.

    PMI is often used in material verification and identification. This technique is a must-have in quality control procedures, especially in critical industries like aerospace, oil and gas, power generation, and manufacturing. With PMI, engineers and technicians can confidently identify the exact material used in a component, ensuring it meets the required specifications and standards. PMI is also a valuable tool in the identification of counterfeit or substandard materials, helping to prevent the use of inferior or potentially dangerous materials in key applications. It can be used for the analysis of machined valve parts, pressure control parts, wrought products, gear wheels, pressure vessels, anchor chains, and much more.

  • Ultrasonic Testing (UT) is a non-destructive testing (NDT) method that uses high-frequency sound waves to detect surface and internal defects in a wide range of materials, including metals, plastics, ceramics, and composites. This method is based on the principle that sound waves are reflected, refracted or absorbed when they encounter a defect or a change in the density or elastic properties of the material being tested.

    AIS supplies UT services using specialised equipment that generates and receives ultrasonic waves. The equipment includes a transducer, which converts electrical energy into sound waves, and a probe, which is used to direct the sound waves into the material being tested. The equipment also includes a display or a recording device that shows the results of the testing.

    UT is a versatile NDT method that can be used for a variety of applications, including weld inspection, forging volumetric examination, and thickness measurements. It is commonly used to inspect carbon steel and alloys, but it can also be used to inspect other materials such as concrete, composites, and even wood.

    For weld inspection, UT is commonly used to detect surface and internal defects such as cracks, porosity, inclusions, lack of fusion, and poor penetration. For forging volumetric examination, it is used to detect internal defects, such as voids, inclusions, and laps. For thickness measurements, it is used to measure the thickness of materials with parallel surfaces, such as pipe wall thickness or vessel hulls.

    Overall, ultrasonic testing is a reliable and widely used non-destructive testing method that can be used to detect surface and internal defects in a wide range of materials. AIS provides ultrasonic testing services using advanced equipment and techniques

  • MPI is a method of detecting both surface and subsurface flaws in ferromagnetic materials (carbon based steels/mild steel). The principle of MPI is that when a current is applied to a conductor, a magnetic field will occur.

    The induced magnetic field will produce a flux leakage field around any discontinuities in the item – this leakage field is revealed by applying ferrous iron particles (usually from an aerosol) to the surface of the item. These ferrous particles cluster at areas of flux leakage to give indications of flaw in the item. Typical applications are primary method NDT, post CVI, of welded fabrications and statutory inspections of in-service welded items.

  • Dye Penetrant Inspection (DPI) is a widely applied and low-cost inspection method used to check surface-breaking defects in all non-porous materials.

    It is a technique used for identifying surface breaking flaws in all non-porous materials, either ferrous or non-ferrous, although mainly used on austenitic stainless steel assemblies or parts. Typical uses are detection of fine defects in aircraft components, clad welded parts for the oil and gas industry, etc.

  • Eddy Current Inspection (ECI) is a powerful and versatile technique for evaluating the integrity of conductive materials, such as ferromagnetic steels, stainless steels, and nimonic 80a, among others. The method is based on the principle of electromagnetic induction and allows for the detection of surface and subsurface anomalies, such as cracks and other forms of damage, without the need for destructive testing.

    The process involves the application of an alternating current to an inspection coil, which creates a magnetic field. When this coil is placed in close proximity to a conductor, it induces an "eddy current" field in the material. If this induced field is disrupted by a flaw, such as a crack, it causes an imbalance that is magnified and displayed on an oscilloscope. This technique can also be used to inspect materials with non-conductive or conductive coatings, allowing the operator to test the weld or material beneath the coating.

    ECI is an extremely versatile technique, with many benefits, and can be used for crack detection, material sorting, and coating measurements. It is particularly useful for inspecting crane structures, padeyes, and bridge support members, and the equipment is highly portable, making it ideal for on-site inspections. Additionally, the sensitivity of the equipment allows it to be used on both galvanized components and complex shapes, making it a valuable tool for a wide range of industrial applications.

    ECI can be used for crack detection, material sorting and coating measurements. Typical site applications include inspection of crane structures, padeyes and bridge support members. The equipment is easily portable and highly sensitive allowing it to be used on both galvanised components and complex shapes.

  • As the name suggests, this is a detailed and close up visual examination of welds / structures / vessels / pipework. The qualifications applicable to CVI can be both PCN or CSWIP.

    We have experienced inspectors qualified in both. Typically CVI would be used to identify areas requiring more in-depth inspection. Examples of its application could be identification of pipework likely to require further wall thickness checks (see Ultrasonic Testing), newly fabricated assemblies require CVI pre further NDT (MPI/UT), in-situ structural assemblies require a CVI to detect fatigue induced cracking prior to further NDT (ECI/MPI), etc.

  • Hardness testing is a method used to determine the mechanical properties of a material, specifically its resistance to indentation or deformation. It measures the resistance of a material to being permanently deformed by an external force, and is widely used in a variety of industries to evaluate the strength and durability of materials.

    There are several different methods of hardness testing, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Some of the most commonly used methods include Rockwell hardness testing, Brinell hardness testing, Vickers hardness testing, and microhardness testing. Each method uses a different type of indentor and applies a different amount of force to the material being tested, which results in different levels of accuracy and precision. The Leeb rebound method is a type of dynamic hardness testing, which is based on the principle of measuring the rebound velocity of a small spherical or tungsten carbide indenter that is dropped onto the surface of the material being tested. The hardness value is then calculated based on the rebound velocity and is displayed on the tester's display.

    One of the main benefits of hardness testing is that it can be used to evaluate a wide range of materials, including metals, plastics, ceramics, and composites. Hardness testing can be used to evaluate the quality of raw materials, the consistency of production processes, and the wear resistance of finished products. It is also useful for determining the suitability of a material for a specific application, as well as for monitoring the condition of equipment and structures over time. It is also a non-destructive testing method, meaning it does not damage the material being tested. This allows for multiple tests to be performed on the same sample without compromising its integrity, which is especially beneficial when testing critical components.

    In addition, Hardness testing is a relatively simple and quick method, it can be performed on-site, and doesn't require any special preparation of the sample. This makes it an ideal method for testing large numbers of samples and for monitoring the condition of equipment and structures over time.

    Overall, hardness testing is an important method for evaluating the mechanical properties of a wide range of materials. It is a non-destructive, simple and quick method that can be used to evaluate the quality of raw materials, the consistency of production processes, and the wear resistance of finished products. It is also an efficient way to monitor the condition of equipment and structures over time.

  • Ferrite testing is a specialised non-destructive testing (NDT) method used primarily to measure the ferrite content in austenitic and duplex stainless steels. This testing is crucial because the ferrite phase in these steels enhances properties like strength and resistance to cracking, particularly under stress and at high temperatures. Too much or too little ferrite can compromise the integrity of the steel, affecting its durability and corrosion resistance.

    Ferrite testing ensures that the ferritic-austenitic balance meets industry specifications, which is essential for applications in harsh environments such as chemical processing plants and offshore platforms. The method typically involves using a ferrite meter, which provides a quick and accurate reading of ferrite content. This process is essential for ensuring that the steel's microstructure is correct for its specific application, guaranteeing performance and preventing failures in critical environments.

  • We're proud to offer a team of highly skilled welding engineers, who bring a wealth of experience and expertise to each job they undertake. Our technicians are CSWIP qualified, meaning they have the knowledge and training necessary to provide comprehensive welding inspection and quality control services.

    Whether it's investigating structural welding problems or overseeing project management, our technicians are equipped with a deep understanding of engineering issues and applicable specifications. This means that, when you work with AIS, you can be confident that you're getting the best possible service, and that your project is in the hands of professionals who know what they're doing. So, if you're looking for top-quality welding inspection and quality control services, look no further than Axiom Inspection Solutions.

  • Drone inspections, also known as Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) inspections, are becoming increasingly popular in various industries as they provide a cost-effective and efficient way to inspect hard-to-reach areas. Drones are equipped with high-resolution cameras that capture images and videos, providing a detailed view of the equipment and structures being inspected. These images and videos can be used to identify defects and assess the condition of equipment and structures, allowing for early detection of potential issues.

    One of the main benefits of using drones for inspections is their ability to access hard-to-reach areas. Traditional inspection methods often require scaffolding or other equipment to access high areas, which can be both costly and time-consuming. Drones, on the other hand, can easily access high areas, such as rooftops, towers, and bridges, without the need for additional equipment. This not only saves time and money, but also increases safety by reducing the need for human inspection at heights.

    Another benefit of using drones for inspections is their ability to provide a detailed, high-resolution view of the equipment and structures. Drones are equipped with advanced cameras and sensors that can capture high-resolution images and videos, providing a detailed view of the inspected area. This allows for early detection of potential issues, reducing the risk of equipment failure and ensuring the safety and reliability of equipment and structures.

    In addition, drone inspections are often quicker and more efficient than traditional inspection methods. The use of drones reduces the need for scaffolding or other equipment, and allows for faster and more efficient inspections. This allows for quicker turnaround times on projects, and can help to minimize disruptions and downtime.

    Overall, Drone inspections are a valuable tool for ensuring the integrity and reliability of equipment and structures. They provide a cost-effective, efficient, and safe way to access hard-to-reach areas, and provide detailed, high-resolution images and videos that can be used to identify defects and assess the condition of equipment and structures.

  • At our company, we pride ourselves on our ability to provide comprehensive pre-fabrication and in-service inspection programs for structural components, vessels, and pipework. These programs can be tailored to suit a wide range of durations, depending on the specific needs and requirements of our clients.

    Our inspection programs are designed to ensure the integrity of the system in question, utilising the latest techniques and technologies to provide the necessary level of security. Using the surrounding techniques & suitable inspection programmes we can give the security required for any system, ensuring integrity while processing.

  • A common requirement in addition to our standard issued NDT reports. These can be detailed inspection plans and technique sheets for each method including scan plans where required.

    AIS can write and approve these for each variation of component and client requirement.