(Olympus NDT: Waltham, MA) -- Olympus NDT introduces the first semiautomated (semi-AUT) ultrasound phased-array solution developed for corrosion mapping applications. This portable inspection solution comprises several components, including the OmniScan MX PA flaw detector, OmniScan MXU software with corrosion mapping functionality, and the HydroFORM Phased-Array Probe Carrier with a mini-wheel encoder. The new HydroFORM solution improves inspection quality, operator safety, mechanical dependability, and productivity in the nondestructive testing (NDT) of metal plates, pipes, and welded components for detection of internal corrosion, midwall anomalies, and environmentally damaged mechanisms.

The HydroFORM is an innovative carrier for phased-array (PA) probes that cover an area up to 60 mm wide (2.36 in.) at a speed up to 100 mm/s (3.93 in./s) with data increment size of 1 mm × 1 mm (0.039 in. × 0.039 in.) in the scan and index direction. The HydroFORM probe carrier fits a broad range of curvatures and diameters without the need to use any wedges. It is water-coupled to the inspection surface with a special gasket that minimizes water consumption and provides excellent surface conformance for OD and ID applications. It can be outfitted with magnetic or rubber wheels.

The HydroFORM can be used independently or in unison with the optional Olympus CHAIN Scanner. Both portable solutions can be applied to pipe ODs from 100 mm (4 in.) and up, to flat surfaces, and to complex geometries such as spherical or elliptical pressure vessel heads.

The HydroFORM and OmniScan combination provides unparalleled corrosion detection and characterization in a compact, lightweight, battery-operated package. This combination is also “rope access” friendly for applications that require inspections on tall or large structures such as storage tanks, windmill towers, offshore platforms, and bridges. Alternatively, the HydroFORM can also be used with the TomoScan FOCUS LT to provide phased-array capabilities for both the basic- and advanced-level inspector. The HydroFORM presents a cost-effective solution for customers who already own the OmniScan MX PA flaw detector or any of the other components that are part of their corrosion mapping solution.

The phased-array technology brings the ability to detect and characterize various anomalies using ultrasonic compression wave and angle-beam inspection techniques.