Detecting metal reduction caused by fatigue, corrosion or erosion is necessary to keep ships and other vessels safe, compliant and profitable. The information this inspection provides helps you make the right decisions about maintenance and repairs. This leads to cost reduction and maximized operational performance.
We carry out ultrasonic thickness survey measurements using the latest manufactured instruments as well as purpose built equipment capable of testing materials accurately and giving reliable results.
FREKANS has a dedicated team of inspectors for Ultrasonic Thickness Measurements of ships and other vessels. Our inspectors are certified according to international standards such as ISO 9712 and are available for worldwide deployment in ports, in shipyards or at sea. With 20 years of experience we have inspected more than 4000 vessels all over the world.
Our operators are well versed in handling the thickness measurement works at all the major ports of the world. Our services are available around the globe, we have provided our services to the clients at their desirable ship repair location.
Multiple echo digital gauges provide accurate thickness measurement through paint coatings without chipping or damaging the coating.
The data of Thickness Measurement serve to have quantified evaluation of safer hull strength and also serve an essential and effective reference for the planning maintenance and management on behalf of Ship’s Owner.
SPECIAL / RENEWAL SURVEY
A special or renewal survey of a ship is mandatory every 5 years. It includes extensive examinations to verify that the structure, main and essential auxiliary machinery, systems and equipment of the ship are in a condition which satisfies the relevant class rules. The examinations of the hull are generally supplemented by ultrasonic thickness measurements (UTM). FREKANS is certified by all mayor classification societies to carry out UTM for special / renewal surveys.
CONDITION ASSESSMENT PROGRAMS (CAP SURVEY)
Most classification societies have a specialized Condition Assessment Program (CAP) for vessel types such as oil tankers, chemical tankers and bulk carriers. Under such a program, detailed assessment of a ship’s condition is carried out to determine its operational reliability.
CAP Hull surveys include a substantial scope of Ultrasonic Thickness Measurements (UTM). FREKANS is highly experienced in carrying out UTM as part of mayor class society CAP. As with other surveys, we can enter the results of the inspection directly in the class society software.
THE THEORY OF ULTRASONIC THICKNESS MEASUREMENT
Ultrasonic Thickness Measurement is a non-destructive testing method used for determing the thickness of a solid part, typically made of steel and/or metal alloys, when talking ultrasonic gauging in the ship- and offshore industry. The method is based on the time it takes a sound wave to reflect to the surface. For this type of measurement, a ultrasonic thickness gauge is used.
Ultrasonic sound waves is known to travel through steel and metals with a constant speed corrosponding to the actual caracteristica of the material with some variations depending on for example the temperature. Given this information, the distance of the sound wave can be calculated.
The Ultrasonic sound wave is created in the pietzo-electric element, which is build into the dual head (sending/receiving- head) and its the same element receiving the reflecting sound wave.
ULTRASONIC THICNESS MEASUREMENT IN PRACTISE
The use of ultrasonic sound is a safe way to determine the thickness (and hereby eventually thickness reduction) of steel- and metal alloys, typically caused by corrosion over time, due to unprotected surface, lack of zinck anodes, cavitation, turbulens etc.
The Ultasonic Thickness gauge measures through paint and coating. harmfull grinding is therefore not necessary.
WHAT CAN BE MEASURED?
All steel types, all metals and alloys, nylon (polyamid), acrylic og epoxy resin.
HOW TO BENEFIT FROM THICKNESS MEASUREMENTS
Ultrasonic Thickness Measurements of constructions and equipment has increased over years, as a growing demand from the classification societies. This is to ensure our health, safety and environment. Maintaining a high standard regarding repairs and scheduled maintenance is of the most importance. By use of Ultrasonic Thickness Measurements the location and extend of wear can be determined and then repaired accordingly.
Ultrasonic Thickness Measurement gives a good indication of the construction condition. A very important information for owners, surveyors and repair yards to get a clear picture over the extend of the planned maintenance.