Heat exchanger tubes are inspected using a variety of techniques, most being electromagnetic. Eddy current testing, eddy current array, remote field testing, near field testing, magnetic flux leakage and IRIS are ideal to assess the condition of small tubing inside chillers, heat exchangers, boilers, condensers and other similar fixed assets.

ECA is an advanced form of eddy current testing that involves electronically driving multiple coils placed next to each other in a probe assembly. Each coil produces a signal, which is measured, and the data is recorded. This data can be encoded and presented as an intuitive 2D/3D C-scan image. ECA can compare favourably against PT/MT.

MFL is a simple to use, rapid and robust corrosion detection technique commonly used to search for steel degradation and flaws in tubing, pipelines and aboveground storage tank floors. MFL uses magnets to temporarily magnetize the structure. If flaws are present, the magnetic field is distorted, signaling the presence of pitting, or wall loss.

PEC is an electromagnetic technique used to detect corrosion and wall loss on ferromagnetic structures made of carbon steel or cast iron. Direct contact with the surface is not necessary; it is a technique of choice for corrosion under insulation/fireproofing. The more advanced PEC Array (PECA™) form offers improved resolution and/or efficiency.

RVI typically implies the use of remotely operated pan, tilt and zoom (PTZ) cameras and robotic crawlers to assess the integrity of components and infrastructures in areas that are too dangerous or remote for direct human intervention. RVI cameras can deliver high definition video, so objective data can be viewed on screen, recorded and reported.

Ultrasonic testing (UT) is a family of non-destructive testing techniques based on the propagation of ultrasonic waves in the part or material tested. UT is a volumetric method where short ultrasonic waves are used to detect internal flaws or to characterize materials. Techniques include conventional UT, TOFD, Phased Array UT, and TFM/FMC.

GWT or long-range ultrasonic testing (LRUT) is an efficient technique to inspect long pipes from a single test point. Up to 350 meters of pipework can be inspected from a single location with 100% coverage, unlike localized UT checks. GWT is commonly used for non-piggable lines, in hard to reach areas or to avoid extensive removal of insulation.

ACFM® is an electromagnetic technique for the detection and sizing of surface breaking discontinuities. It is primarily used for cracks in carbon steel welds, whether topside or subsea. ACFM can both detect cracks and estimate their depth and length. Direct contact is not required: it can work through coatings, paints and marine growth.