Bureau Veritas (BV) has announced the development and approval of a semi-automated phased array ultrasonic testing (PAUT) solution. This new method is designed to replace radiographic testing (RT) for inspecting welds on thin-wall austenitic stainless steel piping, specifically on vessels powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG).
Traditionally, these types of welds presented significant technical difficulties due to the specific characteristics of the material and the reduced thickness of the walls. Furthermore, radiographic testing involves the use of radiation sources, necessitating the establishment of safety exclusion zones and stringent operational controls within shipyard environments, which can complicate and slow down construction and maintenance.
For freight forwarders and operations managers, this advancement could indirectly contribute to more efficient vessel construction and maintenance cycles for LNG-fueled ships. Reduced inspection times and improved safety protocols in shipyards may lead to fewer delays in vessel delivery or dry-docking, potentially supporting better schedule reliability for carriers operating these types of vessels. As the global fleet of LNG-fueled ships expands due to decarbonization efforts, streamlined inspection processes are beneficial for overall supply chain predictability.
To address the inherent constraints of RT, Bureau Veritas France Industry created this specialized semi-automated PAUT procedure, aiming to enhance both the safety and efficiency of weld inspections.
