H Scan International

Each nondestructive examination technique has inherent advantages and disadvantages. The use of any one technique as a stand-alone tool results in frequent false calls and inaccurate results.

HSI, over a ten year period, has developed the unique 'H'SCAN® approach to tube inspection. This approach utilizes a multi-parameter technology that includes both internal and external inspection tools which utilize:

• Proprietary Ultrasonic Inspection
• Proprietary Eddy Current Examination
• Strain Measurement (OD/ID)
• Tube Wall Thickness Measurement

The inspections are carried out in a single, simultaneous scan, with custom-designed hardware and software.

HSI and DNV Columbus, Inc. (formerly CC Technologies have joinlty developed WinTUBE™ - a custom software program for the remaining life prediction of reformer tubes. The program predicts local material damage related to:

It is unique in that it contains material properties (creep deformation and creep damage relations) for HK 40, HP 50, HP Modified, and HP Micro Alloy. The program computes stresses caused by pressure, thermal and axial loading using the elastic-creep finite element analysis (FEA).
To correctly predict remaining tube life, it is important to accurately assess the current condition of the tubes. This problem has been solved by HSI through the development of the 'H'SCAN® Approach For Nondestructive Examination.

Inspection Performance
The chart below demonstrates the ability of various NDE techniques to detect and quantify the various damage manifestations. The premise is to provide definitive information on tube condition and data input for remaining life calculations.

APPLICABILITY OF NDE TECHNIQUE
TO DEFINE DAMAGE (INSPECTION PERFORMANCE)