Nondestructive Evaluation Program

At United Valve, we address the need for higher quality valves in lethal or critical service applications by providing a complete array of Nondestructive Evaluation (NDE) capabilities.

Ultrasonic Testing
Ultrasonic testing (UT) is primarily used to find subsurface defects in forgings and wrought materials. UT is also used to detect flaws in the shear wave mode for weld inspection. We utilize a Panametrics digital Ultrasonic flaw detector for our UT inspections.

Dye Penetrant
Dye Penetrant (PT) is used to detect defects and irregularities in the surface of materials. PT is also very effective in locating cracks and estimating their depth.

Magnetic Particle Testing
For defects on and slightly below the surface, Magnetic Particle (MT) testing is utilized. Our portable MT yokes can be used on virtually any magnetic valve component.

Hardness Testing
Hardness testing is performed in our laboratory on Brinell & Rockwell machines and in the shop utilizing portable test instruments. Hardness surveys are especially critical for sour service (NACE MR-01-75) and in fabrication of Chrome/Moly alloys.

Radiographic Testing
With our 320Kv X-ray tube we are able to produce ASTM reference radiographs used for Radiographic (RT) interpretation. All film is read by our Level II personnel who are knowledgeable in valve castings and radiography. RT is also used for checking the integrity of critical weldments such as welded flange attachments.

Trained NDE Personnel
All United Valve NDE personnel are trained to Level II requirements in accordance with the American Society of Nondestructive Testing (ASNT) specification SNT-TC1A.

Virtually every carbon steel and low alloy steel weldment for use in sour service, requires stress relief after welding. To meet this requirement we have six heat treatment furnaces that range in size from two cubic feet to 250 cubic feet and can reach temperatures up to 2100o F. All heat treatments are monitored via a central data acquisition system, as well as hard copy chart recorders. Localized stress relief equipment is also on-hand for small area applications. A variety of hardness testers are available to confirm hardness values required by NACE MR0103 & MR0175. United Valve is a sustaining member of the National Association of Corrosion Engineers (NACE).
 

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