linear accelerators

[izamil]

We are building several pressure vessels to div 2 with wall thickness up to 5.5 inches thick. We are examining the weld seams by UT-TOFD method in accordance with one of those relevant code cases. We are facing tremendous bottleneck schedule type constraints due to the slow speed of such UT-TOFD process. Some people told us to use a linear accelerator which is a much faster x-ray system. I would appreciate knowing where to obtain information about linear accelerators and who manufactures such equipment. Naturally, any experience about this situation including the TOFD process will be appreciated.

Thank you,

 

[Goahead]

You may wish to ask the experts at

http://www.slac.stanford.edu/

if it is sensible to consider linear accelerators for your application.

It seems to me that UT TOFD methods were accepted for easing up the testing requirements.

Regards,

http://www.welding-advisers.com/

 

[James01]

I am surprised to hear that TOFD is proving very slow and you are considering a Linear accelerator to speed things up. TOFD is ususally much faster than Radiography.

The use of this type of X-Ray unit would normally require the vessel to be sited in an exposure bay designed for use with the Linear Accelerator or alternatively if you were thinking of using it on site the radiation controlled area would be extensive (not knowing the size of the pressure vessels).

Were you using TOFD as the vessel was being manufactured or once it was completed?