B31.1 UT in lieu of Radiography

ASME B31.1, Table 136.4 “Mandatory Minimum Nondestructive Examinations for Pressure Welds or Welds to Pressure-Retaining Components”, allows either Ultrasonic Testing (UT) or Radiography Testing (RT) for the volumetric examination of welds on material with a wall thickness greater than ¾ inch.

We have developed and demonstrated on blind samples a phased array UT technique that allows ultrasonic inspection of B31.1 piping in lieu of radiography. Use of ultrasonic inspection in lieu of radiography eliminates the need for customers to establish exclusion zones that prevent other work from being performed while radiography is in progress. This allows greater schedule flexibility and reduces costs due to delays