February 2010

By: Ines Zackariat

BUTTING puts new x-ray testing system into operation

Reliable quality control has been a key feature of our business philosophy ever since BUTTING was founded. For well over 40 years now, we have been using radiographic technology to perform non-destructive testing on the pipes and components we produce to ensure the excellent quality of the weld seams. By putting a further x-ray testing system into operation at the beginning of 2010, we have again expanded our capacities in this area to the benefit of our clients.

 

The new x-ray tunnel is part of our innovative and globally unrivalled production system for 12 metre pipes made from plate and makes an important contribution to optimising production-flow. From the forming of the 12 metre plates and further processing into open seam pipes through to the quality control of the welded pipes, the giant pipes we produce do not have to leave the production hall at any stage of the manufacturing process. Transport distances between the various stages in production are thus significantly shortened and the internal logistical costs considerably reduced.

The new x-ray system makes it possible to check pipes ranging from 3 to 12.5 metres in length and with an outer diameter between 168.3 mm and 1,260 mm. We are now also able to check pipe-wall thicknesses of up to 90 mm. The best feature of this system is that testings can be performed via both x-ray film (radiography) and digital technology (radiology). Depending on a pipe's dimensions and the specifications required by the customer, this allows us to always select the optimum testing mode with maximum testing sensitivity.

X-ray film technology is the oldest form of radiographic technology and counts as one of the imaging procedures. With the help of this technology, it is possible to carry out very detailed evaluations which take various types and sizes of flaws into account. Further advantages include the great sensitivity and reliability of the testings regardless of component design, material, or wall thickness.

The second testing procedure performed by the system is that of the digital x-ray – the latest technology in x-ray testing which has come to provide a quality comparable to that of radiography. Because it dispenses with the film-processing chain, it provides the great advantage of achieving very quick results. It also provides the ability to check the depth extension of flaws. Additionally, the images are displayed, evaluated and archived via an image-processing and evaluating system – this guarantees long-term accessibility of data.

We are happy to answer any further questions regarding our new, expanded production and testing facilities. You too can benefit from the latest technology!

BUTTING – Progress by Tradition

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