Acoustic Emission Testing (AE) has proven to be a method of preference for detecting the presence of defects quickly and reliably. AE testing uses sensors to identify high frequency signals resulting from structural defects performing under stress.
Acoustic Emission Testing can be described as the method that uses sensors to detect the high frequency signals resulting from structural defects when the test object is subjected to a load. Such signals may result from the growth of cracks, corrosion, rubbing, leaks, overstress etc.
Acoustic Emission Testing also provides accurate detail in identifying defects based on their individual level of seriousness and in doing so, permits the manager and/or owner to plan their maintenance schedules in a timely and efficient manner.
TESTING METHOD APPLICATIONS:
- Metal pressure vessels and piping
- FRP vessels and piping
- Reactors and hot circuit piping
- Heat exchangers
- Deaerators, etc.
- Tank bottom for storage tanks
- Full structural test on storage tanks
COMMON DEFECTS DETECTED:
- Material crack growths
- Active corrosion
- Rubbing
- Leaks
- Stress corrosion
- Fatigue
AE TESTING V. SEISMIC TESTING:
- Seismic industry uses low frequencies between 0-10 Hz, while AE testing uses higher frequencies between 20-400 Hz. Higher frequencies are more effective for noisy environments.
- Seismic industry places sensors miles away from the source, while AE testing places sensors approximately every 10-15 feet.