NDT Services for Power Generation
Comprehensive NDT inspection, training, and consulting for power plants. Turbines, boilers, generators, and balance of plant, with reports reviewed by an ASNT NDT Level III. See power plant NDT services.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What NDT methods are used in power generation?
Power plants rely on: Ultrasonic Testing (UT) and Phased Array UT (PAUT) for turbine blades, rotor shafts, and pressure components; Eddy Current Testing (ECT) for heat exchanger and condenser tube inspection; Magnetic Particle Testing (MT) for rotor forgings and generator components; Radiographic Testing (RT) for weld and casting quality; and Visual Testing (VT/RVI) via borescope for internal turbine and combustion chamber inspection.
What is power generation NDT?
Power generation NDT refers to non-destructive testing services performed on power plant equipment — including gas turbines, steam turbines, generators, boilers, HRSGs, and balance-of-plant piping and pressure vessels. NDT ensures equipment integrity, prevents unplanned failures, optimises planned outage efficiency, and maintains compliance with ASME, NBIC, and NRC codes.
How often should power plant equipment be inspected?
Inspection frequency depends on equipment type, operating conditions, and applicable codes. Gas turbine blades are typically inspected every 8,000–12,000 operating hours (hot-section inspections). Boiler tubes follow ASME Section I and API 510 intervals. Steam turbine rotors and shafts are inspected during every major overhaul (typically every 4–6 years). Risk-Based Inspection (RBI) per API 580 can optimise intervals for piping and pressure vessels.
What certifications do power plant NDT inspectors need?
Power plant NDT inspectors typically require: ASNT SNT-TC-1A or ASNT Level III certification in relevant methods (UT, MT, PT, RT, ET); ASME Section V qualification for code work; for nuclear plants — NRC-qualified inspectors per ASME Section XI and 10 CFR 50. API 510 certification is required for pressure vessel inspection, and API 570 for piping. Atlantis NDT provides all required certifications and training.