TPT September 2010

T echnology U pdate

Ultrasonic travelling probe system

rotary head and travelling probe systems to the Chinese market Unicorn also plans over the next 18 months to introduce a mobile ultrasonic tube test system (intended for tube diameters up to 219mm OD) into the Chinese market primarily targeted for use at oil drilling sites or third party inspection. Unicorn Automation (NDT) Ltd – UK Fax: +44 1536 268601 Email: cjames@unicorn-automation.co.uk Website: www.unicorn-automation.co.uk

UNICORNAutomation (NDT) Ltd, renowned around the world for its design and supply of ultrasonic rotary heads for tube inspection, has installed its first large diameter (up to 700mm) tube test system in the Pangang Iron and Steel Company, China. Thesystemutilisesthemoreconventional rotating tube/travelling probe technique, which for the customer was more cost effective than the alternative very large rotating system (URP700/S). Although testing speeds cannot match the rotary head alternative there are advantages in terms of quick change flexibility (it can cover a much larger size range with no limitation for maximum OD) and the ability to test up to 80mm wall thickness; additionally untested end lengths can be minimal (less than 50mm). The newly designed system was installed and commissioned earlier this year, and together with several rotary systems also supplied in 2010 brings the total number of Unicorn systems now operating in various plants across China to 13. With the ever- increasing number of systems in operation

Unicorn has also taken steps to ensure its continued excellent after sales service with the creation of a service team based in Chengdu. Cliff James, technical and sales director of Unicorn also reported that by 2011 it is their intention to supply spares from the Chengdu office, thereby offering shorter lead times to its customers and further enhancing customer service. In addition to the continued supply of

Unicorn has installed a new large diameter tube test system

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S eptember 2010

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