AST Acoustic Emission Testing of Tank Floors
Technology and Techniques: Advanced Methods for Accurate Results
Technology and Techniques: Advanced Methods for Accurate Results
Benefits versus traditional code-based Inspection regimes
Understanding the criticality and importance of cost-effective maintenance of your storage tanks, our AST Acoustic Emission testing service stands out as a premier choice for industries including the Petrochemical, Chemical, Water Treatment, Mining and Processing, and Waste Management Companies.
Corrosion of storage tanks causes acoustic emission, a fact which is used widely to assist with maintenance planning and schedule the most active tank for scheduled inspections. The costs of removing a tank from service and cleaning it just to inspect the floor are wasted if the floor is then found to be in good condition. By listening first for active corrosion, it is possible to decide if inspection and repair are really necessary.
Conversely, tanks that are in an advanced state of corrosion may be removed from service before a costly failure. Therefore, targeting those tanks that require inspection based on their condition versus simply inspecting tanks every 10-20 years using the various Australian and American-based code recommendations.
The Acoustic Emission tank floor test collects data in real-time, and the tank can be left in service with only a limited business interruption during the initial tank product settlement timeframe and the subsequent AE site testing.
Acoustic Emission (AE) Testing started in the late 1980s and quickly became a key method for checking the condition of storage tank floors worldwide.
This technique has been refined over the years, with countless successful tests proving its worth.
It’s backed by extensive research, numerous articles, and international standards, making it a trusted choice across various industries.
The technique is always getting better, thanks to ongoing improvements.
It meets the requirements of several important international standards, like API 653, API 575, API 334, and EEMUA 183, as well as the EN 15856 standard.
These standards confirm that AE testing is a reliable way to assess tank floors online, especially for detecting corrosion.
It is designed for industries such as mining, water treatment, petrochemicals, chemicals, and processing.
AE testing involves setting up special sensors and collecting data to obtain a clear picture of a tank floor’s condition.
This global acceptance and adherence to strict standards show just how valuable and reliable AE testing is for keeping storage tanks safe and well-maintained.
By detecting active corrosion through acoustic emissions, we help you prioritise maintenance actions, saving costs on unnecessary inspections.
Our real-time data collection allows your tank to remain in service, with limited interruption during the testing phase.
Receive detailed reports on your tank floor's condition, with recommended service intervals and monitoring timeframes.
Our methods comply with international standards, including API 653, API 575, API 334, and EN 15856, ensuring top-notch service quality and reliability.
AST Acoustic Emission Testing is a non-invasive inspection method that listens for sounds of corrosion or flaws in tank floors while they remain in service. This technique helps identify areas that may need maintenance without emptying or taking the tank out of operation.
Unlike traditional methods that often require tanks to be emptied and taken out of service, AST Acoustic Emission Testing is performed while the tank is operational, reducing downtime and costs. It focuses on detecting active corrosion, allowing for targeted maintenance rather than broad inspections.
Our services adhere to international standards, including API 653, API 575, API 334, EEMUA 183, and EN 15856. These standards ensure our testing methods are reliable, accurate, and globally recognized for assessing tank floor integrity.