OVERVIEW OF ULTRASONIC VALVE INSPECTION

Poor valve operation can be an important contributor to steam waste. If a valve is leaking, blocked or stuck shut, energy is lost, steam quality is effected and product quality can be negatively impacted. Leakage can occur internally, normally through the valve seat, or externally such as through valve fitting or the valve stem.

Ultrasonic inspection is ideally suited for steam valve inspection. A scanning mode can detect external leakage (pressure or vacuum) while the contact (wave-guide) mode will locate leaking and blocked valves.