How to determine if FRP and composite assets are Fit for Service
In-service evaluation of fiber-reinforced plastic (FRP) and other composite equipment and components must detect and evaluate damage mechanisms that are created by the service conditions. In most applications, FRP is a structural material that must support loads while exposed to corrosive conditions. When FRP is able to continue in service, it is considered to be “Fit for Service”.
Inspection of in-service FRP must detect and quantify damage that will affect the ability of the FRP to perform. A further requirement is that detection must allow enough lead time to plan repairs or replacement.
All damage mechanisms that affect FRP involve combinations of resin, glass and the bond of resin to glass. These damage mechanisms can be detected as:
- changes in stiffness of the FRP;
- reduction in thickness; and
- depth of damage to the corrosion barrier.
The charts below show how these have been observed to change with time in service. Tracking these to identify the earliest time that action is required is the goal of in-service inspection with the UTComp UltraAnalytix™ system. Almost nothing covered in inspection of new FRP can be used to provide this information.
UltraAnalytix™ Requirements and Limitations
- Transducer must be in contact with surface
- Accurate results require data analysis with UTComp’s proprietary algorithm (interpretation in the field is not possible)
- Operates best at temperatures >50°F or 10°C
- Cannot be used for inspection of structures with foam cores and thick (>3 inch or 7.5 cm) balsa core
- Cannot be used to inspect pipe less than 2 inch or 50 mm outside diameter
- Cannot be used in magnetic fields within 8 ft (2400 mm) of conductor carrying 120,000+ Amps
Learn more about UltraAnalytix™ Quality Control inspection for new FRP construction.
See Case Studies and Papers and Presentations.
Questions? Contact us.