Press Release: UTComp announces SNT-TC-1A compliant certification program for UltraAnalytix® inspection personnel

March 7, 2022

The UltraAnalytix inspection system is the only ultrasonic non-destructive testing method to provide Fitness-For-Service assessments for FRP composites by inspectors who are certified in accordance with SNT-TC-1A practice
 
Cambridge, Ont., CANADA, March 7, 2022 — UTComp Inc., a global FRP composites engineering and inspection company, has established a certification program for UltraAnalytix inspection personnel that complies with the requirements of Recommended Practice SNT-TC-1A by the American Society for Nondestructive Testing (ASNT).

UltraAnalytix is a patented non-intrusive, non-destructive testing method for assessing the condition of FRP composite materials. The certification program for UltraAnalytix inspection personnel is certified by a third-party NDT Level III professional, said Geoff Clarkson, UTComp founder and Chief Technical Officer.

“It enables UTComp’s inspectors and engineers to be certified to perform UltraAnalytix inspections that meet the highest standards for data acquisition to ensure reliable analysis and results for FRP composite assets,” Clarkson said.

“Just like the qualifications of NDT inspectors for metal alloys and aerospace applications, this globally recognized certification assures our customers that our inspectors have proven their qualifications through the required training, practical experience and written examinations.

“It is a major step forward for FRP reliability confidence and will help realize the potential of composite materials for corrosion resistance, durability and sustainability.”

About UltraAnalytix NDT inspection

UltraAnalytix NDT ensures FRP composite assets meet the highest standards of safety, reliability and performance.

The patented system combines ultrasonic data collected in the field with external visual inspection and analysis using a proprietary algorithm. This non-intrusive method ensures FRP composite assets are fit for service and calculates their remaining service life. UltraAnalytix results have been validated through academic research and by 500+ comparisons with destructive tests in the field. More than 4,000 assets are now enrolled in UltraAnalytix inspection programs for more than 200 companies worldwide.

About UTComp Inc.

UTComp Inc. is a global leader in FRP composites engineering and inspection services for chemical processing, oil and gas, pulp and paper, mining and other industries. Our patented UltraAnalytix NDT inspection system ensures reliability and proactive service life forecasting for optimal composite asset management and maximum ROI.

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For more information, please contact:

Jo Anne Watton, CEO, UTComp Inc.
j.watton@utcomp.com
Office: 519-620-0772, Ext. 102
Mobile: 519-498-7848

Non-Destructive Evaluation (NDE) Methods for FRP

Comparison of NDE methods for determining Remaining Strength Factor of FRP for completion of Assessment as per proposed Part 16 update to API 579-1/ASME FFS-1:

NDE Method
Acoustic Emission (AE)
Acousto-ultrasonics (AU)
Attenuation-based ultrasonics (UAX)
UltraAnalytix (UAX+)
Applicable Standard
ASTM E1067
ASTM E1495
ASTM C1332¹
Combines ASTM C1332 & E1495
Inspector Certification Available
ISO, ASNT, SNT-TC-1A
SNT-TC-1A
SNT-TC-1A
SNT-TC-1A
Included in ISO or ASNT Training



Number of Calibration Specimens Required for an Inspection
0
1 or 2
2
0
Destructive Testing and Analysis of Calibration Specimens Required



Available Equipment Provides Output Values



Automated Processing for PDS Available



Remaining Strength Factor and Remaining Life Provided