Visitors were able to see the Robot that positions the ultrasonic transducers and test head in this new Echomac® PA TW operator friendly test system for detecting weld zone defects in tube and pipe caused by scarfing or welding processes. A video showing the system inspecting welded tube in the hot zone at a mill explained that this upstream location in the weld line gives the operator instant feedback when the scarfing tool is bad or bro­ken, allowing immediate adjustment of the welding operation, and saving many feet of tube scrap. Other features described were the wide coverage of the test head which can handle typical shifts in the weld location, and the electronically controlled transducers that can vary the pulse timing of the individual elements to inspect with multiple angles, if needed, all without any manual intervention.

A Minimac® eddy current tester for detecting surface and subsurface defects in ferrous and nonferrous wire, rod and tube was demonstrated in the booth, coupled with a linear rail fixture which moved a small sample rod through the test coil. This instrument is often installed for high speed in-line testing of small diameter drawn wire. It’s filters and digital processors, along with guiding and holding mechanisms, prevent vibration from interfering with the test as well as ensuring smooth progress of the product through the production line. The test detects typical small surface defects such as scratches, cracks, and pin holes. MAC’s optional quality grading software can allow the customer to customize the defect types, each based on a specific threshold gate, specify the maximum number of defects for each grade level, and configure reports that include coil ID, grade, date, time, production line, test instrument, and total defect count for each designated type.

MAC Engineers at the booth also met with customers to discuss the full range of MAC’s Eddy Current, Flux Leakage and Ultrasonic test solutions, including multi-test systems ranging up to 500mm for OCTG pipe, and other nondestructive test solutions for tube producers. MAC’s 90+ years of developing and supplying NDT equipment and systems to tube, bar, and wire manufacturers gives us a thorough understanding of customer inspection needs.

SEE YOU IN 2024!