Heat Exchanger Tube Inspection Services
Westech Inspection, Inc. provides advanced tube inspection services led by our primary platform, the Eddyfi Ectane high-performance eddy current system.
The Ectane delivers high-speed, multi-channel, multi-frequency inspection capability with superior signal resolution and advanced analysis software. This technology allows us to perform rapid, highly sensitive inspections while maintaining exceptional data quality for trending and verification.
To further expand our capability across all tube materials and configurations, we also utilize the MultiScan MS5800 system to support specialized applications and multi-technology inspections when required.
Our Inspection Philosophy
We prioritize:
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Selecting the best inspection technology based on tube material and damage mechanism
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Producing high-confidence data to support repair, plugging, and rerate decisions
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Using secondary technologies for verification when necessary
By combining advanced electromagnetic and ultrasonic technologies, we provide complete condition assessment for critical heat exchangers, condensers, boilers, and fin fan coolers.
Primary Inspection Platform
Eddy Current Testing (ECT) – Powered by the Eddyfi Ectane
The Eddyfi Ectane is our primary inspection system and is optimized for high-speed condenser and heat exchanger testing.
Key Advantages:
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Multi-channel, multi-frequency operation
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Advanced mixing and filtering capabilities
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High-resolution defect detection
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Integrated tube sheet mapping software
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Full digital data recording and archiving
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Corrosion rate trending for individual tubes
Ideal For:
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Condensers
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Feedwater heaters
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Chillers
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Air conditioning systems
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Non-ferromagnetic heat exchangers
Detects and Sizes:
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Corrosion and erosion
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Pitting
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Tube-to-tube wear
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Fretting
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Cracking
The Ectane platform enhances sensitivity, reduces inspection time, and provides highly detailed data for long-term asset management.
Additional Inspection Technologies
To ensure complete coverage across all tube materials, we deploy supplemental technologies as needed.
Remote Field Testing (RFT)
Used for full wall inspection of ferromagnetic tubing such as carbon steel.
Applications:
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Boilers
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Carbon steel heat exchangers
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Feedwater heaters
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Air coolers
Detects wall thinning, corrosion, pitting, erosion, and baffle cuts.
Magnetic Flux Leakage (MFL)
Ideal for detecting wall loss and sharp defects in ferromagnetic tubing.
Advantages:
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Sensitive to pitting and grooving
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Effective for aluminum-finned carbon steel tubes
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Strong secondary verification tool for RFT
Near Field Testing (NFT)
An ID-focused method for carbon steel tubing.
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Detects internal corrosion and pitting
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Unaffected by tube sheets and support plates
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Frequently used for fin fan exchangers
Internal Rotating Inspection System (IRIS)
An ultrasonic technique suitable for both ferromagnetic and non-ferromagnetic tubing.
Capabilities:
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Accurate wall thickness measurement
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Detection and sizing of corrosion, wear, and cracking
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B-scan, C-scan, and D-scan image reporting
IRIS is commonly used as a high-accuracy verification tool when precise wall thickness measurement is required.
Reporting & Qualifications
Our technicians are certified in accordance with ASNT SNT-TC-1A guidelines and are experienced in advanced data acquisition and interpretation.
Each inspection includes:
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Comprehensive inspection report
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Color-coded tube sheet mapping
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Documented defect characterization
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Archived digital data for future trending
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Corrosion rate analysis when applicable