Westech Inspection, Inc. provides advanced ultrasonic examination services using Shear Wave UT and Phased Array UT (PAUT) to support mechanical integrity, code compliance, and reliability programs. These techniques are ideal for detecting and sizing weld discontinuities, cracking, and other flaws that may not be effectively evaluated using conventional thickness UT alone.
Our examinations are performed by qualified technicians and integrated with our API inspection services (API 510, API 570, API 653) to ensure results are actionable and properly interpreted within the context of equipment condition, service environment, and applicable code requirements.
Why Use Shear Wave and Phased Array?
Advanced weld and flaw evaluation is often required for:
-
In-service crack detection and monitoring
-
Weld quality evaluation during repairs and modifications
-
Fitness-for-service assessments
-
Targeted inspection of high-risk circuits and components
-
Verification of indications found during other NDE methods
Both Shear Wave UT and PAUT provide volumetric examination capability—allowing evaluation of internal weld and base metal conditions without requiring radiography in many applications.
Shear Wave Ultrasonic Testing (SWUT)
Shear Wave UT is a proven, reliable technique used to detect and evaluate flaws in welds and adjacent heat-affected zones by introducing angled ultrasonic sound waves into the material.
Typical Applications
-
Butt weld examinations on piping and pressure vessels
-
Structural and attachment weld evaluation
-
Crack detection in welds and heat-affected zones
-
In-service inspection where radiography is impractical
What Shear Wave Can Detect
-
Lack of fusion / lack of penetration
-
Cracking (including toe cracks and HAZ cracking)
-
Slag inclusions and other internal discontinuities
-
Planar defects oriented favorably to the sound path
Shear wave is especially effective when a targeted weld evaluation is needed and access is limited to one side of the component.
Phased Array Ultrasonic Testing (PAUT)
Phased Array UT (PAUT) uses a multi-element probe to steer, focus, and sweep ultrasonic beams through a range of angles. This produces highly detailed data and allows for improved flaw detection, characterization, and sizing.
Key Advantages
-
Multiple angles from a single probe position
-
Improved probability of detection (POD) compared to single-angle techniques
-
Enhanced flaw characterization and sizing
-
Digital data collection for traceability and review
-
Imaging outputs that help communicate results clearly
Common Applications
-
Code-driven weld examinations
-
Repair weld verification and post-repair documentation
-
In-service crack detection and monitoring
-
Complex geometries and limited access situations
-
Flaw sizing for engineering evaluation or FFS support
Reporting Outputs
PAUT data can be presented in multiple formats to support decision-making, including scan-based images and stored datasets that can be reviewed for trending or re-evaluation.
How We Apply Advanced UT
We approach advanced UT with an inspection-first mindset—selecting the method that best matches the material, geometry, service conditions, and expected damage mechanism.
When appropriate, we can combine methods to increase confidence, such as:
-
PAUT for primary detection and characterization
-
Shear Wave UT for confirmation or targeted follow-up
-
Conventional UT for thickness trending and corrosion monitoring
-
MT/PT for surface-breaking flaw confirmation
Documentation & Deliverables
Our deliverables are designed to support quick, defensible decisions and long-term asset management. Depending on the scope, reports may include:
-
Examination scope and technique description
-
Calibration and reference standards used
-
Indication location and depth
-
Estimated flaw length/height (when applicable)
-
Clear accept/reject evaluation criteria when specified
-
Annotated scan images or data summaries
-
Recommendations for repair, monitoring, or follow-up inspection intervals