Electric Power Research Institute develops virtual NDE system
15/05/2020
The Electric Power Research Institute’s (EPRI’s) Non-Destructive Evaluation (NDE) programme has developed a virtual non-destructive evaluation (VNDE) game-changing technology that it claims will transform the way practical training for ultrasonic testing and inspection is delivered. The VNDE system allows a user to interact with a simulated inspection application. Using a simulated ultrasonic transducer and a simulated pipe containing a weld, the user interfaces with an on-screen display that simulates manually scanned ultrasonic data (‘plays back’ previously recorded ultrasonic testing (UT) data).VNDE enables:
- Effective and affordable practical training by eliminating the need for maintaining an inventory of intentionally ‘flawed’ NDE mock-ups
- Real-time hands-on remote training by eliminating the need for instructors and NDE practitioners to be in the same place
- Access to controlled and diverse datasets (ie the ultrasonic data that is displayed via the VNDE system) from multiple industries.
Since 1981, EPRI’s NDE programme has established itself as a world leader in the development and application of innovative NDE solutions to support the power generating industry. Although historically focused on the electric power industry, EPRI’s NDE programme has expanded and many of its technologies can be applied to other industries. With an increasing focus on transferring its NDE technology to other industries, EPRI will discuss the development of its new VNDE system at the 20th World Conference on Non-Destructive Testing (20th WCNDT). The conference, originally scheduled for 8-12 June 2020 in Seoul, South Korea, has been postponed in view of serious health concerns and worldwide travel restrictions caused by the current global COVID-19 pandemic. At the rescheduled event, which will be held from 31 May to 4 June 2021 at Songdo Convensia, Incheon, Korea, visitors to the EPRI exhibit will see the VNDE system features and experience the realism of the VNDE system first-hand. EPRI staff will also be on hand to discuss how organisations can participate in EPRI’s collaborative NDE research programmes.
www.epri.com
