IMechE Level 3 Services supports Earthmill Maintenance to bring ultrasonic testing services in-house
15/11/2023
In a strategic move to elevate their operations, Earthmill Maintenance Ltd and Natural Generation (soon to be merged) welcomed Nathan Bate, IMechE’s experienced Level 3 Consultant, to provide bespoke training on the fundamentals of ultrasonic testing (UT) to technicians at their facilities in Harrogate, UK.
The on-site training, tailored to Earthmill’s unique requirements, marked a significant step towards bringing the company’s ultrasonic testing services in-house, reducing its dependency on external contractors. With the recent acquisition of Sonatest Wave units to facilitate the transition towards in-house UT practices, Earthmill required training for its staff on how to operate these advanced tools.
A leading provider of wind turbine services and maintenance solutions, and specialising in renewable energy, Earthmill Maintenance offers a range of services aimed at optimising the performance and longevity of wind energy systems.
Specialising in the in-service inspection of wind turbine gearbox shafts while they remain in situ, Earthmill recognised the value of owning its NDT capabilities: a shift from outsourcing to insourcing NDT services would help it to improve efficiencies, be more cost-effective and maintain higher standards of quality and consistency.
As a Level 3 Consultant with specialist knowledge of UT and its applications, Nathan provided technical staff at Earthmill with invaluable insights into conducting inspections using ultrasonic testing techniques.
The training covered basic concepts, operating the Sonatest Wave units, the nature of sound, relevant formulae, wave propagation, types of display, the operation of flaw detectors, probes, couplants, defect location and sizing methods and the use of plotting systems.
Bringing ultrasonic testing services in-house empowers Earthmill with cost-efficient inspections, reduced downtime and enhanced operational control. Internal UT fosters expertise, saving costs by eliminating external contractors. Swift response times to technical challenges, streamlined processes and data security are ensured.
Earthmill’s commitment to sustainability aligns with optimised wind turbine performance and prolonged lifespans. Knowledge retention benefits long-term stability, while in-house control adapts testing to operational needs.
UT proficiency translates to minimised risks, reduced expenses and a skilled workforce. This strategic move reinforces Earthmill’s position in advancing renewable energy while ensuring efficient, secure and sustainable growth.
https://argyllruane.imeche.org/level-3-services
