| The REACT group (Research, Engineering, Applications) produces complete solutions to inspection and monitoring problems. In addition to hardware and software solutions, development and verification of test procedures form a significant part of the work, with many established AE codes and standards having originated with Physical Acoustics/Customer partnerships. Physical Acoustics works with both customer based groups, or individual customers, to provide the solutions needed.
Examples include TANKPAC™, developed with thirty industry-based companies for in-service testing of storage tank floors, and T-SCOUT™, developed for the army to inspect multilayer thick composite lightweight armour, including rubber, kevlar, and ceramic layers, an inspection task considered by most to be impossible.
Much of the groups development work is for OEM customers, developing technology and products for them to incorporate into their products and services. From 0.1 Hz seismic sensors, through the AE frequency range, up to >100 MHz ultrasonic microscope applications, the team is ready and willing to be challenged.
The R&D specialists are supported by an in-house electronic engineering, sensors, and software group who are highly experienced at both prototype and production development. Expertise is distributed world-wide, but works closely together to best serve the customer. Programs range from “application development”, through to long-term fundamental research.
Some of the UK run programs across a broad section of industry are listed below:
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Production test procedure for a CFRP/Kevlar/High strength steel hybrid component.
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Non-invasive through-valve leakage quantification, for use in process plant.
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Production test for the ARIANE IV SPELDA (4m x4m CFRP-AL structure).
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MSM Sensor for measuring particle momentum on the Giotto space probe.
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Monitoring procedure for the RAF VC-10 fuselage proof pressure test.
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In-service testing of above ground storage tank floors, without product removal.
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Static structural test monitoring procedure for the SAAB JAS-39 Gripen aircraft.
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Test procedure for low-speed (radar, jetty loading arm etc) bearings.
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On-stream monitoring and shutdown system for methanol converters.
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Continuous remote monitoring of critical areas on offshore platform.
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In-service testing of longitudinal and transverse box girders.
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Quantification of micro-cracking development in concrete structures.
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On-stream monitoring of platformer reactors.
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Corrosion of re-bar in concrete.
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Location of active faults in power transformers whilst in-service.
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Laser weld testing system development for vehicle production. |
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OIL
& GAS
