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Press Release /12
IMCA PUBLISHES INFORMATION NOTE ON NDE TESTING OF GAS CYLINDERS
The International Marine Contractors Association (IMCA) has published an information
note on non-destructive evaluation (NDE) testing of gas cylinders.
Advancements in NDE testing techniques for gas cylinders have been the subject of
extensive discussion by members of the IMCA Diving Division Safety, Medical, Technical
& Training Committee (SMTT). A dedicated workgroup of industry experts was established
to take the issue forward and to develop an update of detail sheet 9.1 of IMCA D
018 – Code of practice on the initial and periodic examination, testing and certification
of diving plant and equipment. The updated detail sheet 9.1 of IMCA D 018 will be
included in the next revision of IMCA D 018. The information note (IMCA D 08/11)
is available to IMCA members on the ‘members-only’ website.
The detail sheet sets out additional guidance for the possible use of ultrasonic
NDE testing techniques in place of a five yearly internal examination and overpressure
test, provided that certain key prerequisites have been met. Internal moisture levels
are a key factor to consider when using such testing techniques and, as such, NDE
testing of cylinders used for compressed air storage would not be appropriate.
The information note stresses six key points:
- The ultrasonic testing system used must conform to the requirements of ISO 6406:2005
(section 11.4 – ultrasonic examination);
- In many countries there are detailed national regulations concerning gas cylinders,
particularly if these are transportable. Such regulations must be complied with,
even if they conflict with or are more onerous than the recommendations given above;
- Hydraulic testing of large storage tubes subject to dry internal service is not
recommended as it introduces moisture in to the system which may prove difficult
to remove. In such cases pneumatic or gas overpressure testing may be substituted;
- If testing is not hydraulic and the competent person requires it then other testing
such as wall thickness measurement or acoustic emission testing may also be required;
- Some national regulations, certifying authorities or gas cylinder codes may give
no option but to apply hydraulic overpressure testing;
- In all types of overpressure testing, suitable safety precautions must be taken
to ensure the safety of all testing personnel and others.
- It is recommended that a pressure leak test is carried out after hydraulic test
in order to detect any possible leakage of the pillar valve stem seals prior to
return to service.
Further information on IMCA is available at www.imca-int.com
and from the association at 52 Grosvenor Gardens, London SW1W 0AU, UK. Tel: +44
(0)20 7824 5520; Fax: +44 (0)20 7824 5521; imca@imca-int.com
Notes to Editors (common)
- IMCA is an international association with well over 850 members in 60 countries, as at September 2011, representing offshore, marine and underwater engineering companies. IMCA has four technical divisions, covering marine/specialist vessel operations, offshore diving, hydrographic survey and remote systems and ROVs, plus geographic sections for the Asia-Pacific, South America, Europe & Africa, Middle East & India and Central & North America regions. As well as a core focus on safety, the environment, competence and training. IMCA seeks to promote its members' common interests, to resolve industry-wide issues and to provide an authoritative voice for its members.
- IMCA publishes some 200 guidance notes and technical reports. These have been developed over the years and are widely distributed. They are a definition of what IMCA stands for, including widely recognised diving and ROV codes of practice, DP documentation, marine good practice guidance, the Common Marine Inspection Document, safety recommendation, outline training syllabi and the IMCA competence scheme guidance. In addition to the range of printed guidance documents, IMCA also produces safety promotional materials, circulates information notes and safety flashes.
- Judith Patten is here to help you if you want any additional information on IMCA; would like to discuss a feature article; want to organise interviews with key members of the IMCA team, etc.
Press releases issued by:
Judith Patten at JPPR
34 Ellerker Gardens, Richmond, Surrey, TW10 6AA, UK
Tel: +44 (0) 20 8241 1912
Fax: +44 (0) 20 8940 6211
judithpatten@jppr.uk.com
For more details, please contact Hugh Williams, IMCA Chief Executive
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