Ultrasonic Testing (UT) Services in Brisbane
At Qualiss, we provide professional Ultrasonic Testing (UT) services to help industries across Australia detect flaws, measure thickness, and ensure the integrity of critical components. Whether it’s weld inspection, corrosion monitoring, or structural testing, our certified technicians deliver precise results you can trust.
What is Ultrasonic Testing?
Ultrasonic Testing (UT) is a non-destructive testing (NDT) method that uses high-frequency sound waves to detect internal flaws or measure material thickness. Unlike surface methods, UT can locate hidden defects deep within metals, composites, and other materials.
This makes UT one of the most widely used techniques in industries where safety, quality, and compliance are critical.
Applications of Ultrasonic Testing
- Weld inspections – detect lack of fusion, porosity, cracks, and inclusions
- Thickness measurement – assess corrosion or erosion in pipelines, tanks, and vessels
- Structural testing – ensure integrity of bridges, cranes, and load-bearing components
- Power generation & energy – testing turbines, pressure vessels, and boiler tubes
- Marine & offshore – monitoring hulls, masts, and subsea components
Benefits of Ultrasonic Testing
- Accurate & reliable – detects tiny cracks and flaws invisible to the eye
- Non-destructive – no damage to the material being tested
- Depth penetration – inspects thick materials and welds
- Cost-effective – early detection prevents costly failures
- Versatile – suitable for metals, composites, and plastics
Limitations to Consider
Like all NDT methods, UT has some limitations:
Requires smooth, clean surfaces for best accuracy.
Effectiveness may be reduced in coarse-grained materials (e.g., cast iron).
Skilled technicians are essential for accurate interpretation of results.
At Qualiss, our certified inspectors are trained to overcome these challenges and deliver clear, reliable data to support your asset decisions.
Frequently Asked Questions – Ultrasonic Testing (UT)
What is Ultrasonic Testing?
It’s a non-destructive test that uses sound waves to detect flaws or measure thickness inside materials.
Is UT safe?
Yes. It uses sound waves, not radiation, so there are no safety risks for people or the environment.
What can UT detect?
Cracks, porosity, lack of fusion in welds, corrosion, and wall thinning in tanks, pipes, and vessels.
Do coatings or paint affect results?
Thin coatings usually don’t, but heavy coatings may need to be removed for accurate results.
What industries use UT?
Mining, oil and gas, marine, manufacturing, power generation, and construction.
What’s the difference between conventional UT and phased array?
Conventional UT uses a single probe. Phased array provides images and better coverage, which is ideal for complex welds or critical components.
How accurate is it?
UT can detect very small defects and provide thickness readings to fractions of a millimetre when the surface is prepared properly.
What preparation is required?
The surface should be clean and accessible. Rust, heavy scale, or thick coatings may need to be removed.
Can testing be done while equipment is running?
In some cases, yes. Thickness checks and simple scans can often be done online, but detailed weld inspections usually need access during shutdown.
How long does it take?
A single weld or thickness check can take minutes. Larger scopes can take several hours or days depending on access and reporting.
Do I get a report?
Yes. Every job comes with a clear digital report showing results, images (if required), and recommendations.
How much does it cost?
Costs depend on scope, access, and reporting requirements. Contact us for a tailored quote.
Why choose UT over radiography or magnetic particle testing?
UT is safer than radiography, can find internal flaws (unlike magnetic particle), and gives accurate thickness data — making it a versatile choice.
How do I book a UT inspection?
Simply call us or use the online contact form, and we’ll provide a quote and schedule a technician.
