Featuring patented Acoustic Pulse Reflectometry (APR) technology, APRIS is an advanced, yet easy-to-use tool that overcomes the limitations of many conventional inspection techniques. With its simple operation, interactive analysis and report generation, it offers enhanced user experience. Providing reliable inspection of even the most challenging tube sizes and configurations, APRIS increases inspection cycle efficiency and operational cost savings.
Acoustic Pulse Reflectomery (APR) is a specialised technology that measures the ensuing reflection from the surface abnormalities by sending sound pulses down the tube using air as a medium.
Any changes in the cross sectional area in the tubular system generates a reflection. These reflections are generated from the change in geometry in the tube when sound travels down the tube.
Each defect has it own signature and our patented algorithms identify, classify, and report the location and size of defect.
Flipsides of APR:
Set-up
Map Tube Sheet
Upload a photograph or schematic diagram of the Heat Exchanger onto the APRIS software. Create a map of the tube sheet. Assign a number to each of the tube openings. A tube sheet gives the software a graphic representation of the Heat Exchanger. As such, it will help you track which tubes have already been measured – empowering you to work efficiently.
Set-up Inspection Parameters
Set the inspection parameters based on the physical attributes of the tubes. This includes the tube length, diameter, and wall thickness.
Take measurements
Take the Measurement
Follow the tube sheet map and insert the probe of the APRIS handheld device into each tube opening. This will take about 10 – 15 seconds per tube. The LED light on the APRIS device will indicate when the measurement is complete. The software will then highlight the next tube to measure.
Set Inspection Thresholds
Once measurements have been taken, a reference measurement is calculated based on statistical signal processing, considering statistical deviation of tube signals and the presence of ambient noise. Any measurement beyond that deviation is a potential flaw. In addition, the APRIS software enables the Heat Exchanger owner to determine thresholds for each type of defects such as holes, blockages, pitting and erosion, depending on the sensitivity of the given application (e.g. the diameter of the hole, percentage of the cross-section reduction, percentage of the wall loss, etc.). Only those measurements that exceeds the defined threshold are reported as flaws.
Analyse results & generate report
Analyse Data and Generate Report
The raw data (i.e. signals) collected by the system is interpreted and presented to the inspector for review and verification. This entire process is performed automatically by APRIS software that works on sophisticated Artificial Intelligence (AI) based on algorithms. It generates a final report (PDF) containing summary information, including tabular reporting, charts and screenshots of the deflected flaws.
APRIS (Acoustic Pulse Reflectometry Inspection System) is an inner tube inspection tool/device that uses NDT and APR technologies to conduct inspections.
NDT (Non-destructive testing) technology is a wide group of analysis techniques used in science and technology industry to evaluate the properties of a material, component or system without causing damage.
APR (Acoustic Pulse Reflectometry) technology is based on the measurement of one-dimensional acoustic waves propagating in tubes. Any change in the cross-sectional area in the tubular system creates a reflection, which is then recorded and analysed in order to detect defects.
Yes, APRIS is user-friendly and testing is easily performed by any operator with minimal training.
It takes about 10 seconds per tube. If 2000 tubes are being inspected, it would take about 8-10 hours.
From 7mm – 100mm (1/4 – 4 inches) in diameter.
APRIS uses air as a medium for its sound pulse propagation. Hence, it is possible to inspect any tube configuration such as U bend, finned, multiple bend, D shaped tubes etc.
Since APRIS doesn’t use material properties for its sound pulse propagation, it’s applicable for all tube materials including ferrous, non-ferrous, graphite, composites etc.
25m can be covered if inspected from one end. If a tube length is greater than 25m, both ends of the tube can be inspected to cover 50m effectively. Tubes greater than 50m can still be inspected but accuracy of sizing varies.
Positional or locational tolerance: +/- 5cm
Sizing tolerance: +/-10%
The above is applicable for tubes with length of maximum 25m
If any tube exceeds 25m length
Positional or locational tolerance: +/- 5cm
Sizing tolerance: +/-20%
APRIS is able to detect holes (leakages), wall loss (pitting & erosion), and blockages (deposits/scales).
Yes, cleaning is the pre-requisite to carry out inspection using APRIS.
If hydro jetting (water-based cleaning) to be employed, it is recommended to dry the tubes via air blow to avoid water stagnation. If not, it shall be reflected as blockage.
Sophisticated algorithms using artificial intelligence assist users to generate report within 24 hours via intuitive software.
ASTM E2906/E2906M-13
ASME BPVC.V-2017-Article 18
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