Ultrasonic Testing Services

Shear Wave Ultrasonic Testing is a powerful technique used to detect internal flaws, particularly those not oriented perpendicular to the surface. Unlike longitudinal waves, which travel in the same direction as particle vibration, shear waves propagate at an angle, with particle motion occurring perpendicular to the wave’s travel direction. This angular approach allows shear waves to detect planar defects like cracks, lack of fusion, or incomplete penetration, especially in welds and thick-walled components.

At Kova Engineering (Saskatchewan) Ltd., certified UT technicians use shear wave techniques for angle beam inspections, commonly with refracted angles of 45°, 60°, or 70°, depending on the application. These angles enable better coverage of weld joints and detection of defects that would otherwise go unnoticed with straight-beam methods. The ability to scan along the length of a weld and detect flaws oriented in various directions makes shear wave UT indispensable for industries like construction, mining, and oil & gas.

Shear wave inspection is typically done using a wedge attached to the transducer, which introduces the wave at the correct angle. The interpretation of the resulting echoes—based on time, distance, and amplitude—provides detailed insight into the presence and severity of subsurface anomalies.

Thickness Testing and Corrosion Surveys are critical services within the scope of Ultrasonic Testing, enabling the assessment of material degradation over time. These inspections are vital in industries where corrosion, erosion, and material loss can compromise structural integrity and safety—such as oil & gas, mining, chemical processing, and infrastructure.

Kova Engineering (Saskatchewan) Ltd. provides reliable and accurate thickness measurements using ultrasonic straight-beam techniques. Certified inspectors use portable UT equipment to measure remaining wall thickness without requiring shutdowns or invasive procedures. This makes the process ideal for in-service inspections of pipelines, pressure vessels, tanks, structural components, and more.

By regularly monitoring material thickness, clients can track corrosion rates and determine whether components remain within safe operational limits. This data-driven approach supports proactive maintenance strategies, helping to prevent failures, avoid costly downtime, and extend equipment lifespan. Corrosion surveys also help to identify high-risk zones, prioritize repairs, and validate protective coatings or cathodic protection systems.