The techniques can also be used to assess the integrity of inter-casting wedges. BIRL used AE and strain gauge monitoring to characterize growing fatigue cracks in this structure. The use of painting to provide corrosion protection for steel structures has been a common practice for many years, but it hides the flaws in the surface underneath. Computer-aided imaging in both the visible and the infrared portions of the spectrum is used for coating assessment. Visible imaging provides quantitative assessment of the surface corrosion percentage and cleanliness of the prepared surface.
Infrared thermography detects sub-surface delaminations and corrosions.
Together, these techniques permit a thorough evaluation of the integrity of the paint system. In-Process NDE of Welds New structures are made, and old structures repaired by various welding methods. Acoustic emission monitoring techniques developed by BIRL engineers are being used to detect flaws in welds during the welding process. Unique AE signal processing techniques are being used to separate flaw growth signals from the large amounts of noise present in the welding process. The AE technique offers the unique capability of real-time flaw detection and location for welding process control.