Ultrasonic thickness measurement is a non-destructive testing method to measure the thickness of an integral solid element based on the ultrasonic pulse return time to the surface. This is an important and mandatory component of the Class Renewal Process for all commercial vessels and platforms. A reliable assessment of the condition of a vessel is important not only for its manager but is also mandatory when carrying out the classification of a vessel. Measurements of this kind are also undertaken for the purposes of various industries: to test metal structures, pipelines, pressure vessels, cranes, bridges and other units.

WESTERN CENTRAL LABORATORY is recognized by the Bureau Veritas, DNV-GL, Lloyd’s Register, Registro Italiano Navale and Russian Maritime Register of Shipping Classification Societies and is considered one of the best laboratories for ultrasonic thickness measurement.

The specialists working in the company are certified according to international standards, including ISO 9712, and are familiar with the requirements of all the leading classification societies. Certified technicians who have knowledge in the field of shipbuilding undertake ultrasonic thickness measurements. These specialists also carry out the evaluation and analysis of the obtained results.

Ultrasonic thickness measurements are undertaken worldwide. These tests can be carried out in not only shipyards at various ports but also when the ship is at sea. UTMs are undertaken using GE and Cygnus equipment. Throughout its history, WESTERN CENTRAL LABORATORY has conducted tests on over 2,000 ships. The main goal of our specialists is to help clients avoid various unexpected situations that can lead to considerable losses of time and money. That is why it is so important that the thickness measurements using ultrasound are undertaken prior to the scheduled repair of a ship. The ultrasonic thickness measurements that are mandatory when carrying out a ship’s classification may be initiated in advance. This way, after evaluating the results, the specifications of repairs required for the ship can be determined.

WESTERN CENTRAL LABORATORY provides services in accordance with both the classification society’s ship condition assessment programs and ship class renewal programs:

Condition Assessment Program (CAP survey)

The Condition Assessment Program is the assessment of the overall condition of the ship and determination of the rating. This program includes a thorough inspection of the ship, operational inspections, ultrasonic thickness measurements and hull strength assessments.

Special survey / Class renewal survey

Certified by all major classification societies as an UTM service provider based on IACS requirements and having inspectors who are certified in compliance with international standards, WESTERN CENTRAL LABORATORY provides ship owners and managers with high quality services to ensure that ships meet the applicable Class requirements.