Ultrasonic Inspection: Bulk Containers

Ultrasonic Testing

Ultrasonic technology is incorporated into a test stand for quality control of refurbished containers including drums and totes:

There are two methods being used for the implementation of ultrasound into the refurbishing industry. One method includes using the UL101 as a portable tool. The other method incorporates CTRL technology into a mounted leak detection system that can be used to test drums and totes. Different designs are developed by Adria Machine for the multitude of shapes and sizes that bulk containers come in.

When using the UL101 as a handheld tool for leak detection and quality control of the refurbished containers, it is first necessary to pressurize the container to pressures between 3 and 10 psi, depending upon the type of container. Once pressurized and sealed off, the UL101 is used in conjunction with the acoustic probes or one-inch acoustic tip to scan the outside of the container. If there is a leak, it will be detected by the user through the headset.

The second method of detection requires very little man-power and is 100% accurate for any leak that produces turbulence (i.e. sound). The CTRL technology used is sensitive enough to detect a hole so small that a needle would not fit through. These mounted leak detectors are designed according to the specifications of the end user. Some have been designed to test as many as 600 containers per hour on an assebly line style conveyor. Some are designed for use through manual setting and securing of the drum.