NASA Embraces Ultrasonic Technology
as a Critical Tool for Maintenance
September 9, 2002
Download PDF Version (119k)
CTRL Systems, Inc. (Westminster, Maryland) - The yearlong assignment of the CTRL UL101 (UL101) ultrasonic inspection kit on the International Space Station (ISS) is complete. Now, NASA is in the process of making the ultrasonic technology a permanent fixture on the ISS and is planning to include the technology as a part of each Orbiter mission.
Immediately after the arrival of the UL101 on the ISS in July 2001, the tool was used to detect a leaking air line within minutes. After only one day of use, multiple leaks - including one critical leak - were located with the device. Astronauts aboard the ISS have already expressed their satisfaction and enthusiasm for the tool: "So simple to use" and "We love it" were among the statements that the Control Center in Houston reported. Because of the tool's value, NASA has embraced the technology as a critical component of their maintenance process.
The benefits of ultrasonics to maintenance are unparalleled. Not only is the technology critical to the astronauts aboard the ISS, but it is also critical to the operations of facilities on earth. Any disruption to regular procedures and operations - whether in space or on earth - is not only inconvenient, but also costly and time consuming. The UL101's sensitivity, ability to provide fast and accurate results, and its versatility have been proven to be invaluable to engineering, maintenance, operations, quality control, and safety.
"NASA's continued use of the UL101 on the International Space Station helps advance the technology by confirming its value and performance," said Keith Davis, President/COO of CTRL Systems. "Ultrasonic technology is still in the early stages of commercial awareness. Studies show that less than 15% of the market has knowledge of its existence. NASA is always at the forefront of new technology and we hope that their use of ultrasound for diagnostics will set a precedent for facilities on earth."
|
