Thickness Measurement
In welded manufacturing, thickness measurement is performed to verify whether the welded or to be welded material complies with a specific standard or design requirement. This measurement is important to ensure the strength of the structure, evaluate the weld quality, and determine any thickness losses that may have occurred in the material due to factors such as wear and corrosion before or after the welding process.
Objectives of Thickness Measurement:
Quality Control and Safety: Verifying whether the thickness is in accordance with the
design specifications is important to ensure the safety and durability of the structure.
Ensuring Strength: Having sufficient thickness of the weld area and its surroundings increases the strength, especially in structures exposed to pressure or load.
Detection of Wear and Corrosion: Used to determine the effects of wear or corrosion that occur over time and to evaluate maintenance or repair requirements.
How to Measure Thickness:
Ultrasonic Thickness Measurement: This is the most widely used method. Ultrasonic waves are sent to the material and the material thickness is calculated according to the return time of the waves.
Mechanical Measuring Devices (Micrometer or Caliper): Used for thin and small parts, but may not always be applicable in welded areas.
Radiographic Methods: Can also be used to detect thickness changes in the weld area, but are not suitable for more detailed evaluation. Evaluation Criteria: Thickness measurements are evaluated according to project specifications, material standards or design requirements. Areas outside the specified tolerances are marked as areas that need to be repaired or reworked. If the thickness is below certain limits, the structure may lose its strength and therefore special attention should be paid in quality control processes.