First DNV approved phased array top drive main shaft scanner

After a year of testing, design and development, International Test Solutions (ITS) has developed an ultrasonic phased array top drive main shaft scanning tool that has recently been validated and approved by DNV as first of its kind in the world. This approval adds to the general DNV NDT approvals and various phased array applications that have been developed over the years.

The benefits of this shaft scanner (called ScalaShaft®) are numerous. As the phased array tool scans the complete shaft from the inside out (without the requirement for any disassembly) it could be used to replace the 5 yearly maintenance requirements for complete disassembly of the top drive and surface NDT of the main shaft. This is saving downtime and labor related costs as well as the scan allowing for preventive maintenance and risk-based inspections as it ensures a 100% scan of the shaft’s volume, including the load bearing areas, for any fatigue related discontinuities and wear on the outside surface.