Comprehensive NDT Capabilities
At WEC Fabrication we use Non-Destructive Testing across our projects to verify material and weld integrity without causing damage, ensuring safe, reliable fabrications that meet the high expectations of customers in demanding sectors. Our other services include Visual Testing (VT), Magnetic Particle Inspection (MPI), Dye Penetrant Inspection (DPI), Radiographic Testing (RT), and Ultrasonic Testing (UT), all conducted to client specifications. NDE is performed at all project stages, from parent material inspection to final weld fabrication.
All NDT activities are overseen by an appointed Level 3 technical expert. Our skilled team includes PCN Level 2 certified personnel for MPI, DPI, VT, and UT (forgings and plate), alongside CSWIP Level 2 VT and RT Interpretation, plus CSWIP 3.1 and 3.2 qualified welding inspectors, ensuring expert welding inspection services.
Meticulous Visual Inspection
At WEC Fabrication, our welding inspection begins before fabrication, with rigorous pre-weld visual checks. We ensure materials meet specifications for quality, type, size, cleanliness, and are free from defects, diligently removing any foreign matter that could affect weld integrity. Alignment, part fit-up, and joint preparation are all thoroughly inspected pre-weld, as early inspection is crucial for superior weld quality.
Completed welds undergo strict visual inspection for compliance with client standards. Our PCN qualified weld inspectors adhere to BS EN ISO 17637, working with diverse metals including mild steel, stainless steel, and specialty alloys, covering MIG, TIG, MMA, and submerged arc processes, showcasing our dedication to precision in metalwork projects.
MPI is a key welding inspection technique detecting surface and near-surface defects in ferrous materials and steel components. It uses magnetic fields to highlight cracks, inclusions, and discontinuities in welds and fabricated steel, ensuring the quality and integrity of structural steelwork.
DPI, or LPI, is a versatile NDT method for detecting surface-breaking defects in non-ferrous materials like stainless steel and aluminium. It’s highly effective for spotting cracks, porosity, and fatigue damage impacting weld quality and fabrication integrity. It complements MPI for comprehensive metal inspection.
UT is a highly effective volumetric inspection method using high-frequency sound waves to detect internal flaws in welds and fabricated components, especially planar defects. Used on sections 10mm+ thick, UT is preferred for detailed weld inspection in thicker sections, critical for verifying structural integrity and ensuring weld quality assurance of internal weld defects.
RT uses X-rays or gamma rays to non-invasively detect internal flaws in welds and fabricated components. This NDT method reveals porosity and slag inclusions vital for weld integrity in critical fabrication. RT produces a permanent radiographic image, offering invaluable documentation for quality verification and traceability, essential for internal defect detection and comprehensive NDT records.
Quality & Certifications
WEC Fabrication prides itself on a foundation of accredited quality, aiming to consistently exceed customer expectations in fabrication and welding inspection. We operate within ISO 9001:2015 requirements, demonstrating our commitment to consistently high-quality products. Our environmental dedication is shown by ISO 14001:2015 accreditation, achieved through continuous improvement in manufacturing systems.
We are fully compliant with TWI BS/EN 1090 up to Execution Class 4, covering structural steel and aluminium design and manufacture (including welding).
As an RISQS approved supplier (formerly Achilles Link-up), WEC Fabrication is verified for quality in metalwork projects within the rail sector. All our coded welding is rigorously assessed by recognised PED assessment bodies such as Royal Sun, Lloyds, and bsi., ensuring the highest standards across all our services.
