Improving Safety with Ultrasonic Thickness Measurement in Hazardous Zones

Cygnus is a world-renowned leader in user-friendly and durable Ultrasonic Testing (UT) equipment, providing reliable ultrasonic measurements both above and below water. Since 1983, Cygnus has worked alongside ship surveyors and commercial divers. Drawing on over 40 years of experience in the marine industry, Cygnus offers unmatched solutions tailored to the industry's unique challenges.

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The Cygnus 1 Ex Ultrasonic Thickness Gauge sets a new benchmark in intrinsically safe Ultrasonic Thickness Measurement (UTM), delivering an exceptional user experience in both control and safety.

The Ex gauge includes a range of adjustable settings and functionalities designed to accommodate users of all experience levels. This invaluable tool enables offshore teams working in hazardous environments to perform routine structural monitoring without the costs and delays of shutdowns, disruptions, or outsourcing, while supporting the demands of a 24/7 production environment.

When it comes to safety, regular maintenance is critical for industries handling hazardous materials or operating in explosive atmospheres, such as oil rigs, FPSOs, or FSOs. The Cygnus 1 Ex gauge is certified for use in all hazardous zones (0, 1, 2) and is classified as Intrinsically Safe for Zone 0 (the most dangerous area) under ATEX, IECEx, and UKEX regulations. This Ex-certified UTM gauge eliminates the need for Hot Work Permits or operational shutdowns.

Structural integrity hazards, such as corrosion, pose significant risks to assets. Marine structures and vessels, including LNG and LPG tankers, are continuously exposed to moisture and saltwater—both of which accelerate corrosion. To mitigate this risk, marine vessels are coated with protective layers; however, these coatings can hinder effective corrosion monitoring and inspection.

Cygnus has pioneered Multiple Echo technology, which accurately measures the thickness of the underlying substrate material while ignoring protective coatings. This innovation significantly reduces the time and cost associated with removing anti-corrosive coatings and avoids the risk of exposing surfaces to further corrosion.

The Cygnus 1 Ex gauge is compatible with a range of Cygnus’ single-crystal and twin-crystal probes, making it adaptable for varying corrosion levels and material types. The Cygnus High-Temperature Ex probe also enables continuous thickness measurement of hot assets without requiring shutdowns or isolation.

Cygnus Instruments celebrated its 40th anniversary last year and continues to manufacture reliable ultrasonic testing equipment for asset integrity management (AIM) above and below water across multiple industries. All Cygnus equipment is easy to use, durable, and has a three-year warranty.

Cygnus Instruments Limited.

This information has been sourced, reviewed and adapted from materials provided by Cygnus Instruments Limited.

For more information on this source, please visit Cygnus Instruments Limited.

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