ASNT Certified Inspector Training Courses

Audit/Evaluation of Inspection Effectiveness

Onstream High Temperature Corrosion and Thickness Monitoring

NDT Field Troubleshooting

Securing ASME Pressure Vessel Code Stamps and Weld Procedure Certification

Ultrasonic Weld Flaw Characterization and Analysis
Ultrasonic Examination of Williamsburg Bridge

Address/Phone/Fax

Email NDTech

Email Webmaster

Contact Form

Ultrasonic Examination of Williamsburg Bridge

As part of the rehabilitation/repair of the Williamsburg Bridge, the main bridge pins connecting the truss post beams to the floor beam, wind chord and diagonal trusses were ultrasonically (UT) examined to identify any external corrosion or stress/fatigue cracks which may have developed since the bridge went into service in 1903. This was the first nondestructive test of these pins. The integrity of these pins is vital for the safe operation of the bridge since they are the primary supports for transfer of traffic loads and stresses due to vibrations, changes in temperature, and movement of the structure. The pins were ultrasonically examined in place after the endcaps were removed and the surfaces cleaned. Longitudinal UT tests from the pin end faces were preformed to identify any radial fatigue cracks which might have developed. Radial UT scans through the bore holes permitted identification of any external corrosion present on the outside surface of the pins. The figures below describe the bridge features and how the bridge inspection was completed.