April 2017

34 BUILD / April 2017 , “Engineering Excellence Award for the UK” – Build News 2017 What direction is Intratest moving in now? Since Intratest’s inception we have found ourselves specialising more and more in our Non-Destructive Testing services, as this is where much of our experience lies, and is a market place that provides us with a platform for continued growth and development opportunities. Providing those responsible understand the clear distinction between cost, value for money, and the risks associated with cutting corners because of cost. From our point of view accurate and meaningful Non-Destructive Testing should not be based on cost alone, there is too much at stake in terms of potential hazards and their associated risks. Therefore, one of our key development opportunities is to find ways of engaging with our potential customers, especially those new to the world of Non- Destructive Testing to make sure they are making evidence based decisions, when it comes to selecting suppliers, that may well save them money in the long run. So, we take a multi-pronged approach to this by • Engaging with our customers, to firstly find out exactly what their objectives are, and identify what they need tested, so we can make sure the right Non- Destructive Testing technique is used • Liaise and mentor them, where needed, throughout the project to increase their knowledge and understanding over time • Offer them a Free Workshop so we can explain, and demonstrate some of our Non-Destructive Testing techniques Encouraging them to realise that “There’s more to Structural and Non-Destructive Testing than Meets the Eye.” Helping them understand that Structural Testing is used to check the integrity of street lighting columns, and other metal structures to ascertain the risk of collapse, that may cause harm to persons, or property, and that testing methods must identify the risk of failure, the need for periodical retesting and or removal, and replacement of dangerous structures. Furthermore, we make sure they understand that it is important that Structural Testing uses a variety of Non-Destructive Testing Techniques, to identify hidden defects (i.e. corrosion, cracks, and faulty welds), that can adversely affect the integrity of the street lighting columns, or other metal structures being tested, and that the process should always start with a Visual Inspection, and end using the relevant Non-Destructive Testing Techniques for the structure being tested. For instance, • Measuring reduction in the thickness of the street lighting column wall, at or below ground level, using low-frequency electromagnetism. • Specialist techniques, such as, ultrasonics, magnetic particle inspection to check welded joints Reiterating the importance of clearly identifying what structure is being tested, and make sure that the tests used do not adversely affect the integrity of the structure being tested. As well as, in making them aware that they may need more than one test in certain circumstances to be able to accurately assess the structure being tested. This is of importance when it comes to Mechanical Load Testing that some accept as the only method of testing required. Something we do not understand, especially as it involves measuring deflection of a lighting column under load, which although only minimal, and matched to normal stress incurred under windy conditions, could inadvertently lead to hidden defects mentioned above being made worse. Surely the better approach is to apply a combination of truly Non-Destructive Testing Techniques, based on a professional approach, that involves operators with the correct, long-term experience, and relevant qualifications, who use the correct equipment for the job in question. Only then can they be assured they are receiving accurate, and meaningful reports that enable them to manage their street lighting assets, and other metal structures in an ongoing manner. Furthermore, if done effectively local authorities may be able to manage their budgets more effectively. How do you make sure you create innovative solutions to maintain your success? We are in continual discussions with our suppliers, sub- contractors and organisations such as the British Institute of Non-Destructive Testing, to identify potential areas for improvements to our services. Furthermore, we are committed to always using top of the range Non-Destructive Testing equipment. So are confident we are at the forefront of technological advances and best practice. What does the future have in store for the industry? For some time now the street lighting industry has embraced a sustainable future, and is in the throes of converting to LED lighting solutions, with the main driver being a marked reduction in energy costs, which is a good thing. Furthermore, there are also advances being made in the so called SMART lighting solutions that will result in many street lighting columns being monitored remotely, so helping manage ongoing maintenance requirements. Although this will lead to an overall reduction in maintenance costs, it remains to be seen how quickly all will be rolled out across the country, and what cost saving will result in the long-term, especially in terms of Non-Destructive Testing, that we believe will be present for many years to come. We will certainly be keeping a careful eye on developments, and be proactively investigating opportunities for developing the services we offer in our Non- Destructive Testing services within the street lighting industry and beyond. What are the future aspirations for your company? To continue to develop close associations with like-minded businesses to extend our services in the field of street lighting and highways industry sectors, and other markets that can benefit from our Specialist Non-Destructive Testing techniques. To continue to push the boundaries on existing perceptions and attitudes by ensuring all work is carried out to the highest possible standard, in a straight forward, no-nonsense and honest manner, connected to our Non-Destructive Testing services. Ensure that our customers benefit from our approach and rest easy in the knowledge that whatever we test, we do it to the highest possible standard always.