PARTNER INTRODUCTION
Pulse NDT
A crucial role in ensuring component integrity
As the Maritime Remanufacturing Network advances its mission to extend the lifecycle of maritime assets through high-quality remanufacturing, one discipline plays a crucial role in ensuring component integrity: non-destructive testing. With this in mind, we are pleased to introduce another member of the MRN: Pulse NDT. We hear from Pulse NDT’s founder Toni Lovrenovic about the role of non-destructive testing in this groundbreaking bow thruster remanufacturing programme.
"When the human eye is no longer enough, specialised techniques come into play.”
Who is Pulse NDT?
Pulse NDT is a specialised company founded five years ago that serves the offshore, chemical and petrochemical, energy and fabrication industries. With its focus on material integrity and safety, the company’s values align well with the Maritime Remanufacturing Network.
“I’ve worked with AEGIR-Marine for several years,” Toni begins. “So when the Maritime Remanufacturing Network was launched, joining the programme was a logical step.”
What Is non-destructive testing, and why is it needed?
“Non-destructive testing encompasses a wide range of test methods used to examine the integrity of materials – from welds and castings to forged parts, composites and plastics – without damaging them,” Toni replies.
“As the name says, the material stays intact,” Toni notes. “NDT allows us to test and inspect components without breaking them, ensuring they can still be safely used afterwards. The process always starts with visual inspection, the most fundamental method of assessing a component’s condition. When the human eye is no longer enough, specialised techniques come into play.”
Two common NDT methods for surface inspections in the Maritime Remanufacturing Network project:
- Magnetic Particle Testing
Used on ferrous materials – a magnetic field is introduced into the part. Magnetic particles reveal surface-breaking interruptions like cracks, pores or anomalies. - Dye Penetrant Testing
Used for both ferrous and non-ferrous materials. A special penetrant fluid is used – this creeps into tiny surface openings as small as 0.2 microns. A developer then draws the fluid back out, making the previously invisible cracks clearly visible.
Non-destructive testing of a 20-year-old bow thruster
Pulse NDT began its work with the MRN nearly two years ago – “almost from the beginning,” Toni notes. “When the first bow thruster was dismantled, we started with inspections immediately.”
The results were encouraging: “The goal was to show that no damage had occurred in the existing parts – no cracks, no structural issues. And that’s exactly what we found. No defects from the thruster’s operational life were detected.”
This confirmation was crucial in validating the feasibility of remanufacturing the thruster as part of the MRN’s pilot programme in accordance with the standards of classification society Bureau Veritas. It should be noted that non-destructive testing is just one aspect of the broader process required by classification societies, alongside dimensional checks, visual inspections, and fatigue analysis.
"Remanufactured equipment shouldn’t only go back into existing vessels but can also be installed on new ships. This approach could significantly reduce waste and resource use across the maritime supply chain.”
Is NDT an essential part of remanufacturing?
According to Toni, absolutely. “NDT is a small, but indispensable part of ensuring the integrity of every component and the entire assembly. For a remanufactured thruster, you must demonstrate that its years in service have not caused damage – you cannot proceed without NDT.”
Toni goes on to say that non-destructive testing is not only essential during remanufacturing. “It is also integral to manufacturing new components. For new components too, you need to demonstrate that the material meets all technical requirements.”
How do you see remanufacturing developing in the maritime industry?
“It actually surprises me that remanufacturing hasn’t been more common in the maritime industry. Other sectors use it widely, especially for oversized components where the environmental impact of producing new parts is huge – from raw materials to manufacturing and transport. While a 30-year-old ship’s hull may no longer meet safety standards, many onboard systems can still be remanufactured and reused,” explains Toni.
“That’s the key: remanufactured equipment shouldn’t only go back into existing vessels but can also be installed on new ships. This approach could significantly reduce waste and resource use across the maritime supply chain.”
Any closing words?
“For us at Pulse NDT, being part of the Maritime Remanufacturing Network is really important. I really enjoy being part of this programme and hope it continues to grow.”
