Advanced Ultrasound Methods for HTHA Inspection
Tracks
TECHNICAL SESSIONS
Knowledge Level - NDT Level III
Presentation Topic Level - Advanced
Target Audience - General Interest
Target Audience - Level III Managers
Target Audience- NDT Engineers
Target Audience- Technicians/Inspectors
| Thursday, October 9, 2025 |
| 10:45 AM - 11:15 AM |
| Yucatan 1-3 |
Speaker
Stephan Couture
Leader, Global Product Application
Evident Canada
Advanced Ultrasound Methods for HTHA Inspection
Presentation Description
High-temperature hydrogen attack (HTHA) is a damage mechanism that poses a serious threat to steel infrastructures (pressure vessels, heat exchangers, etc.) submitted to high-temperature and pressure.
HTHA damage must be detected early to minimize risks and plan asset replacement. Early-stage damage is too small to reliably detect with most ultrasonic probes and techniques. Detection of large cracks and blisters (stage 4) is critical to avoid catastrophic failure.
The main challenge is characterization, to help evaluate fitness for service and avoid false positives.
The main standard for HTHA is API RP 941. Recommendations were updated in API RP 586.
This presentation goes over the latest technologies and advancements to show their potential by comparing technologies to one another.
HTHA damage must be detected early to minimize risks and plan asset replacement. Early-stage damage is too small to reliably detect with most ultrasonic probes and techniques. Detection of large cracks and blisters (stage 4) is critical to avoid catastrophic failure.
The main challenge is characterization, to help evaluate fitness for service and avoid false positives.
The main standard for HTHA is API RP 941. Recommendations were updated in API RP 586.
This presentation goes over the latest technologies and advancements to show their potential by comparing technologies to one another.
Short Course Description
Biography
Stephan worked with Olympus at the product development and as a Product Specialist for 9 years. In 2017, he transitioned to work in the inspection world to gather more applicative knowledge. In 2019, Stephan rejoined Olympus, now Evident, as a leader for Global Advanced Product Application. Stephan is now supporting worldwide on applications, trainings, and industry projects as an Ultrasonic advanced products specialist.
