Published on 04-May-2026

Advanced NDT Technologies Enable Refinery Inspections Without Shutdowns

Advanced NDT Technologies Enable Refinery Inspections Without Shutdowns

Sources - @Border-Now

At the NISTM 2026 event, Joshua Appel, Business Development Manager at CATSI, presented the company’s latest advancements in industrial inspection technologies aimed at enabling asset evaluation without interrupting ongoing operations.

With over four decades of experience serving sectors including oil and gas, chemicals, and energy, CATSI is advancing its non-destructive testing (NDT) capabilities to address increasing demand for in-service inspection solutions that maintain operational continuity.

The company has expanded its service portfolio to include advanced NDT techniques such as phased array ultrasonic testing (PAUT), automated ultrasonic testing (AUT), and high-precision thermal imaging systems capable of operating in extreme industrial environments. These technologies offer a shift from traditional inspection methods such as industrial radiography, which often require shutdowns and area evacuation, by enabling comparable inspection outcomes without disrupting production processes.

According to Appel, the value of these technologies lies in their ability to provide critical insights into equipment condition while assets remain operational. The application of thermal imaging with flame filtering capabilities allows inspection of internal structures in furnaces and heaters operating at high temperatures, supporting analysis in conditions where conventional methods are limited.

The adoption of such NDT approaches is having a direct impact on operational efficiency in industrial facilities. By enabling inspections without shutdowns, operators can reduce downtime, avoid production losses, and minimise risks associated with process interruptions. This is particularly significant in refinery environments, where shutdowns involve high costs and complex planning.

In addition, the integration of advanced inspection technologies supports improved decision-making through access to accurate, real-time data. This enables proactive maintenance planning, early fault detection, and extended asset lifecycle management.

However, the development and deployment of these capabilities also present challenges. Maintaining a balance between cost competitiveness and service quality remains a key consideration, particularly in a market environment with ongoing pricing pressures. CATSI continues to emphasise reliability and accuracy as core elements of its service offering.

Project execution in complex industrial environments also requires effective coordination among multiple stakeholders, alongside detailed planning and adaptability to operational constraints. Communication plays a critical role in ensuring inspection activities are conducted efficiently within available timeframes.

As part of its strategic approach, CATSI leverages its technical expertise and operational experience to deliver inspection solutions tailored to critical industries. Operating under the Allied Resources Group, the company focuses on providing value-driven services that extend beyond technical execution to support long-term asset integrity.

The expansion of services from its northeastern United States base, including its New Jersey office, further strengthens CATSI’s ability to respond to industrial demand and support key operational hubs.

The development reflects a broader shift in the NDT landscape toward flexible, in-service inspection models that prioritise operational continuity while maintaining high standards of accuracy and reliability.

Reference: https://inspenet.com/en/inspenet-tv/advanced-industrial-inspection/

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