In a strategic move to redefine quality assurance in offshore wind energy, SK Oceanplant has launched two cutting-edge digital platforms aimed at elevating manufacturing precision and non-destructive testing (NDT) standards across its offshore wind substructure operations.
The company unveiled the Welding Quality Management System (WQMS) and the NDE Quality Management System (NQMS)—digital solutions that integrate real-time monitoring and automated data analysis to ensure structural integrity and regulatory compliance from fabrication to final inspection.
WQMS enables instant capture and evaluation of fabrication and inspection data, allowing for early detection of welding flaws and automated quality record generation. It also ensures data traceability and tamper-proof storage, enhancing transparency and operational efficiency.
Meanwhile, NQMS represents the industry’s first comprehensive NDT-centric digital platform. It supports advanced inspection methods like Phased Array Ultrasonic Testing (PAUT) and Time of Flight Diffraction (TOFD), offering centralized digital management, automatic certification reports, and greater reliability in inspection outcomes.
According to the Marine Quality Management team, “The deployment of these systems will enable us to meet and exceed the strictest non-destructive testing standards demanded by our global clients. We are positioning ourselves as leaders in NDE 4.0 standards within the marine and offshore wind sectors.”
These digital systems are set to be fully integrated into SK Oceanplant’s upcoming 1.57 million square meter Smart Yard, which is under development. Designed for both floating and jacket-type foundations, the Smart Yard will leverage these technologies to drive quality, reduce rework, and meet the stringent demands of offshore environments.
CEO Lee Seung-chul noted, “Offshore wind structures must withstand the harsh marine environment for 30 to 50 years. Implementing a systematic, precise quality management system like WQMS and NQMS is essential. With this, we will solidify our global market position and accelerate smart yard implementation and operational excellence.”
The initiative is expected to give SK Oceanplant a strong competitive edge in the fast-growing Asian and European offshore wind markets, positioning the company at the forefront of NDE 4.0 innovation.
Reference: https://www.koreaittimes.com/news/articleView.html?idxno=141233
