In Situ ENDO FPI Unit
The Endoscopic Fluorescent Penetrant Inspection System is an innovative solution that was developed in collaboration with SNECMA, a renowned French aero-engine manufacturer and a part of the SAFRAN GROUP. The system, which has been patented globally, enables endoscopic inspection of on-wing engines using the FPI process, and serves as a means to dispel doubts that may arise during routine endoscopic inspections due to suspicious indications. Additionally, it is widely used to ensure that no residual cracks are present following blade-blending.
The system operates in two phases: In the first phase, which is carried out under white light endoscopy, various chemicals required for FPI are projected onto the area of interest. The second phase involves endoscopic inspection under UV light of the FPI-processed area.
For those who are interested in learning more about the Endoscopic FPI system, a video presentation is available on the EFER Endoscopy YouTube channel.
EFER ENDOSCOPY's endoscopic FPI system is accompanied by an array of essential components to ensure accurate and efficient inspections. These components include:
• FPI chemicals case
• A range of rigid endoscopic tools typically used for inspecting low pressure turbine and high-pressure compressor stages
• A range of flexible endoscopic tools better suited for inspecting the low-pressure compressor stages
• VEGA 900 UV ultra-violet/white light source
• MUCAM T900 camera
• TIVE 900 MK2 visualization and recording unit
FPI CHEMICALS CASE
The FPI chemicals case is an integral component of the Endoscopic FPI system, which is designed to facilitate efficient and effective inspection of on-wing engines. The case consists of five jars, each containing the various materials required for an FPI process. Additionally, the case is equipped with an air compressor or compressed air input, which serves to pressurize the jars and deliver compressed air to the endoscopic tool.
The case is designed to streamline the FPI process by allowing each jar to be easily accessed and utilized. Each jar is also equipped with its own spray gun, which enables the injection of the chemical into a capillary tube that is inserted into the tool. This ensures a precise and accurate delivery of the chemical for effective inspection results.
RIGID FPI TOOL
The rigid FPI tool is a tubular device composed of three internal tubes. The first tube houses a capillary tube, the second tube accommodates an endoscope, and the third tube delivers compressed air to the endoscope's distal lens. The articulated distal tip of the tool is controlled by a rotating ring on the handle, which allows for precise positioning of the capillary tube near the inspection zone.
This tool is designed to work in tandem with its associated UV endoscope, which is connected to both a VEGA 900 UV light source via a liquid light cable and a MUCAM T900 camera with a TIVE 900 MK2 operating unit.
FLEXIBLE FPI TOOL
The Flexible FPI Tool offered by EFER Endoscopy is a highly sophisticated and specialized device designed for the inspection of internal components in complex systems. This tool, the ARGUS UV 900 K probe, has a diameter of either 6 or 8 mm and features axial vision and UV illumination, ensuring optimal imaging and inspection capabilities.
To ensure that the probe is kept clean and free of obstructions during use, the tool is equipped with an internal channel that receives both a capillary tube and compressed air. This serves to clean the probe's distal lens and maintain the tool's high level of performance.
The probe is connected to a VEGA 900 UV light source and a TIVE 900 MK2 operating unit via an integrated umbilical cable, allowing for precise control and operation of the tool during the inspection process. With its advanced features and cutting-edge design, the Flexible FPI Tool is an indispensable tool for professionals in the field of endoscopy and industrial inspection.
