Embracing new technology is how we stay ahead. It’s how we challenge what is possible and create better outcomes for our clients. SRG Global saw an opportunity in the adoption of digital radiography as a non-destructive testing method across both upstream and downstream. This advanced form of radiographic testing uses digital sensors and imaging technology, instead of traditional X-ray film, to capture high-resolution images.

Digital radiography (DR) allows faster image processing, greater precision and the ability to manipulate images for better clarity. It offers a wide range of advantages over traditional radiography, such as quicker turnaround times, the ability to easily store and share images electronically, and reduced exposure to harmful radiation. The future-facing technology has proven transformative, allowing us to inspect and monitor equipment with unmatched accuracy, and providing invaluable support to major clients. Here are some examples of how SRG Global has successfully incorporated DR into client operations.

“Our adoption of advanced digital radiography enhances data quality and decision-making, ensuring clients receive more accurate, efficient and asset-specific NDT solutions.” – Jay McDonnel | Technical Solutions Manager, Asset Care

Implementing digital radiography in coal seam gas infrastructure

Coal seam gas (CSG) infrastructure requires frequent inspection of pipelines, pressure vessels and welded joints to maintain integrity and ensure safe operations. Traditional film-based radiography, while reliable, poses challenges in remote CSG environments. These can include delayed image processing, hazardous chemical handling and limited remote collaboration. Such inefficiencies slow down decision-making and extend downtime, all while exposing personnel to unnecessary radiation and requiring large exclusion zones during testing.

Recently, SRG Global supported value-engineering initiatives to identify agile, scalable solutions for a client. DR significantly improved inspection quality and turnaround times across both upstream and downstream assets. It also enabled faster defect detection, including corrosion under insulation and microcracking, while allowing remote experts to review and validate results instantly.

The same team also identified that risers, high-point vents (HPVs) and low-point vents (LPVs) were omitted from the digital radiography scope. After initiating sample inspections on Densowrapped assets, severe corrosion was uncovered beneath the wrapping, demonstrating the team’s proactive mindset and technical thoroughness.

A safety-first approach to protect our people

Another major operator of CSG infrastructure in Australia, has  also partnered with SRG Global on numerous projects that involve complex works and critical safety standards. For this client, the implementation of DR has significantly improved the safety standards of their operations.

One of the major benefits of DR technology is the reduction in radiation exposure to workers. Traditional X-ray inspections require the handling of hazardous materials and typically necessitate strict safety protocols to limit human exposure. In contrast, DR uses lower radiation doses, and the images are captured digitally, eliminating the need for film handling and physical storage.

Oil and gas companies operate under strict regulatory frameworks that require precise and up-to-date inspection data. DR allows for quicker inspections of critical equipment, such as pressure vessels, pipelines and gas storage systems. By leveraging DR, we have helped our client reduce operational risks, boost the reliability of its infrastructure and maintain a proactive approach to safety.

Monitoring and implementing technological advancements for the benefit of the industry

Maintaining the integrity of our clients’ assets is essential to maximising production efficiency while minimising the risk of costly outages or safety incidents. In industries like oil and gas, even small defects in critical infrastructure can lead to catastrophic failures, making early detection vital. DR’s ability to deliver high-quality images allows SRG Global to identify potential issues, such as corrosion, cracks or weld failures, at an early stage.

The benefits of DR are in the results – faster turnaround times, reduced radiation exposure, improved image clarity, and the ability to store and share results electronically. Our in-house subject matter experts (SMEs) and technology leads continually assess global advancements to trial and implement best-in-class solutions. This puts us in a better position to meet the evolving needs of our clients.

SRG Global’s Technical Solutions Manager, Jay McDonnell, highlights the benefits of digital radiography: “Our adoption of advanced digital radiography enhances data quality and decision-making, ensuring clients receive more accurate, efficient and asset-specific NDT solutions.”

An evolving technology

We are excited to see our DR fleet develop. SRG Global was an early adopter of Vidisco and GE computed radiography systems. Over time, we transitioned to the DR 250 wireless panels and more recently to the GE Waygate DR 140 panels, offering increased mobility, resolution and reliability for fitness-for-service assessments. Today, we are continuing this progression by collaborating with Chevron’s NDT SME and global original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) to trial flexible digital radiographic testing (RT) panels, specifically designed for weld inspections. Previous versions lacked the necessary resolution to meet international code compliance. SRG Global is actively testing the latest iterations in our labs, comparing performance against conventional radiography and providing OEMs with feedback in order to accelerate readiness for operational deployment.

As industries like energy and resources demand greater efficiency and safety, our commitment to leveraging this cutting-edge technology will undoubtedly play a key role in influencing the future of industrial inspections.