What two non-destructive testing techniques can help locate moist insulation?

Neutron backscatter and thermography are effective non-destructive testing techniques for locating moist insulation in pressure vessels.

Neutron backscatter works by detecting hydrogen atoms, which are abundant in water. When neutron radiation is directed at the insulation material, the presence of moisture can be inferred from the interaction with the hydrogen atoms. This technique is particularly useful in identifying areas of insulation that may have absorbed moisture, as these areas will result in a different scattering pattern compared to dry insulation.

Thermography utilizes infrared thermography to detect temperature differences on the surface of insulation materials. Moist insulation retains moisture and tends to affect the thermal properties of the material. When analyzed with an infrared camera, damp areas may exhibit distinct thermal signatures compared to surrounding dry insulation. This allows inspectors to visually identify potential moisture issues based on the temperature variations.

These two techniques are well-suited for assessing insulation conditions without the need for invasive methods, making them practical choices in the inspection of pressure vessels.