Non-destructive testing | NDT

Non-destructive testing (NDT), or niet-destructief onderzoek (NDO) in Dutch, assesses the integrity, quality, and properties of materials, components, and systems without damage. It detects cracks, weaknesses, or corrosion, keeps objects operational, and confirms acceptance criteria for safe operations. Welds, joints, and structures remain verified and ready for use. Control Union delivers fast on-site NDO/NDT with multi-skilled inspectors in key Dutch ports: Rotterdam, IJmuiden, Den Helder, and Eemshaven.

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    Safety and certainty with NDT inspection

    At Control Union, you get one dedicated point of contact for all your inspections. This single point of contact applies recognized standards. Receive clear, substantiated pass-or-fail reports for every weld or component. This ensures fast certainty and effortless compliance.

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    Protect assets, maintain compliance and gain operational certainty

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    1.

    Preserve manufacturer warranty

    Manufacturers often require periodic NDT at set intervals. Meeting those requirements on schedule protects warranty coverage and avoids costly disputes over equipment failure responsibility.

    2.

    Fully independent results

    Control Union operates independently from insurers and maintenance contractors. Inspection findings are 100% objective, free from conflicts of interest, and stand up to third-party audits.

    3.

    Test without disassembly or downtime

    Advanced techniques such as phased array scanning allow inspection of bolted connections and shafts without removal. Assets stay in place, and operations keep running during the inspection.

    4.

    Level 3 NDT strategic problem-solving

    Experienced Level 3 NDT specialists advise on complex inspection challenges, select the right technique for difficult materials or geometries, and approve procedures that field inspectors execute.

    5.

    Prompt availability at major Dutch ports

    Inspectors are based near Eemshaven, Den Helder, IJmuiden, Rotterdam, and Vlissingen. Whichever port a vessel enters, Control Union mobilises locally and reduces waiting time.

    The proof to your promise

    Toward control, insight, and certainty

    The strength lies in the combination of inspection expertise, advanced data systems, and global practical experience.

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    Step 1

    Control Union reviews the asset, material type and applicable codes to select the most effective NDT method for the situation.

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    Step 2

    Inspectors execute the chosen technique on-site

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    Step 3

    A final report states whether each weld or component meets the specified acceptance criteria, giving a clear pass or fail decision.

    The proof to your promise

    Verified assets, faster decisions

    Control Union combines multi-skilled inspectors, instant digital reporting and flexible scheduling to keep assets verified without operational delays.

    • Multi-skilled inspectors who hold NDT, offshore container and lifting equipment qualifications reduce the number of specialists and helicopter flights needed per offshore visit.

    • Tablet-based inspections produce finalised reports on location, often before the inspection team leaves site, so vessels and facilities avoid waiting for paperwork.

    • Urgent and weekend service are available, allowing inspection needs to be met without postponing operations to the next working day.

    Conventional NDT services

    Reliable inspection techniques for detecting defects, material deviations, and structural risks.

    • Visual testing (VT): Thorough visual inspections to identify surface defects and abnormalities

    • Magnetic particle testing (MT): Detecting surface and near-surface flaws using magnetic fields and magnetic particles

    • Eddy current testing (ET): Evaluating conductive materials for cracks, corrosion, and material thickness variations

    • Penetrant testing (PT): Detecting surface defects by applying a penetrating liquid and inspecting for indications

    • Ultrasonic testing (UT): Utilizing high-frequency sound waves to identify internal flaws

    • Ultrasonic thickness measurements (UTM): Utilizing high-frequency sound waves to measure material thickness

    • Hardness testing (HT): Assessing the hardness properties of materials to determine their strength and resistance

    • Positive material identification (PMI): Analyzing the chemical composition of materials to ensure compliance and integrity

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    Our innovative tablet based inspection software has made NDO much faster. This delivers significant efficiency gains in shipping, as a vessel can only depart once the report confirms that every weld has been approved.
    Bram Takes – Control Union
    Proof to your promise

    Frequently asked questions

    NDT applies to storage tanks, pressure vessels, pipework, ship hulls and constructed structures. Industries range from offshore energy and maritime to amusement ride manufacturing and general construction.

    NDT can take place during construction, immediately after production or at periodic intervals while the asset is in service. Frequency depends on applicable standards and manufacturer requirements.

    Reports provide a full record of inspection findings, identify any unacceptable defects in the tested area and conclude with a definitive statement on whether the weld or material meets acceptance criteria.

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    Looking to learn more about our inspection capabilities? Submit the form below and we’ll reach out promptly.

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    Control Union drives global trade forward. As an international and independent partner, we support traders, producers, brands, and logistics service providers in managing risk and safeguarding quality at every step of the supply chain.

    From raw material to final product, from processes and systems to installations, we provide insight, assurance, and trust in every link of the chain. We do this through inspections and audits, certification and verification, laboratory analyses, and pest management.

    Our global network of experts are embedded in international supply chains across dozens of sectors, including agriculture, food & feed, energy & biofuels, forestry, construction & infrastructure, textiles, maritime, and on- and offshore.

    Together, we build future-proof supply chains and confidence in global trade!

    105
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    Years of experience
    275
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    Offices and laboratories in 80 countries
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    Dedicated colleagues