Riluminati: Innovation for structural monitoring
Many structures and constructions in our everyday and professional lives are subject to dynamic loads. These changing stresses lead to material aging, which in turn can cause cracks at weak points. Such cracks are not only a sign of material fatigue, but also pose a potential risk of failure for the entire structure.
Aging bridges as an example
Despite dedicated engineers, careful designs, and established monitoring mechanisms, damage occurs time and again—a well-known example being the aging bridges in Germany, which are regularly inspected in accordance with DIN 1076. Nevertheless, permanent damage occurs, resulting in high costs and risks.
From temporary tests to monitoring procedures
In addition to proven temporary testing methods, which describe the actual condition at the time of testing very accurately, monitoring methods for condition monitoring are becoming increasingly established. These enable permanent monitoring of structures and constructions. Automated methods that allow continuous observation and condition analysis are referred to as Structural Health Monitoring (SHM).
The crack luminescence method used by BAM
The crack luminescence method, developed and patented by the Federal Institute for Materials Research and Testing (BAM), is positioned between temporary testing methods and SHM systems. The Riluminati coating developed by MR Chemie is applied to the steel or aluminum workpiece to be monitored and remains there during normal operation. If surface cracks occur in the base material, these become visible under UV light as fluorescent indicators. All that is needed for inspection is a UV lamp and trained personnel, making the application particularly simple and cost-effective.
Compared to traditional testing methods such as penetrant and magnetic particle testing, which require approved testing equipment and trained testing personnel, the crack detection method offers a cost-effective and flexible alternative. Especially in view of the increasing shortage of skilled workers, monitoring with Riluminati can be carried out in a more targeted and efficient manner. Monitoring becomes condition-based, allowing testing personnel to be deployed in a targeted manner before a critical failure occurs.
From indicator to SHM system
SHM methods follow the same approach: they are designed to continuously monitor the current status and warn of critical failures. By using Riluminati, crack formation and growth can be displayed directly on the crack. It is conceivable that, through the digitization of image material, the crack luminescence method could be further developed into a fully-fledged SHM system and integrated into a comprehensive monitoring system.
The method is already being used successfully in various applications, such as cranes, material testing stands, and wind turbines. Traditional NDT testing methods remain reliable tools for determining condition, but monitoring methods such as crack luminescence offer a cost-effective and efficient addition. The specially developed Riluminati coating is applied once, and a UV light immediately reveals any cracks that have formed – allowing the growth of the crack to be tracked.
For engineers, this means fast and reliable condition assessment. Operators benefit from cost-effective monitoring and targeted maintenance. Inspection personnel can concentrate on critical cases and make routine tasks more efficient.
Conclusion: How MR Chemistry makes bridges safer
Riluminati is an innovative process that increases the safety of structures and helps shape the future of non-destructive testing. If you would like to find out more, please contact MR Chemie directly or visit the website for further information.
