AS 3788 Pressure Vessel In-Service Inspections

Ensuring Safety and Compliance Across Far North Queensland

At SKM Inspection Services, we’re experts in AS 3788 pressure vessel in-service inspections—your trusted solution for keeping pressure equipment safe, compliant, and operational. With over 25 years of non-destructive testing (NDT) experience, we specialize in delivering thorough inspections to the Australian Standard AS 3788: Pressure Equipment – In-service Inspection. From Brisbane to the Far North Queensland Tablelands, we’re here to support industries like mining, agriculture, and manufacturing with services tailored to your needs.

What Is AS 3788?

AS 3788 is the Australian Standard for the in-service inspection of pressure equipment—covering boilers, pressure vessels, piping, and more. It outlines the requirements for regular assessments to ensure safety, detect wear or damage, and maintain compliance with WorkSafe QLD and national regulations. Whether your vessel’s been in service for months or decades, AS 3788 inspections are critical to:

  • Prevent catastrophic failures from corrosion, fatigue, or cracks.
  • Meet legal and insurance obligations.
  • Extend equipment life and reduce unplanned downtime.

At SKM, we take AS 3788 seriously—combining rigorous standards with practical expertise to keep your operations running smoothly.

Our AS 3788 Inspection Process

We bring a methodical, NDT-driven approach to every AS 3788 in-service inspection, ensuring your pressure vessels meet the highest safety and performance benchmarks:

  • Detailed Assessments: Comprehensive internal and external inspections to evaluate vessel condition—checking for corrosion, weld defects, and structural integrity.
  • Advanced NDT Techniques:
    • Ultrasonic Testing (UT): Measures wall thickness and detects internal flaws with precision.
    • Magnetic Particle Inspection (MPI): Identifies surface cracks in welds and critical zones.
    • Visual Inspection: Conducted by AINDT-certified inspectors to spot visible wear or damage.
  • Compliance Reporting: Full documentation aligned with AS 3788, including condition reports, risk assessments, and recommendations for repairs or ongoing monitoring.
  • Customized Service: Whether it’s a one-time inspection during a shutdown or a scheduled maintenance plan, we adapt to your timeline and equipment demands.

From a sugar mill boiler in Atherton to a mining autoclave in Mount Garnet, we ensure your pressure vessels pass AS 3788 muster—keeping them “Safe to Operate” in Far North QLD’s rugged conditions.

Serving Far North Queensland and the Tablelands

While we’re based in Brisbane, SKM is committed to bringing AS 3788 pressure vessel inspections to Far North Queensland—including Cairns, the Tablelands, Mareeba, Atherton, and beyond. This region’s industries rely on pressure equipment that faces unique challenges—think high humidity, remote locations, and heavy-duty use in mining and agriculture. We’re here to deliver:

  • Mining: AS 3788 inspections for pressure vessels in Tablelands mines, ensuring safety under extreme pressure.
  • Agriculture: Boiler and tank checks for sugar mills and irrigation systems, keeping the Tablelands productive.
  • Local Support: On-site inspections tailored to FNQ’s needs, with fast response and actionable results.

Need an AS 3788 inspection in the North? We’ll travel to you, bringing our expertise right to your doorstep.

Why SKM for AS 3788 Inspections?

  • 25+ Years of Experience: Decades of NDT and pressure vessel inspection know-how, honed across Queensland.
  • Certified Professionals: Our AINDT-accredited team is fully trained in AS 3788 requirements.
  • Regional Reach: Focused on serving Far North QLD and the Tablelands with precision and care.
  • Beyond Compliance: We don’t just check boxes—we provide insights to optimize your equipment’s lifespan.

Our refreshed website (www.skmndt.com.au) reflects our drive to step up and deliver top-tier AS 3788 inspections—helping local businesses thrive, one vessel at a time.

Benefits of AS 3788 Inspections with SKM

  • Safety First: Protect your team and assets with proactive defect detection.
  • Regulatory Peace of Mind: Stay ahead of WorkSafe QLD audits with compliant reports.
  • Cost Savings: Catch issues early to avoid expensive repairs or replacements.
  • Tailored to You: Inspections designed for your specific vessels—new or old, big or small.

Ready to Book Your AS 3788 Inspection?

SKM Inspection Services is here to reinvigorate your pressure equipment with AS 3788 in-service inspections—securing more work for us and more reliability for you. Whether you’re in Cairns or the Tablelands dreaming of your own land, we’ll help you get there with safe, compliant vessels.

Contact Us Today

Visit www.skmndt.com.au, call 0402025622, or click “Book an AS 3788 Inspection” to schedule your service. Let’s keep your pressure vessels up to standard across Far North Queensland.

NDT Solutions and Services

Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) lets us examine your assets without causing harm, ensuring they stay safe and compliant. Our cutting-edge NDT methods help spot issues early, so you can address them before they become problems.

Our Inspection Services

Our comprehensive inspection services help you ensure that your equipment and structures are safe, reliable, and compliant with industry standards. We use advanced techniques to identify potential issues early, saving you time and resources.

Industries We Serve

We work across various industries, providing NDT solutions that help you maintain safety and compliance. Our experience ensures your operations run smoothly, no matter your sector.

Oil & Gas

We keep pipelines, refineries, and offshore platforms safe by spotting issues before they become problems.

Mining

From heavy machinery to structural components, we ensure your mining equipment operates reliably and efficiently.

Power Generation

We support power plants in maintaining equipment integrity, minimising downtime and enhancing safety.

Marine

Our services help ships and offshore structures stay seaworthy, inspecting for corrosion and structural concerns.

Engineering & Fabrication

We verify the quality of fabricated parts, ensuring they meet all required standards.

Transportation

From railways to road vehicles, we inspect critical components to keep transportation systems running safely.

Construction

We assess the integrity of structural elements, helping you build with confidence and peace of mind.

Military & Defence

We provide specialised inspections to maintain the safety and readiness of defence equipment and infrastructure.

Why Choose Us?
SKM Inspection Services

  • Expertise in NDT: Highly qualified AINDT accredited technicians skilled in all major NDT methods.
  • Certified Inspectors: API 510 Certified and AICIP qualified inspectors for pressure vessel and boiler inspections.
  • Compliance with Australian Standards: Ensuring your assets meet standards such as AS3788, AS1554, AS1210, and AS4037.
  • Advanced Technology: Utilising cutting-edge techniques like ACFM for accurate defect detection.
  • Safety Commitment: Prioritising safety to protect your personnel and assets.
  • Customer-Focused: Dedicated to providing responsive, reliable, and professional service tailored to your needs.

About Us

Who We Are:
SKM Inspection Services specialises in Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) and inspection services, providing expert solutions to ensure the safety, compliance, and integrity of your assets. With over 25 years of industry experience, our team of AINDT accredited technicians and API 510 certified inspectors deliver reliable and professional services across multiple industries.

Our Mission:
To provide comprehensive NDT and inspection services that uphold the highest standards of safety and quality, helping our clients meet Australian Standards and industry regulations.

Our Values:

  • Professionalism: Delivering expert services with integrity and precision.
  • Safety First: Prioritising the safety of personnel, equipment, and the environment.
  • Quality Assurance: Ensuring compliance with Australian Standards and industry best practices.
  • Customer Satisfaction: Exceeding client expectations through reliable and responsive service.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is Non-Destructive Testing (NDT)?

Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) is a group of analysis techniques used to evaluate the properties of materials, components, or systems without causing damage or altering them. NDT is essential for detecting defects, ensuring compliance with standards, and maintaining safety and integrity in both new fabrications and existing equipment.

2. What NDT methods does SKM Inspection Services offer?

We offer a comprehensive range of NDT methods, including:

  • Magnetic Particle Testing (MPI)
  • Dye Penetrant Testing (DPI)
  • Ultrasonic Testing (UT)
  • Radiography (RT)
  • Visual Examination
  • Hardness Testing
  • Alternating Current Field Measurement (ACFM)

3. What industries do you serve?

We serve a wide range of industries, including:

  • Oil & Gas
  • Mining
  • Power Generation
  • Marine
  • Engineering & Fabrication
  • Transportation
  • Construction
  • Military & Defense

4. What certifications do your technicians and inspectors hold?

Our technicians are accredited by the Australian Institute of Non-Destructive Testing (AINDT) for each specific NDT method they perform. Our inspectors are API 510 Certified and AICIP qualified for pressure vessel and boiler inspections.

5. What is Pressure Vessel Inspection, and why is it important?

Pressure Vessel Inspection involves assessing the condition of vessels operating under high pressure to ensure they are safe and compliant with industry standards, specifically AS3788-2024 in Australia. These inspections are crucial due to the high-risk nature of pressure vessels, where failures can have severe consequences.

6. Do you provide weld inspection services?

Yes, we offer comprehensive weld inspection services, including:

  • Certified Weld Inspection
  • Crack Testing using NDT methods such as MPI, DPI, UT, and ACFM
  • Welder Qualification Testing
  • Weld Procedure Qualification and Consulting

7. What is ACFM, and how does it benefit my inspection needs?

Alternating Current Field Measurement (ACFM) is an advanced electromagnetic inspection technique used to detect and size surface-breaking cracks in metals without the need for extensive surface preparation or coating removal. Benefits include:

  • Inspects through coatings: Reduces cleaning and preparation time.
  • Accurate detection and sizing: Enhances reliability of inspections.
  • Data recording: Full records available for review.
  • Operational efficiency: Can be deployed by a small team, operating in various temperatures.
  • Cost-effective: Minimises downtime and labor costs.

8. How do you ensure compliance with Australian Standards?

We ensure compliance by:

  • Employing AINDT accredited technicians and API 510 certified inspectors.
  • Adhering to relevant Australian Standards such as AS1554, AS1210, AS4037, and AS3788.
  • Maintaining a Quality Management System in accordance with ISO 9001 and ISO 17025.

9. What is the difference between NDT, NDE, and NDI?

All three terms refer to methods of evaluating materials without causing damage:

  • NDT (Non-Destructive Testing): The most commonly used term, encompassing various testing methods.
  • NDE (Non-Destructive Examination): Often used interchangeably with NDT; more common in defense sectors.
  • NDI (Non-Destructive Inspection): Similar to NDT and NDE, with emphasis on the inspection aspect; also common in defense industries.

10. Why is it important for technicians to be AINDT accredited?

AINDT accreditation ensures that technicians are qualified and competent in the specific NDT methods they perform. This accreditation guarantees professional and accurate inspections, adherence to industry standards, and reliable results.

11. Can you perform inspections on-site at remote locations?

Absolutely. We are equipped to provide on-site inspections at remote locations and can arrange fly-in, fly-out (FIFO) services to meet your project requirements.

12. How do you handle safety during inspections?

Safety is our top priority. We:

  • Comply with all relevant safety regulations and standards.
  • Provide ongoing training to our staff on safety protocols.
  • Utilise proper Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
  • Conduct risk assessments before commencing work.

13. Do you offer services outside of regular business hours?

Yes, we offer 24/7 service availability to accommodate your schedule and urgent inspection needs.

14. How can I schedule an inspection or get a quote?

You can contact us via:

  • Phone: 0402 025 622
  • Email: s.moussie@skmndt.com.au
  • Contact Form: Fill out the form on our Contact Us page, and we’ll respond promptly.

15. What is the process for a pressure vessel inspection?

Our pressure vessel inspection process includes:

  1. Pre-Inspection Planning: Reviewing vessel history and preparing inspection plans.
  2. Visual Examination: Assessing external and internal conditions.
  3. NDT Methods: Applying appropriate NDT techniques (e.g., UT, MPI) to detect defects.
  4. Evaluation: Analyzing findings against standards like AS3788.
  5. Reporting: Providing detailed reports with recommendations.
  6. Follow-Up: Assisting with corrective actions if necessary.

16. How quickly can you respond to an urgent inspection request?

We strive to respond to urgent requests promptly. Our 24/7 availability allows us to mobilise quickly to meet your critical inspection needs.

17. Do you assist with compliance audits & regulatory inspections?

Yes, we support compliance audits by:

  • Conducting inspections to verify adherence to regulations.
  • Providing documentation and reports required by regulatory bodies.
  • Consulting on best practices to ensure ongoing compliance.

18. What geographical areas do you serve?

Based in Brisbane, we serve clients throughout Australia and can provide services to national and international locations as needed.

19. How do you stay updated with industry changes and advancements?

We:

  • Participate in industry conferences and seminars.
  • Maintain memberships with professional organizations.
  • Invest in ongoing training and professional development for our staff.
  • Stay informed about updates to standards and regulations.

Request A Quote or General Enquiry

Phone: 0402 025 622
Email: s.moussie@skmndt.com.au

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Use the form below. We’ll respond during business hours.