In House Services
Polishing
We provide a full polishing service in-house for all stainless steel welded fabrications, as well as products in other materials. Our polishing facility enables us to finish items with a range of dull, satin or mirror polish finishes, as well as coarser finishes if required, according to the most suitable process for your application.
We can provide a selection of surface patterns and super satin finishes for applications within the pharmaceutical and catering industries which allow for non-stick, hygienically safe surfaces, as well as ease of clean down in clinical environments. This also includes clean room, glovebox, food process and pharmaceutical vessel applications.
We can achieve a smooth, brushed finish on all sheet and coil fabrications with our electro-polishing and mechanical polishing techniques for all large and small fabrications, and we always choose the most cost-effective processes for our clients. Our polishing results in aesthetically-pleasing appearances which are long-lasting and highly practical. All of our polishing services are carried out in accordance with the appropriate Um Ra standards.
Painting
Our External NACE approved painting technology allows for the painting of fabrications to on- and offshore specifications, to prevent the corrosion of materials. Carried out in well-ventilated work spaces, our highly-professional painting services include the application of complex multi-coating which involves the use of epoxy paints, providing a hard-wearing glossy coat; flexible, cold-curing polyurethane coatings; zinc silicates; environmentally-superior water-based coatings, and alkyds.
Coatings provide a range of protective functions including UV protection, scratch resistance and resistance to chemicals. We regularly use painting processes for large frameworks which are to be placed in corrosive environments and where cost prohibits stainless steel fabrication. Paints are selected according to the function of the fabrication, aesthetic qualities, technique of application and local regulatory restrictions. Each painting technique is tested on prototypes to ensure compatibility.
Leak Test - Water
Our in-house, Leak Testing process reliably detects leakage rates as well as providing specification of allowable leakage rates and limits. The leak testing process includes filling the components with water and carrying out a visual inspection to check for leaks. Any abnormalities can then be corrected in-house to ensure the safety, reliability and efficiency of each product.
This is a non-destructive, accurate and reliable test which is particularly useful in the testing of most atmospheric vessels or trays which hold liquid, but with no real pressure involved. All Leak Testing is carried out according to appropriate safety and quality standards.
Leak Test – Air
We provide in-house Leak Testing using air processes. Our revolutionary Air Leak Test service is sensitive and pressure-regulated, allowing the safe and accurate testing of all products. We use combined, flexible Leak Testing instruments to test single and multiple parts quickly and efficiently.
We can ensure purity of vessel contents and non-destructive testing (NDT) of the escape of liquids or gases from sealed fabrications. This test is employed on most pressure vessels and columns where internal moisture may be a problem. The test allows us to immediately rectify any faults and therefore continue to maintain our high standards of quality assurance.
Liquid Penetrant Test
Our in-house, non-destructive testing (NDT) also includes Liquid/Dye Penetrant Testing, which extends visual inspection in order to detect flaws in fabrications such as surface cracks, laps and folds, as well as other surface faults. This technique can be used on all non-absorbent materials, including stainless steel or high alloy fabrications. This includes pressure vessels, lifting points and main structural welds, in order to prove the integrity of the component without causing damage.
The process works by placing a dye on the clean surface of the product, allowing soaking time and subsequently removing any excess dye or liquid from the surface. A developer is then applied (usually a dry white powder) which draws out the penetrant from any cracks or flaws on the surface. A range of penetrants may be used which are washable or easily removed by solvents. As this procedure can easily be incorrectly applied, we make sure that our staff are fully trained and qualified, in order to carry out the testing in accordance with the appropriate standards. This is a quick and easy surface inspection technique which is suitable for a wide range of industries.
Hydrostatic Test
Carried out in-house, the Hydrostatic Test is a common test when inspecting for flaws and leaks in pressure vessels, pipelines and valves with welded sections. Using water or oil, the vessel is completely filled and then visually checked for any changes in shape or leakages. Strain gauges and chart recorders can be fitted.
Colour developers and dyes can be used in order for easier identification of flaws. This procedure uses high pressure which is slowly increased and greater than the normal operating pressure, in order for the fabrication to conform to high safety standards. Our highly-specialised engineers and technicians can make sure that the appropriate amount of pressure is applied in order to avoid the closing of leaks due to over-pressurisation.
This method of testing is suitable for the oil and gas industries both on- and off-shore, as well as many other applications including vessels, paper work, valves and pressure systems before they go into service. This avoids having to make costly on-site repairs at a later date.
Vacuum Test
Carried out in-house, Vacuum Testing is highly successful in discovering the strengths of our fabrications. By using specialised vacuum pumps, products are tested under negative pressure.
Both large and smaller fabrications can be tested using this process under different conditions in order to determine the reliability of our products.
The test will determine whether or not the vessel or fabrication will collapse under negative pressure, as well as checking for leaks where a small pressure drop is critical to the process. This is an accurate test which is carried out in accordance with all safety procedures and quality standards by specialist engineers and technicians.
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INTRODUCTION TO GILWOOD
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DESIGN CAPABILITIES
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VALVE ENGINEERING
View Details"I use Gilwood fabricators for our stainless steel vessels and plant assembly work because of their first rate quality and keen pricing. I am always very pleased with the detailed job knowledge of Gilwood employees, and find their attention to that detail reassuring."
Graham Burrell - Linde Cryoplants Ltd