Solve Hard-to-Reach Inspections in Rotary-Wing Turbines with the IPLEX™ TX II Ultra-Thin Scope

By Mark Russ - 14 November, 2024

When it comes to the rotary-wing market, inspections often involve smaller turbines, which typically require a 4 mm diameter videoscope for thorough evaluations. Our IPLEX™ video borescope systems, with a versatile selection of 4 mm diameter optical tip adapters—including measurement objectives—have long been go-to solutions for in-depth inspections in this field.

However, even the 4 mm system can present challenges in certain applications. Accessing harder-to-reach areas can be difficult, and navigating narrow spaces can lead to premature wear on the insertion tube's protective braiding and distal end. This wear not only increases maintenance costs but can also compromise the quality and accuracy of inspections over time.

Introducing the Ultra-Thin IPLEX TX II: Designed for Precision and Durability

The IPLEX TX II video borescope offers a breakthrough solution with its slim 2.2 mm diameter and shorter rigid distal tip, providing easy access to areas that were previously challenging. Whether inspecting small axial turbine blades, navigating tight-radius combustion chambers, or accessing the intricate spaces of centrifugal compressors, the IPLEX TX II enables inspectors to view these areas with high clarity.

Tablet displaying an image of the inside an engine beside an IPLEX TX II ultraslim video borescope with rigid and flexible small diameter insertion tubes laying on a table.

The IPLEX TX II video borescope is available with a 1.8 mm rigid scope or a 2.2 mm diameter flexible scope, which enables you to obtain a wide field of view in spaces with very small access points.

The smaller diameter and enhanced design of the IPLEX TX II allow for smoother navigation, minimizing wear and tear while delivering exceptional image quality—an essential feature for making accurate, informed decisions regarding asset integrity.

Mitigate Scope Damage in Tight-Access Areas of Turboshaft and Turboprop Engine Turbines

During routine RVI examinations of small turboshaft and turboprop engines, the gas generator turbines, guide vanes, and the first stage power turbines are areas that are frequently inspected. The access points for these areas, (see images below) offer very restricted access for a 4 mm insertion tube. When inserted into these access points, a 4 mm tube typically sustains substantial wear and damage to the bending section braid, the tip adapter, and the articulation system.

Red arrow pointing at the remote visual inspection access point in a GE CT7/T700 turbine engine for a helicopter

Example of an access point (red arrow) to the gas generator turbines, guide vanes and the first stage power turbines of a small turboshaft or turboprop engine.

This is where the IPLEX TX II 2.2 mm diameter insertion tube comes in handy! With its shorter 7.8 mm rigid distal tip, the thin scope easily slips into the inspection ports, providing access to all the important areas of the turbine stages and guide vanes.

Inspector’s hands holding the IPLEX TX II borescope in one hand and guiding the insertion tube into an access point in a GE CT7 turbine engine for a helicopter

Inspector navigating the flexible scope of the TX II video borescope into the narrow access point of a small turbine.

You can see the turbine sections in vivid detail, rotating the turbine to examine each leading and trailing edge of the blades. The wide field of view, bright illumination, and faithful color reproduction enable inspectors to gain a thorough understanding of the internal integrity of the turbine.

Image of blades inside a rotary-wing turbine engine acquired by the IPLEX TX II borescope

Image acquired by an IPLEX TX II video borescope of a blade inside a GE CT7 turbine engine for a helicopter

Image acquired by an IPLEX TX II video borescope of blades inside a GE CT7/T700 type turbine engine for a helicopter

The IPLEX TX II’s wide field of view enables you to view multiple blades at once, and by positioning the insertion tube between the guide vanes, you can rotate the turbine to inspect each blade.

To fully quantify the extent of any damage found, you made need to prove up with a 4 mm scope that offers stereo measurement. However, it’s possible to use the IPLEX TX II 2 mm diameter video borescope for the majority of your inspections of gas generator and power turbine sections, greatly reducing the wear and tear on your 4 mm system.

Unlock New Inspection Capabilities with the IPLEX TX II Video Borescope

With its ability to reach and clearly inspect even the most restricted spaces, the IPLEX TX II offers a significant advancement for those working in demanding inspection environments. This tool empowers inspectors to access critical areas with ease, ensuring reliable evaluations and enhancing overall asset maintenance.

To experience the IPLEX TX II firsthand and explore how it can transform your inspection process, contact your local Evident representative to book a free demonstration.