Ultrasonic Testing

Our Ultrasonic testing capability is utilised across the railway network to detect defects which could result in service failures and critical health and safety breaches.

Precision accuracy to ensure Britain’s trains keep moving

Using industry–leading equipment, our team of experts are trained to test every inch of a surface to identify any flaws that require immediate remedial work. Hand-held devices are used by our highly–trained Ultrasonic Rail Flaw Detection Operatives (URFDO) to ensure the precision required to meet Network Rail Standard NR/L3/TRK/055.

An NRL worker in orange PPE crouches with their back to the camera, inspecting a railway track.

Railway line at sunset with clouds in the background, overhead lines clearly visible.

Comprehensive Ultrasonic testing capability

Our Ultrasonic testing services provide support for:

Flaw detection and identification for track and asset
Defect removal
Rail head damage
Vertical Longitudinal Splitting (VLS)
Significant rail corrosion
Lipping on rail adjustment switches
Areas of rolling contact fatigue (RCF)

Our robust and compliant approach

NRL’s experienced in-house compliance team ensure our operatives have the relevant minimum action codes (MAC) to proceed with the correct course of action depending on the type of defect identified. This is backed up by our stringent health and safety procedures and quality management system which is externally audited by RISQS.

Ultrasonic inspection delivery includes:

L2/TRK/001 M06 – Visual Inspection & ultrasonic testing of rails
L2/TRK/001 M07 – Management of Rail Defects
NR/L3/TRK/2416 – Rail Testing using Train based Sperry – Equipped ultrasonic
NR/L3/TRK/055 – Work instructions for Ultrasonic Rail Testing
NR/SP/TRK/057 – Rail Failure Handbook
NR/SP/TRK/1110 – Qualification and Certification of NDT Personnel

Close-up of a rail contractor wearing a white hard hat, safety glasses, and head torch near yellow railings.

NRL rail contractor with back to camera, wearing full orange PPE, ear defenders, and a white hard hat.

Demonstrating safety in everything we do

Having worked trackside for two decades, we always understand the need for everyone to undertake their work with safety as the key priority.

Our safety approach

Trusted project management expertise

Our management team ensure the safety and competent delivery of our services to the highest of standards. Experts in their fields, they’re trusted by our clients to deliver their projects, working alongside their core team.

meet our team