The First Step Toward Reliable Recertification

Before any testing, rebuild, or pressure verification begins, every component must be visually inspected for condition, cleanliness, and safety.
At NorthStar Technologies – Oil & Gas Division, our Visual Inspection process serves as the foundation of our certified recertification program, ensuring that no component enters service without a complete condition assessment.

Each inspection is performed under API-Q2 Certified Quality Management standards, identifying visible signs of corrosion, wear, fatigue, or damage that could compromise performance or safety.

Purpose of Visual Inspection

Visual inspection is the first and most critical step in evaluating the condition of pressure-rated components.
It allows trained technicians to identify issues that may require non-destructive testing (NDT), rebuilds, or replacement, ensuring compliance with OEM and industry standards.

The goal: to eliminate risk before failure occurs.

Our team uses detailed checklists, measurement tools, and photographic documentation to evaluate each component thoroughly and consistently.

Our Process

All visual inspections at NorthStar Technologies follow a structured and documented procedure within our API-Q2 Certified Quality Management System.

Step 1: Intake and Cleaning
Each component is received, logged, and cleaned to remove surface debris and contaminants that could obscure visual indicators.

Step 2: External Examination
Technicians perform a detailed surface inspection to identify corrosion, pitting, deformation, thread damage, or coating failure.

Step 3: Internal Inspection
Where applicable, internal bores, sealing faces, and thread roots are examined using visual aids such as mirrors or borescopes to detect hidden damage.

Step 4: Dimensional Verification
Key measurements are compared against OEM specifications to verify continued service suitability.

Step 5: Documentation and Reporting
Findings are recorded with photos, notes, and condition codes, forming the basis for the next phase of testing, rebuild, or certification.

Applications

Visual inspection applies to every component in the oilfield equipment lifecycle, including:

• Flow iron and high-pressure lines
• Hammer unions and fittings
• Valves, manifolds, and crosses
• Plug valves and choke assemblies
• Pressure piping and adapters
• Structural supports and steel assemblies

Benefits of Certified Visual Inspection

• Early Detection of Damage – Identify corrosion, cracks, or mechanical wear before operational failure.
• Reduced Downtime – Determine repair or replacement needs before equipment reaches the field.
• Improved Safety – Verify that every piece of equipment meets visual acceptance criteria.
• Traceable Records – Every inspection documented under API-Q2 certification for audit readiness.
• Increased Equipment Longevity – Maintain component integrity and prevent recurring damage.

Certified Quality and Documentation

Every visual inspection is performed by qualified technicians under NorthStar’s API-Q2 Certified Quality System, ensuring consistency, repeatability, and traceability.

Our Quality Assurance Includes:

• Standardized inspection checklists
• Calibrated measuring instruments
• Photo documentation of findings
• Serialized recordkeeping
• Digital storage of inspection reports

Each inspection report is stored within our quality database and integrated with related testing, rebuild, or certification data for full traceability.

Industries Served

• Drilling and completions
• Pressure pumping and stimulation
• Flowback and well service
• Midstream transfer and containment
• Industrial power and energy

Visual inspection is the cornerstone of every service we perform for these industries, ensuring compliance and confidence in every recertified component.

Nationwide Ship-and-Return Inspection Service

NorthStar Technologies provides nationwide inspection and certification programs for clients throughout the eastern, southeastern, and midwestern United States.

Common Service Regions:
Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland, District of Columbia, Virginia, West Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Florida, Alabama, Mississippi, Tennessee, Kentucky, Ohio, Indiana, Michigan, Illinois, and Wisconsin.

Our ship-and-return logistics ensure your components receive certified inspection, testing, and documentation—no matter where you operate.

Why Choose NorthStar Technologies for Visual Inspection

• API-Q2 Certified Inspection Procedures
• Experienced and Trained Inspectors
• Comprehensive Documentation and Photo Records
• Integrated with Full Recertification Programs
• Nationwide Ship-and-Return Service
• Rapid Turnaround with Verified Results

NorthStar Technologies ensures every piece of equipment entering or leaving your operation meets the industry’s highest standards for safety and quality.

Begin your next recertification with a certified visual inspection.
Contact NorthStar Technologies – Oil & Gas Division to schedule inspection and documentation services.

Phone: (304) 933-1024