Thai Startup Launches Gamma Ray Device for Pipe Blockage Detection

A recent innovation from Thailand is set to transform plumbing inspection. An alumnus from the Department of Nuclear Engineering at Chulalongkorn University, Suphanut Leelapamornkij, has launched a startup that utilizes gamma rays to detect blockages in plumbing systems for both residential and commercial buildings. This pioneering initiative marks the establishment of the first company in Thailand to offer non-destructive and safe inspections for plumbing issues.

Suphanut founded Radiation Testing Co., Ltd. shortly after graduating in 2024. His vision was clear—addressing the frequent and costly problem of plumbing blockages without resorting to damaging pipes or surrounding structures. Traditional methods often require significant demolition, leading to inconvenience and added expenses for property owners. The new device, based on gamma-ray transmission technology, aims to pinpoint the exact location and nature of blockages swiftly and accurately.

Innovation Inspired by Academic Experience

The concept for this innovative inspection device emerged during Suphanut’s studies in a course on Non-Destructive Testing (NDT). This class, primarily oriented towards industrial applications, sparked an idea to adapt these techniques for household plumbing systems. “Everyone faces blockage issues, but no one has proactively sought solutions in this sector,” Suphanut noted. His academic background, combined with hands-on experience from engineering events, provided the foundation for developing a practical solution.

The gamma-ray inspection process is likened to a medical X-ray. When radiation passes through a pipe, it reveals areas of blockage based on the material’s density. Clear passages allow more radiation to penetrate, while dense materials, such as clogs, reduce transmission, creating a distinct contrast on the inspection readings. This fundamental principle enables accurate identification of blockage locations, reported to be precise up to the centimeter level.

Advanced Detection Technology

Radiation Testing Co., Ltd. has developed two primary devices for inspecting blockages. The first, known as the Blockage Detector, is a cuff-like apparatus that wraps around the pipe, moving along its length to assess potential blockages. The device employs a color gradient system ranging from green, indicating no issues, to red, signifying urgent problems needing immediate attention.

The second device, the Blockage Level Meter, measures the height of any obstruction and identifies the material based on its density. For example, sand typically shows lower density, while more solid materials like mortar indicate a higher density. Suphanut emphasized the need for adaptability, stating that each project presents unique challenges based on specific site conditions.

For more complex situations, such as pipes hidden behind walls or underground, the company has developed an endoscope that can navigate through pipes as small as 1.5 inches in diameter. This technology allows for thorough inspections, with aspirations to extend the reach of the probe to 25 meters in the future.

Despite concerns regarding the safety of using gamma radiation, Suphanut assures clients of the method’s reliability. He emphasizes ongoing collaboration with professors from Chulalongkorn University, ensuring that the technology is not only effective but also safe for use in various settings.

The company is also expanding its services to include tree and column scanning, utilizing similar gamma-ray technology. This aspect of their operations helps assess the structural integrity of trees and buildings, reinforcing the versatility of their innovations.

As the nuclear and radiation industry in Thailand remains relatively underdeveloped compared to other countries, Suphanut sees a significant opportunity for growth. “With the right expertise and tools, there’s immense potential for expanding this business,” he stated.

Looking ahead, Radiation Testing Co., Ltd. aims to position itself as a leader in digital radiation detection across various sectors, further enhancing its service offerings and establishing a foothold in a niche market. For more information, the company can be reached at Tel. 096-661-9899 or through their website at [Radiation Testing Co., Ltd.](https://www.radiation-testing.com/).