The Dakota MX range of ultrasonic corrosion gauges consists of two models: the MX1-DL and the MX2-DL. Both offer an internal 4 GB data logger, high-speed scan mode up to 250 readings per second and the 2D block view for analysing the thickness profile. The key difference lies in the presence of the A-Scan display, which separates an advanced corrosion gauge from an instrument at flaw-detector level.
The MX1-DL and MX2-DL shared platform
According to the official Dakota NDT specifications, both models in the MX series share:
- 4 GB internal memory for storing readings and waveforms
- High-speed Scan mode: up to 250 readings per second
- Pulse-Echo (PE) and Echo-Echo ThruPaint™ (EE) measurement modes, the latter ignoring coatings up to 2 mm
- 2D block cross-section view — graphical representation of the thickness profile, useful for identifying pitting and corroded areas
- Selectable display modes: Readings, B-Scan, B-Scan combined with readings, Scan bar
- Repeatability/stability indicator with 6 vertical bars
- Alarm minimum thickness and differential mode
- USB-C connectivity with integrated file system
- Integration with the DakMaster™ software for professional reporting
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The fundamental difference: the A-Scan display
The Dakota MX1-DL offers every digital and graphical display mode (Readings, B-Scan, Scan bar) but does not include the A-Scan display. The Dakota MX2-DL, on top of all the MX1-DL functions, adds the A-Scan display with full (RF) or rectified (RECT, positive or negative) waveform. This is the difference that justifies moving up to the higher model.
Why the A-Scan makes the difference
The A-Scan display lets the operator interpret the ultrasonic signal directly instead of relying solely on the numerical value computed by the firmware. Seeing the waveform is essential in the following cases:
- Validating critical measurements: checking that the back-wall echo is clean and not contaminated by intermediate echoes (inclusions, delaminations, double reflections)
- Corroded or uneven surfaces: telling a valid echo from a spurious one in difficult geometries
- Detecting pitting and sub-surface defects: the intermediate peak on the A-Scan flags a defect that a purely numerical reading would miss
- Inspections to standards: many NDT procedures require the A-Scan to be recorded as evidence of the acquired signal
- Diagnosing coupling problems: seeing immediately when the couplant gel is insufficient or the probe is not correctly placed
Comparison table
| Feature | Dakota MX1-DL | Dakota MX2-DL |
|---|---|---|
| Data logger | 4 GB | 4 GB |
| Scan Mode speed | 250 readings/sec | 250 readings/sec |
| Pulse-Echo (PE) | Yes | Yes |
| Echo-Echo ThruPaint™ | Yes | Yes |
| 2D block view | Yes | Yes |
| Readings display | Yes | Yes |
| B-Scan display | Yes | Yes |
| Scan bar display | Yes | Yes |
| A-Scan display | No | Yes (RF and RECT) |
| USB-C connectivity | Yes | Yes |
| DakMaster™ | Yes | Yes |
Which one to choose
The choice is driven by how formalised the inspection is:
- Choose the Dakota MX1-DL if You need a corrosion gauge with data logging and B-Scan, but graphical verification of the signal is not critical to Your procedures
- Choose the Dakota MX2-DL if You work in regulated contexts (API 570, API 653, customer specifications) where being able to display and store the A-Scan is required as evidence of the quality of the measurement
For help in choosing and to request a demonstration of the Dakota MX instruments, contact our technical office.