Non-Destructive Testing - General

Question 1

What is the Definition of Non-Destructive Testing (NDT)?

Answer 1

The use of Non-invasive techniques to:
-Determine the integrity of a materiel, component or structure
-Quantitatively measure some characteristics of an object
Inspect or measure without doing harm

Question 2

What are some uses of NDT methods?

Answer 2

• Flaw detection
• Leak detection
• Location determination
• Dimensional measurements
• Structure and micro structure characterization
• Estimation of the mechanical and physical properties
• Stress (strain) and dynamic response measurements
• Material Sorting and chemical composition determination

Question 3

Name 3 reasons to use NDT?

Answer 3

Any of 3 of:

• Test piece is too precious to be destroyed
• Test piece to be reused after inspection
• Test piece is in service
• For quality control purposes
• Something you simply cannot do harm to

Question 4

What are the major types of NDT used to detect surface flaws?

Answer 4

Visual
Magnetic Particle Inspection (MPI)
Fluorescent Dye Penetrant Inspection

Question 5

What are the major types of NDT used to detect internal flaws?

Answer 5

Radiography
Ultrasound
Eddy Current testing

Question 6

What tools and methods can be used to carry out visual inspections?

Answer 6

Most basic and common inspection method.
• Tools include fiberscopes, borescopes, magnifying glasses and mirrors.
• Portable video inspection unit with zoom allows inspection of large tanks and vessels, railroad tank cars, sewer lines.
• Robots allow inspection of or tight areas, such as air ducts, reactors, pipelines.