Non-Destructive Testing

Non-Destructive Testing allows us to observe and review the weld whilst incurring no damage to the component, this method allows us to fully inspect surface and subsurface of the welded and surrounding areas.

This testing method is essential in high-speed production where a sample is tested from a batch, these tests are also highly important for high integrity welds and wherever failure may result in injury or severe downtime and/or repairs.

Non-Destructive Testing and evaluation is usually done by utilising visual inspection, liquid penetrants, magnetic particles, eddy currents, ultrasonics, acoustics, emissions or radiography. 

Visual Inspection or VT

Visual Testing

VT is the most common form of Non-Destructive testing (NDT). VT must be performed by trained and qualified personnel to satisfy industry standards.

The most common type of VT qualification within industry is the CSWIP 3-series. All testing should start with VT, as VT is the easiest, quickest and most cost effective method of NDT. the the item fails VT, there is little need to perform any other forms of NDT, until the repaired repairs have been completed.

Ultrasonic Testing or UT

Ultrasonic Testing

Used in various engineering industries as a method to detect defects or discontinuities in materials and/or welds, also used to determine lifecycle ranges of products.

Various types of UT exist, some more advanced than others; conventional UT, phased array, TOFD etc. these are all based on similar technologies but can deliver different results.

UT can be done of most materials,and is often a requirement for many welding standards and codes. UT is also a great tool for reactive and proactive quality control.

Radiograph Interpretation, or RT

Radiography

RT is the process of interpreting the results of a radiograph (X-Ray) of a component.
Using a viewing box, and a darkroom the inspector will analyze the film. RT can be completed on most materials, and is often a requirement for many welding standards and codes.

Dye penetrant testing or PT
The form of PT in the image is colour contrast Dye Pen, this is one of the most common forms of NDT. Can be used on all materials, but will only defect surface breaking defects.

Very sensitive form of inspection, and will detect defects and discontinuities the human eye cannot see.

Magnetic Particle Inspection or MPI or MT

Magnetic Particle MPI

The form of MPI used in the image in colour contrast MPI, various forms are available and various consumables for each type.

This uses magnetic fields to detect defects and discontinuations, this method is slightly more sensitive than Dye pen, but can only be used on magnetic materials, and will only detect surface and slight subsurface defects (1mm under surface maximum).

One of the most common forms of NDT, also used as a fatigue management tool, good for reactive and proactive quality control.

Energas Expertise

Energas have a team of welding experts and partners available to support your NDT requirements. Contact your Energas Fabrication Expert using our form below.

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