Nondestructive testing (NDT) methods are critical to inspect the integrity of a commercial or industrial part without actually disassembling the part.
Over the years, many NDT methods have been developed to perform inspections and tests using the latest technology. As technology has improved, the accuracy and precision of these tests has increased.
The result is increased reliability on the testing results to understand when to repair, service, coat, or treat a particular part.
What Are the Most Common Nondestructive Testing (NDT) Methods?
Advancements in technology have led to numerous NDT testing methods. At last count, there are 14 testing methods recognized by ASNT (American Society for Nondestructive Testing).
However, six NDT testing methods have stood the test of time as the most common, useful, or reliable methods to evaluate the integrity of a part.
- Electromagnetic Testing (ET): uses electric currents or magnetic fields to identify flaws.
- Liquid Penetrant Testing (PT): uses a dye to identify surface-breaking cracks.
- Magnetic Particle Testing (MT): uses magnetism to detect corrosion and pitting.
- Radiographic Testing (RT): uses X-ray technology to evaluate the internal structure.
- Ultrasonic Testing (UT): uses sound waves to detect corrosion or cracks.
- Visual Testing (VT): uses an eye test to visually inspect the condition of a part.
Which NDT Method is Appropriate for Your Purposes?
Each nondestructive testing method carries unique benefits, cost considerations, performance capabilities, reliability, and industry-specific techniques.
– For example, some parts cannot be reliability evaluated using a visual test. Either the part is inaccessible in the field, the equipment would be compromised trying to access the part to perform a visual test, or the entire part cannot be viewed at the surface level.
In this case, an alternative NDT method should be employed to evaluate the condition of the part and generate measurements. Then, further action can be taken to address the part if needed.
– Consider another example. If you have the capability and resources to perform a reliable visual test, start with a VT to gain a baseline understanding of the issue. Then, advance to a more intensive NDT method to create measurements and plan the next steps to address problem areas.
– An additional consideration is your industry. Industries such as oil and gas utilize multiple NDT methods to evaluate the integrity of pipelines, valves, and key equipment. Each company leans on their own experience with nondestructive testing methods to generate the most reliable measurements.
Utilize our Nondestructive Testing (NDT) Service
Superior Shot Peening & Coatings (SSPC) offers an ISO-certified NDT service to evaluate the integrity of your critical parts.
In our darkroom, we have the capability of performing magnetic particle testing (wet and dry) as well as visible and fluorescent penetrant. We use a custom-built wet bench and utilize a strict calibration schedule to guarantee reliable measurements.
To inquire about using our nondestructive testing service, contact our company today. Complete our contact form, email info@superiorshotpeening.com, or call us directly at 281-449-6559.
