From manufacturing assets to repairing them, welds are almost guaranteed to be involved in nondestructive testing. This is why it's critical that welds are appropriately joining their assets. If an asset’s weld is flawed or faulty, it could lead to major damage or danger, entirely ruining the component.
There are a number of ways to test welds that involve intricate processes and a variety of equipment. Magnetic particle testing and ultrasonic testing are wonderful methods of nondestructive testing that yield precise results.
It is not possible in all circumstances, however, to bring the instruments necessary to inspect welds. If equipment, location, or portability are an issue, welds can still be thoroughly inspected through nondestructive testing’s most basic method: visual inspection.
Much like it sounds, visual inspection primarily involves observing an asset and evaluating flaws or cracks with the naked eye.
Though visual inspection typically relies on the unaided eye, it can be accompanied by a magnifying glass or drone technology if it suits the specific asset under inspection. There are a number of advantages to visual inspection. For example, its low cost, ease of training, portability, lack of equipment needed, and the minimum effort it takes to prepare parts before inspection.
When it comes to inspecting welds, it doesn’t always take a method with complex procedures to thoroughly inspect an asset. Even if it doesn’t involve expensive instruments, nondestructive testing methods are as good as the technician performing them. In the hands of a skilled technician, visual inspection is a great way to inspect welds.
Unlike most other methods that are only relevant after the weld has been completed, a visual inspection can be performed before, during, and after the welding process.
Before welding is performed, the NDT technician can ensure that the part is fully prepared for welding to reduce the likelihood of an error during the welding process.
During welding, visual inspection can also be performed to ensure that the welding is completed in such a manner that will not allow mistakes and errors. Especially after welding, visual inspection can be performed immediately to catch any flaws or discontinuities so they can be remediated promptly. Each step of the way, visual inspection can verify the state of the component and avoid risks or catch them quickly when they occur.
Visual inspection is the perfect solution for jobs that require precision but may not be suited to complications of heavy equipment. For any NDT method, the inspection will only be as good as the skills of the technician performing it. If you are looking to become a technician through NDT technician training or hire nondestructive testing services to protect your assets, it is crucial to choose the right company to meet your NDT needs.
TXNDT is a cut above the rest with superior NDT courses, knowledgeable instructors, and hands-on coursework to prepare all prospective technicians for NDT certification. Check us out online or give us a call today at 281-231-0001 to see how TXNDT can work for you!