With travel restrictions still in place in the majority of countries around the globe, heading to the airport is the last thing on most of our minds. Even so, the aviation industry hasn’t slowed down just because fewer flights are running. There are still planes to be built, maintained, and repaired in preparation for the return of routine air travel.
The aviation industry is just one of the many industries that is supported by the critical inspection methods performed by nondestructive testing technicians. Here is how NDT supports this vital industry.
Nondestructive testing is a system of inspection methods that precisely evaluate components without causing damage to complex and expensive materials. This is exactly why NDT is necessary for the aviation industry.
Planes are made up of expensive and intricate hardware and software, all of which must function perfectly. When it comes to aviation quality assurance, there is absolutely no room for error.
Nondestructive testing is used in every step of the aircraft manufacturing process.
When products are designed, nondestructive testing can be used on materials to determine whether or not they are suitable for aircraft manufacturing. NDT is often performed during aircraft testing and certification to evaluate performance and durability, and to identify inconsistencies.
Whether the aircraft is damaged or fully functioning, regular maintenance is crucial to ensure safety and efficiency of planes. Nondestructive testing guarantees testing is performed precisely and without causing damage to the component under inspection.
There are a number of different nondestructive testing methods used in the aviation industry. At its most basic level, visual inspection can be used to evaluate the safety of an aircraft component. Scopes, cameras, and magnifiers can be used to quickly evaluate major issues with ease.
Liquid Penetrant Testing is also used in the aviation industry. This method uses a highly viscous dye to coat components and reveal cracks and flaws below the surface that cannot be identified with vision or scopes alone. This is a highly precise method often chosen due to its ease of use and rapid yield of results.
There is a wide variety of nondestructive testing methods that can be helpful for identifying critical flaws. Especially in cases like the aviation industry, early identification is crucial for preventing damage and avoiding issues during and after liftoff.
When it comes to nondestructive testing, even the most effective methods are useless in the hands of a poor technician. Becoming an expert technician starts with high caliber training at an NDT school like TXNDT. Since the requirements of an NDT technician can change from job to job, the expert instructors at TXNDT ensure that all prospective technicians are qualified to take on whatever their next job throws at them. In aviation, they need to be able to ensure the passengers are safe and the aircraft will reach its final destination.
From introductory NDT courses to NDT level 3 certification, we take an active approach to educating all of our students and encourage all prospective technicians to take an active role in their own learning.
If you or your staff are looking for ways to expand your skills and broaden your career opportunities through nondestructive testing courses, or looking at how you can get into the aviation industry with these skills, consider NDT certification.
Don’t trust just any NDT school. If you’re looking for a top-tier experience that will equip you with all the tools you need to thrive in any NDT-related field, give us a call today at 281-231-0001 or check out our website for more information.
