https://www.txndt.comThrough a number of different nondestructive testing (NDT) methods, technicians can inspect assets to find flaws and discontinuities before, during, and after manufacturing or assembly of a structure.
Flaws that are detected early can be quickly mitigated and sometimes easily spotted, saving the asset from total replacement. However, when defects are advanced, detection and remediation can be difficult. If a crack or fissure is advanced, the trickiest part may be identifying the initial cause of the flaw or where the crack begins.
While there are several different methods of nondestructive testing, not all of them are suited for detecting advanced defects. A method like visual testing works well in many circumstances. It is a low-cost method that most NDT technicians can implement. But unfortunately, visual testing, especially when it relies on the naked eye of the technician performing the inspection, may not provide accurate data. It also doesn’t allow much room to forgive or remedy human error.
When the flaws on an asset are advanced, laser precision is critical for stopping damage before the asset is beyond repair. If your assets have advanced damage, try one of these methods:
Liquid penetrant testing is a tried and true method of inspection, largely because of the precise results it yields. This method uses the property of capillary action to find discontinuities and flaws in a component after a liquid penetrant enters into fissures and flaws, revealing the discontinuities after a dwelling time when the excess penetrant is removed. Especially for advancing defects, liquid penetrant testing can help technicians determine the precise location of flaws and remedy issues promptly.
Magnetic particle testing is also an inspection method that can deliver clear results and reveal precise locations for flaws and cracks. As long as the component under inspection is ferromagnetic, magnetic particle testing can be used by applying a fine pigmented magnetic powder to the surface of the component. The central conductor used to operate this inspection method creates a magnetic field that then causes the pigmented powder to be drawn into a magnetic leakage field caused by the discontinuity, which will clearly indicate a flaw to the inspector. Magnetic particle testing can quickly spot surface and near surface indications so all damage can be remedied before an asset is too damaged.
For defects and flaws that are advanced, early detection is crucial for remediation so that the asset is restored to its original design capacity. Knowing which NDT methods to use is the first step in giving your assets a fighting chance.
For any NDT method, the inspection will only be as good as the skills of the technician performing it. If you are looking for nondestructive testing services to protect your assets or to become a technician yourself through NDT technician training, it’s 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!
