Non-Destructive Technologies

Types Of Non-Destructive Testing Technologies

Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) is a way of inspecting or evaluating products and materials without destroying them. Many forms of quality control analysis and testing require the materials to be changed, rendering them useless by the end of testing. Because of this, testing is done on a limited basis, relying on random sampling to determine the quality and reliability of a product, but not testing the actual products that eventually make it to the marketplace.

NDT is different. Once testing is complete, the materials or product can still be used. That means that every piece of every product can be tested. Testing can be conducted at multiple stages in the manufacturing process, ensuring quality at every turn. Non-destructive testing is widely used during manufacturing and inspections in the transportation and energy industries to ensure the safety and reliability of products.

How Different Non-Destructive Testing Methods Work

Non-Destructive Testing works by analyzing the material characteristics of the product. This can be done in a variety of ways. Different methods measure different characteristics and are suitable for different applications and industries. Some of the most common Non-Destructive Testing Methods are:

• Guided Wave. This method is commonly used on pipelines, and works by sending low frequency ultrasonic waves along a section of pipe. Those waves bounce echoes back to a transducer ring, which sends the results to a software program that is installed on a laptop. The program is used to analyze the results of the test. Guided wave testing can be used to examine a pipe for weakness, fractures, cracks, and even changes in the internal or external diameter of a pipe. Wavelengths can travel long distances, which means the tests can be done from a few specially selected locations and still cover 100% of the pipe. Guided wave technology can assess materials that are below ground, above ground, or under insulation.
• There are many types of radiographic testing. X-rays and Gamma rays are common examples. These methods examine materials using radiation to get a picture of the materials. The image can then be examined for areas of wear, weakness, or change. Computed Radiography (CR) and Digital Radiography (DR) can be used to gauge the thickness of walls or pipes and provide much quicker results than film radiography.
• Positive Material Identification (PMI). PMI is used to determine the performance characteristics of certain materials. This helps ensure that appropriate materials are used in certain applications. PMI may measure strength, corrosion resistance, or temperature ranges by determining the alloy composition of the material. The method can be used during production as a quality-assurance test or after the product has been in use for some time to confirm the material is maintaining its integrity.
• Thermal/Infrared Testing. This method is used to measure the surface temperatures of an area, using infrared radiation. The test measures heat flow that is undetectable to the naked eye by using thermal imaging devices or infrared cameras. This method of testing can detect areas of corrosion, voids, inclusions, or disbonding.

NDT Services At Amerapex

Amerapex is a leading provider of Non-Destructive Testing services across many industries. To learn more about our NDT methods, or find out if our services can help your business, contact us at 1-713-263-0900.