Standard NDT

Eddy current testing​

Eddy current testing (ET) is an NDT technique based on inducing electrical currents in the material being inspected and observing the interaction between those currents and the material. Eddy currents are generated by coils in the test probe and monitored simultaneously by measuring the coil's electrical impedance.

  • Sensitive to surface defects
  • Can detect defects through several layers, as well as through surface coatings
  • Accurate conductivity measurements
  • Can be automated
  • Little pre-cleaning required
  • Portable
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Magnetic particle testing​

Magnetic particle testing (MT), also known as magnetic particle inspection (MPI), is used to locate surface and slightly sub-surface discontinuities in ferromagnetic materials by introducing a magnetic flux into the material. 

  • Will detect some sub-surface defects
  • Rapid and simple to understand
  • Pre-cleaning not as critical as with dye penetrant inspection (PT)
  • Will work through thin coatings
  • Direct test method

Penetrant testing

Penetrant testing (PT), also known as dye penetrant inspection (DPI), locates surface-breaking discontinuities by covering the item with a penetrating liquid, which is drawn into the discontinuity by capillary action. After the removal of the excess penetrant, the indication is made visible by the application of a developer.

  • Applicable to non-ferromagnetic materials
  • Able to test on large parts, or for batch testing
  • Applicable to small parts with complex geometry
  • High sensitivity
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Ultrasonic testing​

Ultrasonic testing (UT) measures the time for high frequency (0.5-50 MHz) pulses of ultrasound to travel through the inspection material. If a discontinuity is present, the ultrasound returns to the probe in a period other than what would be expected of a fault-free specimen.

  • Sensitive to cracks at a variety of orientations
  • Portable
  • Not hazardous, resulting in no disruption to normal work
  • Able to penetrate thick sections
  • Measures depth and through-wall extent
  • Internal defects can be detected and sized
  • Access to only one side of the component is needed for pulse-echo testing
  • Planar defects can be detected irrespective of their orientation to the surface by careful selection of angle probes

Visual testing

Visual testing (VT), involves the visual observation of the surface of a test object to evaluate the presence of surface discontinuities. With sufficient lighting and access, visual techniques provide simple, rapid methods of testing. Close visual testing (CVT) refers to viewing directly with the eye, with or without magnification, while remote visual testing (CVT) refers to the use of optical devices such as borescopes and fiberscopes.

  • Detects corrosion, misalignment of parts, physical damage and cracks
  • Can be used on metals, plastics or ceramics, as well as composite structures and piping
  • Improves the quality of industrial products and ensures the safe performance of equipment and plants
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