Non-destructive testing (NDT) is a testing and analysis technique used by industry to evaluate the properties of a material, component, structure or system for characteristic differences or welding defects and discontinuities without causing damage to the original part. NDT also known a non-destructive examination (NDE), non-destructive inspection (NDI) and non-destructive evaluation (NDE).
Manual ultrasonic testing (UT) is one of the more common non-destructive testing methods performed on materials. This testing utilises high frequency mechanical energy, i.e. high frequency sound waves, to conduct examinations and measurements on a test area.
This NDT process uses magnetic fields to find discontinuities at or near the surface of ferromagnetic materials. The magnetic field can be created with a permanent magnet or an electromagnet, which requires a current to be applied.
Radiographic Testing (RT) is a non-destructive testing (NDT) method which uses either x-rays or gamma rays to examine the internal structure of manufactured-components identifying any flaws or defects.