3 - Non-destructive Testing Techniques

Abstract

The structural integrity of structures, components, and materials needs to be assessed for product specifications, safety regulations, and quality control. A number of testing techniques have been developed for condition monitoring and maintenance. The techniques are categorized into two important classes: destructive testing and nondestructive testing (NDT). Destructive testing is based on fracture mechanics. NDT leaves the inspected component undamaged. In particular, NDT is relevant to the inspection of large and expensive components. The industries that utilize an extensive range of NDT techniques are nuclear, food, offshore, and food industries. The NDT methods that find widespread applications include magnetic particle inspection, alternating current potential drop, and visual inspection, eddy current testing, radiography, ultrasonic testing and liquid penetrant inspection, and alternating current field measurement. The advantages as well as the limitations and advantages of the most commonly utilized NDT methods suitable for data fusion are reviewed in this chapter. The sensitivity and accuracy of each method is dependent upon its application. The performance of NDT systems can be assessed and compared using probabilistic and statistical analysis.