Non-destructive testing in industry: Shipbuilding

Abstract

Although a mandatory requirement for naval construction since the early years of the second world war, non-destructive testing has become an integral aspect of shipbuilding both in the merchant and naval context. It is used primarily to give a basic assurance of quality in the finished product and in this sense has become part of a much broader quality control system which has influenced virtually every aspect of ship construction in recent years. It has the secondary purpose of cutting the expense of working materials which are inherently faulty and of assisting in the development of new manufacturing processes and materials. The part played by ndt in the training of production shop personnel, especially in the context of welding, is also invaluable. The psychological effect of ndt should not be underestimated when considering the wider influence of testing and inspection. The mere fact that certain non-destructive tests are known to be carried out is sufficient to induce a better standard of work, even though the inspection may only be implemented on a percentage basis.