Non-destructive testing (NDT) is a set of techniques used in science, technology, and industry to evaluate the properties of a material, component, or system without causing damage. NDT is used to inspect and evaluate materials, components, or assemblies without destroying their serviceability. Through a set of test methods, technicians identify cracks, voids, inclusions, and weld discontinuities, as well as identify misassembled subcomponents. NDT is used to ensure product integrity and reliability, control manufacturing processes, lower production costs, and maintain a uniform quality level. Without it, the safety and reliability of components can be seriously jeopardized, making NDT crucial to help prevent catastrophic failures such as airplane and locomotive crashes, pipeline leaks and explosions, nuclear reactor failures, and ships sinking.
NDT consists of 16 methods to test materials, including thermal/infrared testing, visual testing, ultrasonic testing, radiography testing, and magnetic particle testing, among others. These methods allow inspectors to evaluate and collect data about a material without altering it, while destructive testing (DT) is used to collect information about a material in ways that do alter it. Essentially, the NDT and DT difference is that NDT doesnt require inspectors to damage the material they test, while DT does.
Industries that utilize NDT include manufacturing, fabrication, aerospace, automotive, construction, and many others. NDT personnel require specialized training as they involve handling delicate equipment and subjective interpretation of the NDT inspection/testing results.
