What Does an NDT Researcher Do? An NDT researcher studies novel methods or new applications of current methods that could enable NDT practitioners to test assets more efficiently and/or safely to ensure these assets keep functioning according to quality standards.
Conducting experiments and studies in a variety of disciplines
Publishing your research in prestigious scientific journals
Editing and contributing to essential publications
Presenting your research at premier, interdisciplinary conferences and events
NDT (Non-Destructive Testing) certification is essential for technicians looking to work in the field of non-destructive testing. Some well-known, established sources for NDT certifications include:
ASNT offer NDT certification programs, including Level I, Level II, and Level III in different methods like ultrasonic testing, radiography, magnetic particle testing, liquid penetrant testing, and more.
BINDT provide certifications in ultrasonic testing, radiographic testing, eddy current testing, and other NDT methods.
American Welding Society (AWS): AWS offers certifications in various welding-related fields, including Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) and Certified Radiographic Interpreter (CRI).
Canadian Institute for Non-destructive Evaluation (CINDE): CINDE is Canada’s leading NDT certification body, providing certifications in ultrasonic testing, magnetic particle testing, liquid penetrant testing, and other NDT methods.
Note: Different countries and industries may have specific requirements for NDT certifications, check with potential employers or regulatory bodies to determine which certifications are most relevant to your career goals.
Nondestructive Testing (NDT) Plugs are engineered to allow repeat access for EPA/OSHA inspection and process safety management.
Plugs can be installed on insulated and non-insulated pipe, storage tanks, pressure vessels and petrochemical, oil and gas, steam and nuclear power generation facilities.
Engineered NDT2 inspection plugs consist of an elastomer sleeve, metal handle, metal cap, lanyard* and locking ring.
The elastomer sleeve consists of ethylene propylene (EPDM) or silicone (higher temps).
The metal caps can be 304 stainless steel or 5052 aluminum depending on the application.
* Note: lanyards are particularly useful in overhead conditions to prevent the cap from falling if dropped.
Regular access to pipes and equipment benefits areas of process safety management:
Safety NDT inspection plugs allow inspectors to safely access the inside of insulated pipes and equipment without removing the insulation. This helps to ensure the safety of the piping system.
Accuracy NDT inspection plugs help to ensure that thickness measurements are accurate. They also standardize the location of thickness measurements, which helps to protect the integrity of inspection data.
Time NDT inspection plugs reduce the time required for periodic inspections and tests. Once installed, access often.
Corrosion NDT inspection plugs provide a seal that can help protect against corrosion under insulation (CUI), chemical and UV exposure.
Digital Radiography: The use of digital imaging techniques for radiographic testing, which offers improved sensitivity and resolution compared to traditional film-based methods.
Eddy Current Testing (ECT): ECT is widely used for surface and near-surface defect detection, and advancements in probe design and signal processing have increased its applicability.
Phased Array Ultrasonics: This is a specialized ultrasonic testing technique that employs multiple small ultrasonic elements to steer and focus sound waves, allowing for rapid scanning and defect characterization.
Computed Tomography (CT) Scanning: CT scanning is a powerful technique that provides 3D images of internal structures, making it valuable for inspecting complex components and composite materials.
Infrared Thermography: This technique uses thermal imaging to detect variations in temperature, which can indicate defects or anomalies in materials.
Acoustic Emission Testing (AE): AE is used for continuous monitoring and detection of active defects, crack growth, or structural integrity of components under stress.
Guided Wave Testing (GWT): GWT is used for long-range inspection of pipes, plates, and other structures, allowing for the assessment of large areas from a single probe position.
Electromagnetic Testing (ET): ET includes methods like Magnetic Particle Testing and Eddy Current Testing, which are used for surface and subsurface defect detection.
NDT in Additive Manufacturing: With the growing use of additive manufacturing (3D printing) in various industries, there is an increasing demand for NDT techniques to ensure the quality of printed components.
