Charles J. Hellier

The evolution of NDT training has been an interesting and challenging trip. And along the way there have been issues that have not always been effectively addressed.

Effective communication only happens when the intended message is expressed successfully by one person and received and understood by another. If executed correctly, it cuts down the unintended consequences that arise as a result of miscommunication. 

The technology of nondestructive testing has experienced phenomenal growth over the past two decades and it is expected that this growth will continue for the foreseeable future. 

Radiographs have been interpreted since Wilhelm Conrad Roentgen first observed the X-ray of his wife’s hand back in 1896. The process of radiographic interpretation consists of many variables with the major objective being achieving the highest possible quality level or sensitivity.

It is true that magnetic particle testing (MT) is one of the oldest NDT methods, and over the years has proven itself to be not only reliable, but cost effective, when it is applied properly with qualified personnel. 

For decades in the United States, NDT personnel certification has been in a state of chaos. Since 1968, the basic certification program SNT-TC-1A, a “recommended practice” has been adopted and followed by many organizations.

Radiographic testing (RT) techniques should be developed to achieve the highest image quality level achievable. 

All Nondestructive Evaluation (NDE) or examination methods comprise the following steps: the search for, and detection of the discontinuities, the indication or recording or signal–processing of those detected discontinuities, and the human interpretation of that indication, record or signal.

Magnetic Particle Testing (MT), one of the oldest and most reliable NDT methods, is often not given the recognition it deserves.

“The true measure of a successful NDT training program lies in the student’s ability to demonstrate that the body of knowledge was thoroughly comprehended and that the skills to effectively perform the nondestructive tests have been achieved. This should be the goal of all NDT courses.”