NECIT's Comprehensive Suite of Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) Methods

NECIT offers a comprehensive suite of Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) methods covering many international codes and standards which we can utilise on our clients' projects.

What is Non-Destructive Testing?

Non-Destructive Testing is any inspection technique which allows for the collection of data about a material or weldment which does not cause permanent damage or destruction to it in the process. It is an effective way for engineering businesses to test for defects without altering the tested product. NDT can be done during fabrication or in service to detect irregularities and identify areas of risk before they become problematic and cause failures in service.

Types of NDT methods

There are many different NDT methods across various industries. NECIT employs a range of NDT methods for use in the engineering sector to ensure safety and compliance with numerous international standards such as ISO, ASME, DNV and UK Defence Standards, which are updated regularly by our ISO 9712 Level 3 Engineer.

Ultrasonic Testing (UT)

Ultrasonic Testing (UT) utilises high-frequency sound waves to identify flaws in various materials such as metals, composites, and plastics. These waves travel through the material, and when imperfections like cracks or voids are encountered, the energy is reflected back, indicating an issue. UT finds widespread application in industries including aerospace, oil and gas, manufacturing, construction, automotive, power generation, and nuclear, where it plays a crucial role in ensuring safety and quality of critical components and structures.

Phased Array Ultrasonic Testing (PAUT)

Phased Array Ultrasonic Testing (PAUT) uses multiple ultrasonic elements to detect flaws in materials like metals, composites, and welds, offering key benefits such as enhanced visualisation through real-time, detailed images and recordable data for traceability and future analysis. Its ability to electronically steer and focus beams improves flaw detection, even in complex geometries, while enabling faster inspections and reducing setup time. With its versatility and efficiency, PAUT is widely used in industries like aerospace, oil and gas, power generation, construction, and manufacturing to ensure safety and quality in critical components.

Magnetic Particle Inspection (MPI)

Primarily utilised for detecting cracks and other surface defects in ferromagnetic materials, this method relies on the application of a magnetic field to reveal any discontinuities in the test material. When a flaw is present, it disrupts the magnetic field, causing a phenomenon known as magnetic flux leakage. This leakage occurs around the defect and can be easily detected and visualised by the operator, often using magnetic particles or specialised sensors. This technique is highly effective for identifying surface and near-surface imperfections, ensuring the structural integrity of critical components.

Dye Penetrant Inspection (DPI)

A penetrant ink or dye is applied to the item using a brush or spray. The penetrant then soaks into any defects such as cracks and porosity. A developer is then applied to draw the penetrant out of the flaw, which creates a visible indication of the flaw. This method type can be applied to both ferrous, non-ferrous, and non-porous materials.

Visual Testing (VT)

This is the oldest and most common method of NDT. A trained inspector uses the naked eye under good illumination to assess for defects or damage. Visual inspection uses its own range of specialist equipment to improve the ability to assess an imperfection and sentence it against a standard to ascertain if it is a defect.

Hardness Testing

This measures the hardness of a material by applying pressure onto a metal surface using a pointed or rounded object. The indentation is then measured to determine the hardness of the material. This information plays a crucial role in determining a material’s performance characteristics over time, how it responds to stress, and how well components will endure their intended usage conditions.

Eddy Current Weld Testing (ECT)

This advanced non-destructive testing method uses electromagnetic induction to identify flaws, such as cracks in conductive materials, even when they are covered by a non-conductive coating. By passing an alternating current through a coil, it generates eddy currents within the material being tested. These currents interact with the material’s structure, and any disruptions – caused by defects or changes in material properties – alter the current flow. These variations are carefully analysed to detect and locate imperfections, making it a precise and reliable technique for quality control without causing damage to the test object or its coating.

What are the benefits of NDT?

Non-Destructive Testing allows for the assessment of equipment and materials to ensure they are fit for purpose and comply with the relevant codes, standards, specifications and legislation. Testing is safe, accurate and cost-effective to increase product reliability and give you peace of mind. Additionally, materials are left undamaged and fully functional should no faults be uncovered.

NDT at NECIT

Our NDT services are highly flexible, including short notice availability for in house or on-site testing. We aim to provide a swift and satisfactory response to all requests and aim to deliver reports to you within 24 hours. Our technicians work to procedures that are both written and approved by ISO 9712 Level 3 engineers and have all gone through a rigorous peer review process by external Level 3 NDT engineers.

Get in touch today for more information on our range of NDT capabilities.

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