ABSTRACT
It is possible to evaluate the properties of a failed component by two main types of
tests: (i) nondestructive and (ii) destructive. By definition, a nondestructive test does
not degrade the integrity of the component being tested.However, a given test can be
either nondestructive or destructive depending on how it is performed. For example,
it is possible to conduct a hardness test on a given component in the field. In this case,
the test is nondestructive. A hardness test conducted on a polished specimen in the
laboratory is destructive.Obviously,metallographic examination in the laboratory is
destructive; however, field metallography is a nondestructive test. Also, stress anal-
ysis of a failed component is nondestructive. Although there is no sharp distinction
between nondestructive and destructive tests, it is a common practice to consider
some specific tests as nondestructive and others as destructive.
