ABSTRACT
Non-destructive testing (NDT) enables aspects of weld-quality to be revealed, which cannot be observed by the naked eye. Non-destructive testing techniques can be used for general assessment of material properties, for example for materials sorting, or for checking whether or not metals have been heat treated, but the most widespread use of NDT for welded fabrications is to detect and assess weld imperfections. Thus, NDT is properly part of the overall process of quality assurance for welded fabrications, as it provides:
(I) confirmation that weld quality levels predicted as a result of other quality control measures, such as control of materials and fabrication procedures and qualification tests for welders, have been maintained during fabrication of the product itself; and
(2) information which allows decisions to be made as to whether imperfections are acceptable flaws or unacceptable defects, according to the relevant fabrication standards.
