Non‑Destructive Testing Methods

Expert-defined terms from the Certificate in Quality Control in Building Construction course at London School of Planning and Management. Free to read, free to share, paired with a professional course.

Non‑Destructive Testing Methods

Acoustic Emission Testing is a non #

destructive testing method used to detect and locate emissions of acoustic energy generated by the deformation or fracture of materials under stress. Related terms include Acoustic Emission, Emission Source, and Sensor. The concept is based on the principle that when a material is subjected to stress, it emits acoustic signals that can be detected and analyzed to determine the source and severity of the damage. This method is commonly used in the inspection of pressure vessels, pipelines, and storage tanks. For example, in the inspection of a pipeline, acoustic emission testing can be used to detect and locate areas of corrosion or cracking, allowing for targeted maintenance and repair.

Active Thermography is a non #

invasive testing method that uses thermal imaging cameras to detect and visualize thermal patterns on the surface of a material or component. Related terms include Thermal Imaging, Infrared Thermography, and Heat Transfer. The concept is based on the principle that all objects emit thermal radiation, and by analyzing the thermal patterns, defects or anomalies can be detected. This method is commonly used in the inspection of electrical and mechanical systems, as well as in the detection of moisture and leaks in buildings. For example, in the inspection of a building envelope, active thermography can be used to detect areas of heat loss or gain, allowing for targeted energy efficiency improvements.

American Society for Nondestructive Testing is a professional organizatio… #

Related terms include ASNT, Certification, and Training. The concept is based on the principle that non-destructive testing requires specialized knowledge and skills, and that certification and training are essential for ensuring the quality and reliability of non-destructive testing results. This organization is commonly used as a resource for non-destructive testing professionals, and its certification programs are recognized industry-wide. For example, in the construction industry, ASNT certification is often required for non-destructive testing technicians who perform inspections on building components and materials.

Automated Ultrasonic Testing is a computer #

controlled testing method that uses ultrasonic waves to inspect the internal structure of materials and components. Related terms include Ultrasonic Testing, Automated Testing, and Computer-Controlled. The concept is based on the principle that ultrasonic waves can be used to detect and characterize defects or anomalies in materials, and that automated testing can improve the efficiency and accuracy of the inspection process. This method is commonly used in the inspection of welds, castings, and composites. For example, in the inspection of a weld, automated ultrasonic testing can be used to detect and characterize defects such as lack of fusion or porosity, allowing for targeted repair and re-inspection.

Bond Testing is a non #

destructive testing method used to evaluate the bond strength between two materials or components. Related terms include Bond Strength, Adhesive Bonding, and Interfacial Bonding. The concept is based on the principle that the bond strength between two materials is critical to the overall performance and durability of a component or system, and that non-destructive testing can provide valuable information about the bond quality. This method is commonly used in the inspection of adhesively bonded joints, composite materials, and coatings. For example, in the inspection of a composite material, bond testing can be used to evaluate the bond strength between the reinforcement and the matrix, allowing for targeted improvements in the manufacturing process.

Certification in Quality Control is a professional certification program… #

Related terms include Quality Control, Certification, and Training. The concept is based on the principle that quality control is critical to the success of construction projects, and that specialized knowledge and skills are required to ensure the quality and reliability of building components and materials. This certification program is commonly used as a resource for quality control professionals, and its certification is recognized industry-wide. For example, in the construction industry, certification in quality control is often required for quality control managers who oversee the inspection and testing of building components and materials.

Computed Radiography is a digital radiographic testing method that uses a… #

Related terms include Digital Radiography, Computed Tomography, and Image Reconstruction. The concept is based on the principle that digital radiography can provide higher resolution and contrast images than traditional film-based radiography, and that computed tomography can provide three-dimensional images of the internal structure of materials and components. This method is commonly used in the inspection of welds, castings, and composites. For example, in the inspection of a weld, computed radiography can be used to detect and characterize defects such as lack of fusion or porosity, allowing for targeted repair and re-inspection.

Digital Radiography is a non #

destructive testing method that uses digital detectors to capture and analyze radiographic images. Related terms include Computed Radiography, Digital Imaging, and Radiographic Testing. The concept is based on the principle that digital radiography can provide higher resolution and contrast images than traditional film-based radiography, and that digital imaging can improve the efficiency and accuracy of the inspection process. This method is commonly used in the inspection of welds, castings, and composites. For example, in the inspection of a composite material, digital radiography can be used to detect and characterize defects such as delamination or porosity, allowing for targeted improvements in the manufacturing process.

Eddy Current Testing is a non #

contact testing method that uses electromagnetic fields to detect and characterize defects or anomalies in conductive materials. Related terms include Eddy Current, Electromagnetic Field, and Conductive Material. The concept is based on the principle that eddy currents can be used to detect and characterize defects or anomalies in conductive materials, and that non-contact testing can improve the efficiency and accuracy of the inspection process. This method is commonly used in the inspection of tubing, piping, and other cylindrical components. For example, in the inspection of a heat exchanger tube, eddy current testing can be used to detect and characterize defects such as pitting or cracking, allowing for targeted maintenance and repair.

Electromagnetic Testing is a non #

destructive testing method that uses electromagnetic fields to detect and characterize defects or anomalies in materials and components. Related terms include Electromagnetic Field, Eddy Current, and Magnetic Field. The concept is based on the principle that electromagnetic fields can be used to detect and characterize defects or anomalies in materials, and that non-destructive testing can provide valuable information about the internal structure and properties of materials. This method is commonly used in the inspection of welds, castings, and composites. For example, in the inspection of a weld, electromagnetic testing can be used to detect and characterize defects such as lack of fusion or porosity, allowing for targeted repair and re-inspection.

Guided Wave Testing is a non #

destructive testing method that uses guided waves to inspect the internal structure of materials and components. Related terms include Guided Wave, Ultrasonic Wave, and Long-Range Ultrasonic Testing. The concept is based on the principle that guided waves can be used to detect and characterize defects or anomalies in materials, and that non-destructive testing can provide valuable information about the internal structure and properties of materials. This method is commonly used in the inspection of pipelines, tubing, and other long, cylindrical components. For example, in the inspection of a pipeline, guided wave testing can be used to detect and characterize defects such as corrosion or cracking, allowing for targeted maintenance and repair.

Hardness Testing is a non #

destructive testing method used to evaluate the hardness of materials and components. Related terms include Hardness, Microhardness, and Macrohardness. The concept is based on the principle that hardness is a critical property of materials, and that non-destructive testing can provide valuable information about the hardness and durability of materials. This method is commonly used in the inspection of metals, alloys, and composites. For example, in the inspection of a steel component, hardness testing can be used to evaluate the hardness and durability of the material, allowing for targeted improvements in the manufacturing process.

Infrared Thermography is a non #

invasive testing method that uses infrared cameras to detect and visualize thermal patterns on the surface of materials and components. Related terms include Thermal Imaging, Infrared Thermography, and Heat Transfer. The concept is based on the principle that all objects emit thermal radiation, and that infrared thermography can be used to detect and characterize defects or anomalies in materials. This method is commonly used in the inspection of electrical and mechanical systems, as well as in the detection of moisture and leaks in buildings. For example, in the inspection of a building envelope, infrared thermography can be used to detect areas of heat loss or gain, allowing for targeted energy efficiency improvements.

Leak Testing is a non #

destructive testing method used to detect and characterize leaks in materials and components. Related terms include Leak, Pressure Test, and Vacuum Test. The concept is based on the principle that leaks can be a critical safety and performance issue, and that non-destructive testing can provide valuable information about the integrity and durability of materials. This method is commonly used in the inspection of pressure vessels, pipelines, and storage tanks. For example, in the inspection of a pipeline, leak testing can be used to detect and characterize leaks, allowing for targeted maintenance and repair.

Magnetic Particle Testing is a non #

destructive testing method that uses magnetic fields to detect and characterize defects or anomalies in ferromagnetic materials. Related terms include Magnetic Field, Magnetic Particle, and Ferromagnetic Material. The concept is based on the principle that magnetic fields can be used to detect and characterize defects or anomalies in ferromagnetic materials, and that non-destructive testing can provide valuable information about the internal structure and properties of materials. This method is commonly used in the inspection of welds, castings, and composites. For example, in the inspection of a weld, magnetic particle testing can be used to detect and characterize defects such as lack of fusion or porosity, allowing for targeted repair and re-inspection.

Neutron Radiography is a non #

destructive testing method that uses neutron beams to inspect the internal structure of materials and components. Related terms include Neutron Beam, Neutron Radiography, and Neutron Imaging. The concept is based on the principle that neutron beams can be used to detect and characterize defects or anomalies in materials, and that non-destructive testing can provide valuable information about the internal structure and properties of materials. This method is commonly used in the inspection of nuclear reactors, fuel assemblies, and other radioactive materials. For example, in the inspection of a nuclear reactor, neutron radiography can be used to detect and characterize defects such as cracking or corrosion, allowing for targeted maintenance and repair.

Penetrant Testing is a non #

destructive testing method that uses penetrating liquids to detect and characterize surface-breaking defects or anomalies in materials and components. Related terms include Penetrant, Dye Penetrant, and Fluorescent Penetrant. The concept is based on the principle that penetrating liquids can be used to detect and characterize surface-breaking defects or anomalies in materials, and that non-destructive testing can provide valuable information about the surface quality and durability of materials. This method is commonly used in the inspection of welds, castings, and composites. For example, in the inspection of a weld, penetrant testing can be used to detect and characterize defects such as lack of fusion or porosity, allowing for targeted repair and re-inspection.

Radiographic Testing is a non #

destructive testing method that uses X-rays or gamma rays to inspect the internal structure of materials and components. Related terms include Radiography, X-ray, and Gamma Ray. The concept is based on the principle that X-rays or gamma rays can be used to detect and characterize defects or anomalies in materials, and that non-destructive testing can provide valuable information about the internal structure and properties of materials. This method is commonly used in the inspection of welds, castings, and composites. For example, in the inspection of a weld, radiographic testing can be used to detect and characterize defects such as lack of fusion or porosity, allowing for targeted repair and re-inspection.

Resonance Testing is a non #

destructive testing method that uses resonant frequencies to inspect the internal structure of materials and components. Related terms include Resonance, Frequency Response, and Modal Analysis. The concept is based on the principle that resonant frequencies can be used to detect and characterize defects or anomalies in materials, and that non-destructive testing can provide valuable information about the internal structure and properties of materials. This method is commonly used in the inspection of mechanical and structural components, such as gears, bearings, and pipelines. For example, in the inspection of a gear, resonance testing can be used to detect and characterize defects such as cracking or wear, allowing for targeted maintenance and repair.

Scanning Acoustic Microscopy is a non #

destructive testing method that uses high-frequency acoustic waves to inspect the internal structure of materials and components. Related terms include Scanning Acoustic Microscopy, Acoustic Microscopy, and High-Frequency Ultrasonic Testing. The concept is based on the principle that high-frequency acoustic waves can be used to detect and characterize defects or anomalies in materials, and that non-destructive testing can provide valuable information about the internal structure and properties of materials. This method is commonly used in the inspection of semiconductors, composites, and other advanced materials. For example, in the inspection of a semiconductor, scanning acoustic microscopy can be used to detect and characterize defects such as delamination or voids, allowing for targeted improvements in the manufacturing process.

Thermal Imaging is a non #

invasive testing method that uses infrared cameras to detect and visualize thermal patterns on the surface of materials and components. Related terms include Infrared Thermography, Thermal Imaging, and Heat Transfer. The concept is based on the principle that all objects emit thermal radiation, and that thermal imaging can be used to detect and characterize defects or anomalies in materials. This method is commonly used in the inspection of electrical and mechanical systems, as well as in the detection of moisture and leaks in buildings. For example, in the inspection of a building envelope, thermal imaging can be used to detect areas of heat loss or gain, allowing for targeted energy efficiency improvements.

Ultrasonic Testing is a non #

destructive testing method that uses high-frequency ultrasonic waves to inspect the internal structure of materials and components. Related terms include Ultrasonic Wave, Pulse-Echo Testing, and Through-Transmission Testing. The concept is based on the principle that ultrasonic waves can be used to detect and characterize defects or anomalies in materials, and that non-destructive testing can provide valuable information about the internal structure and properties of materials. This method is commonly used in the inspection of welds, castings, and composites. For example, in the inspection of a weld, ultrasonic testing can be used to detect and characterize defects such as lack of fusion or porosity, allowing for targeted repair and re-inspection.

Visual Testing is a non #

destructive testing method that uses visual inspection to detect and characterize surface-breaking defects or anomalies in materials and components. Related terms include Visual Inspection, Optical Microscopy, and Surface Examination. The concept is based on the principle that visual inspection can be used to detect and characterize surface-breaking defects or anomalies in materials, and that non-destructive testing can provide valuable information about the surface quality and durability of materials. This method is commonly used in the inspection of welds, castings, and composites. For example, in the inspection of a weld, visual testing can be used to detect and characterize defects such as lack of fusion or porosity, allowing for targeted repair and re-inspection.

X-ray Computed Tomography is a non-destructive testing method that uses X… #

Related terms include X-ray Computed Tomography, Computed Tomography, and X-ray Imaging. The concept is based on the principle that X-rays can be used to detect and characterize defects or anomalies in materials, and that non-destructive testing can provide valuable information about the internal structure and properties of materials. This method is commonly used in the inspection of welds, castings, and composites. For example, in the inspection of a weld, X-ray computed tomography can be used to detect and characterize defects such as lack of fusion or porosity, allowing for targeted repair and re-inspection.

X-ray Fluorescence is a non-destructive testing method that uses X-rays t… #

Related terms include X-ray Fluorescence, Energy-Dispersive Spectroscopy, and Chemical Analysis. The concept is based on the principle that X-rays can be used to analyze the chemical composition of materials, and that non-destructive testing can provide valuable information about the chemical properties and durability of materials. This method is commonly used in the inspection of metals, alloys, and composites. For example, in the inspection of a steel component, X-ray fluorescence can be used to analyze the chemical composition of the material, allowing for targeted improvements in the manufacturing process.

X-ray Radiography is a non-destructive testing method that uses X-rays to… #

Related terms include X-ray Radiography, Radiographic Testing, and X-ray Imaging. The concept is based on the principle that X-rays can be used to detect and characterize defects or anomalies in materials, and that non-destructive testing can provide valuable information about the internal structure and properties of materials. This method is commonly used in the inspection of welds, castings, and composites. For example, in the inspection of a weld, X-ray radiography can be used to detect and characterize defects such as lack of fusion or porosity, allowing for targeted repair and re-inspection.

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