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What is NDT?

Physics of Nondestructive

What is NDT?

NDT stands for "non-destructive testing." It refers to a variety of techniques used to evaluate the properties of a material or structure without causing damage. Some common types of NDT include:


  • Ultrasonic Thickness Testing Limited (UTT)
  • Ultrasonic Testing Shearwave (UTSW)
  • Magnetic Particle Testing (MT)
  • Penetrate Testing (PT)
  • radiographic testing, 
  • and visual inspection. 

These techniques are used in a variety of industries, such as construction, manufacturing, and aerospace, to ensure the integrity and safety of structures and components.

Why is NDT used?

NDT is used to evaluate the properties of a material or structure without causing damage, allowing for early detection and correction of potential issues. This can help prevent equipment failure, structural collapse, and other safety hazards. Additionally, NDT can be used to assess the remaining life of equipment, allowing for scheduled maintenance and replacement before failure occurs. It also can be used to confirm the quality of a product and compliance with industry standards. In some cases, NDT may be required by law or industry regulations.

Where is NDT used?

NDT is used in a variety of industries and applications. Some examples include:

  • Construction: NDT is used to evaluate the integrity of bridges, buildings, and other structures, to ensure that they are safe for use.
  • Manufacturing: NDT is used to inspect components and products during production, to ensure that they meet quality standards and specifications.
  • Aerospace: NDT is used to inspect aircraft and spacecraft, to ensure that they are safe to fly.
  • Energy: NDT is used to inspect pipelines, oil rigs, and other energy-related infrastructure, to ensure that they are safe and reliable.
  • Transportation: NDT is used to inspect vehicles and transportation infrastructure, such as rail tracks, to ensure that they are safe for use.
  • Medical: NDT is used to inspect medical devices and implants, to ensure that they are safe for use in patients.

These are just a few examples. NDT can be used in any industry where the integrity and safety of materials or structures is important.

How does a benefit a student?

NDT can benefit student in a variety of ways, depending on their field of study and career goals. Here are a few examples:

  • If a student is studying engineering, NDT can provide them with valuable skills and knowledge that will be useful in their future career. They will learn how to evaluate the integrity and safety of structures and materials, which is an important skill in the construction, aerospace, and energy industries.
  • If a student is studying manufacturing or quality control, NDT can provide them with knowledge on how to ensure that products meet quality standards and specifications, which will be useful in their future career.
  • If a student is studying science, NDT can provide them with hands-on experience with a wide range of scientific techniques, such as ultrasonic testing, radiographic testing, and visual inspection. This can help them develop a deeper understanding of the scientific principles behind these techniques, and can be valuable for students interested in pursuing a career in science or technology.
  • If a student is studying in vocational training or technical school, NDT can provide them with practical skills and knowledge that will be useful in their future career. They will learn how to use various NDT techniques, which can help them secure employment in a variety of fields, such as construction, manufacturing, or aerospace.

In general, learning NDT can be beneficial for students as it provides them with valuable skills and knowledge that will be useful in their future careers and can be a good entry point to many industries.

which NDE methods should I take first?

The specific NDE (non-destructive examination) method(s) you should take first will depend on your specific career goals and the industry you plan to work in. However, here are a few commonly used NDE methods that are considered to be a good starting point for beginners:

  • Visual Inspection: This is the most basic and widely used NDE method. It involves using the naked eye to inspect materials and structures for signs of damage or defects. Visual inspection is relatively simple and requires minimal equipment, making it a good starting point for beginners.
  • Dye Penetrant Inspection (DPI): This method involves applying a liquid dye to the surface of a material, which is then drawn into any surface-breaking cracks or defects. The dye is then removed and a developer is applied, which causes the dye to reappear, highlighting the defects. DPI is a relatively simple method, and is widely used to detect surface-breaking defects in a variety of materials.
  • Magnetic Particle Inspection (MPI): This method involves applying a magnetic field to a material, which causes magnetic particles to be attracted to any surface-breaking defects. The particles are then visible under a UV light. MPI is widely used to detect surface-breaking defects in ferromagnetic materials.
  • Ultrasonic Testing (UT): This method involves using high-frequency sound waves to inspect materials and structures for internal defects. UT is a more advanced method and requires specialized equipment, but it can be used to detect subsurface defects in a variety of materials.

It's important to note that many NDE methods have specific applications, and some are more suited for certain industries than others. It's best to research the different methods and find out which are most relevant to your industry and career goals.

What advance NDE methods are there?

There are several advanced NDE (non-destructive examination) methods that are used to evaluate the properties of materials and structures in a more precise and detailed way. Some examples include:

  • Radiographic Testing (RT): This method involves using X-rays or gamma rays to create an image of the internal structure of a material or component. RT is used to detect internal defects, such as voids, inclusions, and cracks, in a wide range of materials, including metals, plastics, and ceramics.
  • Eddy Current Testing (ECT): This method involves passing an alternating current through a conductor, which creates a magnetic field around the conductor. Any defects or variations in the material will affect the magnetic field, which can be detected by sensors. ECT is used to detect surface and subsurface defects in conductive materials, such as metals.
  • Thermography: This method involves using infrared cameras to create images of the surface temperature of a material or component. Any variations in temperature can indicate the presence of defects or issues, such as insulation deficiencies, loose connections, and overheating components.
  • Acoustic Emission Testing (AE): This method involves monitoring the sound waves emitted by a material or component while it is under stress. Any changes in the sound waves can indicate the presence of defects, such as cracks or other damage.
  • Computed Tomography (CT) : This method uses X-ray sources and detectors to create a 3D image of the internal structure of an object. It is commonly used in medical imaging but can be adapted for industrial uses such as aerospace, automotive and heavy industries.

These are just a few examples of advanced NDE methods. There are many other specialized NDE methods that are used in specific industries and applications. These methods are more complex and require specialized training and equipment, but they can provide more detailed and accurate information about the condition of materials and structures.


What certified programs of NDE are there?

There are several certified programs in NDE (non-destructive examination) that are offered by various organizations and institutions. These programs typically provide training and certification in various NDE methods, such as visual inspection, ultrasonic testing, radiographic testing, and magnetic particle inspection. Here are a few examples of certified programs in NDE:

  • American Society for Nondestructive Testing (ASNT): ASNT offers various levels of certification in NDE methods, including Level I, II and III in various methods. These certifications are based on the candidate's knowledge, experience, and training in a specific method, and they are recognized as an industry standard for NDE personnel in the United States.
  • British Institute of Non-Destructive Testing (BINDT): BINDT offers PCN (Personnel Certification in Non-Destructive Testing) for NDE personnel. It certifies individuals to the appropriate level in a specific method and it is widely recognized in the United Kingdom.
  • Canadian Society for Nondestructive Testing (CSNDT): CSNDT offers Level I, II and III in various methods. These certifications are based on the candidate's knowledge, experience, and training in a specific method and it is widely recognized in Canada.
  • Germanischer Lloyd (GL): GL offers training and certification in NDE methods, which includes visual, penetrant, magnetic, ultrasonic and radiographic testing. These certifications are widely recognized in the international oil and gas industry.
  • American Petroleum Institute (API): API offers various certification programs for NDE personnel in the oil and gas industry, including API-510, API-570, API-653 and API-580.

It's important to note that different certifications may have different requirements, such as education, experience and passing an exam. It's also important to check that the certification body and the certification program is recognized by the industry and meets the standard in the

What certified programs will PREEMINENT NDT certified me in?

Preeminent  NDT (non-destructive testing) offers comprehensive training and certification for students in accordance with the guidelines set forth by the American Society for Nondestructive Testing (ASNT) and American Petroleum Institute Recommended Practice CP-189. Our program ensures that graduates are fully equipped to meet the industry standards for NDE (non-destructive examination) personnel in both the general and oil and gas sectors."

What’s the difference from ASNT and CP-189

ASNT (American Society for Nondestructive Testing) and CP-189 (American Petroleum Institute Recommended Practice) are two different organizations and standards that serve different purposes in the field of NDE (non-destructive examination).

ASNT is a professional organization that provides training and certification in NDE methods for technicians and engineers. They offer a wide range of training courses and certification programs in various NDE methods, such as visual inspection, ultrasonic testing, radiographic testing, and magnetic particle inspection. These programs are designed to meet the requirements of the American Society for Nondestructive Testing Recommended Practice No. SNT-TC-1A and the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) Standard.

On the other hand, CP-189 is a document that provides guidelines and procedures for the qualification, certification, and training of NDE personnel in the Oil and Gas Industry. It is intended to be used by employers, operators, and other organizations that employ or contract NDE personnel. The document specifies the minimum requirements for the qualifications, certification, and training of NDE personnel performing inspections and examinations in the Oil and Gas Industry.

In short, ASNT is a certification body that offers training and certification in NDE methods, whereas CP-189 is a set of recommended practices that provide a standard for the qualifications, certification, and training of NDE personnel in the Oil and Gas Industry.

Frequently Asked Questions

Please reach us at [email protected] if you cannot find an answer to your question.

Pay varies on experiences and methods a technician are certified in. Starting pay with no experience is typically $14 hr, but can earn up to in rare cases up to $65 hr but they specialize   advance inspection methods. Average pay for NDT technicians are around $30 hr.


Instructor has 10+ years in the field. We are not only teaching the BASIC minimum requirements as per ASNT-TC-1A and CP-198 guidelines, but real life scenarios of what to expect out in the field. We take pride in our work in quality program. We are here to help you succeed and surpass all others; in a very distinguished way other programs don't offer.


Job security is based on your work ethic, self motivated and reputation of a person. Inspection is mandatory in the industry listed in the above section "Where is NDT used?". Each industry is governed by codes and have to be inspected so often depending on the criticality of the pressure containing equipment or parts. 




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