Non-Destructive Testing Specialists

Non-destructive testing (NDT) specialists inspect, test, and evaluate materials, components, and assemblies for defects and potential problems in the future. They are responsible for testing structures, vehicles, or vessels to make sure they are in accordance with applicable standards and regulations. Non-destructive testing means using testing methods and equipment that do not destroy the part or material that is being tested; it can still be used after the test is completed.

According to the American Society for Nondestructive Testing, the following test methods are the most commonly used in the NDT field: electromagnetic, magnetic particle, liquid penetrant, radiographic, ultrasonic, and visual testing. Additional specialized testing techniques, which cater to specific applications and materials, include acoustic emission, infrared, ground penetrating radar, guided wave, laser methods, leak, magnetic flux, microwave, neutron radiography, and vibration analysis testing. Visit https://www.asnt.org/what-is-nondestructive-testing/methods for more information on these techniques.

NDT specialists examine vehicles and structures, including aircraft, trains, nuclear reactors, bridges, dams, and pipelines. They use non-destructive testing techniques to identify defects in solid materials. They apply their knowledge of engineering science and technology, raw materials and production processes, and mathematics in their inspections and evaluations of products and processes. They also work closely with other NDT professionals, engineering technicians, and others, observing and gathering information throughout their investigations.

The job requires knowledge of industrial equipment and systems, the ability to calibrate scientific and technical equipment, and the ability to operate industrial equipment. They use various software programs every day while on the job, such as analytical or scientific, computer-aided design, spreadsheet, and graphics creation and photo presentation software.