Published on 02-Mar-2024

The Top 3 NDT Methods Used For Welding

The Top 3 NDT Methods Used For Welding

Table of Content


Introduction

Regarding Non-destructive Testing methods, it is a crucial procedure supporting a wide category of industries that maintain the world as we know it operates at the highest capacity.

From renewable energy to infrastructure, non-destructive testing is crucial to keeping a safe & sound environment.

In most industries that are supported by Non-destructive Testing, welding is utilized to develop, join, and repair several objects.

NDT Techniques can be particular to the substance's elements, locations, and accessibility. 

When we talk about the assets that have already been welded, three techniques are often utilized, they are: 


NDT Testing Methods for Welding

The most popular non-destructive choices for Welding are mentioned below: 

1. Ultrasonic Testing 

Ultrasonic Testing

Most NDT Technicians agree on the fact that the best NDT Testing Methods when it comes to welding is none other than ultrasonic testing.

Ultrasonic Testing is the procedure through which high-frequency sound waves are induced into the object in order to identify flaws.

By utilizing a sending unit & an Ultrasonic Transducer, sound waves continue to travel within the material that is under examination, and any shortcomings will be automatically demonstrated on the indication screen.

Ultrasonic Testing is known as the most accurate and precise technique of non-destructive testing.

It has the ability to quickly and accurately determine shortcomings in welds without the help of labor-intensive set-up and with straightforward equipment.

An NDT Method known as phased array pertains to using several transducers to scan a wide area of a weld, which increases the technique's efficiency.

2. Liquid Penetrant Testing 

Liquid Penetrant Testing is generally utilized as an NDT Testing Methods for all kinds of tasks and substances, specifically for welded substances.

Liquid penetrant testing is a Non-destructive Testing technique in which capillary activities identify shortcomings or discontinuities by utilizing a low-viscosity liquid splashed over the material's surface.

The characteristics of capillary activities result in the penetrant getting into any voids or fissures that might be present on the surface of the object. 

When all the excess penetrant is eliminated by the inspector, the flaws or deformities will be revealed.

This method functions accurately for welding because the Liquid Penetrant Testing easily helps identify the flaws.

However, a secure weld will not enable the penetrant to get in. If any liquid penetrant flows through the weld, deformities can be identified, and the inspector will get to learn about the flaw immediately. 

3. Magnetic Particle Testing 

The third most used NDT Method for welding is magnetic particle testing. It is another widespread non-destructive testing technique.

Like liquid penetrant testing, Magnetic Particle Testing includes applying iron particles to the object's surface. Magnetic particle testing uses a fine, pigmented ferromagnetic powder on the material's surface. 

As the magnetic particle testing must be conducted on ferromagnetic substances, and when the magnetic field has pertained to the object under examination, the ferromagnetic powder will be drawn toward any deformities or discontinuities by developing a visible indication.

These specific NDT Testing Methods are quite effective for welding because carbon steel welds are ferromagnetic in nature; hence, it can be examined effectively using Magnetic Particle Testing.

Understanding Common Welding Defects

Welding is a precise craft that demands skill and attention to detail.

To achieve flawless welds, it's crucial to be aware of and address common Welding Defects.

1. Incomplete Penetration

Incomplete penetration occurs when the weld fails to traverse the entire thickness of the joined parts, leaving portions of the original and Basic Welding Joints unwelded.

To create a robust connection, welders must ensure that the weld fully penetrates the material.

2. Lack of Fusion-Bridging the Gap

Lack of Fusion in Welds presents itself when the weld fails to penetrate the base metal or other weld passes adequately.

Overcoming this defect involves refining welding techniques to guarantee a seamless fusion between the materials.

3. Undercut

Undercut arises when the welding process gouges out the base metal without adequately filling it back in.

To remedy this, welders should pay meticulous attention to the Welding Process, ensuring that gaps are properly filled to prevent undercuts.

4. Slag Inclusions

Slag inclusions occur when a preceding weld pass hasn't been thoroughly cleaned, and the next pass lacks the heat needed to eliminate any residual slag.

A spotless welding canvas is essential to prevent slag inclusions, emphasising the importance of cleaning between passes.

5. Porosity

Porosity manifests as small holes in the weld due to subpar welding techniques or conditions.

Perfecting the weld involves refining techniques and creating optimal conditions to eliminate porosity issues.

6. Burn-Through

Burn-through happens when the second pass, applied over the initial one, generates enough heat to partially or completely melt through the first pass.

Precision in passes is key to avoiding burn-through and ensuring a flawless weld.

7. Underfill

Underfill occurs when the final pass falls below the base metal or when the weld is thinner than the base metal.

Meeting specifications and maintaining consistency are crucial to overcoming underfill challenges.

8. Overlap

Overlap arises when the filler material extends over the edge of the previous weld bead.

Achieving seamlessness involves careful control of filler material to prevent overlap and ensure a clean, uniform appearance.

9. Cracks

Cracks can occur in the base metal, weld metal, or both, often due to stress in the weld joint or lack of pre-heat in the base metal during welding.

Strengthening the foundation involves addressing stress factors and implementing proper Preheating Welding Techniques.

Conclusion

When it comes to Welding, it is the most significant part of areas like infrastructure, manufacturing, and many other utilities around the globe.

It is important that Non-destructive Testing technicians are well aware of the best ways to work with welded substances.

If you are someone who is looking to become an NDT technician through NDT Training and Courses or hire non-destructive testing services to preserve your materials, it is extremely important to select the right company to fulfill your NDT requirements, specifically if you have welded substances that require servicing! 

OnestopNDT is a platform that can help you with NDT Courses, knowledgeable technicians, and hands-on coursework to teach all aspiring technicians about NDT Certification.

References:

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