Third Edition

ASNT
LEVELIII
STUDYGUIDE

BASIC

The American Society for

Nondestructive Testing,Inc.
Copyright © 2016 by The American Society for Nondestructive Testing.

The American Society for Nondestructive Testing, Inc. (ASNT) is not responsible for the authenticity or accuracy of information
herein. Published opinions and statements do not necessarily reflect the opinion of ASNT. Products or services that are advertised
or mentioned do not carry the endorsement or recommendation of ASNT.

No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form, by means electronic or mechanical including photo-
copying, recording or otherwise, without the expressed prior written permission of The American Society for Nondestructive
Testing, Inc.

IRRSP,NOT Handbook, The NOT Technician and www.asnt.org are trademarks of The American Society for Nondestructive Testing,
Inc. ACCP, ASNT.Level III Study Guide, Materials Evaluation, Nondestructive Testing Handbook, Research in Nondeslruclive
Evaluation and RNOEare registered trademarks of The American Society for Nondestructive Testing, Inc.

first printing 11/16

Errata, if available for this printing, may be obtained from ASNT'sweb site, www.asnt.org.

ISBN-13:978-1-57117-388-1(print)
ISBN-13:978-1-57117-389-8(ebook)

Printed in the United States of America

Published by:
The American Society for Nondestructive Testing, Inc.
1711Arlingate Lane
Columbus, OH 43228-0518
www.asnt.org

Edited by: Bob Conklin, Educational Materials Editor

Assisted by: Cynthia M. Leeman, Educational Materials Supervisor
Layout: Synthia Jester
Production Manager: Joy Grimm

Tim Jones, Senior Manager of Publications

ASNTMissionStatement:
ASNTexists to create a safer world by advancing scientific, engineering, and technical knowledge in the field of nondestructive testing.

ii
 ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

The American Society for Nondestructive Testing, Inc. is grateful for the volunteer contributions, technical expertise, knowl-
edge, and dedication of the following individuals who have helped make this work possible.

Mike Allgaier - MISTRASGroup, Inc.

Antionette "Toni" Bailey - TB3 NDT Consulting, LLC
Jack S. Brenizer, Jr. - Pennsylvania State University
Gina Caudill - NAWCAD NAVAIR
Eugene V. Charpia - Bluegrove NDT Consulting
Gerard Hacker - Teledyne Brown Engineering
Jim Houf - ASNT
Claudia Kropas-Hughes - Air Force Materiel Command
Michael V. McGloin - NDT Enterprises
David G. Moore - Sandia National Laboratories
Ciji Nelson - Sandia National Laboratories
Matthew Patience - ASNT
Luis Payano - Port Authority of NY & NJ
Robert Plumstead

I
William C. Plumstead, Sr. - PQT Services
Michael J. Ruddy - NOV Tuboscope
Daniel Ryan - Siemens Power Generation
Hussein Sadek - Technologies Consulting International, Inc. (TCI, Inc.)

I Todd Sellmer - NWP, Transportation Packaging

Ken Starry - IVC Technologies
Ray Tsukimura
Prashant V. Wagh - Riyadh Geotechnique & Foundations Co.

The Publications Review Committee includes:

Joseph L. Mackin, Chair - International Pipe Inspectors Association

Marty Anderson - Global Technical Services
Mark R. Pompe - West Penn Testing Group

iii
FOREWORD

Purpose The Basic Examination covers:

This Study Guide is intended to aid individuals prepar- 1. the administration of personnel qualification and certifi-
ing to take the Basic Examination as part of the process of cation programs based on the most recent editions of
becoming certified as an ASNT NDT Level III in one or SNT-TC-JA and ANSI/ASNT CP-189: ASNT Standard
more NDT methods. It is equally useful for persons prepar- for Qualification and Certification of Nondestructive
ing to take a Basic Level III Examination under an employ- Testing Personnel,
er's personnel qualification and certification program per 2. materials fabrication and product technology, and
ASNT Recommended Practice No. SNT-TC-IA: Personnel 3. general principles and applications of common NDT
Qualification and Certification in Nondestructive Testing methods.
(2016). It is not intended to be their only source of prepara- Each Method Examination covers:
tion. 1. fundamentals and principles of the method,
The material in this Study Guide addresses the body of
2. applications and establishment of techniques and proce-
knowledge included in the Basic Examination administered
under the ASNT NDT LevelIII certification program. The dures, and
ASNT NDT Level III certification program is a service, 3. interpretation of codes, standards, and specifications
offered by the American Society for Nondestructive Testing, relating to the method.
Inc., that gives NDT personnel an opportunity to have their
familiarity with the principles and practices of NDT Note that references to persons who have met the crite-
assessed by an independent body. The program uses an ria for the Level III certifications issued by ASNT are called
independent body to review credentials and uses compre- NDT Level III. This is in contrast to the person who has
hensive written examinations to identify those persons who met the criteria of an employer and who is identified as the
meet the criteria for becoming an ASNT NDT Level III for employer's Level III or just LevelIII.
each NDT method. Method examinations are offered in:

Acoustic Emission Testing How to Use the Study Guide

Electromagnetic Testing This study guide divides the subject matter into three
Leak Testing main sections corresponding with the three sections of the
Liquid Penetrant Testing Basic Examination:
Magnetic Flux Leakage
Magnetic Particle Testing
Section I: certification and qualification of NDT
Neutron Radiographic Testing
personnel as outlined in SNT-TC-JA and CP-J89.
Radiographic Testing
Thermal/Infrared Testing
Section II: an overviewof commonly used NDT methods.
Ultrasonic Testing
Visual Testing
Section III: materials and processes in manufacturing
NOTE: Five additional methods are listed in SNT-TC-JA and industry in relation to NDT technology.
but do not have ASNT examinations at present: ground pen-
etrating radar, guided wave, laser methods, microwave tech- Each section of this Study Guide begins with an intro-
nology, and vibration analysis. duction to the material to be covered. Chapters contain a
The ASNT NDT Level III certification program requires set of representative multiple-choice questions covering the
satisfactory completion of a 4-hour Basic Examination. relevant portion of the Basic Topical Outlines in
Eleven different NDT methods examinations are given with ANSI! ASNT CP-l 05: ASNT Standard Topical Outlines for
durations of 2-4 hours, depending upon each method's Qualification of Nondestructive Testing Personnel (2016).
complexity. To be eligible to take the ASNT NDT Level III
examinations, persons must qualify by virtue of their docu-
mented education and experience.

iv
 Success in answering the questions will help the user to CP-J89.Likewise, the topical outlines of the NDT methods
determine if more concentrated study in particular areas is presented in Section II have been drawn from the 2016 edi-
needed. If the user can answer the questions confidently tion of CP-JOS.To facilitate the study of these documents,
and correctly, additional study may be optional. Technical in Sections I and II, word-for-word excerpts are highlighted
references are listed in Section II for individual methods if in blue.
users require further study. Questions in all three sections have been modified, as
needed, to reflect the ASNT exam practice of offering four
Changes in This Edition unique answers per question. In Section III, questions have
The third edition of the ASNT Level Ill Study Guide: been reorganized to reflect the chapter sequence in the sec-
Basic builds on the first edition written by Matthew J. Golis ond edition of Materials and Processes for NDT Technology,
and the contributions of volunteers to the second edition. published by ASNT in 2016.
Section I has been updated to reflect the latest, 2016,
editions of two key ASNT documents: SNT-TC-JA and

v
 CONTENTS
Acknowledgments iii

Foreword .iv

Purpose iv

How to Use the Study Guide iv

Changes in This Edition v

SECTIONI: Administration of a Personnel Qualification and Certification Program 1

Introduction 3
References 3

Chapter 1: Recommended Practice No. SNT-TC-/ A (2016) 5

History of SNT-TC-/ A 5
Contents and Intended Uses of SNT-TC-/ A 5
Overview of SNT-TC-/ A (2016) 6
Foreword 6
( Sections 1, 2, and 3: Scope, Definitions, and Nondestructive Testing Methods 6
Inquiries for Section 1 8
I General Comments on Sections 1, 2, and 3 9

I Section 4: Levels of Qualification

Inquiries for Section 4
10
10
General Comments on Section 4 11
Section 5: Written Practice 11
General Comments on Section 5 12
Section 6: Education, Training, and Experience Requirements for Initial Qualification 12
Inquiries for Section 6 12
General Comments on Section 6 15
Section 7: Training Programs 16
Inquiries for Section 7 16
General Comments on Section 7 ' 16
Section 8: Examinations 17
Inquiries for Section 8 21
General Comments on Section 8 22
Section 9: Certification 22
Inquiries for Section 9 23
General Comments on Section 9 25
Section 10: Technical Performance Evaluation 25
Inquiries for Section 10 25
General Comments on Section 10 25
Section 11: Interrupted Service 25

vii
 General Comments on Section 11 25
Section 12: Recertification 26
Inquiries for Section 12 26
General Comments on Section 12 26
Section 13: Termination 26
Inquiries for Section 13 27
Section 14: Reinstatement 27
Inquiries for Section 14 27
General Comments on Section 14 27
Review Questions 28
Answers 35

Chapter 2: ANSI / ASNT CP-189 (2016) 37

Overview 37
Section 1: Scope 37
Section 2: Definitions 37
Section 3: Levels of Qualification 38
Section 4: Qualification Requirements 38
Section 5: Qualification and Certification 38
Section 6: Examinations 39
Section 7: Expiration, Suspension, Revocation, and Reinstatement of Employer Certification .40
Section 8: Employer Recertification .40
Section 9: Records .40
Section 10: Referenced Publications .40
Review Questions .41
Answers , , , , .. , .41

Chapter 3: The ASNT NDT Level III Certification Program .43

ASNT NOT Level III , , , .43
What Is an ASNTNOT Level III? .43
ASNTPredictive Maintenance Level III .43
Eligibility for ASNT Level III Examinations .44
NOT/PdM or PdM/NOT Conversion .44
Recertification .44
SNT-TC-/ A Certification Options .44
Use of the ASNT NOT Level III Certification .45
ACCP Professional Level III .45
Review Questions .46
Answers .46

Section II: Overview of NOT Methods 47

Chapter 4: General Applications of Various NDT Methods .49

Overview of the ASNT Basic Examination .49
Topical Outlines, Reference Resources, and Review Questions .49
Acoustic Emission Testing (AE) 50

viii
 Topical Outline 50
References 50
Acoustic Emission Testing Review Questions 50
Electromagnetic Testing (ET) 51
Topical Outline 51
References 51
Electromagnetic Testing Review Questions 51
Leak Testing (LT) 53
Topical Outline 53
References 54
Leak Testing Review Questions 54
Liquid Penetrant Testing (PT) 55
Topical Outline 55
References 55
Liquid Penetrant Testing Review Questions 55
Magnetic Particle Testing (MT) 58
Topical Outline 58
References 58
Magnetic Particle Testing Review Questions 58
Neutron Radiographic Testing (NR) 60
Topical Outline 60
References 60
Neutron Radiographic Testing Review Questions 60
Radiographic Testing 63
Topical Outline 63
References 63
Radiographic Testing Review Questions 63
Thermal/Infrared Testing (IR) 66
Topical Outline J •••••••••••••••••••••••.••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 66
References 67
Thermal/Infrared Testing Review Questions 67
Ultrasonic Testing (UT) 69
Topical Outline 69
References 69
Ultrasonic Testing Review Questions 69
Visual Testing (VT) 72
Topical Outline .72
References .73
Visual Testing Review Questions .73
Magnetic Flux Leakage Testing (MFL) 75
Topical Outline 75
References 75
Magnetic Flux Leakage Testing Review Questions 75
Answers to Review Questions 77

ix
Section III: Materials, Fabrication, and Product Technology .79

Chapter 5: Materials and Processes for NOT Technology 81

Overview 81
Review Questions 83
Chapter 1: "Manufacturing and Materials" 83
Chapter 2: "Classification, Structure, and Solidification of Materials" 84
Chapter 3: "Properties of Materials" 84
Chapter 4: "Production and Properties of Common Metals" 86
Chapter 5: "Polymers, Ceramics, and Composites" 88
Chapter 6: "Costing" 90
Chapter 7: "Metal Forming" 92
Chapter 8: "Joining and Fastening" 95
Chapter 9: "Material Removal Processes" 99
Chapter 10: "Surface Treatments and Coatings" 101
Chapter 11: "Introduction to Nondestructive Testing" 102
Chapter 12: "Nondestructive Testing Methods" 103
Chapter 13: "NDTApplications" 103
Chapter 14: "NDT and Engineering" 104
Answers to Review Questions 105

Appendixes 107

Appendix A: Code of Ethics for Level III NDT Personnel Certified by ASNT 109

Appendix B: CP-ASNT-J B: ASNT NOT Level/II Program 111

Appendix c: Measurement Units for Nondestructive Testing 115

x
 SECTION I
ADMINISTRATION OF A
PERSONNEL QUALIFICATION
AND CERTIFICATION PROGRAM
 INTRODUCTION

Qualification and certification of NDT personnel, based on some standardized approach that is recognized and
agreed to by buyers and sellers ofNDT-related inspections, is widely practiced throughout industry. Recommended
Practice No. SNT- TC-IA: Personnel Qualification and Certification in Nondestructive Testing was the first document
widely used for this purpose. Another document initially issued by ASNT in 1991, reissued in 1995,2001,2006,2011, and
2016, is ANSIIASNT CP-189: Standard for Qualification and Certification of Nondestructive Testing Personnel. This docu-
ment differs from SNT- TC-IA in that it is an ANSI Standard and contains clearly defined minimum requirements that
must be satisfied in their entirety. The Basic Examination of the ASNT NDT Level III certification program addresses the
most recent editions of both of these documents.
SNT- TC-IA (2016) and CP-189 (2016) will be analyzed paragraph by paragraph in the following chapters. Selected
inquiries and responses taken from published interpretations offered by the SNT- TC-IA Interpretation Panel are includ-
ed to assist individuals in understanding some of SNT-TC-IA's philosophical intentions. The responses should be consid-
ered as clarifications of the intent of the recommended practice. The inquiries and responses are verbatim based on the
way they were written in the year indicated in the inquiry number. They do not address subsequent changes made to later
I editions of SNT- TC-IA. CP-189 interpretations are available on the ASNT website at www.asnt.org.
The general structure and some of the details of the ASNT NDT Level III certification program and how it supports
the manner in which SNT-TC-IA and CP-189 are implemented throughout industry are also covered in Chapter 3.

I
,
I
References
ANSI/ ASNT CP-189: ASNT Standard for Qualification and Certification of Nondestructive Testing Personnel. Columbus, OH: The American
Society for Nondestructive Testing, Inc. 2016.*
CP-ASNT-IB: ASNT NDT Level III Program (Program Information Document). Columbus, OH: The American Society for Nondestructive
Testing, Inc. Revision date: 17 July 2010. Available at: https:llasnt.org/MajorSiteSections/Certification/ASNT_NDT_Level_IILaspx
Recommended Practice No. SNT-TC-IA: Personnel Qualification and Certification in Nondestructive Testing. Columbus, OH: The American
Society for Nondestructive Testing, Inc. 2016.*
"Available from ASNT.

3
CHAPTER 1
Recommended Practice No. SNT-TC-l A (2016)

History of SNT-TC-1A average of requirements for formal education, time for on-the-
Recommended Practice No. SNT- TC-IA: Personnel job training, and documentation.
Qualification and Certification in Nondestructive Testing The resulting SNT-TC-1A is a recommended practice for the
was first published in 1966 as a main document comprising qualification and certification of nondestructive test personnel.
just four pages along with a series of supplements for each It provides a format which industry can follow in writing an
recognized method at the time: radiographic, magnetic par- individualized procedure for the qualification and certification of
ticle, ultrasonic, liquid penetrant, and eddy current (now personnel which meets the needs and requirements unique to
electromagnetic). Each supplemental document included each segment of industry.
recommended education, experience, and training require-
ments, as well as a recommended course outline, references, Contents and Intended Uses of
and general examination questions. The reasons for which SNT-TC-1A
SNT-TC-IA was created and the manner in which it The following information has been excerpted from the
evolved were described in an article published in Materials same article cited above. The text of this article has been
Evaluation, October 1968, Vol. 26, No. 10, pp. 12A-14A,by modified to include changes made in subsequent editions of
Harold Hovland and Carl B. Shaw, titled, "How to Qualify SNT-TC-IA.
and Certify NDT Personnel." The following excerpts outline
how this important recommended practice came into exis- It is intended that SNT-TC-1A serve as a guide for each
tence: employer user in preparing their specific personnel qualification
and certification document (procedure or written practice).
With the increasing complexity and number of SNT- TC-lA sets forth a scope and definitions, it lists the test
nondestructive test methods in use and with greater reliance methods, and it explains the various levels of qualifications. The
upon nondestructive testing, industry has not been able to primary document also details the manner in which personnel
recruit and train personnel in large enough numbers and in a are examined and certified. The question arises, "how do I
timely fashion to fill the need. Many customers found that they document certification in my particular procedure?" The point
were not receiving the nondestructive test examinations they to remember here is that the procedure as written by any user
felt they had paid to receive. of this document must satisfy the requirements of their
Large segments of the economy, such as the government company and must be acceptable to the company's customers.
and prime contractors, found it expedient to put the Within this context, certification may take anyone of several
responsibility for the training and qualification, and verification forms. It may consist merely of the records of the training
of the qualifications of nondestructive test personnel upon the programs, the examinations, and the grades of the
manufacturer. This resulted in the generation of a number of examinations. It may require a certificate that states explicitly
documents dealing with the question of the training, that a particular person is qualified to a given level for a specific
qualification, and certification of nondestructive test personnel. method. It may take the form of a card upon which an employer
Although these documents all pertain to the same subject and certifies the level of training and qualification of its personnel.
have the same objective, in their details they were often The employer has the same responsibility for the
conflicting, thereby causing undue cost to American industry. qualification and certification of its NOT personnel as it has for
Beginning about 1959, a few corporations, government the product. For example, even though an employer may
agencies, and other technical societies inquired of ASNT as to purchase a complete product and sell this product under the
whether the training and qualification of nondestructive test company's own name, the employer still bears full responsibility
personnel was properly the domain of the Society. to the customer for the quality of that product and for the
In 1961, the Society, through its Technical Council, assigned product being what the company purports it to be. The
a Task Group to study the feasibility of preparing a document employer may elect to purchase components and assemble
that would deal with the training requirements and the them and sell the result as a complete product; then again, the
documentation thereof for the qualification of nondestructive employer may manufacture all components ofthe product. In
test personnel ...the Task Group endeavored to prepare a any of these cases,the employer bears a certain responsibility.
recommended practice which could contain the consensus of The employer is responsible [for ensuring] that what is being
expert opinion regarding the training of personnel and an sold is indeed what it is claimed to be, that it will meet certain
5
Basic I SECTION I

agree upon acceptability of an employer's program."

requirements of quality, that it will not harm the user, and that it
From a factual point of view, very few employers will
will not destroy the user's property. conform exactly to all the specific recommendations of
The employer may choose to exercise any of these SNT-TC-IA. Deviation from the recommendations of
prerogatives in the training, qualification, and certification of its SNT-TC-IA should be documented in the employer's writ-
personnel. The company may employ persons previously ten practice.
trained and certify these people; however, the responsibility
would be the same as if they had been trained and qualified by
Overview of SNT-TC-1A (2016)
the employer. The employer may conduct a training program as
This section provides a paragraph-by-paragraph
recommended in the documents, examine these individuals,
overview of SNT-TC-IA including excerpts from the docu-
and certify them as to their qualification to do the work. The
ment, popular inquiries and official responses provided by
employer will exercise this responsibility through a person in the
the ASNT SNT-TC-IA Interpretation Panel, and more gen-
organization who is qualified as a Level III, and who is qualified
eral comments.
to train or provide the training of the personnel under them and
to exercise judgment as to the qualification of these personnel.
The employer may elect to utilize the Level III services of an Foreword
outside agency to provide the training, develop, administer, and The Foreword (p. iii) of SNT-TC-IA (2016) states in
grade the examinations for certification. Regardless of the part:
method used for training and examination of their personnel, This Recommended Practice establishes the general
the responsibility for ensuring that the program utilized framework for a qualification and certification program. In
complies with their written practice lies with the employer. addition, the document provides recommended educational,
Sample questions for general examinations are available experience, and training requirements for the different test
from the ASNT International Service Center. Each question cites methods. Supplementary documents include question and
the reference used to identify the correct answer. It is intended answer lists, which may be used in composing examinations for
that the Level III consider these questions as examples only and nondestructive testing personnel. ...
should not use them verbatim for qualification examinations. In The verb "should" has been used throughout this document
addition to the general examination, a specific written to emphasize the recommendation presented herein. It is the
examination is required. It is intended that the specific employer's responsibility to address specific needs and to
examination reflect the equipment that is used by the employee modify these guidelines as appropriate in a written practice. In
being examined, that it reflect the requirements of the the employer's written practice, the verb "shall" is to be used in
procedures normally used by the employer, and that it satisfy place of "should" to emphasize the employer's needs.
the specific requirements of any customer of the employer.
A Practical Examination is also necessary. The Practical Sections 1, 2, and 3: Scope, Definitions,
Examination is primarily a hands-on test and an examination to
and Nondestructive Testing Methods
determine that the examinee understands and knows how to Sections 1, 2, and 3 (Scope, Definitions, and
use the written procedures and the equipment. Test objects Nondestructive Testing Methods) on pp. 1-2 of SNT-TC-IA
should be representative of those that the inspector will most (2016) are reprinted below in full:
likely encounter. Critical points of reference should be
predetermined for which the examinee will be graded in the 1.0 Scope
Practical Examination. This may include such things as close 1.1 It is recognized that the effectiveness of
adherence to the procedure, action taken when the procedure nondestructive testing (NDT) applications depends
cannot be followed, handling of the parts being tested, upon the capabilities of the personnel who are
interpretation of test results, disposition, and the manner in responsible for and perform NDT.This Recommended
which a report is written. Practice has been prepared to establish guidelines for
the qualification and certification of NDT personnel
Note the emphasis in the foregoing text on the intent whose specific jobs require appropriate knowledge of
that SNT-TC-IA should be used as a guideline, not a fixed the technical principles underlying the nondestructive
requirement. This is reaffirmed in 1.2 of the Scope section tests they perform, witness, monitor, or evaluate.
(p. 1) of SNT-TC-IA (2016) as follows: "This document 1.2 This document provides guidelines for the establishment
provides guidelines for the establishment of a qualification of a qualification and certification program.
and certification program." Likewise, in the Foreword, it 1.3 These guidelines have been developed by the
states, "This recommended practice is not intended to be American Society for Nondestructive Testing, Inc., to
used as a strict specification, It is recognized, however, that aid employers in recognizing the essential factors to
contracts require programs, which meet the intent of this be considered in qualifying personnel engaged in any
document. For such contracts, purchaser and supplier must of the NDT methods listed in Section 3.

6
 CHAPTER 1 Recommended Practice No. SNT-TC-/A (2016)

1.4 It is recognized that these guidelines may not be of materials, components, and assemblies for
appropriate for certain employers' circumstances materials' discontinuities, properties, and
and/or applications. In developing a written practice machine problems without further impairing
as required in Section 5, the employer should review or destroying the part's serviceability.
the detailed recommendations presented herein and Throughout this document the term NDT
modify them, as necessary, to meet particular needs. applies equally to the NDT methods used for
Such modification may alter but shall not eliminate material inspection, flaw detection, or
basic provisions of the program such as training, predictive maintenance (PdM) applications.
experience, testing, and recertification. Supporting 2.1.12 Outside Agency: a company or individual
technical rationale for modification of detailed who provides NDT Level III services and whose
recommendations should be provided in an Annex to qualifications to provide these services have
the written practice. been reviewed and approved by the employer
engaging the company or individual.
2.0 Definitions 2.1.13 Qualification: demonstrated skill,
2.1 Terms included in this document are defined as demonstrated knowledge, documented
follows: training, and documented experience required
2.1.1 Certification: written testimony of for personnel to properly perform the duties
qualification. of a specific job.
2.1.2 Certifying Authority: the person or persons 2.1.14 Recommended Practice: a set of guidelines
properly designated in the written practice to to assist the employer in developing uniform
sign certifications on behalf of the employer. procedures for the qualification and
2.1.3 Certifying Agency: the employer of the certification of NDT personnel to satisfy the
personnel being certified. employer's specific requirements.
2.1.4 Closed Book Examination: an examination 2.1.15 Technique: a category within an NDT method;
administered without access to reference for example, ultrasonic thickness testing.
material except for materials supplied with or 2.1.16 Training: an organized program developed to
in the examination. (See 8.1.3.) impart the knowledge and skills necessary for
2.1.5 Comparable: being at an equivalent or similar qualification.
level of NDT responsibility and difficulty as 2.1.17 Written Practice: a written procedure
determined by the employer's NDT Level II!. developed by the employer that details the
2.1.6 Documented: the condition of being in requirements for qualification and certification
written form. of their employees.
2.1.7 Employer: the corporate, private, or public
entity, which employs personnel for wages, 3.0 Nondestructive Testing Methods
salary, fees, or other considerations. 3.1 Qualification and certification of NDT personnel in
2.1.8 Experience: work activities accomplished in a accordance with this Recommended Practice is
specific NDT method under the direction of applicable to each of the following methods:
qualified supervision including the
performance of the NDT method and related Acoustic Emission Testing
activities but not including time spent in Electromagnetic Testing
organized training programs. Ground Penetrating Radar
2.1.9 Grading Unit: a Qualification Specimen can Guided Wave Testing
be divided into sections called grading units, Laser Testing Methods
which do not have to be equal length or be Leak Testing
equally spaced. Grading units are unflawed or Liquid Penetrant Testing
flawed and the percentage of flawed/unflawed Magnetic Flux Leakage
grading units required should be approved by Magnetic Particle Testing
the NDT Level II!. Microwave Technology
2.1.10 Limited Certification: nondestructive test Neutron Radiography Testing
methods may be further subdivided into Radiographic Testing
limited disciplines or techniques to meet Thermal/Infrared Testing
specific employer's needs; these are NDT Level Ultrasonic Testing
II certifications, but to a limited scope. Vibration Analysis
2.1.11 Nondestructive Testing: a process that Visual Testing
involves the inspection, testing, or evaluation

7
Basic I SECTION I

Inquiries for Section 1 Inquiry:

NOTE: The responses of the SNT- TC-IA Interpretation 1. Mayan employer deviate from the guidelines to meet his
Panel are clarifications of intent and are subject to the state- or her specific needs?
ment of the Scope in each edition of SNT-TC-IA, paragraph 2. Is our company's specific written practice acceptable?
l.4: "It is recognized that these guidelines may not be
appropriate for certain employers' circumstances and/or Response:
applications. In developing a written practice as required in 1. Yes, in accordance with Paragraph 1.4 of SNT-TC-IA,
Section 5, the employer should review the detailed recom-
the employer should modify the guidelines to meet his
mendations presented herein and modify them, as neces-
sary, to meet particular needs." The inquiries must be stated or her needs.
in general terms only, because the Interpretation Panel can- 2. It is against ASNT policy to judge the applicability of
not serve as a referee between a buyer and seller or other- company documents. As a general comment, it is the
wise become involved in any specific case. Inquiries are employer's prerogative to establish his or her criteria for
numbered to include the year of the inquiry and refer to the certification. It is then the customer's prerogative to
edition of SNT-TC-IA in effect in that year, unless other- accept or reject those criteria.
wise stated in the question. New editions of SNT-TC-IA
were published for these years: 1968, 1975, 1980, 1984, Inquiry 04-1
1988, 1992, 1996,2001,2006,2011, and 2016. All inquiries
reprinted below are taken from the most recent edition of Inquiry:
Interpreting SNT- TC-IA, published annually by ASNT.
1. Is it the intent of Paragraph l.4 that an employer can
Minor editorial changes have been made to keep the style
consistent with the rest of this book. modify the "Guidelines" of SNT-TC-IA to the extent
that Level II and Level III NDT personnel can be "certi-
Inquiry 76-4 fied" without any examinations if written this way in the
In Paragraph l.1, note the statement regarding "person- written practice?
nel whose specific jobs require appropriate knowledge of ... 2. What are the limits that are intended regarding how
the nondestructive tests they perform, witness, monitor, or much the employer can deviate from SNT-TC-IA as
evaluate." The SNT-TC-IA Interpretation Panel acted on written? If no limits are given, the employer can change
the following inquiry about this section. the entire context of SNT-TC-IA to eliminate all certifi-
Inquiry: cation exams. Is that the intent?
Paragraph 1.1 of SNT- TC-IA refers to individuals who
"perform, witness, monitor or evaluate" nondestructive Response:
tests. Is it intended that individuals whose principal func- 1. No. The provisions of Paragraph 1.4 allow modification
tions are to witness, monitor or evaluate nondestructive of the detailed recommendations; it is not intended to
tests be qualified in the same manner as those whose princi- allow elimination of the basic provisions of the
pal function is to perform nondestructive tests?
document.
Response: 2. No. Paragraph 9.2 requires certification in accordance
It is intended that the employer designate through the with "Section 8, Examinations" as described in the
written practice as recommended in Paragraph 5 specific employer's written practice.
jobs that require knowledge of the technical principles of
nondestructive testing. The employer should test the state- General Comments:
ment of Paragraph l.1, «.•• personnel whose specificjobs SNT-TC-IA allows for modification of detailed recom-
require appropriate knowledge of the technical principles mendations as necessary to meet particular needs. The
underlying the nondestructive tests they perform, witness, intent is that there be a technical rationale to support such
monitor or evaluate," against the specific job elements of modification. Elimination of requirements, such as training,
the personnel in question in order to establish whether or experience, and examination, goes beyond modification of
not the specific job requires knowledge of nondestructive detailed requirements.
testing.

Inquiry 80-8
Paragraph 1.4 very clearly states the intent that the
detailed recommendations of SNT- TC-IA should be
reviewed and modified by the user to satisfy unique needs.
This allowance was originally incorporated in recognition of
the fact that each manufacturer or each service organization
has a different clientele. Customer or clientele requirements
ultimately determine what is acceptable between buyer and
seller, even to the details of qualifying NDT personnel.

8
 CHAPTER 1 Recommended Practice No. SNT-TC-1A (2016)

Inquiry 78-7 Response:

ASNT has received frequent inquiries from a variety of ...It is the intent that SNT-TC-IA is a recommended
sources regarding mandatory imposition of the recommen- practice and that it is a guideline which should be modified
dations of SNT-TC-IA into firm and inflexible require- by the employer as necessary to meet his or her particular
ments. By design, this document lists recommendations needs. The employer should determine his or her needs,
which are intended to be used selectivelyin support of the determine the necessary qualifications of his or her examin-
individual needs of each employer. However, due in part to ers to meet those needs, and describe those in his or her
such requests for some type of mandatory requirements written practice.
document, ANS/IASNTCP-189was developed as a standard
that establishes the minimum requirements for the qualifi-
cation and certification of NDT personnel. ASNT always General Comments on Sections 1, 2, and 3
intended that the recommendations of SNT-TC-IA be Paragraph 1.4 was modified in the 2011 edition to pro-
applied with flexibility and reason, recognizing that busi- vide users with additional guidance to ensure that when
ness enterprises often may need to satisfy differing users develop a written practice, the fundamental require-
customer requirements. ments of SNT-TC-IA are maintained and that any modifi-
cations are documented with a rationale for the deviations.
This modification was retained in the 2016 edition.
Inquiry:
In Section 2, Definitions, each of these terms should be
1. Should personnel who operate (ultrasonic) digital thick-
carefully studied. For example, some NDT practitioners
ness measurement equipment be qualified and certified? may not clearly understand the difference between qualifi-
2. To what Levelshould such personnel be certified? cation and certification. Considering each term as represent-
3. Does ASNT anticipate a change in SNT-TC-IA that ing a process, the process of qualifying personnel involves
would provide specific recommendations for qualifying assessment of the adequacy of the skills, training, and expe-
and certifying such personnel? rience of personnel being considered for certain tasks. The
process of qualifying may require that education and train-
Response: ing be imparted to such personnel. Assessment of qualifica-
1. Whether any NDT personnel should be certified tions often requires that the personnel be examined.
depends solely upon the needs of the employer and the Following the process of qualification, individuals meeting
or exceeding the minimum qualification requirements of
requirements of the employer's customers or clientele.
the employer can be certified. That is, the employer pro-
2. Likewise,the level to which personnel should be certified vides evidence that a qualifying process was followed. Such
depends upon the same factors as in [1.] above. Note evidence backs up the employer's assertion that certain
that paragraph 4.1 of SNT-TC-IA provides for subdivi- individuals are qualified to perform certain critical func-
sion within the levels as needed. tions and is the employer's "certification" that the evidence
3. Paragraph 1.4 and paragraph 4.1 of SNT-TC-IA are of qualification exists.
intended to provide the employer with adequate flexibil- Limited certifications for Ultrasonic Thickness
ity to accommodate a variety of special needs as docu- Measurement and Radiographic Film Interpretation have
mented in the written practice. While the recommended been retained in this edition. These certifications are
training course outline of SNT-TC-IA does not specifically intended to be limited in the scope of qualification, but not
address digital thickness measurement, the principles of the responsibilities of the Level II individual as defined in
Section 4. There is no Level I limited certification.
pulse-echo techniques are those involved.The training
Fundamental in free enterprise is the tenet that produc-
course outline does provide for instruction in the employ- ers of goods and suppliers of services are ultimately respon-
er's specificequipment uses and, as with the remainder of sible for the quality and effectiveness of such goods and
SNT-TC-IA, the training course outline should be modi- services as well as bearing responsibility for shortcomings
fied, if necessary,to meet employers' specificneeds. and failures. Therefore, regardless of the details of the
processes by which individuals became qualified, the direct
Inquiry 80-4 employer of the personnel being certified must bear the end
Two other inquiries pertain to this concept. Both responsibility for conferring a certification and, thereby, can
inquiries have the same response. be the only "certifying agency." Such absolute responsibility
does not preclude the use of outside services by employers
Inquiry: to assist in imparting and/or assessing qualifications of indi-
NDT examiners in our employ who perform examina- viduals being certified. The use of outside services does not
tions using liquid penetrant use only the visible dye, solvent relieve the employer from responsibility, nor can the
removable, penetrant technique. Since our examiners do employer abrogate or delegate this responsibility to an out-
not have need to be qualified in the other liquid penetrant side agency.
techniques, is it permissible to modify the number of gener- SNT-TC-IA has been referenced by certain codes and
al and specific questions as well as the hours of training and specifications to be used, in effect, as a model for employers
work experience to satisfy requirements of SNT-TC-IA for to develop a written practice concerning some method of
Level I and Level II examiners? NDT not currently covered in SNT-TC-IA.

9
Basic I SECTION I

Review Questions for Sections 1, 2, and 3 techniques, and procedures to be used. The
Based on the foregoing discussion, answer the questions NOTLevel III should be responsible for the NOT
on pp. 28-29 relating to SNT-TC-IA and the administration operations for which qualified and assigned
of a qualification and certification program in NDT. and should be capable of interpreting and
evaluating results in terms of existing codes,
standards, and specifications. The NOTLevel III
Section 4: Levels of Qualification should have sufficient practical background in
Section 4 (pp. 2-3) of SNT-TC-IA (2016) is reprinted applicable materials, fabrication, and product
below in full: technology to establish techniques and to
assist in establishing acceptance criteria when
4.0 Levels of Qualification none are otherwise available. The NOTLevel III
4.1 There are three basic levels of qualification. The should have general familiarity with other
employer may subdivide these levels for situations appropriate NOTmethods, as demonstrated by
where additional levels are deemed necessary for an ASNTLevel III Basicexamination or other
specific skills and responsibilities. means. The NOTLevel III, in the methods in
4.2 While in the process of being initially trained, which certified, should have sufficient technical
qualified, and certified, an individual should be knowledge and skillsto be capable of training
considered a trainee. A trainee should work with a and examining NOTLevell and II personnel for
certified individual. The trainee should not certification in those methods.
independently conduct, interpret, evaluate, or report
the results of any NOTtest. Inquiries for Section 4
4.3 The recommended technical knowledge and skillsets
for the three basic levels of qualification are as Inquiry 76-3
follows:
4.3.1 NOT Levell. An NOTLevell individual should Inquiry:
have sufficient technical knowledge and skills Is it the intent of SNT-TC-IA that the Level I NDT per-
to be qualified to properly perform specific sons described in Paragraph 4.3(a) of the 1975 edition of
calibrations, specific NOT,and specific this document be the same as the Level I individual
evaluations for acceptance or rejection described in the SNT-TC-IA (1968 edition) Paragraph
4.1 (a) with both having the same capabilities?
determinations according to written
instructions and to record results. The NOT Response:
Levell should receive the necessary instruction Yes. The changes in wording between the 1975 and the
or supervision from a certified NOTLevel II or III 1968 versions of SNT-TC-IA, insofar as the duties and
individual. capabilities of Level I personnel are concerned, were intend-
4.3.2 NOT Level II. An NOTLevelII individualshould ed only to clarify the intent of the document. None of these
changes in wording were intended as substantive changes.
have sufficient technical knowledge and skills
to be qualified to set up and calibrate equipment
NOTE: As versions of SNT-TC-IA change, the older is
and to interpret and evaluate results with respect replaced by the newer version with corrections to be
to applicable codes, standards, and addressed at recertification time. See Inquiries 78-2, 80-14,
specifications.The NOTLevel II should be and 85-2.
thoroughly familiarwith the scope and
limitations of the methods for which qualified Inquiry 76-5
and should exercise assigned responsibilityfor
on-the-job training and guidance of trainees and Inquiry:
NOTLevell personnel. The NOTLevel II should In accordance with SNT-TC-IA (1975 edition), maya
be able to organize and report the results of NOT Level I NDT person who has been trained, qualified, and
tests. certified in accordance with SNT-TC-IA (1975 edition) be
4.3.3 NOT Level III. An NOTLevel III individual the sole person to perform, evaluate, and sign for final
acceptance ofNDT examinations in accordance with writ-
should have sufficient technical knowledge and
ten procedures and acceptance standards with occasional
skillsto be capable of developing, qualifying,
surveillance and guidance from a Level II or III?
and approving procedures, establishing and
approving techniques, interpreting codes,
standards, specifications, and procedures; and
designating the particular NOTmethods,

10
 CHAPTER 1 Recommended Practice No. SNT-TC-lA (2016)

Response: h. Can an NDT Level III develop and approve the

Yes. The intent in SNT-TC-IA is that the Level I person training and examination program for NDT meth-
may perform the above functions provided they are in ods he or she is not qualified in? No. Paragraph
accordance with written procedures and so documented in 4.3.3 states that the NDT Level III should be capa-
the employer's written practice. ble of training and examining NDT Level I and II
personnel for certification in those methods for
Inquiry 78-9 which the LevelIII holds certification. See Inquiry
90-1 Part 2.
Inquiry: 2. Determining industry practice is not within the scope of
Is it intended that personnel currently certified as NDT SNT-TC-IA.
Level III within the guidelines of SNT-TC-IA who also reg-
ularly perform LevelII functions be qualified as recom- Inquiry 09-2
mended in Paragraphs 8.2, 8.5.2, 8.6, and 9.7?
Inquiry:
Response: Should NDT LevelI technicians be allowed to make the
It is the opinion of the Interpretation Panel that person- final determination as to whether a production part is accept-
nel currently certified as Level III may regularly perform ed or rejected and then sign off on the production order
Level II functions without specificallybeing qualified as paperwork if they followa step-by-step procedure developed
Level II as recommended in Paragraph 8.2, 8.5.2, and 8.6 of by a LevelIII?
SNT-TC-IA. However, as recommended in Paragraph 9.7,
Response:
all levels should be periodically recertified.
Level I personnel may accept or reject parts according to
Inquiry 03-2 written instructions and record results. Reporting the final
results requires a Level II or III.
Inquiry:
Mayan NDT LevelIII develop, qualify, and approve General Comments on Section 4
NDT procedures, and establish and approve techniques in Implicit in the definitions of Level I, Level II, and Level
the methods in which not certified? III as outlined in paragraphs 4.3.1, 4.3.2, and 4.3.3 is the
concept that the qualifications for Level III equal and
Response: exceed those of Level II. The employer must be satisfied
No, see the response to Inquiry 90-1, Part 2, and with the proficiency of any individual at any level to handle
Inquiry 10-5. work tasks. SNT-TC-IA is not intended for use to deter-
mine an individual's proficiency. It is intended as a guide-
line to establish qualifications.
Inquiry 09-1
Review Questions for Section 4
Inquiry: Based on the foregoing discussion, answer the questions
1. With regard to NDT LevelIlls signing off on certifica- on pp. 29-31.
tion after successful completion of trainees' examina-
tions, is it the intention that the NDT Level III must be
certified in the method for which he or she is signing off Section 5: WriHen Practice
as per SNT-TC-IA Paragraph 4.3.3? Section 5 (p. 3) of SNT-TC-IA (2016) is reprinted below
2. Is it commonly accepted in the industry that an NDT in full:
Level III can sign off on certifications for methods other
than those in which he or she is certified? 5.0 Written Practice
5.1 The employer shall establish a written practice for the
Response: control and administration of NDT personnel training,
1. This question refers to two separate issues. examination, and certification.
a. Can an NDT Level III sign off on certifications in 5.2 The employer's written practice should describe the
methods for which he or she is not qualified? Yes. responsibility of each level of certification for
Signing off on certification is covered by Section determining the acceptability of materials or
9.0, Certification Record, and Paragraph 9.4.9 states components in accordance with the applicable codes,
that a person's certification record must have the standards, specifications, and procedures.
signature of the Level III who verified the qualifica- 5.3 The employer's written practice should describe the
tions of a candidate for certification. It does not training, experience, and examination requirements
require that this Level III be certified in the applica- for each level of certification by method and
ble test methods. See Inquiry 90-1 Part 1. technique, as applicable.

11
Basic I SECTION I

5.4 The employer's written practice should identify the the employer for specific limited applications
test techniques within each test method applicable to as defined in the employer's written practice.
its scope of operations. Limited certifications should apply to
5.5 The employer's written practice shall be reviewed and individuals who do not meet the full training
approved by the employer's NDTLevel II!. and experience ofTable 6.3.1 A. Limited
5.6 The employer's written practice shall be maintained certifications issued in any method should be
on file. approved by the NDTLevel III and
documented in the certification records.
General Comments on Section 5 6.3.2 NDTLevel III
Implicit in the use of SNT-TC-IA is the requirement 6.3.2.1 Have a baccalaureate degree (or
that the employer shall develop a written practice. higher) in engineering or science,
SNT-TC-IA provides the guidelines; the written practice plus one additional year of
sets forth the details. When departures from SNT-TC-IA experience beyond the NDTLevel II
guidelines are made, the written practice should record the requirements in NDTin an
departure. It is good practice to record all departures, even
assignment at least comparable to
when they represent situations in excess and/or with greater
that of an NDTLevel II in the
strength than the recommendations of SNT-TC-IA.
applicable NDTmethod(s), or:
Review Questions for Section 5 6.3.2.2 Have completed with passing
Based on the foregoing discussion, answer the questions grades at least two years of
on p. 31. engineering or science study at a
university, college, or technical
Section 6: Education, Training, and school, plus two additional years of
Experience Requirements for Initial experience beyond the NDTLevel II
Qualification requirements in NDTin an
assignment at least comparable to
Section 6 (p. 3) of SNT-TC-IA (2016) is reprinted below
in full: that of NDTLevel II in the applicable
NDTmethod(sl, or:
6.0 Education, Training, and Experience Requirements for 6.3.2.3 Have four years of experience
Initial Qualification beyond the NDTLevel II
6.1 Candidates for certification in NDTshould have requirements in NDTin an
sufficient education, training, and experience to assignment at least comparable to
ensure qualification in those NDTmethods in which that of an NDTLevel II in the
they are being considered for certification. applicable NDTmethod(s).
Documentation of prior certification may be used by The above NDTLevel III requirements may be
an employer as evidence of qualification for partially replaced by experience as a certified
comparable levels of certification. NDTLevel II or by assignments at least
6.2 Documented training and/or experience gained in comparable to NDTLevel II as defined in the
positions and activities comparable to those of employer's written practice.
Levels I, II, and/or III prior to establishment of the
employer's written practice may be considered in Inquiries for Section 6
satisfying the criteria of Section 6.3.
6.3 To be considered for certification, a candidate should Inquiry 77-4
satisfy one of the following criteria for the applicable
NDTlevel: Inquiry:
6.3.1 NDTLevels I and II May the experience requirements expressed as "certified
Table 6.3.1 A lists the recommended training NDT Level II" in Paragraph 6.3.1(b), (c) and (d) of the 1975
and experience hours to be considered by the edition of SNT-TC-IA be considered to include experience
employer in establishing written practices for gained in "an assignment comparable to that of an NDT
Level II" [as stated in paragraph 6.3.2(a)] in determining
initial qualification of NDTLevell and Level II
the prerequisite requirements of a candidate for certifica-
individuals.
tion as a Level III? If so, may this acceptance of experience
Table 6.3.1 B lists initial training and in "an assignment comparable to" be extended to include
experience hours which may be considered by similar subparagraphs under Paragraph 6.2.5 of the earlier
editions of SNT-TC-IA?

12
 CHAPTER 1 Recommended Practice No. SNT-TC-IA (2016)

Table 6..
3 1 A" Recommended Initial Training and Experience Levels
Experience
Training
Examination Method NOTLevel Technique Hours Minimum Hours in Total Hours in NOT
Method
I 40 210 400
Acoustic Emission
II 40 630 1200
I 40 210 400
AC Field Measurement
II 40 630 1200
I 40 210 400
Electromagnetic Eddy Current
II 40 630 1200
I 40 210 400
Remote Field
II 40 630 1200
Ground Penetrating I 8 60 120
Radar 20 420 800
40 240 460
Guided Wave
40 240 460
8 70 130
Profilometry
24 140 260
Laser Methods 210 400
Holography/ 40
Shearography 40 630 1200
2 3 15
Bubble Testing
I 4 35 80
24 105 200
Pressure Change
16 280 530
Leak Testing
12 105 200
Halogen Diode
8 280 530
40 280 530
Mass Spectrometer
24 420 800
4 70 130
Penetrant Testing
8 140 270
Magnetic Flux 16 70 130
leakage I 12 210 400
I 12 70 130
Magnetic Particle
II 8 210 400
I 40 210 400
Microwave Technology
II 40 630 1200
I 28 420 800
Neutron Radiography
II 40 1680 2400
I 40 210 400
Radiographic
II 40 630 1200
I 40 210 400
Computed Radiography
II 40 630 1200
Radiographic Testing I 40 210 400
Computed Tomography
II 40 630 1200
I 40 210 400
Digital Radiography
II 40 630 1200
I 32 210 400
I Building Diagnostics 34 1260 1800
Thermal/Infrared
Electrical and Mechanical 34 1260 1800
Materials Testing 34 1260 1800
40 210 400
40 630 1200
Ultrasonic Testing
Time of Flight Diffraction 40 160 N/A
Phased Array 80 160 N/A
24 420 800
Vibration Analysis
72 1680 2400
8 70 130
Visual Testing
16 140 270

13
Basic I SECTION I
Notes:

1.0 A person may be qualified directly to NDT Level II with no time as a certified NDT Levell, providing the recommended training
and experience consists of the sum of the hours recommended for NDT Levell and Level II.

2.0 For NDT Level III certification, the experience should consist of the sum of the hours for NDT Levell and Level II, plus the
additional time in 6.3.2 as applicable. The formal training should consist of the NDT Levell and Level II training, plus any
additional formal training as defined in the employer's written practice.

3.0 Listed training hours may be adjusted as described in the employer's written practice depending on the candidate's actual
education level, e.g. grammar school, college graduate in engineering, etc.

4.0 Training should be outlined in the employer's written practice. Magnetic Particle training hours may be counted toward
Magnetic Flux Leakage training hours as defined in employer's written practice.

5.0 If an individual is currently certified in an ETtechnique and a full course format was used to meet the initial qualifications in
that technique, the minimum training hours to qualify in another ETtechnique at the same NDT Level may be reduced up to
40 percent if so defined in the employer's written practice. If an individual is certified in an ETtechnique, the minimum
experience to qualify for another ETtechnique at the same level or to the next level may be reduced by up to 50 percent if so
defined in the employer's written practice.

6.0 While fulfilling total NDT experience requirement, experience may be gained in more than one (1) method; however, the
minimum hours must be met for each method.

7.0 If an individual is currently certified in a Radiographic Testing technique and a full course format was used to meet the initial
qualifications in that technique, the minimum additional training hours to qualify in another technique at the same level
should be 24 hours (of which at least 16 hours should be equipment familiarization). The training outline should be as defined
in the employer's written practice. If an individual is certified in a technique, the minimum additional experience required to
qualify for another technique at the same level may be reduced by up to 50 percent, as defined in the employer's written
practice.

8.0 Independent of the training recommended for Levell and Level II certification, a trainee is required to receive radiation safety
training as required by the regulatory jurisdiction.

9.0 If an individual is currently certified in one Thermal/Infrared technique and a full course format was used to meet the initial
qualifications in that technique, the minimum additional training hours to qualify in another technique at the same level
should be 20 hours (of which at least 16 hours should be specific technique familiarization). The training outline should be as
defined in the employer's written practice. If an individual is certified in a technique, the minimum additional experience
required to qualify for another technique at the same level may be reduced by up to 50 percent, as defined in the employer's
written practice.

10.0 Time of Flight Diffraction and Phased Array require Ultrasonic Testing Level II certification as a prerequisite.

Table 6.3.1 B: Recommended Initial Training and Experience Levels for NOTLevel II Limited Certifications
Technician's Starting Formal Minimum Work Experience
Examination Method Limited Certification in Method (Hours)
Point Training
Film Interpretation Non-Radiographer 40 2201
Radiographic
Film Interpretation RT Levell 24 2201
Digital Thickness Measurement
Trainee 8 40
(numeric output only)
Ultrasonic
A-scan Thickness Measurement Trainee 24 175

1- Should include a review of 1000 radiographs.

14
 CHAPTER 1 Recommended Practice No. SNT-TC-JA (2016)

Response: Inquiry 83-8

Paragraph 6.2 of the 1975 edition of SNT-TC-IA states,
"Documented training and/or experience gained in posi- Inquiry:
tions and activities equivalent to those of Level II or Level We desire to have a member of management for our
III prior to establishment of the employer's written practice NDT Level III who, by virtue of his or her job duties, will
and a certification program in accordance with this docu- not have worked as a Level II. Clarification is needed rela-
ment shall be considered as satisfying the criteria of tive to SNT-TC-IA (1980 edition), Paragraph 6.3.2.1,
Paragraph 6.2.1 and 6.3." If documentation was not pro- 6.3.2.2, or 6.3.2.3. The employee may also not have any pre-
duced during such prior experience, an affidavit or other vious experience in the particular discipline. The questions
suitable testimony regarding such experience may be evalu- are:
ated by the employer to aid in determining equivalence.
This response applies to the 1975 edition and all prior edi- 1. How can a person become a Level III if they have not
tions of SNT-TC-IA. had a Level II assignment?
2. What types of other experiences could be counted for
Inquiry 79-1 the Level II requirements?
Inquiry: Response:
In maintaining records, if an individual is working 1. An individual may be given credit for work assignments
Simultaneously in more than one method, should the comparable to that of an NDT Level II in the applicable
records reflect the total time spent for each method or test method.
should the time be divided proportionately for each of the 2. The types of work assignments comparable to the Level
methods? For example, if an individual spent 50 percent of II assignments should be defined by the employer in his
his or her time on ultrasonic testing and 50 percent of his or
or her written practice.
her time on radiographic testing for a period of nine
months, would the record show experience in UT of four
and one-half months or nine months? Inquiry 94-1

Response: Inquiry:
It is intended that the employer's written practice Please clarify ASNT's intent regarding the phrase,
should include details of maintaining records. It is intended "assignment comparable to that of an NDT LevelII" as it
that records should reflect the facts of each individual's [is] related to SNT-TC-IA, 1984 edition, Paragraph 6.3.2.l. I
work time with regard to the amount of time spent on each interpret this statement to mean: even though an individual
method and the periods of time during which the work was has a four-year degree in science or engineering, he or she
performed. should also have the "documented" NDT training and expe-
rience commensurate with that of a Level II. This docu-
Inquiries 79-14 and 79-15 mented training should follow the guidelines established in
Table 6.3.1 of SNT-TC-IA (1984 edition). It also requires
Inquiry: (in my opinion) this individual practice as a LevelII for at
Is it intended per SNT-TC-IA (1975edition) that the time least one year before being eligible for Level III certification.
spent in a laboratory exerciseduring a long-term NDT course
be considered the only qualifyingwork time experience? Response:
May the laboratory time be given any credit at all as Please reference Inquiry 83-8.
"work time experience" to satisfy all the requirements in
Table 6.2.1A?
General Comments on Section 6
Response: Paragraph 6.3.1, like the rest of SNT-TC-IA, is only a
It is not intended that laboratory experience in an edu- guide. The employer's written practice should detail all such
cational program be directly applied to the work time expe- requirements, which may differ from the recommendations
rience. Laboratory experience is not necessarily applicable of Paragraph 6.3.1.
to the employer's product or to the specific codes, stan- Table note 5.0 provides for reductions in training
dards, or specifications in use. However, in recognition of hours and experience based on additional ET certifications.
the benefits accruing from laboratory experience, the Similarly,in Table 6.3.1A of the 2011 edition of SNT-TC-IA,
employer may include such consideration for adjustment to this same approach was used to divide Radiographic Testing
the work experience in his or her written practice. Should into four techniques. Table note 7.0 provides for reductions
the employer decide to do so, he or she should thoroughly in training hours and experience based on additional RT cer-
evaluate the curriculum to determine its applicability. tifications. Additional reductions are allowed for the
Thermal/Infrared method based on its three techniques in
table note 9.0.

15
Basic I SECTION I

Inquiry 77-4 points to consideration given in products to be tested. All training programs should
SNT-TC-IA to the initial establishment of a formal qualifi- be approved by the NOT Level III responsible for the
cation and certification program. Paragraph 6.2 recognizes applicable method.
that prior to establishing a program and a written practice, 7.2 The training program should include sufficient
the employer may have provided training as well as other
examinations to ensure understanding of the
essentials of qualifying NDT personnel without formal pro-
necessary information.
cedures. Hence, documentation of such activities could pro-
vide evidence of the equivalence of prior activities with 7.3 Recommended training course outlines and
those recommended in SNT-TC-IA. Paragraphs 6.3.2.1, references for NOT Levels I, II, and III personnel, which
6.3.2.2, and 6.3.2.3 use the phrase "in an assignment at least may be used as technical source material, are
comparable to that of an NDT Level II." In other words, the contained in ANSI/ASNTCP-J05:ASNTStandard
experience can be "comparable to that of an NDT Level II" Topicol Outlines for Qualification of
if documentation can be produced that substantiates the Nondestructive TestingPersonnet.
comparability. 7.4 The employer who purchases outside training services
In the 2011 edition of SNT-TC-IA, Table 6.3.1 B from is responsible for ensuring that such services meet the
the 2006 edition was removed, thus eliminating the so- requirements of the employer's written practice.
called "25% rule." This rule stated, "Initial experience may
be gained simultaneously in two or more methods if the
candidate spends a minimum of 25 percent of his [or her] Inquiries for Section 7
work time on each method for which certification is
sought." Table 6.3.1 A requires that experience be accumu- Inquiry 07-1
lated by hours rather than months and both minimum and
total experience hours must be satisfied. See note 6.0. Inquiry:
NOTE: Table 6.3.1 B in the 2006 edition was titled Per the 2001 edition of SNT-TC-IA, Paragraphs 7.1, 7.2,
"Alternate Initial Training and Experience Levels"and was and 9.4.4, and Tables 6.3.1A and 6.3.1B:
deleted in the 2011 edition. Table 6.3.1 C, "Initial Training
and Experience Levelsfor LevelII Limited Certifications," 1. Can computer or Web-based NDT training with associat-
in the 2006 edition replaced Table 6.3.1 B in the 2011 edi- ed electronic quizzes be used to satisfy the training
tion. This change was retained in the 2016 edition; however, requirements described in Paragraphs 7.1 and 7.2?
the title of Table 6.3.1 B was amended to "Recommended 2. If so, how should an employer document that training
Initial Training and Experience Levelsfor LevelII Limited
hours meet the recommended hours listed in Tables
Certifications."
6.3.1Aand 6.3.lB so they can comply with the "satisfactory
Review Questions for Section 6 completion" requirements required by Paragraph 9.4.4?
Based on the foregoing discussion, answer the questions
on pp. 31-32. Response:
1. See Inquiry 84-4, response 1 [in Interpreting
SNT-TC-IA]. Inquiry 84-4 addresses home-study (corre-
Section 7: Training Programs spondence) courses, but the response is appropriate for
Section 7 (p. 6) of SNT-TC-IA (2016) is reprinted below both computer and Web-based training.
in full: 2. SeeInquiry 84-4, response 2 [in InterpretingSNT-TC-IA].

7.0 Training Programs General Comments on Section 7

7.1 Personnel being considered for initial certification In the 2006 edition of SNT-TC-IA, the course outlines
should complete sufficient organized training. The have been moved to another publication, ANSI/ASNT
organized training may include instructor-led CP-105: Topical Outlinesfor Qualification of Nondestructive
training, personalized instruction, virtual instructor- TestingPersonnel.Traditionally, both SNT- TC-lA and
led training, computer-based training, or web-based
CP-189 have published the training course outlines as part
of the respective documents. By moving the outlines from
training. Computer-based training and web-based
SNT-TC-IA and CP-189and publishing them in CP-I05,
training should track hours and content of training
the problem of having two sets of outlines out of sync due
with student examinations in accordance with 7.2. to different publication dates is eliminated and provides a
The sufficiently organized training shall be such as to common set of outlines for both SNT- TC-lA and CP-189.
ensure the student is thoroughly familiar with the
principles and practices of the specified NOT method
related to the level of certification desired and
applicable to the processes to be used and the

16
 CHAPTER 1 Recommended Practice No. SNT-TC-lA (2016)

In the 2011 edition of SNT-TC-IA, paragraph 7.1 was understanding of the information rather than
modified to clarify the use of alternative means for training merely locating the appropriate answer.
such as computer and/or Web-based training. Guidance
8.1.4 For NOT Levell and II personnel, a composite
was also included to ensure that such training provides the
grade should be determined by simple
user with contact hours, correlation to the applicable train-
ing outline, and appropriate examinations. This change has averaging of the results of the general, specific,
been maintained in the 2016 edition. and practical examinations described below.
For NDT Level III personnel, the composite
Review Questions for Section 7 grade should be determined by simple
Based on the foregoing discussion, answer the questions averaging of the results of the basic, method,
on p. 32. and specific examinations described below.
8.1.5 Examinations administered by the employer
for qualification should result in a passing
Section 8: Examinations composite grade of at least 80 percent, with
Section 8 (pp. 6-10) of SNT-TC-IA (2016) is reprinted no individual examination having a passing
below in full: grade less than ?O percent.
8.1.6 When an examination is administered and
8.0 Examinations graded for the employer by an outside agency
8.1 Administration and Grading and the outside agency issues grades of pass
8.1.1 All qualification examination questions should or fail only, on a certified report, then the
be approved by the NOT Level III responsible employer may accept the pass grade as 80
for the applicable method. percent for that particular examination.
8.1.2 An NOT Level III should be responsible for the 8.1.? The employer who purchases outside services
administration and grading of examinations is responsible for ensuring that the examination
specified in Section 8.3 through 8.8 for NDT services meet the requirements of the
Levell, II, or other Level III personnel. The employer's written practice.
administration and grading of examinations 8.1.8 In no case shall an examination be
may be delegated to a qualified representative administered by one's self or by a subordinate.
of the NDT Level III and so recorded. A 8.2 Vision Examinations
qualified representative of the employer may 8.2.1 Near-Vision Acuity: The examination should
perform the actual administration and grading ensure natural or corrected near-distance
of NDT Level III examinations specified in 8.7. acuity in at least one eye such that the
8.1.2.1 To be designated as a qualified applicant is capable of reading a minimum of
representative of the NOT Level III Jaeger Number 2 or equivalent type and size
for the administration and grading letter at the distance designated on the chart
of NDT Levell and Level II personnel but not less than 12 in. (30.5 cm) on a standard
qualification examinations, the Jaeger test chart. The ability to perceive an
designee should have documented, Ortho-Rater minimum of 8 or similar test
appropriate instruction by the pattern is also acceptable. This should be
responsible NDT Level III in the administered annually.
proper administration and grading of 8.2.2 Color Contrast Differentiation: The examination
qualification examinations prior to should demonstrate the capability of
conducting and grading independent distinguishing and differentiating contrast
qualification examinations for NDT among colors or shades of gray used in the
personnel. Additionally, the practical method as determined by the employer. This
exam should be administered by a should be conducted upon initial certification
person certified in the applicable NDT and at five-year intervals thereafter.
method as NDT Level II or III. 8.2.3 Vision examinations expire on the last day of
8.1.3 All NDT Levell, II, and III written examinations the month of expiration.
should be closed-book except that necessary 8.3 General (Written - for NDT Levels I and II)
data, such as graphs, tables, specifications, 8.3.1 The general examinations should address the
procedures, codes, etc., may be provided with basic principles of the applicable method.
or in the examination. Questions utilizing such 8.3.2 In preparing the examinations, the NDT
reference materials should require an Level III should select or devise appropriate
questions covering the applicable method to

17
Basic I SECTION I

the degree required by the employer's written 8.5.3 The description of the specimen, the NDT
practice. procedure, including checkpoints, and the
8.3.3 See Appendix A [not included in this book] for results of the examination should be
example questions. documented.
8.3.4 The minimum number of questions that 8.5.4 NDT Levell Practical Examination. Proficiency
should be given is shown in Table 8.3.4. should be demonstrated in performing the
8.3.5 A valid ACCP Level II or ASNT NDT Level II applicable NDT technique on one or more
certificate may be accepted as fulfilling the specimens or machine problems approved by
general examination criteria for each the NDT Level III and in evaluating the results
applicable method if the NDT Level III has to the degree of responsibility as described in
determined that the ASNT examinations meet the employer's written practice. At least ten
the requirements of the employer's written (10) different checkpoints requiring an
practice. understanding of test variables and the
8.4 Specific (Written - for NDT Levels I and II) employer's procedural requirements should
8.4.1 The specific examination should address the be included in this practical examination. The
equipment, operating procedures, and NDT candidate should detect all discontinuities and
techniques that the individual may encounter conditions specified by the NDT Level III.
during specific assignments to the degree
required by the employer's written practice. Note: While it is normal to score the practical
8.4.2 The specific examination should also cover the on a percentile basis, practical examinations
specifications or codes and acceptance criteria should contain checkpoints that failure to
used in the employer's NDT procedures. successfully complete will result in failure of
8.4.3 The minimum number of questions that the examination.
should be given is shown in Table 8.3.4.
8.4.4 A valid ACCP Level II or ASNT NDT Level II 8.5.5 NDT Level II Practical Examination. Proficiency
certificate may be accepted as fulfilling the should be demonstrated in selecting and
specific examination criteria for each performing the applicable NDT technique
applicable method if the NDT Level III has within the method and interpreting and
determined that the ASNT examinations meet evaluating the results on one or more
the requirements of the employer's written specimens or machine problems approved by
practice. the NDT Level III. At least ten (10) different
8.5 Practical (for NDT Levell and II) checkpoints requiring an understanding of
8.5.1 The candidate should demonstrate familiarity NDT variables and the employer's procedural
with and ability to operate the necessary NDT requirements should be included in this
equipment, record, and analyze the resultant practical examination. The candidate should
information to the degree required. detect all discontinuities and conditions
8.5.2 At least one flawed specimen or component specified by the NDT Level III. An example of a
should be tested and the results of the NDT practical examination checklist is attached as
test analyzed by the candidate. Appendix B [not included in this book] to this
8.5.2.1 Phased Array and Time of Flight Recommended Practice. The example checklist
Diffraction Practical Examination. has been provided as guidance on
Flawed samples used for practical development of practical examinations for any
examinations should be method or level.
representative of the components
and/or configurations that the Note: While it is normal to score the practical
candidates would be testing under on a percentile basis, practical examinations
this endorsement and approved by should contain checkpoints that failure to
the NDT Level III. successfully complete will result in failure of
8.5.2.2 For Film Interpretation Limited the examination.
Certification, the practical
examination should consist of 8.5.6 A valid ACCP Level II certificate may be
review and grading of at least 20 accepted as fulfilling the practical examination
images. criteria for each applicable method if the NDT

18
 CHAPTER 1 Recommended Practice No. SNT-TC-1A (2016)

Level III has determined that the ASNT of questions that should be given is
examinations meet the requirements of the as follows:
employer's written practice. 8.7.1.1.1 Fifteen (15) questions
8.6 Sample questions for general examinations are relating to understanding
presented in the separate question booklets that can the SNT-TC-1A
be obtained from ASNT International Service Center. document.
These questions are intended as examples only and 8.7.1.1.2 Twenty (20) questions
should not be used verbatim for qualification relating to applicable
examinations. The following ASNT Questions & materials, fabrication, and
Answers Books are available from ASNT International product technology.
Service Center: 8.7.1.1.3 Twenty (20) questions that
are similar to published
Level II questions for other
Test Method Question
Booklet appropriate NOT methods.
8.7.1.2 PdM Basic Examination (need not be
Acoustic Emission Testing G
retaken to add another test method
Electromagnetic Testing E
as long as the candidate holds a
1. Alternating Current Field Measurement EA
current Level III certificate or
2. Eddy Current EE
3. Remote Field Testing ER certification). The minimum number
Ground Penetrating Radar GP* of questions that should be given is
Guided Wave Testing GW* as follows:
Laser Testing 8.7.1.2.1 Fifteen (15) questions
1. Profilometry LP* relating to understanding
2. Holography/Shearography LH* the SNT-TC-1A
Leak Testing document.
1. Bubble Test HB 8.7.1.2.2
Twenty (20) questions
2. Pressure Change Measurement HP
relating to applicable
3. Halogen Diode Leak Test HH
machinery technology.
4. Mass Spectrometer Test HM
8.7.1.2.3 Thirty (30) questions that
Liquid Penetrant Testing D
Magnetic Flux Leakage Testing MF* are similar to published
Magnetic Particle Testing B NOT Level II questions for
Microwave Technology MW* other appropriate PdM
Neutron Radiography Testing F methods.
Radiographic Testing 8.7.2 Method Examination (for each method).
1. Radiographic Testing A 8.7.2.1 Thirty (30) questions relating to
2. Computed Radiography Testing AA* fundamentals and principles that are
3. Computed Tomography Testing AB* similar to published ASNT NOT Level
4. Digital Radiography Testing AC*
III questions for each method, and
Thermal/Infrared Testing J*
8.7.2.2 Fifteen (15) questions relating to
Ultrasonic Testing C
application and establishment of
Vibration Analysis K*
Visual Testing I
techniques and procedures that are
*In course of preparation. similar to the published ASNT NOT
Level III questions for each method,
and
8.7.2.3 Twenty (20) questions relating to
capability for interpreting codes,
8.7 NOT/PdM Level III Examinations standards, and specifications
8.7.1 Basic Examinations relating to the method.
8.7.1.1 NOT Basic Examination (need not be 8.7.3 Specific Examination (for each method).
retaken to add another test method 8.7.3.1 Twenty (20) questions relating to
as long as the candidate holds a specifications, equipment,
current Level III certificate or techniques, and procedures
certification). The minimum number applicable to the employer's
product(s) and methods employed

19
Basic I SECTION I

Table 8.3.4: Minimum Number of Examination Questions

General Specific
Method
Levell Level II Levell Level II
Acoustic Emission Testing 40 40 20 20
Electromagnetic Testing
Alternating Current Field Measurement 40 40 20 20
Eddy Current 40 40 20 20
Remote Field 30 30 20 20
Ground Penetrating Radar 30 40 20 20
Guided Wave 40 40 20 20
Laser Methods
Profilometry 30 30 20 20
Holography/Shearography 30 30 20 20
Leak Testing
Bubble Test 20 20 15 15
Absolute Pressure Leak Test (Pressure Change) 20 20 15 15
Halogen Diode Leak Test 20 20 15 15
Mass Spectrometer Leak Test 20 20 20 40
Magnetic Flux Leakage 20 20 20 15
Magnetic Particle Testing 40 40 20 20
Microwave Technology 40 40 20 20
Neutron Radiography Testing 40 40 20 20
Penetrant Testing 40 40 20 20
Radiographic Testing
Radiography Testing 40 40 20 20

Radiographic Film Interpretation -

Non-Radiographer
40 20

Radiographic Film Interpretation-

Radiographer (Certified RT NDT Levell)
20 15

Computed Radiography Testing 40 40 20 20

Computed Tomography Testing 40 40 20 20
Digital Radiography Testing 40 40 20 20
Thermal/Infrared Testing 40 20
Building Diagnostic Testing 50 40
Electrical and Mechanical Testing 50 40
Materials Testing 50 40
Ultrasonic Testing 40 40 20 20
Time of Flight Diffraction 30
Phased Array 30
Digital Thickness Measurement
20 10
(numeric output only)

A-scan Thickness Measurement 30 15

Vibration Analysis 40 40 20 60
Visual Testing 40 40 20 20

20
 CHAPTER 1 Recommended Practice No. SNT-TC-1A (2016)

and to the administration of the [Paragraph 8.5.3(a)] be devised or selected as appropriate to

employer's written practice.
the degree required by the employer's written practice. As
with all questions and answers provided by ASNT, those
8.7.3.2 The employer may delete the
mentioned are suggested as guidelines and supplied as an
specific cxarnination if the candidate
aid to employers in preparing examinations. It is intended
has a valid ASNT NDT Level III or that the provisions of Paragraph 8.4 be superseded when
ACCP Professional Level III certificate questions of a character unique to Level III qualifications as
in the method and if documented delineated in Paragraph 4.3(c) are devised or selected by the
evidence of experience exists, employer for use in the Level III general examination. The
including the preparation of NDT additional 30 questions from Level II questions for other
procedures to codes, standards, or applicable NDT methods as recommended in Paragraph
specifications and the evaluation of 8.5.3(a) are intended to be selected from methods other
test results. than that for which the candidate is being examined. It is
8.7.4 A valid endorsement on an ASNT NDT Level III
intended that the employer use such questions to determine
that the candidate has sufficient knowledge of other NDT
certificate fulfills the examination criteria
methods that might be applicable to the employer's partic-
described in 8.7.1 and 8.7.2 for each applicable
ular circumstances. For example, it could be appropriate
NDT method. that a candidate being examined for Level III qualification
8.7.5 A valid endorsement of an ACCP Professional in a particular method be required to demonstrate basic
Level III certificate fulfills the examination knowledge in one or more other methods in order to "des-
criteria described in 8.7.1 and 8.7.2 for each ignate the particular test method and technique to be used."
applicable NDT method. See Paragraph 4.3(c).
8.8 Reexamination
Those failing to attain the required grades should Inquiry 79-13
wait at least thirty (30) days or receive suitable
additional training as determined by the NDT Level III Inquiry:
before reexamination. If an, employee performs NDT to multiple codes, speci-
fications, and acceptance standards, is it necessary to
Inquiries for Section 8 include questions relating to each code, specification, or
acceptance standard in this Specific examination?
Inquiry 78-1
Paragraph 9.6.1(c) requires records of educational back-
ground to be included in personnel records. Is information
supplied by the employee (e.g., such as a resume or employ-
Inquiry:
ment application) satisfactory evidence of educational
If a Level II examination is administered to a Level I accomplishments or is conclusive evidence (e.g., such as a
individual, is there a need, when that individual is eligible copy of a diploma or transcript) required for verification?
for LevelII certification, to re-administer the same Level II
examination provided that all other criteria, for example, Response:
education, training, and experience, have been satisfied? It is the intent of Paragraph 8.2(c2) that the Specific
Response: examination cover all codes, specifications, and acceptance
It is not intended that the individual should be reexam- standards applicable to the employee's activities.
ined, provided that the original Level II examination was
passed and all applicable requirements of the employer's Inquiry 80-2
written practice have been met per Paragraph 8.1 of
SNT-TC-IA.
Inquiry:
Inquiry 79-2 In reference to the practical examination, there are sev-
eral approaches that may be taken. For example, grades on
Inquiry: checkpoints could be given as 1 (correct) or 0 (incorrect) or
Since NDT Level III general examination questions in could be given in a graduated fashion, say from 0 to 5,
some methods are available from ASNT (Questions and depending on the correctness and efficiency of the applica-
Answers for Qualifying NDT Level III Personnel, October tion. Which approach is correct? Could a questionnaire for
1977),is it intended that the Level III questions referred to which written answers would be prepared as an alternative
in paragraphs 8.4 and 8.5.3(a) be selected from those pub- method of grading be used?
lished by ASNT?
Response:
It is intended that the recommended 30 questions
devised by the examiner for the appropriate method

21
Basic I SECTION I

Response: Response:
Please refer to Paragraphs S.5.1(c)and 9.6.1(£).Either of No. See Inquiry OS-2.
the proposed grading methods is permissible depending on
the needs of the employer. Other approaches may also be Inquiry 10-4
taken. The approach which meets the needs of the employer
should be described in the written practice and followed for Inquiry:
the practical examination. The last technique proposing a Mayan employer appoint directly an "EN 473 Level III"
questionnaire for which written answers would be prepared as employer's NDT Level III after defined in employer's
would fall more appropriately under the Specific examina- written practice to sign the certificates according to
tion category.
SNT-TC-IA in order to verify qualification of candidate
Inquiry 05-1
for certification?
Response:
Inquiry: The employer may use the examination results that he
Paragraph S.1.3states, "Examinations administered for or she has determined meet the requirement of the written
qualification should result in a passing grade of at least practice. As stated in SNT-TC-IA, Paragraph S.1.5,the
SOpercent," but if the employer's written practice states that employer is responsible for ensuring the examination serv-
each examination must achieve 70 percent or more, and ices meet the requirements of the employer's written prac-
does not require an SOpercent composite, is this acceptable? tice. Certification can only be issued when it has been deter-
mined that all the requirements of the employer's written
Response: practice have been met.
No. See Inquiry 99-3.
General Comments on Section 8
Note to the Inquirer: In the 2011 edition of SNT-TC-IA, provisions were
The SNT-TC-IA Interpretation Panel reviewed this included to designate qualified individuals to administer
question and agreed with the original response. and grade examinations. Such designations must be
documented.
Inquiry 08-2 Also in the 2011 edition, employers were provided the
option of using an ASNT NDT Level II certificate to satisfy
the General Examination requirement. This is an additional
Inquiry:
option to the ACCP Level II certificate used to satisfy this
Per the 2001 edition of SNT-TC-IA, a Level II examiner same requirement that was added in the 1996 edition of
is certified in PT, MT, and VT and has been approved as SNT-TC-IA in a 1995 addenda.
capable of distinguishing and differentiating contrast These changes have been retained in the 2016 edition.
among colors according to Ishihara standard plates, as
determined by the written practice. Does this person also Review Questions for Section 8
require approval by a shades of gray acuity examination to
Based on the foregoing discussion, answer the questions
be qualified in RT to meet the requirements of Paragraph
on pp. 32-34.
S.2.2?

Response:
Yes. See Inquiry 01-11. Paragraph S.2.2 allows the Section 9: Certification
employer to determine the method of testing for color dif- Section 9 (p. 10) of SNT-TC-IA (2016) is reprinted
ferentiation or gray shade differentiation. Whether to test below in full:
for color differentiation or gray shade differentiation is
determined by which is appropriate for the method the 9.0 Certification
individual is being certified in.
9.1 Certification of NDT personnel to all levels of
Inquiry 08-3 qualification is the responsibility of the employer.
9.2 Certification of NDT personnel should be based on
Inquiry: demonstration of satisfactory qualification in
Per the 2001 edition of SNT-TC-IA, an MT examiner accordance with Sections 6, 7, and 8, as described in
has been approved in the capability of distinguishing and the employer's written practice.
differentiating contrast among colors according to Ishihara 9.3 At the option of the employer, an outside agency may
standard plates. Does this person need to be tested in be engaged to provide NDT Level III services. In such
shades of gray acuity, if the MT procedure uses gray mag- instances, the responsibility of certification of the
netic particles, to meet the requirements of Paragraph S.2.2?
employees shall be retained by the employer.

22
 CHAPTER 1 Recommended Practice No. SNT-TC-lA (2016)

9.4 Personnel certification records should be maintained Response:

on file by the employer for the duration specified in 1. It is intended that Level III services may be obtained
the employer's written practice and should include from an outside agency for the purpose of training and
the following: examining NDT personnel. It is beyond the scope of
9.4.1 Name of certified individual. SNT-TC-lA to recommend whether or not outside
9.4.2 Level of certification and NDT method and/or inspection services should be obtained. It is definitely
technique, as applicable. not intended that the employer be restricted from utiliz-
9.4.3 Educational background and experience of ing any outside NDT services.
certified individuals. 2. The intent of Paragraph 9.5 is to emphasize the respon-
9.4.4 Statement indicating satisfactory completion sibility of the employer to assure by audit that any and
of training in accordance with the employer's all parts of purchased services attendant to qualification
written practice. and certification of NDT personnel are within the same
9.4.5 Resultsof the vision examinations prescribed guidelines that the employer would follow in accordance
in 8.2 for the current certification period. with his or her written practice.
9.4.6 Current examination copy{ies) or evidence of 3. The intent underlying Paragraph 9.1 is fundamental.
successful completion of examinations. When outside Level III services are used for the purpose
9.4.7 Other suitable evidence of satisfactory of qualifying and certifying personnel, it is intended that
qualifications when such qualifications are the employer utilizing such services be responsible for
used in lieu of the specific examination assuring that those services are properly performed and
prescribed in 8.7.3.2or as prescribed in the audited. Whether or not the employer uses outside Level
employer's written practice. III services for training and examining his or her NDT
9.4.8 Composite grade(s) or suitable evidence of personnel, the total responsibility for certification of all
grades. levels rests with the employer of the individuals.
9.4.9 Signature of the NDT Level III that verified
qualifications of candidate for certification. SNT-TC-lA only provides guidelines for qualification
9.4.10 Dates of certification and/or recertification. and certification of NDT personnel. Outside services
9.4.11 Certification expiration date. referred to in Paragraph 9 are those intended to be used by
9.4.12 Signature of employer's certifying authority.
an employer only for the purposes of training, examining,
or otherwise qualifying individuals directly employed by the
employer.
Inquiries for Section 9 When the performance of NDT is subcontracted to an
outside organization and the outside organization is the
Inquiry 77-3 direct employer of the individual performing NDT, the out-
side organization is the "employer" in terms of SNT-TC-lA.
Inquiry: Whether the outside organization is properly qualifying and
With respect to Paragraphs 9.4 and 9.5 of SNT-TC-lA, certifying its NDT personnel can only be determined by the
purchaser of such outside services and how such determina-
1. Is it the intent to restrict an employer to engage only tion is made is a contractual matter between the purchaser
Level III services from an outside agency or may Level I and the outside organization.
and Level II services also be utilized?
2. Is it intended in Paragraph 9.5 that an employer may Inquiry 77-10
subcontract training, examination, and certification for
all levels, provided the employer's audit results are found Inquiry:
to be satisfactory? What is the intent regarding employers' attempts to ver-
3. Paragraph 9.1 states that the certification of all levels is ify an individual's experience and performance with past
the responsibility of the employer. Paragraph 9.5 recog- employers in order to maintain the documentation recom-
nizes the use of outside certification services. Mayan mended in Paragraph 9.6.1?
employer subcontract nondestructive testing to an out-
side organization utilizing that organization's certifica- Response:
tions for LevelsI, II, and III, provided the results of the The specific documentation to be furnished by new
employer's audit of that organization are satisfactory? employees and past employers and the means for obtaining
Must the employer certify NDT personnel or may he documentation is referenced in Paragraphs 9.6 and 10.2of
accept the outside organization's certification? SNT-TC-lA. Details should be included in the employer's
written practice.

23
Basic I SECTION I

2. In accordance with SNT-TC-IA (1988 edition), an

General Comments: employer certifies his or her corporate Level III by
As published above and in Materials Evaluation, examination through an outside service. However, the
October 1977, in response to Inquiry 77-4, "If documenta- outside service's Level III was certified by appointment
tion was not produced during ... prior experience, an affi- to SNT-TC-IA (1984 edition). Is the employer's Level III
davit or other suitable testimony regarding such experience
certification valid to the 1988 SNT-TC-IA?
may be evaluated by the employer ..." While Inquiry 77-4
was related to a somewhat different matter, the intent
Response:
behind the response applies equally to this inquiry (77-10).
1. Yes. As stated in the response to Inquiry 89-4, "It is
Inquiry 77-12 intended by the 1988 edition of SNT-TC-IA that all
Level Ills initially certified after issuance of the 1988 edi-
Inquiry: tion of SNT-TC-IA be qualified by examination." See
1. Is it intended that an employer may use more than one Inquiry 89-4 and Inquiry 92-2.
outside agency for providing Level III services? 2. Yes, provided the employer has assured that the exami-
2. Is it intended that an employer may use Level III indi- nation services are in accordance with the employer's
viduals in his or her direct employment and also use an written practice per Paragraph 9.5 of SNT-TC-IA (1988
outside agency for Level III services? edition).
3. Is it intended that certification examinations may be
administered without direct supervision and monitoring? Inquiry 90-4*

Response: Inquiry:
1. There is no intent to restrict the number of outside Is it acceptable for a candidate for Level III certification
agencies from which an employer could use Level III under SNT-TC-IA (1988 edition) to be qualified on the
services. basis of demonstrated ability, achievement, experience, and
2. Yes, both the above and this situation may be used education in lieu of qualification by examination as stated
under circumstances as described in the employer's writ- in Paragraph 9.6(g)?
ten practice. Response:
3. It is not intended that unsupervised examinations be No. Paragraph 8.8 specifically requires that a Level III
administered. candidate be qualified by examination. Paragraph 9.6(g)
addresses the content of the qualification records file to be
Inquiry 89-4 maintained by the employer of certified personnel.

"This Response was reconsidered. See Inquiry 92-2

Inquiry:
[in Interpreting SNT- TC-IAJ. Also see Inquiry 89-4 and
In the 1968, 1975, 1980,and 1984editions of SNT-TC-IA,
Inquiry 90-2.
an employer may waive examinations for the LevelIII and
thereby "certify" the individual by appointment. Inquiry 96-3
There is no such provision in the 1988edition. However,
it is implied by the statement in Paragraph 6.3.2:"When the
Inquiry:
individual (LevelIII) is qualified by examination ..."
When applying SNT-TC-IA 1992 edition in strict accor-
May the employer waive examination for the Level III
dance with the document, is it ASNT's interpretation that a
and be in compliance with the intent of SNT-TC-IA (1988
Level III must be examined?
edition)?

Response: Response:
It is intended by the 1988edition of SNT-TC-IA that all No. Certification of all levels of NDT personnel is the
Level Ills initially certified after issuance of the 1988 edition responsibility of the employer. It is the intent of ASNT to
of SNT- TC-IA be qualified by examination. certify Level Ills by examination. However, the employer
Also see Inquiry 90-2 and Inquiry 92-2. can specify the requirements for a certification route with-
out examination in the employer's written practice. Please
see Inquiry 80-9, Inquiry 89-4, Inquiry 90-2, Inquiry 90-4,
Inquiry 90-2
and Inquiry 92-2.
Inquiry: NOTE: This is a reconsideration of Inquiry 90-4.
1. Is it the intent of ASNT that all LevelIII personnel certi-
fied to the 1988 edition be examined?

24
 CHAPTER 1 Recommended Practice No. SNT-TC-IA (2016)

General Comments on Section 9 Inquiries for Section 10

Two of these inquiries relate to situations where
employers, for various reasons, must resort to sources out- Inquiry 02-02
side the employer's organization to provide services atten-
dant to training, examination, and other activities that Inquiry:
require qualified NDT personnel to conduct. Some compa- Is it the intent of SNT- TC-IA (2001) Paragraph 10.2to
nies cannot afford, or may not have time to develop, train- recommend periodic testing with test props with at least
ing sources and examinations to qualify their NDT person- one flawed specimen or are other means of technical per-
nel. Others simply prefer to contract such services as formance evaluation acceptable, for example, monitoring an
needed. For whatever reasons outside services may be need- inspector performing an official production inspection?
ed or desired, the responses above merely reinforce the
basic principles underlying SNT-TC-IA: "Certification of all Response:
levels of NDT personnel is the complete responsibility of The means for periodic technical performance evalua-
the employer" and "the employer shall establish written tion should be described in the employer's written practice.
practices covering all phases of certification including train- Note that the evaluation of technical performance should
ing as specified in Section 5." consist of not only monitoring the proper application of
Inquiries 89-4, 90-2, 90-4, and 96-3 address the issue of technique, but also the ability to recognize relevant indica-
whether a Level III must take an examination in order to tions and evaluate those indications against the employer's
become certified. This is of special note in that versions acceptance criteria.
prior to the 1988 edition clearly permitted examination
waivers for the NDT Level III, leading to the concept of cer-
tification by "appointment." This latter practice has been General Comments on Section 10
strongly criticized throughout the industry since it is per- This section was not in editions of SNT- TC-IA before
ceived as a loophole for employers to certify underqualified 2001; however, paragraph 10.1was addressed in paragraph
individuals to assume the key role of administering the 9.5(3) of the 1996edition. Paragraph 10.2was added to pro-
NDT activities within an organization. In order to restrict vide a means whereby an employer could ensure that certi-
this practice, the 1988 edition of SNT-TC-IA called for fied personnel are continuously and satisfactorily perform-
LevelIlls to be qualified by examination. But being a rec- ing their responsibilities. It is assumed that, should an
ommended practice that encourages employers to adapt individual's performance evaluation indicate substandard
their respective requirements based on each set of circum- performance, additional training would be provided and
stances, the opportunity still remains open to employers to reexamination would be conducted.
"appoint" their Level Ills, as long as their written practice
reflects this strategy as one of their permitted options. NOTE: There are no review questions for Section 10.

Review Questions for Section 9

Based on the foregoing discussion, answer the questions Section 11: Interrupted Service
on p. 34. Section 11 (p. 11) of SNT-TC-IA (2016) is reprinted
below in full:
Section 10: Technical Performance
Evaluation 11.0 Interrupted Service
Section 10 (p. 11) of SNT-TC-IA (2016) is reprinted 11.1 The employer's written practice should include rules
below in full: covering the types and duration of interrupted
service that requires reexamination and
10.0 Technical Performance Evaluation recertification.
10.1 NDT personnel may be reexamined any time at the 11.2 The written practice should specify the requirements
discretion of the employer and have their certificates for reexamination and/or recertification for the
extended or revoked. interrupted service.
10.2 Periodically, as defined in the employer's written
practice, NDT Levell and II personnel should be General Comments on Section 11
reevaluated by the NDT Level III administering a This section was not in editions of SNT-TC-IA before
practical examination. The practical examination 2001;however, the subject of interrupted serviceswas includ-
should follow the format and guidelines described in ed in Paragraph 9.5 (Recertification)of the 1996edition.
section 8.5.
NOTE: There are no review questions for Section 11.

25
Basic I SECTION I

4. There are no specific provisions in the [1984 edition of]

Section 12: Recertification SNT-TC-IA regarding interruption of NDT duties while
Section 12 (p. 11) of SNT-TC-IA (2010) is reprinted continuing to work for the same employer. However, the
below in full: employer must be satisfied with the proficiency of any
individual at any level to handle work tasks. The employ-
12.0 Recertification er has direct knowledge of the employee's prior perform-
12.1 Alllevels of NDTpersonnel shall be recertified ance and can best judge the need for reexamination as a
periodically in accordance with one of the following function of duration of interrupted NDT service.
criteria:
12.1.1 Evidence of continuing satisfactory technical Inquiry 04-2
performance.
12.1.2 Reexamination in those portions of the Inquiry:
examinations in Section 8 deemed necessary 1. Is it the intent of paragraph 12.1.1 that individuals who
by the employer's NDTLevel III. are re-certified based on "continuing satisfactory techni-
12.2 The recommended maximum recertification intervals cal performance" must pass a new practical examination?
are 5 years for all certification levels. Certifications 2. Maya Level I or II individual be recertified, based on
expire on the last day of the month of expiration. "continuing satisfactory technical performance" without
12.3 When new techniques are added to the employer's taking a new practical examination?
written practice, NDTLevel III personnel should
receive applicable training, take applicable Response:
examinations and obtain the necessary experience, 1. No. See Inquiry 91-4, Question 2 [in Interpreting
such that the NDTLevel III meets the requirements of SNT-TC-IA].
the new techniques in Table 6.3.1 A, prior to their 2. Yes. SNT-TC-IA provides the user sufficient latitude
next recertification date, in the applicable method. under Paragraph 9.7.1 to identify specifically how they
would evaluate "evidence of continuing satisfactory per-
Inquiries for Section 12 formance." The requirements should be documented in
the employer's written practice.
Inquiry 03-01

Inquiry: General Comments on Section 12

1. Regarding SNT-TC-IA (1984) Paragraph 9.7.1, what is This section was not in editions of SNT-TC-IA before
considered proper "evidence of continuing satisfactory 2001; however, this information was in Paragraph 9.5
performance"? (Recertification) of the 1996 edition. The only change
2. Does this mean the certified individual shall maintain beginning with the 2006 edition is the change in the recom-
documentation of satisfactory performance? mended maximum certification interval to five years.
3. How often should performance be documented?
4. CP-189 (1991) indicates suspension should occur if Review Question for Section 12
duties are not performed during any consecutive Based on the foregoing discussion, answer the question
12-month period (Sec. 7.2). Is this implied in on p. 34.
SNT-TC-IA?

Response: Section 13: Termination

1. Please reference Inquiry 91-4 Question 2 [in Interpreting Section 13 (p. 11) of SNT-TC-IA (2016) is reprinted
SNT-TC-IA]. below in full:
2. No.
3. SNT-TC-IA (1984) provides the user sufficient latitude 13.0 Termination
under Paragraph 9.7.1 to identify specifically how they 13.1 The employer's certification shall be deemed revoked
would evaluate "evidence of continuing satisfactory per- when employment is terminated.
formance." The requirements should be documented in 13.2 An NDTLevell, Level II, or Level III whose certification
the employer's written practice. has been terminated may be certified to the former
NDTlevel by a new employer based on examination,
as described in Section 8, provided all of the following
conditions are met to the new employer's satisfaction:
13.2.1 The employee has proof of prior certification.

26
 CHAPTER 1 Recommended Practice No. SNT-TC-lA (2016)

13.2.2 The employeewas workingin the capacityto 14.1.1 The employerhas maintainedthe personnel
whichcertifiedwithinsix (6) months of certificationrecords required in Section 9.4.
termination. 14.1.2 The employee's certificationdid not expire
13.2.3 The employee is being recertifiedwithinsix (6) during termination.
months of termination. 14.1.3 The employee is being reinstated within six (6)
13.2.4 Priorto being examined for certification, months of termination.
employeesnot meeting the above
requirementsshould receiveadditional Inquiries for Section 14
trainingas deemed appropriateby the LevelII!.
Inquiry 78-10
Inquiries for Section 13 NOTE: This inquiry relates to paragraph 14.0beginning
with the 2001 edition.
Inquiry 78-4
NOTE: This inquiry relates to Paragraph 13.2beginning Inquiry:
with the 2001 edition. 1. When an employee returns to work for a former
employer where he or she was certified, may this
Inquiry: employee's certification(s) be reinstated without exami-
1. Regarding paragraph 10.2of SNT-TC-IA, does "based nation if the provisions of Paragraphs 10.2(b) and
on examination" refer to examinations administered 10.2(c) are met?
during prior employment or does it refer to new exami- 2. If an employee has been continuously working for
nations to be administered by the new employer? another employer certified in the same capacities, may
2. An individual can provide evidence of prior certification his or her certification(s) be reinstated for the remainder
per paragraph 10.2(a),but does not meet either of the original three-year period of certification in accor-
Paragraphs 10.2(b) or 10.2(c), which recommend that dance with Paragraph 9.7?
the individual was working in the capacity to which he
or she had been certified and is being recertified within Response:
six months of his or her termination. What should be 1. The provisions of Paragraph 10.2 apply only to a new
the basis of qualification for such an individual? employer. For this part of the inquiry, the provisions of
Paragraph 9.7.3 would prevail.
Response: 2. For this part of the inquiry, the receiving employer
1. It is intended that the examination referred to in would be considered a new employer and the provisions
Paragraph 10.2be administered by the new employer. of Paragraph 10.2would apply. If, however, the employ-
2. It is intended that an individual who has neither worked ee in question was previously employed by the receiving
in the capacity to which previously certified in the past employer, Paragraph 9.7.3 would prevail.
six months nor is being recertified within six months
should have additional training and experience prior to General Comments on Section 14
recertification. The employer's written practice should This section was not in editions of SNT-TC-IA before
detail such provisions. 2001. This section was added to establish the guidelines for
reinstatement of an individual's certification that has been
Review Questions for Section 13 terminated. This specificallyrelates to a former employee,
Based on the foregoing discussion, answer the questions not a new employee (see 13.2).This would cover those situ-
on p. 35. ations where a certified employee had his or her certifica-
tion terminated or suspended due to a temporary layoff, or
a temporary non-NDT job assignment.
Section 14: Reinstatement
Section 14 (p. 11) of SNT-TC-IA (2016) is reprinted NOTE: There are no review questions for Section 14.
below in full:

14.0 Reinstatement
14.1 AnNDTLevell,LevelII, or LevelIII whose certification
has been terminated may be reinstated to the former
NDTlevel,without a new examination,providedallof
the followingconditionsare met:

27
Basic I SECTIONI

Review Questions

Sections 1, 2, and 3 4. With regard to the training of NDT personnel, the

employer:
1. Which of the following statements is true concerning
the usage of SNT-TC-IA? a. must conduct all of the training on the premises.
b. may engage an outside service who must conduct
a. SNT-TC-IA is intended for use by a limited set of the training on the employer's premises.
industrial segments. c. should not conduct the training, being too close
b. SNT-TC-IA was generated to satisfy the to the company's problems.
specification requirements of ASME. d. may engage an outside service but is,
c. SNT-TC-IA was last revised in 1988. nevertheless, responsible for the certification of
d. SNT-TC-IA is not intended to be used as a strict the company's NDT personnel.
specification.
5. SNT-TC-IA is intended as a guideline for employers:
2. The SNT-TC-IA Interpretation Panel will respond to
inquiries about SNT-TC-IA. The inquiry must be: a. to establish their own written practice that must
be used as a strict specification.
a. written and stated in general terms. b. to establish their own written practice for the
b. written including specific details of the case, e.g., qualification and certification of their NDT
names, places, dates, and other pertinent facts. personnel.
c. considered by the ASNT Board of Directors if it c. to define training course requirements for
involves decisions that would place ASNT in a contractors performing outside training services.
position between buyer and seller. d. who are corporate members of ASNT.
d. ruled upon by the Technical and Education
Council of ASNT before the SNT-TC-IA 6. The following is a statement in SNT-TC-IA: "It is
Interpretation Panel prepares a response. recognized that these guidelines may not be
appropriate for certain employers, circumstances,
3. Which of the following statements is true? and/or applications." What should be done if the
guidelines are not appropriate?
a. ASNT has been providing certification
examinations for Level III personnel since the late a. The employer must change its operations to
1960s. conform to the guidelines.
b. SNT-TC-IA was first published in the late 1960s. b. The employer must seek relief from ASNT for
c. SNT-TC-IA requires that LevelIII personnel be inappropriate applications.
qualified and certified by ASNT. c. The employer should review the detailed
d. SNT-TC-IA was developed to satisfy recommendations and modify them, as necessary,
requirements for NDT personnel qualification to meet its particular needs.
and certification set forth in parts of the ASME d. The employer shall submit an inquiry in writing
Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code. directed to the SNT-TC-IA Interpretation Panel.

28
 CHAPTER 1 Recommended Practice No. SNT-TC-lA (2016)

7. Which of the following statements is not true? 12. Certification is:

a. Certification is written testimony of qualification. a. the skill, training, and experience required for
b. Qualification is the skill, training, and experience personnel to properly perform the duties of a
required for personnel to properly perform the specific job.
duties of a specific job. b. written testimony of qualification.
c. The employer is the corporate or private entity c. intended to be conferred by an organization
that employs personnel for wages or salary. independent from the employer.
d. A certifying agency is any organization used by d. intended to be conferred by an organization
an employer in training NDT personnel. hired by the employer.

8. Who should be responsible to assess whether or not 13. Use of SNT-TC-IA is mandatory when:
an individual should be qualified and certified who
does not perform NDT, but monitors and evaluates a. the material being tested is for a U.S. Air Force
NDT? contract.
b. the material being tested is for a U.S. Navy
a. ASNT. contract.
b. The individual's employer. c. it has been specified by the customer.
c. A government regulatory agency. d. the material being tested is for a U.S. Army
d. The customer's auditor. contract that requires certification of NDT
personnel.
9. To which of the following NDT methods is
SNT-TC-IA currently not applicable?
Section 4
a. Visual testing.
b. Thermal/infrared testing. 14. The basic levels of qualification recommended by
c. Acoustic emission testing. SNT-TC-IA are:
d. Holographic testing.
a. Trainee, Level I, Level II, and Level III.
10. ASNT intended that the recommendations of b. Trainee, Apprentice, Level I, Level II, and Level
SNT-TC-IA be applied: III.
c. Level I, Level II, and Level III.
a. with flexibility and reason. d. Level I, Level II, Level III, and Instructor.
b. precisely as written.
c. as minimum requirements. 15. Should personnel that operate ultrasonic digital
d. as maximum requirements. thickness measurement equipment be qualified and
certified?
11. Of the following, which is most appropriate to
determine the needs to qualify and certify personnel a. Yes, because SNT-TC-IA requires that all
whose only NDT function is to operate digital personnel performing NDT be qualified and
thickness equipment? certified.
b. No, because SNT-TC-IA does not cover that
a. ASNT. specific operation.
b. ASME. c. Only if required by industry codes, standards,
c. The employer. and specifications.
d. The customer. d. Whether any NDT personnel should be qualified
and certified depends solely upon the needs of
the employer and the requirements of the
employer's customers or clientele.

29
Basic I SEGION I

16. According to the recommendations of SNT-TC-IA, 19. Maya Level I independently perform, evaluate, and
which of the following is true concerning a Trainee's sign for results of nondestructive tests with
activities? supervision and guidance from a Level II or III?

a. The Trainee may not conduct nondestructive a. Yes, the intent in SNT-TC-IA is that the Level I
tests independently and may not report test may perform the above functions provided that
results. they are in accordance with written instruction of
b. The Trainee may not conduct nondestructive a Level II or III.
tests independently, but may interpret test results b. No, the Level I may perform the above functions
if acting under written instructions. in accordance with written procedures, but must
c. The Trainee should work along with a certified be under constant supervision and guidance of a
individual and may be considered a Level I, Level II or Level III.
provided that the certified individual co-signs any c. No, the Level I may not sign for test results.
test reports. d. No, the Level I is not allowed to take any
d. Once the Trainee has worked along with a independent action.
certified individual, the Trainee may then
independently perform any activities as directed 20. Which of the following statements is true concerning
by the certified individual. the definitions of Trainee, Level I, II and III in
SNT-TC-IA?
17. According to SNT- TC-IA, which of the following is
not true for a Level III? a. The qualifications for Level III equal and exceed
those of Level II.
a. Should be capable of assisting in establishment of b. SNT-TC-IA was intended for use by employers to
acceptance criteria. determine the proficiency of individuals at each
b. Must train and examine the LevelI and II level.
personnel in his or her organization. c. Except for a provision for a Trainee, LevelsI, II,
c. Should be familiar with other commonly used and III may not be further subdivided. Level IIIs
NDT methods. may not perform Level II functions unless they
d. Should be capable of establishing techniques and pass Level II examinations.
selecting of test methods. d. A Trainee may perform all of the functions of a
Level I if following written instructions.
18. According to written instructions, an NDT Level I
may be qualified to perform: 21. . Which of the following is not within the scope of
activities of a LevelII individual, as recommended in
a. specific calibrations. SNT-TC-IA?
b. specific nondestructive tests.
c. specific evaluations. a. Calibrate equipment.
d. all of the above, and record test results. b. Prepare written reports.
c. Establish techniques.
d. Provide training.

22. As recommended in SNT-TC-IA, a LevelII:

a. may conduct on-the-job training and guidance of

Level I personnel, with the LevelI training and
guiding Trainees.
b. is responsible for the training and examination of
Level I personnel for certification.
c. must be capable of and responsible for
establishing techniques.
d. may conduct on-the-job training and guidance of
LevelI personnel.

30
 CHAPTER 1 Recommended Practice No. SNT-TC-lA (2016)

23. According to SNT-TC-IA, which of the following is Section 6

true for a LevelIII?
26. What factors are to be considered to ensure that a
a. A Level III must have successfully completed at candidate for certification in NDT understands the
least two years of science or engineering study at principles and procedures involved?
a college or university.
b. It is desirable that a Level III be a registered a. Training, experience, and education.
professional engineer. b. Training, experience, and prior certifications
c. The LevelIII is responsible for establishing all held.
acceptance criteria. c. Education, experience, and percentage of time on
d. The LevelIII shall be capable of evaluating test the job doing NDT.
results in terms of codes, standards, and d. Training, experience, and professional
specifications. credentials.

27. As recommended in SNT- TC-IA, which of the

Section 5 following is true?

24. In accordance with SNT- TC-IA, who is responsible a. Overtime cannot be considered in meeting the
for establishing a written practice for the control and minimum experience.
administration of NDT personnel training, b. Overtime can only be considered if the candidate
examination, and certification? is being qualified in more than one method
simultaneously.
a. The NDT Level III. c. Overtime can be credited based on total hours.
b. The employer. d. SNT-TC-IA does not currently provide a
c. ASNT. recommendation regarding overtime.
d. An appropriate regulatory authority.
28. High school education is recommended as a
25. The responsibility of each level of certification for minimum requirement for:
determining the acceptability of materials or
components: a. Level III only.
b. Level II and Level III only.
a. need not be described in the employer's written c. none of the levels.
practice since those responsibilities are defined d. all three levels.
specifically in SNT- TC-IA.
b. should be described in the employer's written 29. In Leak Testing, recommended work time experience
practice only if they are different from and training:
SNT- TC-IA recommendations.
c. should be described in the employer's written a. differs for each of four major techniques.
practice under all circumstances. b. does not consider different techniques.
d. should be described in the employer's written c. is listed for LevelsII and III only.
practice if dictated by customer requirements. d. is significantly greater than for ultrasonic testing.

31
Basic I SECTION I

30. It is recommended that the education and experience Section 7

of a Level III candidate include:
35. It is recommended that a training program for
a. graduation from a 4-year university or college qualification and certification purposes should
with a degree in engineering or science plus include:
1 year's experience in NDT comparable to that
of a Level II. a. one-on-one practical instruction by the Level III.
b. graduation from a 4-year college or university b. training applicable to all industries where the
with a degree in NDT plus 3 months' experience method is used.
in NDT comparable to that of a Level II. c. examinations to verify that the training material
c. 2 years' experience in NDT comparable to that of has been comprehended.
a Level II if a high school graduate. d. a practical examination to verify that the training
d. 6 years' experience in NDT if the candidate did material has been comprehended.
not graduate from high school.
36. Recommended training course outlines:
3l. Records substantiating training and experience for
qualification are recommended to be kept on a(n): a are included in CP-IOSand must not be
modified.
a. daily or weekly basis. b. are included in the most recent editions of
b. hourly basis. SNT-TC-IA.
c. fractional yearly basis. c. are not available for visual and leak testing.
d. fractional hourly basis. d. are included in CP-IOSfor the methods listed.

32. For a person being qualified directly to Level II with 37. Recommended training reference material:
no time at Level I, the recommended experience
consists of: a. is available only through ASNT.
b. is available from a variety of sources.
a. the time recommended for Level II. c. can only include those references listed in
b. the time recommended for Level III. CP-lOS.
c. the sum of the times recommended for Level I d. must be made available to each Trainee.
and Level II.
d. not less than 6 months for any method. 38. The recommended training course outline includes:

33. In some cases, the training times recommended for a. technical principles of the method.
Level I are greater than for LevelII. Why? b. review of API 1104 requirements.
c. review of ASTM guidelines.
a. In preparing for qualification at Level I, the d. review of interpretation requirements in
candidate should always receive more training ASME B31.3.
than for Level II, regardless of the NDT method.
b. Some numbers in the table are erroneous.
c. Candidates for LevelII generally have more Section 8
formal education than those for Level I.
d. Some methods require more initial training at 39. In accordance with SNT-TC-IA, the NDT Level III
Level I because of differences in complexity and should be responsible for:
manipulative skills.
a. ensuring LevelII personnel examine Level I
34. The recommended number of training hours in a personnel.
particular method are: b. interpretation of all test results obtained by Level
II personnel.
a. listed as a function of the candidate's education. c. all questions to be used on examinations for Level
b. the same regardless of the candidate's education. I and LevelII.
c. listed as a function of the candidate's experience. d. writing all company standard operating
d. reduced if the candidate is being qualified in procedures.
more than one method Simultaneously.

32
 CHAPTER 1 Recommended Practice No. SNT-TC-IA (2016)

40. Which of the following may conduct and grade 46. The Practical Examination is recommended to
examinations [or LevelI and Level II personnel? include operational familiarity with test equipment
and analysis of test results for:
a. An NDT LevelII.
b. A qualified representative of the NDT Level III. a. LevelsI, II, and III.
e. ASNT personnel because they offer examinations b. LevelsI and II.
on a regular basis. e. LevelsII and III.
d. The company president. d. Trainees, Level I, and Level II.

41. How often should the near-vision acuity examination 47. Which of the following statements is true with regard
be administered? to the administration of written examinations?

a. Semiannually. a. The examinee should not be permitted access to

b. At five-year intervals. any reference material.
c. Annually. b. Reference data may be supplied for the Practical
d. Once only, upon initial certification. Examination only.
e. Level III personnel should be required to
42. As recommended in SNT-TC-IA, physical memorize everything except codes, specifications,
examination requirements are intended to be: and procedures.
d. Codes, specifications, and procedures may be
a. the same for all methods. provided to examinees for reference during
b. the same for all employers. examinations provided that they do not contain
e. related to each employer's specific needs. data that can be used to answer questions in the
d. as specified in applicable sections of the ASME General Examination.
BOller and Pressure Vessel Code.
48. For the written examinations, tables, graphs, and
43. The General Examination is intended to cover: charts may be used:

a. basic test principles of the method. a. only during Level I examinations.

b. only the material included in the training course b. only during Level II examinations.
outlines of SNT- TC-IA. c. during all examinations.
e. the equipment operational capabilities of the d. only for the Level II Practical Examination.
candidate.
d. the operating procedures that the candidate may 49. For Level I and Level II Practical Examinations, one
encounter in the job. or more test specimens are recommended, and the
examinee should perform tests and evaluations using
44. Questions and answers available from ASNT are the appropriate equipment and test specimens. The
intended for use in compiling: minimum number of different checkpoints
recommended is:
a. the General Examination only.
b. the Specific, Practical, and General examinations. a. 5.
c. the Basic and Method examinations. b. 10.
d. the General, Basic,and Method examinations. c. 15.
d. 20.
45. Which of the following parts of Level I and LevelII
examinations should be written?

a. The General and Specific,

b. The General and Practical.
e. The General, Specific,and Practical.
d. Only the General.

33
Basic I SECTION I

50. In certification of LevelIII personnel according to 54. What purpose is best served by maintaining
the recommendations of SNT-TC-IA, the employer: certification records and the written practice?

a. must give written examinations. a. For periodic approval by ASNT.

b. must give General and Specific examinations. b. To determine the effectiveness of outside services.
c. may delete the SpecificExamination. c. To provide documentation for review by
d. can waive written examinations if oral customer, clients, and regulatory agencies.
examinations are given in their place. d. To protect against product liability claims.

5l. For Level I and II examinations, the recommended 55. The employer is responsible for certification of:
minimum composite score is:
a. Level I and LevelII NDT personnel.
a. 60 percent. b. Level III personnel only.
b. 90 percent. c. outside services.
c. 70 percent. d. all levels of NDT personnel.
d. 80 percent.
56. The employer can consider an individual to be
52. For Level III Basic Examinations, it is recommended qualified to LevelIII, but only if he or she:
that Level II questions also be included. These
questions should be: a. takes a comprehensive written examination.
b. has in excess of 5 years' experience comparable to
a. Level II type questions based on other applicable a Level II.
NDT methods. c. meets the requirements of the employer's written
b. based on Level II tasks for the particular Method practice.
Examination. d. has taken the ASNT NDT Level III Basic and at
c. selected at random from questions previously least one of the Method examinations.
used on Level II examinations.
d. given only if the candidate is being examined in
more than one method. Section 12

57. Which of the following statements is true concerning

Section 9 recertification?

53. If an outside agency is engaged to provide Level III a. Recertification can be accomplished only by
services, the: reexamination at least once every three years.
b. Recertification can be based upon evidence of
a. written practice of the outside agency pertains, continuing satisfactory performance.
and it is not necessary for the employer that uses c. Once certified to a particular level, certification
the outside services to have a written practice. can only be terminated if the certified individual
b. responsibility of certification must be retained by terminates employment with the certifying
the employer utilizing outside services. employer.
c. employer utilizing outside services must d. Reexamination of a certified individual can be
nonetheless have a LevelIII in direct accomplished only after three years at a particular
employment. level.
d. outside agency may certify the personnel of the
employer utilizing outside services.

34
 CHAPTER 1 Recommended Practice No. SNT-TC-lA (2016)

Section 13 59. A certified Level III individual terminates his or her

employment with employer A and is immediately
58. Automatic termination of certification is employed by employer B. Employer B may certify the
recommended when the certified individual: individual as Level III based upon which of the
following?
a. terminates employment with the employer where
certified. a. The employer must examine the individual.
b. is temporarily assigned to a different job b. The employer must examine the individual if he
function. or she has not been working as a LevelIII during
c. takes a leave of absence greater than 30 days. the past six months.
d. achieves a higher level of certification. c. The employer may recertify the individual to
Level III, but only after 6 months of satisfactory
service.
d. The employer may certify the individual to Level
III in accordance with their written practice.

Answers
ld 2a 3b 4d Sb 6c 7d 8b 9d lOa llc l2b 13c
l4c lSd l6a l7b l8d 19a 20a 2lc 22d 23d 24b 2Sc 26a
27d 28c 29a 30a 3lb 32c 33d 34b 3Sc 36d 37b 38a 39c
40b 4lc 42c 43a 44d 4Sa 46b 47d 48c 49b SOc Sld 52a
S3b 54c 55d 56c 57b S8a S9a

35
CHAPTER 2
ANSI/ASNT CP-189 (2016)

Overview 1.3 This standard requires the employer to establish a

The Abstract (p. iii) of ANSIIASNT CP-189: ASNT
procedure for the certification of NDT personnel.
Standard for Qualification and Certification of
1.4 This standard requires that the employer incorporate
Nondestructive Testing Personnel (2016) contains the fol-
any unique or additional requirements in the
lowing statements: "This standard applies to personnel
certification procedure.
whose specific tasks or jobs require appropriate knowledge
of the technical principles underlying nondestructive testing It is clear that the tone of this document is distinctly
(NDT) methods for which they have responsibilities within more regimented than the scope of SNT- TC-1A, which
the scope of their employment. These specific tasks or jobs states that "this document provides guidelines for the estab-
include, but are not limited to, performing, specifying, lishment of a qualification and certification program" and
reviewing, monitoring, supervising, and evaluating NDT "it is recognized that these guidelines may not be appropri-
work. ... ate for certain employers' circumstances and/or applica-
"Employers or other persons utilizing nondestructive tions." The standard demands that a minimum set of
testing services are cautioned that they retain full responsi- requirements be met by all employers who claim to have a
bility for ultimate determination of the qualifications of program that embraces the standard.
NDT personnel and for the certification process. The The following comments are intended to amplify the
process of personnel qualification and certification as differences and similarities between the standard, CP-189,
detailed in the standard does not relieve the employer of the and the recommended practice, SNT-TC-1A.
ultimate legal responsibility to ensure that the NDT person-
nel are fully qualified for the tasks being undertaken."
These statements define who is under the jurisdiction of Section 2: Definitions
the standard and state that the ultimate responsibility of the In Section 2 (pp. 1-2), Definitions, of CP-189(2016), 21
qualification and certification process remains with the definitions are listed to remove any ambiguity about terms
employer. The fact that CP-189is an American National used throughout the body of the standard. The term
Standard signifies that the requirements for due process, "Practical Examination" is clarified in its use on behalf of
consensus, and other criteria as defined by the American the employer and the fact that observations and results
National Standards Institute (ANSI) have been met by the must be documented. "Grading Unit" is a term used in both
standard developer, in this case, the American Society for SNT-TC-1A and CP-189to explain that a qualification spec-
Nondestructive Testing. imen can be divided into sections that do not have to be
equal length or equal spacing, unflawed or flawed. "Test
Technique" (a category within an NDT method, for exam-
Section 1: Scope ple, immersion ultrasonic testing) is distinguished from
Section 1 (p. 1) of CP-189(2016) reads as follows: "Method" (one of the disciplinesofNDT, for example,ultra-
sonic testing, within which various test techniques may exist).
1.0 Scope In Paragraph 2.2.1, an "NDT LevelIII" is identified as
1.1 This standard establishes the minimum requirements "an individual possessing a currently valid ASNT NDT or
for the qualification and certification of
PdM Level III certificate or ACCP Professional Level III
certificate and certified in accordance with this standard."
nondestructive testing (NDT) and predictive
Thus, in order to become an employer's NDT LevelIII, CP-
maintenance (PdM) personnel.
189 mandates that the individual hold a current, valid
1.2 This standard details the minimum training, ASNT LevelIII certificate. Other requirements must be cus-
education, and experience requirements for NDT tomized to the needs of the employer in accordance with
personnel and provides criteria for documenting the employer's written NDT personnel qualification and
qualifications and certification. certification procedure.

37
Basic I SECTION I

Section 3: levels of Qualification 4.4.1.3 be a graduate of a two-year school

In Section 3 (pp. 2-3), Levelsof Qualification, the six of science, engineering, or NDT and
levels of qualification are defined in terms of the skills and have five or more years of
knowledge required in a given method or methods to per- experience as an NDT Level II, or
form specified NDT activities. These are Level III, Level II, equivalent, in the method to be
Level II Limited, Level I, Trainee, and NDT Instructor. taught; or
Level III, Level II, and LevelI are nominally the same as
4.4.1.4 have 10 or more years of NDT
those identified in SNT-TC-JA. The last two formalize the
experience as an NDT Level II, or
status of the Trainee and create a category of NDT
Instructor who can function as course organizer and pre- equivalent, in the NDT method to be
senter, but under the cognizance of the employer's author- taught.
ized (certified) Level III.
Training and experience qualifications of the NDT Level
III are automatically met when an individual holds a valid
Section 4: Qualification Requirements ASNT Level III certificate.
Section 4 (pp. 3-4), Qualification Requirements, Both SNT-TC-JA and CP-J89call for a minimum num-
addresses training, experience, instructor criteria, and the ber of hours worked in the specificmethod as well as a mini-
use of outside NDT Level III services. The training is to be mum total number of hours worked in NDT. The total expe-
done in accordance with a course outline approved by an rience requirement can be satisfiedby working in two or
NDT Level III and must include the topics contained in more methods as well as doing other activities that support
CP-J 05 for the appropriate NDT method. The training pro- the NDT program of the employer. (SNT-TC-JA and CP-J89
gram may include other topics deemed necessaryby the have equivalent training and experience requirements.)
NDT LevelIII. "Organized training" is expanded in CP-J89, When using CP-J89 Appendix A or SNT-TC-JA Table
Paragraph 4.1.1.1,to include instructor-led training, self- 6.3.1 A, it is important to note that the minimum experi-
study, virtual instructor-led training, computer-based train- ence hours must be documented by method and by hour. A
ing, or Web-based training. (In SNT-TC-IA, "self-study"is candidate's previous training and experience may be accept-
referred to as "personalized instruction.") Computer-based ed by the employer if verified and documented in writing
training and Web-based training shall track hours and con- by the previous employer(s) or training agencies.
tent of training with student examinations. The training pro- Although employers often have their own NDT Level III
grams shall include sufficientexaminations to demonstrate to administer the various aspects of the employer's NDT
that the necessary information has been comprehended. A personnel qualification and certification program, an out-
satisfactorypassing score on a final examination covering the side organization may be engaged to perform the duties of
topics contained in the training program is necessaryin order an NDT Level III. In such instances, the employer is
to receivecredit for the training hours. responsible for verifying that the organization complies
Recognizing that NDT is a unique application of the with the employer's certification procedure and CP-J89.
concepts of physics, electronics, and chemistry, CP-J 89
requires that all training shall be presented by an NDT
Instructor designated by the NDT Level III individual. The Section 5: Qualification and Certification
NDT Instructor is an individual who not only has the skills Section 5 (p. 4), Qualification and Certification, address-
and knowledge for conducting training programs but also is es the certification procedure for qualifying and certifying
required to develop and conduct such courses in accor- NDT personnel. The employer's certification procedure
dance with the course outlines approved by the NDT Level describes the minimum requirements for certifying person-
III. The NDT Level III in all cases is responsible for the nel in each NDT method and is approved by the designated
content of each completed course. In order to qualify, an NDT Level III. The certification procedure includes person-
NDT Instructor must satisfy at least one of the following nel duties and responsibilities, as well as the required train-
criteria: ing, experience, examinations, records, and recertification
processes to be followed.

4.4.1.1 possess a current ASNT Level III

certificate in the method being
taught; or
4.4.1.2 have academic credentials at least
equivalent to a B.s. in engineering,
physical science, or technology and
possess adequate knowledge in the
NDT method to be taught; or

38
 CHAPTER 2 ANSI/ASNT CP-189 (2016)

considered a Predictive Maintenance [PdM] method in CP-

Section 6: Examinations 105 and thus falls outside the scope of this study guide. The
Section 6 (pp. 5-8), Examinations, addresses vision following four methods are not represented: ground pene-
requirements and the administration of written and practi- trating radar, guided wave, laser methods, and microwave
cal examinations for the qualification of NDT Level I, II, technology.)
and III personnel. The near-distance vision examination In addition, the candidate may have to show the ability
calls for an individual to be capable of reading a Jaeger to prepare an NDT procedure appropriate to the employer's
Number 1 test chart at a distance of not less than 30.5 cm needs, if he or she does not have documented experience
(12 in.), rather than the Jaeger Number 2 of SNT-TC-IA, demonstrating that they had previously prepared similar
and to be administered in accordance with a procedure, and procedures in the method using the specifications, codes,
by personnel, approved by the designated NDT Level III. In and standards that are applicable to that employer.
addition to color differentiation, NDT personnel must be If the NDT Level III will be required to perform tests or
able to distinguish shades of gray used in a given method. evaluate test results, the Practical Examination must include
Level I and LevelII personnel are to receive a closed- the same demonstrations of ability to perform the required
book General Examination approved by the designated activities as that of the Level II.
NDT Level III over a cross section of the body of knowledge The 2016 edition of CP-189 has added two sections, 6.4
applicable to each method and NDT level. Level I and and 6.5, addressing employer acceptance of ASNT NDT
LevelII personnel are to receive a closed-book Specific Level II certificates and ACCP Level II certificates as meet-
Examination, supported by NDT Level III approved refer- ing the examination requirements outlined in Paragraphs
ence materials, addressing various examples of equipment, 6.3.1 and 6.3.2 for ASNT NDT Level II and Paragraphs
procedures, and test techniques that the candidate may use 6.3.1-6.3.3 for ACCPT Level II as determined by the NDT
in the performance of assigned duties. Level III.
The LevelI Practical Examination requires that the can- The employer's NDT Level III is responsible for the
didate demonstrate proficiency in using the applicable NDT administration and grading of the examinations, but the
method to examine at least one representative test sample grading and administration of multiple-choice objective
for each technique to be used in the candidate's job. This questions can be delegated when properly documented. The
includes the documentation of the results of the testes). Practical Examination is to be administered by an NDT
The LevelII Practical Examination requires that the Level III in the respective test method. The employer is
candidate demonstrate proficiency using the applicable responsible for having an ASNT Level III develop, adminis-
NDT method to examine two or more representative test ter, and grade the Level III Specific and Practical examina-
samples for each method and at least one sample for each tions. Employer examinations require a minimum 70 per-
technique to be used in the candidate's job. This includes cent on individual tests and a minimum 80 percent on the
the interpretation, evaluation, and documentation of the overall average grade.
examination's results. For a Level I or Level II candidate to pass the Practical
The LevelI Practical Examination and the Level II Examination, discontinuities or conditions previously speci-
Practical Examination are similar to those recommended by fied by the Level III are to be located and evaluated. A writ-
SNT-TC-IA, with the exception that the test samples used ten checklist is to be used addressing equipment and tech-
are to be representative of the products that will be encoun- nique proficiency, proper adherence to the procedure, test
tered when performing their job functions. This difference sequence, calibrations, materials, documentation, and
ensures the CP-189 examinations must be representative of extent of examination. If the candidate is required to per-
the product typical to that which candidates will likely form interpretation or evaluation of results, these are to also
encounter in performing their job function. be part of the checklist. In addition, the Level II checklist
More explicit examination requirements have been includes proper extent of examination, accuracy, and com-
placed on the NDT Level III due to the many variations in pleteness of interpretations, evaluations, and documenta-
background and work activities found in the field. As a pre- tion of the activities and test results.
requisite, a candidate for the position of an employer's Level If an examination is failed, the requirements for reexam-
III must hold an ASNT LevelIII certificate with a currently ination are similar to SNT-TC-IA (receive additional train-
valid endorsement for each method for which employer ing or wait 30 days), except that a candidate is not to be
certification is sought, and he or she must also satisfactorily reexamined using the examination and/or specimen previ-
complete a SpecificExamination comprising thirty (30) ously failed.
questions on the employer's specifications and standards for The employer's representative who administers the
each method. A valid endorsement on an ASNT Level III LevelIII examinations must possess a current ASNT LevelIII
certificate fulfillsthe examination criteria for only the Basic certificate in the method and be familiar with the standards
Examination and the Method Examination for each appli- used and the products made by the employer. Self-examina-
cable NDT method. (NOTE: Table I, Minimum Number of tion and examination by subordinates are prohibited.
Examination Questions, in CP-189 is comparable to Table
8.3.4 in SNT- TC-IA with the exception that only the 11
methods for which ASNT administers NDT Level III exam-
inations are listed. Vibration analysis, although also listed, is

39
Basic I SECTIONI

Section 7: Expiration, Suspension,

Revocation, and Reinstatement of Section 9: Records
In Section 9 (pp. 9-10), Records, a minimum set of doc-
Employer Certification uments that address the qualifications of each NDT individ-
Section 7 (pp. 8-9) addresses Expiration, Suspension, ual is required. Included are the employer's certification
Revocation, and Reinstatement of Employer Certification. documentation, an experience record, a record of previous
As with SNT-TC-IA, an individual's certification(s) expire experience (if applicable), the employee's current examina-
when employment with the employer is terminated or on tions, and a vision examination record.
the last day of the month at the end of five years for LevelsI The certification record includes level, method and
and II. The LevelIII certification expires when the ASNT technique(s), results, and copies of recent examinations; a
Level III certificate has expired. copy of the current ASNT Level III certificate for Level III
Certifications can be suspended for exceeding the one- personnel only; dates of certification, expiration, suspen-
year vision recheck period, for inactivity in a method for sion, revocation, and reinstatement; and the signature,
more than 12 months, or for deficient performance as printed name, and title of the employer's certifying repre-
determined by the Level III. Level Ills are suspended if their sentative.
ASNT Level III certificate is not renewed. A training record is required that includes the training
Certifications are revoked if inactivity in a method received, the name of the training organization, the date
exceeds 24 months, if the ASNT LevelIII certificate is when training was completed, the hours involved, evidence
revoked, or if there is unethical or incompetent conduct. of satisfactory completion, and the instructor's name.
Reinstatement for Level I and Level II is determined by A record that identifies the individual's experience per-
the Level III. Reinstatement for the Level III is determined forming various nondestructive tests shall be maintained
by the employer as long as the Level III holds a valid ASNT for the purpose of verifying initial certification experience
Level III certificate. Expired or revoked certifications may and continuing experience. Previous experience shall also
only be reinstated by complying with Section 6, Paragraph be documented if it is used to satisfy any part of the qualifi-
7.4.3, or Paragraph 8.1. cation requirements.

Section 8: Employer Recertification Section 10: Referenced Publications

Section 8 (p. 9), Employer Recertification, has been Section 10 (p. 10), References, lists documents relevant
divided into two parts. For Level I and Level II personnel, to the provisions of CP-189 (2016), including:
every five years, recertification may be based on evidence of
experience in the method over the five-year period of at 10.1.1 ANSI/ASNTCP-l05: ASNTStandard Topical
least two months or 350 hours and successfullypassing a
Outlines for Qualification of Nondestructive
Specific Examination that meets the requirements of
Testing Personnel, latest edition.
Paragraph 6.2.2. Every ten years, examinations in Section 6
must be repeated. For Level III personnel, recertification 10.1.2 ASNT applicationpackagefor certificationof
relies on verification of the currency of the Level Ill's ASNT nondestructivetesting personnel.
certificate every five years. 10.1.3 ASNT CentralCertificationProgram,ASNT
DocumentCP-1,latest edition.
10.2.1 ASTME 1316(latestedition)- Standard
Terminology for Nondestructive Examinations,
Section A - Common NOT Terms.

40
 CHAPTER 2 ANSI/ASNT CP-/89 (2016)

Review Questions

l. In accordance with CP-J89 (2016), an NDT Level III: 4. As required in CP-J89, Level I Practical examinations
are intended to be:
a. shall be responsible for grading all Level I and
Level II certification examinations. a. given by the employer's Level III.
b. must prepare all training materials for NDT Level b. passed only if all predefined discontinuities are
I and Level II personnel. detected and evaluated.
c. must approve all questions to be used on c. given using one or more test samples for each
examinations for LevelI and Level II. technique.
d. must administer all LevelI and II written d. given using one or more test samples for each
examinations. method.

2. Which of the following is true regarding NDT Level 5. The Practical Examination shall address the technical
III Practical Examinations? and practical competency of the examinee when
following prepared NDT procedures for:
a. This examination requirement may be waived if
the candidate holds a currently valid ASNT a. Level I, Level II, and NDT Instructor.
Level III certificate. b. corporate Level Ills.
b. The exam administrator must hold a valid ASNT c. all levels of qualification including the trainer or
Level III certification in the applicable test instructor.
method. d. LevelsI and II.
c. The use of a written checklist may be used at the
discretion of the administrator.
d. Exam administration may be delegated to any
authorized representative by the employer.

3. When the near-distance vision acuity examination is

given using a jaeger reading card, it must be given:

a. in accordance with a procedure.

b. by any company NDT LevelIII.
c. by medical personnel only.
d. biannually if jaeger J -1 letters are used.

Answers

lc 2b 3a 4c Sd

41
CHAPTER 3
The ASNT NDT Level III Certification Program

In their Fall 1974 meeting, the ASNT Board of Directors 4. Liquid Penetrant Testing (PT)*
authorized implementation of a voluntary program for cer- 5. Magnetic Flux Leakage (MFL)*
tification of NDT Level III personnel. The Board decided 6. Magnetic Particle Testing (MT)*
that use of the term "certification" as applied in the ASNT 7. Neutron Radiography Testing (NR)
NDT Level III program was appropriate, indicating that
8. Radiographic Testing (RT)
personnel holding ASNT NDT Level III certificates had met
certain education, training, experience, and examination 9. Thermal/Infrared Testing OR)
requirements. It is important to note that the word "certifi- 10.Ultrasonic Testing (UT)
cation" as used in the Level III program indicates a record 11. Visual Testing (VT)*
of achievement and/or qualification. As used in
Recommended PracticeNo. SNT- TC-IA: Personnel
Qualification and Certification in Nondestructive Testing, "These examinations comprise 90 questions; the others have
"certification" indicates that employers have authorized l35 questions. For examination purposes, MFL is designat-
NDT Level III personnel to perform work on their behalf. ed ML.
The first ASNT NDT Level III examinations were given in
early 1977.
The following is a description of the ASNT Level III What Is an ASNT NOTLevel III?
Certification Programs. Additional information is available ASNT NDT Level III personnel are individuals who
on the ASNT website at www.asnt.org under the demonstrated that they are sufficiently knowledgeable to
Certification menu option. The program information docu- pass the Basic and Method qualification examin~t~~ns
ment, CP-ASNT-IB, which describes the ASNT NDT Level developed and administered by ASNT. To gam initial
III Program in detail, is reprinted from the ASNT website as ASNT NDT Level III certification, eligible candidates must
Appendix B in this publication. pass the Basic Examination and at least one Method
Examination. Once certified, additional certifications can be
added by passing the applicable Method Examination as ..
ASNT NOT Level III long as the candidate holds one valid ASNT Level III certifi-
The ASNT NDT Level III program initially offered cer-
cation. If all certifications expire, the Basic and Method
tification in five NDT methods and currently offers certifi-
exams must be passed to regain that certification.
cation examinations in 11 methods. Over 8000 personnel
The Basic Examination is a l35-question test that covers
in over 75 countries currently hold more than 23 000 cer-
the administration of certification programs developed in
tifications in nondestructive test methods, making the
accordance with SNT- TC-IA and ANSJ/ASNT CP-189:
ASNT NDT Level III program the largest NDT certifica-
ASNT Standardfor Qualification and Certification of
tion program in the world. ASNT is an independent,
Nondestructive TestingPersonnel;general knowledge of
third-party certification body accredited by the American
other NDT test methods; and knowledge of materials, fabri-
National Standards Institute (ANSI) in accordance with
cation, and production technology. Method examinations
ISO 17024, Conformity Assessment-General Requirements
may be 90 or 135 questions in size and address in-depth
for Bodies Operating Certification of Persons. All ASNT
knowledge of the theory and practices of the applicable
certification examinations are developed and maintained
nondestructive testing method.
using psychometric principles that comply with the
ISO 17024 requirements.
The ASNT Method Examinations are given in multiple-
choice format in the following NDT test methods. Where
ASNT Predictive Maintenance Level III
ASNT began offering the Predictive Maintenance (PdM)
reference information is needed, it is included in the body
Level III certification program in 2000 and now offers PdM
of the examination.
Level III certification in the IR method. Together, the ASNT
NDT Level III program and the ASNT PdM Level III pro-
1. Acoustic Emission Testing (AE)
gram are known as the ASNT Level III Certification
2. Electromagnetic Testing (ET) Program.
3. Leak Testing (LT)

43
Basic I SECTION I

ASNT PdM certification was developed as a result of Upon successful completion of the necessary qualifica-
industry requests for a third-party certification that focused tion examinations, ASNT will issue the candidate an ASNT
on PdM knowledge and test methods instead of the tradi- NDT Level III certlficate and wallet card that is valid for
tional NDT methods used for NDT Level III certification. five years.
In response to this request, ASNT developed a 90-question
PdM Basic Examination that covers the same certification
requirements as the NDT Basic Examination. However, NDT/PdM or PdM/N DT Conversion
instead of addressing knowledge of materials, fabrication, 1. Personnel with a currently valid NDT certificate in the
and production technology and other traditional NDT test
IR test method may attain PdM certification in IR by
methods, it covers the basics of common PdM test methods
successfully completing the PdM Basic Examination.
and knowledge of machinery technology. PdM certification
is currently offered in Thermal/Infrared Testing only, and 2. Personnel with a currently valid PdM certificate in the
successful completion of the PdM Basic and IR Method IR test method may attain NDT certification in IR by
examinations result in the issuance of an ASNT PdM Level successfully completing the NDT Basic Examination.
III certificate. 3. This applies to the IR method only.

Eligibility for ASNT Level III Examinations Recertification

Candidates must have met the eligibility requirements All ASNT Level III certificate holders must be recertified
specified in paragraph 6.3.2 (p. 3) of SNT-TC-IA (2016): at five-year intervals by one of the following methods:

6.3.2 NOT Level III 1. By examination, prior to their certification expiration

6.3.2.1 Have a baccalaureate degree (or date in the applicable method. As long as at least one
higher) in engineering or science, method remains current, the Basic Examination does
plus one additional year of not have to be taken again; or
experience beyond the NOT Level II 2. By application, using a "points" system. Recertification
requirements in NOT in an by points requires the following three items:
assignment at least comparable to a. reaffirmation of the ASNT Level III Code of Ethics;
that of an NOT Level II in the h. demonstration of continued NDT activity and Level
applicable NOT method(s), or: III employment; and
6.3.2.2 Have completed with passing c. submittal of documentation showing that 25 recer-
grades at least two years of tification points have been earned within the appli-
engineering or science study at a cant's current 5-year certification period. Activities
university, college, or technical that earn recertification points are shown in the
school, plus two additional years of ASNT NDT Program Renewal Requirements docu-
experience beyond the NOT Level II ment downloadable from the ASNT website under
requirements in NOT in an the Certification menu.
assignment at least comparable to
that of NOT Level II in the applicable The same recertification requirements apply to PdM
NOT method(s), or: Level III certificate holders.
6.3.2.3 Have four years experience beyond
the NOT Level II requirements in
NOT in an assignment at least SNT-TC-1A Certification Options
comparable to that of an NOT Level SNT-TC-IA offers the employer several options for ful-
II in the applicable NOT method(s). filling certification responsibilities:

The above Level III requirements 1. incorporate acceptance of ASNT NDT Level III certifica-
may be partially replaced by tion into the employer's written practice; or
experience as a certified NOT Level II 2. incorporate acceptance of LevelIII qualification exami-
or by assignments at least nations administered by an outside agency that meet the
comparable to NOT Level II as requirements of the employer's written practice; or
defined in the employer's written 3. incorporate the employer's examinations as defined in
practice. the employer's written practice.

44
 CHAPTER 3 The ASNT NDT Level III Certification Program

ACCP Professional Level III

Use of the ASNT NOT level III Certification With the introduction of the ASNT Central
ASNT NDT LevelIII certification provides an interna- Certification Program (ACCP) in the late 1990s,ASNT
tionally recognized way for individuals, companies, and began offering a "central" certification for Level lIs and Ills
industry sectors to take advantage of standardized examina- that aligned with multiple international NDT certification
tions developed by qualified subject matter experts and standards. In 2005, the program was revised to address ISO
administered by an ISO 17024accredited third-party certifi- 9712 requirements and now meets or exceeds the require-
cation body. Under SNT-TC-IA, employers may accept ments of the U.S. adoption of ISO 9712, ANSI/ASNT
valid ASNT NDT LevelIII certification as proof that the CP-I06: Nondestructive Testing-Qualification and
certificate holder has met the Basic and Method examina- Certification of Personnel
tion requirements for the test methods listed on the ASNT The ACCP Level III certification requires that candi-
certificate. The employer must still determine if the Specific dates pass the same Basic and Method examinations used in
examination requirements have been met and has the sole the ASNT NDT Level III program, the full ACCP Level II
responsibility for authorizing (certifying) their Level III hands-on Practical Examination (unless passed as an ACCP
NDT personnel to perform NDT tasks on behalf of their Level II), and a Procedure Preparation Examination. The
company. Practical Examination requires that candidates demonstrate
NOTE: In the case of CP-189,an individual must hold their ability to apply the applicable test methods, and the
an ASNT NDT LevelIII certificate prior to becoming an Procedure Preparation Examination requires that they write
organization's LevelIII. In the case of SNT-TC-IA, an indi- an NDT procedure for a specific part based on the require-
vidual can use the ASNT NDT Level III certificate as one of ments of an NDT specification. For personnel who hold
the many optional approaches for becoming an organiza- currently valid ASNT NDT Level III certification, the Basic
tion's Level III. But in both cases, the ASNT NDT Level III and applicable Method exams need not be retaken.
certificate must be augmented with a written practice that
identifies, in detail, the manner by which the organization's
LevelIII is qualified and certified for the specific purposes
of the organization.

45
Basic I SECTION I

Review Questions

l. ASNT NDT Level III certification is a requirement 5. To recertify by application, an ASNT NDT Level III
of: must:

a. SNT- TC-JA. a. demonstrate continued NDT activity and Level

b. CP-J89. III employment.
c. CP-J06 b. reexamine prior to their current expiration date.
d. both SNT- TC-JA and CP-J89. c. participate in the ASNT Central Certification
Program.
2. A currently valid ASNT NDT Level III certificate d. acquire 25 recertification points since the
indicates: beginning of their NDT employment.

a. an ASNT NDT LevelIII is authorized to 6. To be eligible to sit for the ASNT NDT Level III
supervise but not perform NDT tasks on behalf of exams, a candidate with two years of passing grades
the employer. in engineering or science study at a university or
b. the employer can accept a currently valid ASNT technical school must have:
NDT Level III certificate as proof of qualification.
c. an individual is certified in both NDT and PdM. a. one additional year of experience beyond the
d. that the certificate holder has satisfied the Basic Level II requirements in NDT in an assignment
and Method exam requirements as set forth in comparable to that of an NDT Level II in the
SNT-TC-JA. applicable NDT method(s).
b. two additional years of experience beyond the
3. ASNT NDT Level III certification: Level II requirements in NDT in an assignment
at least comparable to that of NDT Level II in the
a. immediately qualifies a certificate holder to act as applicable NDT method(s).
the employer's Level III. c. four years of experience beyond the Level II
b. permits the individual to function as an requirements in NDT in an assignment at least
independent Level III without further comparable to that of an NDT Level II in the
documentation. applicable NDT method(s).
c. makes an individual potentially eligible to d. one additional year of experience beyond the
become an employer's Level III. Level II requirements in NDT in an assignment
d. only applies when recognized by a requirements comparable to that of an NDT Level II and an
document. additional 20 hours of classroom training in the
applicable test method(s).
4. The ASNT NDT LevelIII Basic Examination covers
all of the following except:

a. general knowledge of other NDT test methods.

b. knowledge of SNT-TC-JA and CP-J89
certification programs.
c. knowledge of materials, fabrication, and
production technology.
d. knowledge of international certification
programs.

Answers

lb 2d 3c 4d Sa 6b

46
CHAPTER 4
General Applications of Various NDT Methods

Overview of the ASNT Basic Topical Outlines, Reference

Examination Resources, and Review Questions
The second part of the ASNT Basic examination for This section contains topical outlines, reference
LevelIII certification covers the examinee's knowledge and resources, and review questions for selected NDT methods
comprehension of basic and fundamental applications of recognized in SNT-TC-IA. The reader is advised to use the
various NDT methods. While an employer's current reference resource material if difficulty is encountered in
requirements for a Level III may only involve one, two, or a answering the following questions. Note especially that the
few NDT methods, it is not envisioned that a Level III as questions are not difficult for those with practical exposure
described in Paragraph 4.3.3 of SNT-TC-IA can function in the use of the method. The questions are devised to cover
adequately without some basic knowledge of the existence fundamentals, basic techniques, and applications.
and applications of commonly used NDT methods. Topical outlines for the methods included in this section
In light of rapidly expanding technology, NDT Level III are from "General Familiarity with Other NDT Methods"
personnel have an obligation to continually review current (pp. 105-107) in the Basic Examination Level III unit of
practices, recommend and develop new techniques where ANSI/ASNT CP-I05:ASNT Standard Topical Outlinesfor
applicable, and seek more effectivemethods where applica- Qualification of Nondestructive Testing Personnel (2016).
ble. Without some basic knowledge of the broad applica- A general reference for each method presented below is
tions of NDT technology, the NDT Level III could not be the Nondestructive Testing Handbook, third edition:
considered as meeting the LevelIII qualifications as defined Volume 10, NDT Overview, published by ASNT in 2012.
in Paragraph 4.3.3 (pp. 2-3) of SNT-TC-IA (2016): Another comprehensive reference is Materials and Processes
for NDT Technology, second edition: Chapter 12,
... capable of developing, qualifying, and approving procedures,
Nondestructive Testing Methods, also published by ASNT in
establishing and approving techniques, interpreting codes,
standards, specifications, and procedures; and designating the
2016.
particular NOT methods, techniques, and procedures to be used.
The NOT Level III should be responsible for the NOT operations
for which qualified and assigned and should be capable of
interpreting and evaluating results in terms of existing codes,
standards, and specifications. The NOT Level III should have
sufficient practical background in applicable materials,
fabrication, and product technology to establish techniques and
to assist in establishing acceptance criteria where none are
otherwise available. The NOT Level III should have general
familiarity with other appropriate NOT methods as
demonstrated by the ASNT Level III Basic Examination or other
means. The NOT Level III, in the methods in which certified,
should have sufficient technical knowledge and skills to be
capable of training and examining NOT Levell, II, and III
personnel for certification in those methods.

49
Basic I SECTION II

Acoustic Emission Testing (A E)

4. The kaiser effect refers to:
Topical Outline
a. velocity changes due to temperature changes.
2.1 Acoustic Emission Testing b. low amplitude emissions from aluminum struc-
2.1.1 Fundamentals tures.
2.1.1 Principles/theory of acoustic emission testing c. the behavior where emission from a source will
2.1.2 Sources of acoustic emissions not occur until the previous load is exceeded.
2.1.3 Equipment and material d. emissions from dissimilar material interfaces.
2.1.2 Proper selection of acoustic emission technique
2.2.1.1 Instrumentation and signal processing 5. The felicity effect is useful in evaluating:
2.2.1.2 Cables (types)
2.2.1.3 Signal conditioning a. fiber-reinforced plastic components.
2.2.1.4 Signal detection b. high-alloy castings.
2.2.1.5 Noise discrimination c. large structural steel members.
2.2.1.6 Electronic technique d. ceramics.
2.2.1.7 Attenuation materials
2.2.1.8 Data filtering techniques 6. The kaiser effect is useful in distinguishing:
2.1.3 Interpretation and evaluation of test results
a. electrical noise from mechanical noise.
References b. electrical noise from growing discontinuities.
ASNT Questions & Answers Book: Acoustic Emission Testing Method. c. mechanical noise from growing discontinuities.
Columbus, OH: The American Society for Nondestructive Testing, Inc. d. electrical noise from continuous emissions.
Latest Edition.
Miller, R.K. and E.v.K. Hill, technical eds.; P.O. Moore, ed. 7. The term "counts" refers to the:
Nondestructive Testing Handbook, third edition: Volume 6, Acoustic
Emission Testing. Columbus, OH: The American Society for
a. number of times a signal crosses a preset
Nondestructive Testing. 2005.
threshold.
Acoustic Emission Testing Review Questions b. number of events from a source.
c. number of transducers required to perform a test.
1. The most common range of acoustic emission testing d. duration of hold periods.
is:
8. The acoustic emission Signalamplitude is related to:
a. 10-15 kHz.
b. 100-300 kHz. a. the preset threshold.
c. 500-750 kHz. b. the intensity of the source.
d. 1-5 MHz. c. the band pass filters.
d. background noises.
2. Discontinuities that are not readily detectable by
acoustic emission testing are: 9. Threshold settings are determined by the:

a. leaks. a. graininess of the material.

b. plastic deformation. b. attenuation of the material.
c. growing cracks. c. test duration.
d. rounded inclusions. d. background noise level.

3. The total energy loss of a propagating wave is called: 10. Background noise can be reduced by:

a. scatter. a. electronic filtering.

b. dispersion. b. using flat response amplifiers.
c. diffraction. c. using in-line amplifiers.
d. attenuation. d. using heavier gage coaxial cable.

50
 CHAPTER 4 General Applications of Various NDT Methods

Electromagnetic Testing (ET) 3. Electromagnetic testing relies on the principle of:

Topical Outline a. magnetostriction.

b. electromagnetic induction.
2.2 Electromagnetic Testing c. piezoelectric energy conversion.
2.2.1 Sensors d. magnetomotive force.
2.2.2 Basic types of equipment; types of read out
2.2.3 Reference standards 4. When the electrical current in an eddy current coil
2.2.4 Applications and test result interpretation reverses direction, the:
2.2.4.1 Flaw detection
2.2.4.2 Conductivity and permeability sorting a. direction of the eddy currents in the test part
2.2.4.3 Thickness gaging remains the same.
2.2.4.4 Process control b. eddy currents in the test part will change phase
by 45 degrees.
References c. direction of the eddy currents in the test part also
ASNT Level III Study Guide: Electromagnetic Testing Method. reverses.
Columbus, OH: The American Society for Nondestructive Testing, d. eddy currents in the test part will change phase
Inc. Latest edition. by 90 degrees.
ASNT Questions & Answers Book: Electromagnetic Testing Method.
Columbus, OH: The American Society for Nondestructive Testing, 5. In order to generate measurable eddy currents in a
Inc. Latest edition.
test specimen, the specimen must be:
Sadek, H. Electromagnetic Testing Classroom Training Book (PTP
Series). Columbus, OH: The American Society for Nondestructive
Testing, Inc. 2006.
a. an electrical conductor.
b. an electrical insulator.
Sadek, H. Programmed Instruction Series: Electromagnetic Testing
(PTP Series). Columbus, OH: The American Society for
c. a ferromagnetic material.
Nondestructive Testing, Inc. 2013. d. a nonmagnetic material.
Udpa, S.S., technical ed.; P.O. Moore, ed. Nondestructive Testing
Handbook, third edition, Volume 5, Electromagnetic Testing. 6. The magnetic field generated by eddy currents
Columbus, OH: The American Society for Nondestructive Testing. induced in a test specimen:
2004.
a. reinforces the magnetic field that induced the
Electromagnetic Testing Review Questions eddy currents.
b. cancels the magnetic field that induced the eddy
1. Eddy currents are circulating electrical currents currents.
induced in conductive materials by: c. opposes the magnetic field that induced the eddy
currents.
a. continuous direct current. d. has no effect on the magnetic field that induced
b. gamma rays. the eddy currents.
c. an alternating magnetic field.
d. a piezoelectric force. 7. In electromagnetic testing, lACS is a recognized
abbreviation for:
2. The method used to generate eddy currents in a test
specimen by means of a coil can most closely be a. Induced Alternating Current System.
compared with the action of a: b. Inductively Activated Comparison System.
c. Internal Applied Current System.
a. transformer. d. International Annealed Copper Standard.
b. capacitor.
c. storage battery.
d. generator.

51
Basic I SECTION II

8. In electromagnetic testing, the specimen is coupled l3. Which of the followingdiscontinuities is easiestto
to the test coil by: detect with an electromagnetic test? (Assume that the
area of the discontinuity is equal in all four choices
a. core coupling. listed.)
b. magnetic saturation.
c. the coil's electromagnetic fields. a. A subsurface crack which lies parallel to the
d. magnetic domains. direction of the eddy current.
b. A discontinuity located in the center of a 51 mm
9. The penetration of eddy currents in a conductive (2 in.) diameter bar.
material is decreased when the: c. A radial crack that extends to the outer surface of
a 51 mm (2 in.) diameter bar.
a. test frequency or conductivity of the specimen is d. A subsurface radial crack located at a depth of
decreased. 13 mm (0.5 in.) in a 51 mm (2 in.) diameter bar.
b. test frequency is decreased or conductivity of the
specimen is increased. 14. A term used to define the timing relationships
c. test frequency, conductivity of the specimen, or involved in alternating current signals is:
permeability of the specimen is increased.
d. permeability of the specimen is decreased. a. magnitude.
b. phase.
10. At a fixed test frequency, in which of the following c. impedance.
materials will the eddy current penetration be d. time-gain correction.
greatest?
15. The impedance of a test coil can be represented by
a. Aluminum (35% lACS conductivity). the vector sum of:
b. Brass (15% lACS conductivity).
c. Copper (95% lACS conductivity). a. inductive reactance and resistance.
d. Lead (7% lACS conductivity). b. capacitive reactance and resistance.
c. inductive reactance and capacitive reactance.
11. A term used to describe the effect observed due to a d. inductive reactance, capacitive reactance, and
change in the coupling between a test specimen and a resistance.
flat probe coil when the distance of separation
between them is varied is: 16. Which of the following is not a disadvantage of using
a surface probe coil for the electromagnetic
a. fill factor. inspection of small-diameter tubing?
b. edge effect.
c. end effect. a. Liftoffvariations effect.
d. liftoff. b. Inability to detect small discontinuities.
c. Inherent mechanical problems.
12. When testing with eddy currents, discontinuities will d. Slow inherent speed.
be most easily detected when the eddy currents are:
17. The term "fill factor" applies to:
a. coplanar with the major dimension of the
discontinuity. a. a surface coil.
b. perpendicular to the major plane of the b. coaxial cable.
discontinuity. c. an encircling coil.
c. parallel to the major dimension of the d. the ability to null an eddy current instrument.
discontinuity.
d. 90 degrees out of phase with the current in the 18. Which of the following materials would be more
coil. likely used as a mounting material for a probe coil?

a. Aluminum.
b. Plastic.
c. Copper.
d. Nonferromagnetic steel.

52
I
CHAPTER 4 General Applications of Various NDT Methods

19. Which of the following is not a commonly used eddy 24. Some of the products commonly tested using
current testing read-out mechanism? encircling coils are:

a. Signal generator. a. rods, tubes, and wire.

b. Meter. b. interior of hollow tubes.
c. Electronic visual display. c. sheets and metal foil.
d. Strip-chart recorder. d. square billets and plates.

20. Reference standards used for electromagnetic testing: 25. It is often possible to sort various alloys of a
nonmagnetic metal by means of an electromagnetic
a. must contain artificial discontinuities such as test when:
notches and drilled holes.
b. must contain natural discontinuities such as a. there is a unique range of permeability values for
cracks and inclusions. each alloy.
c. must be free of measurable discontinuities, but b. there is a unique range of conductivity values for
may contain artificial or natural discontinuities, each alloy.
or may be free of discontinuities, depending on c. the direction of induced eddy currents varies for
the test system and the type of test being each alloy.
conducted. d. the magnetic domains for each alloy are different.
d. must be constructed from the same material of
the object being inspected. 26. When conducting electromagnetic testing on tubing
with a system that includes a frequency
21. Which of the following conditions is not important discriminating circuit, which of the following
when selecting specimens to be used as reference variables would be classified as a high-frequency
standards? variable?

a. The specimen should be of the same size and a. Conductivity changes.

shape as the test area. b. Diameter changes.
b. The specimen should be of the same materials c. Wall thickness variations.
and have the same heat treatment as the piece to d. Small discontinuities.
be tested.
c. The surface finish of the specimen should be the 27. Which of the following is not a candidate for testing
same as the piece to be tested. by the electromagnetic testing method?
d. If the material is aluminum, the surface should be
anodized. a. A 102 mm (4 in.) thick plate to be tested for
discontinuities throughout the plate.
22. Which of the following conditions would be the most b. Tubing to be tested for surface cracks.
difficult to detect when testing a rod using an c. A rod to be tested for laps and seams.
encircling coil? d. Tubing to be tested for variation in outside
diameter.
a. A short surface crack that has a depth of 10%of
the rod diameter.
b. A small inclusion in the center of the rod. Leak Testing (LT)
c. A 5% change in diameter.
d. A 10% change in conductivity. Topical Outline

23. The thickness of nonconductive coatings on a 2.3 Leak Testing

conductive base can be most simply measured by: 2.3.1 Fundamentals
2.3.1.1 Bubble detection
a. observing the liftoff effect caused by the coating. 2.3.1.2 Pressure change
b. testing both sides of the specimen. 2.3.1.3 Halogen diode detector
c. varying the test frequency over a given range 2.3.1.4 Mass spectrometer
during the test. 2.3.2 Leak testing, procedures, and techniques
d. using a specially shaped encircling coil. 2.3.2.1 Systems factors

53
Basic I SECTION II

2.3.2.2 Relative sensitivity 3. Which of the following is a technique of leak testing?

2.3.2.3 Evacuated systems
2.3.2.4 Pressurized systems; ambient fluids, tracer a. Static.
fluids b. Gaseous diffusion.
2.3.2.5 Locating leaks c. Dynamic.
2.3.2.6 Calibration d. Detector probe.
2.3.3 Test result interpretation
2.3.4 Essentials of safety 4. Potentially, the most sensitive leak testing technique
2.3.5 Test equipment is the:
2.3.6 Applications
2.3.6.1 Piping and pressure vessels a. bubble test.
2.3.6.2 Evacuated systems b. pressure change test.
2.3.6.3 Low-pressure fluid containment vessels, pipes, c. mass spectrometer test.
and tubing d. liquid penetrant test.
2.3.6.4 Hermetic seals
2.3.6.5 Electrical and electronic components 5. Establishing differential pressure between the test
object and environment is an essential element in
References which of the following NDT methods?
ASNT Level III Study Guide: Leak Testing Method. Columbus, OH:
The American Society for Nondestructive Testing, Inc. Latest edition. a. X-ray diffraction.
ASNT Questions & Answers Book: Bubble Leak Testing. Columbus, b. Leak testing.
OH: American Society for Nondestructive Testing, Inc. Latest edition. c. Neutron radiography.
ASNT Questions & Answers Book: Halogen Diode Detector. Columbus, d. Electromagnetic testing.
OH: American Society for Nondestructive Testing, Inc. Latest edition.
ASNT Questions & Answers Book: Mass Spectrometer Test Method. 6. Which of the following best describes the type of leak
Columbus, OH: American Society for Nondestructive Testing, Inc. test used when the interior of the test object is
Latest edition. evacuated and a tracer gas is applied to the exterior,
ASNT Questions & Answers Book: Pressure Change Measurement while the leak detector is connected to the evacuating
Testing. Columbus, OH: American Society for Nondestructive Testing,
system?
Inc. Latest edition.
Jackson, c. and C.N. Sherlock, technical eds.; P.O. Moore, ed.
a. Static leak test.
Nondestructive Testing Handbook, third edition: Volume 1, Leak
Testing. Columbus, OH: The American Society for Nondestructive b. Helium leak test.
Testing. 1998. c. Dynamic leak test.
d. Halogen leak test.
Leak Testing Review Questions
7. Assuming no significant leakage, if the temperature
1. Which of the following systems or components are increases, during a pressure drop leak test, the
not good candidates for leak testing? pressure in the system under test would:

a. Piping and pressure vessels. a. increase.

b. Refrigeration piping. b. remain the same.
c. Vacuum chambers. e. decrease.
d. Sintered material components. d. first increase, then decrease to its former level.

2. A helium mass spectrometer is used in which of the

following NDT techniques or methods?

a. Leak testing.
b. X-ray spectroscopy.
c. Optical holography.
d. Acoustic holography.

54
 CHAPTER 4 General Applications of Various NDT Methods

8. If the sensitivity of the halogen leak detector is References

constant throughout a test, which of the following is ASNT Level II Study Guide: Liquid Penetrant Testing Method.
true upon completion of the test? Columbus, OH: The American Society for Nondestructive Testing,
Inc. Latest edition.
a. No leaks smaller than a certain size have gone ASNT Level III Study Guide: Liquid Penetrant Testing Method.
undetected. Columbus, OH: The American Society for Nondestructive Testing,
Inc. Latest edition.
b. The total leak rate of the test object is less than a
certain amount. ASNT Questions & Answers Book: Liquid Penetrant Testing Method.
Columbus, OH: American Society for Nondestructive Testing, Inc.
c. The instrument and the test procedure were Latest edition.
capable of detecting leakage of a certain size
Badger, D. Liquid Penetrant Testing Classroom Training Book (PTP
during the test. Series). Columbus, OH: The American Society for Nondestructive
d. The instrument and test procedure were only Testing, Inc. 2005.
capable of detecting leakage of a certain size Tracy, N., technical ed.; P.O. Moore, ed. Nondestructive Testing
upstream of the tracer gas during the test. Handbook, third edition: Volume 2, Liquid Penetrant Testing.
Columbus, OH: The American Society for Nondestructive Testing.
9. All leak detection techniques are dependent upon: 1999.

a. barometric pressure. Liquid Penetrant Testing Review Questions

b. gas or fluid flow.
c. mass spectrometer analysis. 1. The tendency of a liquid penetrant to enter a
d. mean free paths of helium flow. discontinuity is primarily related to:

10. In an evacuated system, sensitivity of a pressure a. the viscosity of the penetrant.

change leak test is dependent not only on the b. capillary forces.
pressure change observed, but also on the degree of c. the chemical inertness of the penetrant.
outgassing. Outgassing is best defined as: d. the specific gravity of the penetrant.

a. the release of gas from materials in a vacuum. 2. Liquid penetrant testing is a nondestructive method
b. being directly proportional to the temperature of that can be used for:
the gas.
c. the viscosity of the pressurizing gas. a. locating and evaluating all types of discontinuities
d. the drop in test pressure due to leakage from the in a test specimen.
vacuum manifold. b. locating and determining the length, width, and
depth of discontinuities in a test specimen.
c. determining the tensile strength of a test
Liquid Penetrant Testing (PT) specimen.
d. locating discontinuities open to the surface.
Topical Outline
3. Which of the following is not a characteristic that
2.4 Liquid Penetrant Testing applies to liquid penetrant testing?
2.4.1 Fundamentals
2.4.1.1 Interaction of penetrants and discontinuity a. This method can accurately measure the depth of
openings a crack or discontinuity.
2.4.1.2 Fluorescence and contrast b. This method can be used for on-site testing of
2.4.2 Liquid penetrant testing large parts.
2.4.2.1 Penetrant processes c. This method can be used to find shallow surface
2.4.2.2 Test equipment and systems factors discontinuities.
2.4.2.3 Test result interpretation; discontinuity d. This method can be made more or less sensitive
indications by using different penetrant materials.
2.4.2.4 Applications
2.4.2.4.1 Castings
2.4.2.4.2 Welds
2.4.2.4.3 Wrought metals
2.4.2.4.4 Machined parts
2.4.2.4.5 Leaks
2.4.2.4.6 Field inspections
55
Basic I SECTIONII

4. The property of a dye used in penetrant materials to 9. When performing a liquid penetrant test using
emit light in the range of wavelengths different from solvent-removable visible dye penetrant, there are
the wavelength of light that excites the emission is several ways to remove excess penetrant from the
called: surface of the part. Which of the methods listed
below is generally regarded as most suitable for
a. emissivity. giving accurate test results?
b. irradiation.
c. spectrum blocking. a. Squirting solvent over the surface with no more
d. fluorescence. than 69 kPa (10 psi) pressure.
b. Wiping with a solvent-soaked cloth, then wiping
5. When using a fluorescent, post-emulsifier penetrant, with a dry cloth.
the length of time the emulsifier is allowed to remain c. Wiping with a solvent-dampened cloth, then
on the part is critical for detecting shallow wiping with dry cloths.
discontinuities. The optimum length of time should d. Wiping with dry wipes, then wiping with a
be: solvent-dampened cloth, and finally wiping with
a dry cloth.
a. 10 seconds.
b. 5 seconds. 10. A problem with retesting a specimen that has been
c. 2-3 minutes. previously tested using liquid penetrant is that the:
d. determined by experimentation.
a. penetrant residue left in discontinuities may not
6. A red penetrant indication against white background readily dissolve, and the retest may be misleading.
is most likely to be seen when: b. penetrant may form beads on the surface.
c. penetrant will lose a great deal of its color
a. dry developers are used. brilliance.
b. visible dye penetrants are used. d. added penetrant will intensify the penetrant
c. fluorescent post-emulsified penetrants are used. residue, making indications larger than normal.
d. ultraviolet light is used with visible dye
penetrants. 11. A commonly used method of checking the overall
performance of a penetrant material system is to:
7. The most widely accepted method for removing
excessivewater-washable penetrant from the surface a. determine the viscosity of the penetrant.
of a test specimen is by: b. measure the wetability of the penetrant.
c. compare two sections of artificially cracked
a. using a wet rag. specimens.
b. using a water spray rinse. d. check the penetrant contaminant levels.
c. washing the part directly under water running
from a tap. 12. The function of emulsifier in the post-emulsified
d. immersing the part in water. penetrant process is to:

8. Which of the following penetrant systems is a. more rapidly drive the penetrant into deep, tight
generally considered the least sensitive? cracks.
b. react with the surface penetrant to make the
a. Water-washable; visible dye. penetrant water-washable.
b. Solvent-removable; visible dye. c. add fluorescent dye or pigment to the penetrant.
c. Water-washable; fluorescent dye. d. emulsify surface oils and greases to facilitate their
d. Post-emulsified; visible dye. removal.

56
 CHAPTER 4 General Applications of Various NDTMethods

13. Which of the following statements does not apply to 19. The penetrant indication of a forging lap will
developers used during penetrant testing? normally be a:

a. Developers are normally highly fluorescent. a. round or nearly round indication.

b. Some developers furnish a contrasting b. cluster of indications.
background during inspection. c. thin continuous line.
c. Developers absorb or blot the penetrant that d. dotted line.
remains in discontinuities after the excess
penetrant has been removed. 20. Aluminum alloy test specimens that have been tested
d. Nonaqueous developers are better suited for by the liquid penetrant method should be thoroughly
detecting fine cracks. cleaned after testing because:

14. The penetrant indication for a cold shut on the a. acid in the penetrant may cause severe corrosion.
surface of a casting will normally be: b. the oily residue from the test will severely inhibit
the application of paint on aluminum alloys.
a. a dotted line. c. a chemical reaction between the penetrant and
b. a large bulbous indication. aluminum could cause a fire.
c. a smooth continuous line. d. the alkalines in wet developers and most
d. undetectable since cold shuts are closed over on emulsifiers could cause surface pitting,
the surface. particularly in moist atmospheres.

15. A crack-type discontinuity will generally appear as: 21. Which of the following statements is true when using
penetrants for leak detection?
a. a rounded indication.
b. a continuous line, either straight or jagged. a. Surfaces do not have to be clean.
c. a broad, fuzzy indication. b. Only one side has to be accessible.
d. random round or elongated holes. c. Penetrant can be diluted in water for hydro
testing.
16. In a penetrant test, scattered round indications on d. Only visible penetrants can be used.
the surface of a part could be indicative of:
22. Which of the following is a discontinuity that might
a. fatigue cracks. be found in rolled bar stock?
b. porosity.
c. weld laps. a. Blow holes.
d. hot tears. b. Shrinkage laps.
c. Cracks or seams.
17. Which of the following are typical nonrelevant d. Insufficient penetration.
indications found in penetrant testing?
23. Anodized surfaces are usually considered poor
a. Indications due to part geometry or part design candidates for high-sensitivity liquid penetrant
configurations. examination because the anodizing process produces
b. Nonmagnetic indications. a conversion layer that:
c. Nonlinear indications.
d. Indications on low-stressed areas of the part. a. is extremely smooth and slick.
b. has a multitude of extremely small pores.
18. Which of the statements below best states the results c. may have alkaline residue that "quenches" the
of sandblasting for cleaning surfacesto be penetrant penetrant.
tested? d. cannot be cleaned by ordinary processes.

a. Discontinuities may be closed.

b. Oil contaminants might be sealed in the
discontinuities.
c. The sand used in the sandblasting operation may
be forced into the discontinuity.
d. The sandblasting operation may introduce
discontinuities into the part.
57
Basic I SECTIONII

ASNT Questions & Answers Book: Magnetic Particle Method.

24. Which of the following penetrant methods does not Columbus, OH: The American Society for Nondestructive Testing,
normally require a source of electricity to properly Inc. Latest edition.
conduct a test? Kowatch, M.A. Programmed Instruction Series: Magnetic Particle
Testing (PTP Series). Columbus, OH: The American Society for
Nondestructive Testing, Inc. 2015.
a. Water-washable fluorescent penetrant method.
b. Postemulsified fluorescent penetrant method. Moore, D.G., technical ed.; P.o. Moore, ed. Nondestructive Testing
Handbook, third edition: Volume 8, Magnetic Testing. Columbus, OH;
c. Visible dye penetrant method. The American Society for Nondestructive Testing. 2008.
d. Hydrophylic fluorescent penetrant method.
Smith, G. Magnetic Particle Testing Classroom Training Book (PTP
Series), second edition. Columbus, OH: The American Society for
25. Which of the following statements is true concerning Nondestructive Testing, Inc. 2015.
penetrant testing of welds with rough surfaces?
Magnetic Particle Testing Review Questions
a. The post-emulsified process offers advantages
over the water-washable process. 1. Which of the following materials cannot be tested by
b. If the solvent removal process is used, the best magnetic particle techniques?
developer would be an aqueous suspension.
c. Welds with rough surfaces cannot be successfully a. Copper alloys.
tested by any penetrant method. b. High alloy steels.
d. Welds with rough surfaces may need to be c. Tool steels.
ground smooth prior to penetrant testing. d. Ferritic stainless steels.

2. Materials that are strongly attracted to a magnet are

Magnetic Particle Testing (MT) called:

Topical Outline a. magnetized.

b. nonmagnetic.
2.5 Magnetic Particle Testing c. ferromagnetic.
2.5.1 Fundamentals d. magnetic.
2.5.1.1 Magneticfieldprinciples
2.5.1.2 Magnetizationby means of electriccurrent 3. Magnetic lines of force (magnetic fields) are oriented
2.5.1.3 Demagnetization in what direction in relation to the direction of the
2.5.2 Magneticparticleinspection magnetizing current?
2.5.2.1 Basictypes of equipment and inspection
materials a. Parallel.
2.5.2.2 Test results interpretation;discontinuity b. At right angles.
indications c. At a 45 degree angle.
2.5.2.3 Applications d. At random angles.
2.5.2.3.1 Welds
2.5.2.3.2 Castings 4. Magnetizing flux is a term that relates to:
2.5.2.3.3 Wroughtmetals
2.5.2.3.4 Machinedparts a. describing the direction of current flow in an
2.5.2.3.5 Fieldapplications electromagnet.
b. the manner by which magnetism flows through
References space.
ASNT Level II Study Guide: Magnetic Particle Testing Method. c. the lines of force associated with a magnetic field.
Columbus, OH: The American Society for Nondestructive Testing, d. permanent magnets only.
Inc. Latest edition.
ASNT Level III Study Guide: Magnetic Particle Testing Method.
Columbus, OH: The American Society for Nondestructive Testing,
Inc. Latest edition.

58
 SECTION II
OVERVIEW OF NOT METHODS
 CHAPTER 4 General Applications of Various NDTMethods

5. Subjecting a part to a magnetic field that is 11. The amount of amperage used for magnetic particle
constantly reversing in polarity and gradually inspection using prods is based on the distance
diminishing in strength accomplishes which of the between the prods and the:
following?
a. thickness of the part.
a. Demagnetizes the part. b. length of the prods.
b. Magnetizes the part. e. diameter of the prods.
e. Increases the residual magnetism. d. total length of the part.
d. Locates deep-lying discontinuities.
12. Demagnetization of a part is usually not necessary if
6. Circular magnetization is useful in the detection of: the part is:

a. circumferential cracks. a. small.

b. longitudinal cracks. b. inspected with the continuous method.
e. cracks in cylindrical parts at right angles to the e. high-carbon steel to be welded after inspection.
long axis of the part. d. to be hardened by heat treatment after inspection.
d. deep-lying discontinuities.
13. Which of the following is an advantage of the dry
7. In which magnetizing method is the current passed technique over the wet technique?
directly through the part, thereby setting up a
magnetic field at right angles to the current flow? a. It is more sensitive for detecting fine surface
cracks.
a. Longitudinal magnetization. b. It is more capable of providing full surface
b. Coil magnetization. coverage on irregularly shaped parts.
c. Central conductor magnetization. c. It is easier to use for field inspection with
d. Circular magnetization. portable equipment.
d. It is faster when testing many small parts.
8. Which of the following is a major disadvantage of
using prods? 14. Fluorescent magnetic particles are used in preference
to visible magnetic particles:
a. The magnetic field may be applied in the wrong
direction. a. when parts are big and bulky.
b. The inspection surface may be arc burned. b. when working in the field.
c. Magnetic saturation may occur. e. if parts are for railroad applications.
d. The operator's eyes may be burned by arc strikes. d. to increase the speed and reliability of detecting
very small discontinuities.
9. Inspecting a part by applying the magnetic particle
suspension while the current is flowing is called the: 15. The most versatile type of magnetic particle
equipment is:
a. continuous method.
b. dry method. a. a field kit.
e. residual method. b. the stationary horizontal machine.
d. demagnetization method. c. the mobile power unit.
d. the automatic machine.
10. How is the inside diameter of a cylinder best
magnetized? 16. Magnetic particle inspection methods are recognized
as superior to liquid penetrant techniques when the:
a. By a head shot.
b. By using prods at either end. a. surfaces of the test object are corroded.
c. With a central conductor placed between contact b. surface is anodized.
heads. e. parts are painted.
d. With the cylinder placed crosswise in a solenoid. d. part is made from austenitic steel.

59
Basic I SECTION II

17. When using direct current, an indication is detected. Neutron Radiographic Testing (NR)
What is the next logical step to determine if the
indication results from a surface or subsurface Topical Outline
condition?
2.6 Neutron Radiographic Testing
a. Reinspect using the surge method. 2.6.1 Fundamentals
b. Demagnetize and apply powder. 2.6.1.1 Sources
c. Reinspect at higher amperage. 2.6.1.1.1 Isotopic
d. Reinspect using alternating current. 2.6.1.1.2 Neutron
2.6.1.2 Detectors
18. A requirement to use magnetic particle testing on a 2.6.1.2.1 Imaging
part should also include: 2.6.1.2.2 Nonimaging
2.6.1.3 Nature of penetrating radiation and
a. a fabrication and service manual. interactions with matter
b. a statement on the drawing that requires a 2.6.1.4 Essentials of safety
magnetic particle test. 2.6.2 Neutron radiographic testing
c. the procedure to be used and acceptance criteria. 2.6.2.1 Basic imaging considerations
d. the method of test and service conditions. 2.6.2.2 Test result interpretation; discontinuity
indications
19. The statement that amperages testing can be applied 2.6.2.3 Systems factors (source/test object/detector .'
to plated and painted parts: interactions)
2.6.2.4 Applications
a. may be true if amperages are increased to 2.6.2.4.1 Explosives and pyrotechnic devices
compensate for the coating thickness. 2.6.2.4.2 Assembled components
b. is true regardless of the thickness of the coating. 2.6.2.4.3 Bonded components
c. is true only for circular magnetism. 2.6.2.4.4 Corrosion detection
d. is not true under any circumstances. 2.6.2.4.5 Nonmetallic materials

20. The best type of magnetizing current for inspection References

of fatigue cracks is: ASNT Questions & Answers Book: Neutron Radiographic Testing
Method. Columbus, OH: The American Society for Nondestructive
a. direct current. Testing, Inc. Latest edition.
b. alternating current. Bossi, R.H., F.A. Iddings and G.c. Wheeler, technical eds.; P.O.
Moore, ed. Nondestructive Testing Handbook, third edition: Volume 4,
,I
c. half-wave direct current.
Radiographic Testing. Columbus, OH: The American Society for
d. full-wave rectified direct current. Nondestructive Testing. 2002.

21. A star-shaped indication is seen on the cover pass of

a weld. What type of discontinuity is indicated? Neutron Radiographic Testing Review Questions

a. Crater crack. 1. The highest intensity sources of thermal neutrons

b. Cooling crack. are:
c. Slag inclusion.
d. Arc burn. a. Cf-252 isotopes.
b. accelerators.
22. For maximum sensitivity in magnetic particle c. nuclear fission reactors.
inspection of rough welds: d. cosmic radiation.

a. the weld should be wire brushed to remove slag 2. Neutrons for fast-neutron radiography are not
and scale. obtainable from:
b. standard test weldments should be used for
comparison. a. accelerators.
c. the weld bead should be coated with lacquer. b. radioactive sources.
d. the weld bead should be ground to remove c. reactors.
surface irregularities. d. X-ray machines.

60
 CHAPTER 4 General Applications of Various NOT Methods

3. A radioactive source used for neutron radiography is: 10. The most suitable films for producing neutron
radiographs are:
a. Cf-252.
b. Pu-239. a. industrial X-ray films.
c. Co-60. b. red-sensitive films.
d. Cs-137. c. instant-type films.
d. emulsions that contain no silver halides.
4. The energy of the neutron is expressed in which of
the following units of measurement? 11. Materials that are exposed to thermal neutron beams:

a. Curies (becquerels). a. must not be handled for at least 3 min after

b. Roentgens (coulombs per kilogram). exposure has ceased.
c. Rems (sieverts). b. must be stored in a lead-lined room.
d. Electronvolts. c. should be monitored by means of a neutron
counter.
5. A normally desirable feature of a thermal neutron d. may be radioactive after exposure to neutrons has
beam for neutron radiography is: ceased.

a. background gamma radiation intensity. 12. Lead is:

b. relatively low fast-neutron intensity.
c. low angular divergence. a. a good neutron shield.
d. relatively high thermal neutron intensity. b. corroded by neutron exposures.
c. a relatively poor neutron absorber.
6. Material that slows down neutrons is called: d. an efficient conversion screen.

a. a moderator. 13. If 2 mm (0.08 in.) of plastic attenuates a thermal

b. an accumulator. neutron beam by a factor of 2, then 20 mm (0.8 in.)
c. a limitor. will attenuate it by approximately a factor of:
d. a collimator.
a. 10.
7. The primary radiation mechanism for darkening b. 20.
radiographic film when the direct neutron radiography c. 200.
process is used with gadolinium screens is: d. 1000.

a. alpha particles. 14. Materials in common usage for moderation of

b. electrons. fast-neutron sources include:
c. gamma rays.
d. light emission. a. aluminum, magnesium, and tin.
b. water, plastic, paraffin, and graphite.
8. Neutron radiography using the transfer method c. neon, argon, and xenon.
requires that the imaging screen must: d. tungsten, cesium, antimony, and columbium.

a. be placed behind the film. 15. The main reason for using neutron radiography in
b. be placed in front of the film. place of X-radiography is:
c. be very thin.
d. become radioactive. a. a lower cost.
b. higher resolution.
9. Which of the following neutron radiography c. the ability to image objects and materials not
converter foils cannot be used for transfer or indirect possible with X-rays.
radiography? d. it is a simpler radiographic procedure when
required than X-radiography.
a. Dysprosium.
b. Indium.
c. Gadolinium.
d. Gold.

61
Basic I SECTION II

16. A photographic record produced by the passage of 21. The primary advantage of using a Cf-252 source for
neutrons through a specimen onto a film is called: neutron radiography is its:

a. a fluoroscopic image. a. portability.

b. an isotopic reproduction. b. low cost per unit neutron flux compared to other
c. a radiograph. neutron radiographic sources.
d. a track-etch photograph. c. high resolution.
d. long useful life.
17. Many of the absorption differences between neutrons
and X-rays indicate that the two techniques: 22. Quality of the results from a neutron radiographic
exposure is best determined by:
a. cause radiation problems.
b. complement each other. a. reference standards.
c. can be used interchangeably. b. image quality indicators.
d. can both be used to image hydrogenous materials c. neutron flux measurement.
equally well. d. densitometer readings.

18. The penetrating ability of a thermal neutron beam is 23. The radiographic image of discontinuities in the
governed by: imaging screens can be separated from actual
discontinuities in a part being radiographed by:
a. attenuating characteristics of the material being
penetrated. a. comparing a neutron radiograph of the parts to a
b. exposure time. blank neutron radiograph of the same imaging
c. source- to- film distance. screen with no parts in place.
d. thickness of the converter screen. b. producing a photographic copy of the original
neutron radiograph using X-ray duplicating film.
19. The transfer exposure method is used because: c. increasing the exposure time of the radiograph.
d. decreasing the temperature of the developer
a. it is not influenced by gamma radiation in the solution.
primary beam.
b. it produces greater radiographic sensitivity than 24. For inspection of radioactive objects or those that
direct exposure using gadolinium. emit gamma radiation when bombarded with
c. it is faster than the direct exposure method. neutrons, a preferable detection technique is the:
d. the screens used in this method emit only
internal conversion electrons of about 70 keY. a. direct exposure technique.
b. transfer technique.
20. Higher resolution can be achieved in direct neutron c. isotopic reproduction technique.
radiography by: d. electrostatic-belt generator technique.

a. placing a lead intensifying screen between a 25. Neutron radiography is an excellent tool for
gadolinium screen and the film. determining:
b. increasing the LID ratio of the collimation
system. a. the coating thickness of aluminum oxide on
c. increasing the exposure time. anodized aluminum.
d. increasing the distance between the object and b. the size of voids in thick steel castings.
the film cassette. c. the integrity of thin plastic material within a steel
housing.
d. tungsten inclusions in GT AW welds.

62
 CHAPTER 4 General Applications of Various NDTMethods

26. Neutron radiography extends radiographic capability References

for detecting cracks in small cylinders of: ASNT Level II Study Guide: Radiographic Testing Method. Columbus,
OH: The American Society for Nondestructive Testing, Inc. Latest edi-
a. aluminum. tion.
b. iron. ASNT Level III Study Guide: Radiographic Testing Method. Columbus,
c. magnesium. OH: The American Society for Nondestructive Testing, Inc. Latest edi-
tion.
d. plutonium.
ASNT Questions & Answers Book: Radiographic Testing Method.
Columbus, OH: The American Society for Nondestructive Testing,
27. Which of the following is not a preferred application Inc. Latest edition.
of neutron radiography?
Bossi, R.H., F.A. Iddings and G.c. Wheeler, technical eds.; P.O.
Moore, ed. Nondestructive Testing Handbook, third edition: Volume 4,
a. Detecting the presence or absence of explosive Radiographic Testing. Columbus, OH: The American Society for
material contained within a metal device. Nondestructive Testing. 2002.
b. Detecting the presence of water in the cells of Marshall, K. Programmed Instruction Series: Radiographic Testing
stainless steel honeycomb. (PTP Series), Volume II: Safety. Columbus, OH: The American Society
c. Detecting the proper alignment of a rubber seal for Nondestructive Testing, Inc. 2012.*
in a small steel valve assembly. McCain, D., ASNT Study Guide: Industrial Radiography Radiation
d. Detecting the presence of a lead rupture Safety. Columbus, OH: American Society for Nondestructive Testing,
Inc. 2009.
diaphragm in a small aluminum safety valve
assembly. Radiographic Testing Classroom Training Book (PTP Series), second
edition. Columbus, OH: The American Society for Nondestructive
Testing, Inc. 2016.
28. Common sources of neutrons for neutron
Nichols, D,J. Programmed Instruction Series: Radiographic Testing
radiography are: (PTP Series), Volume III: Making a Radiograph. Columbus, OH: The
American Society for Nondestructive Testing, Inc. 2012*
a. electron linear accelerators. Patience, M. Programmed Instruction Series: Radiographic Testing
b. isotopes of cobalt (e.g., Co-60). (PTP Series), Volume IV: Processing and Imaging. Columbus, OH: The
c. nuclear reactors. American Society for Nondestructive Testing, Inc. 2012.*
d. betatrons. Ramakrishnan, R. Programmed Instruction Series: Radiographic
Testing (PTP Series), Volume I: Physics and Principles. Columbus, OH:
The American Society for Nondestructive Testing, Inc. 2012.*
Radiographic Testing Ramakrishnan, R. Programmed Instruction Series: Radiographic
Testing (PTP Series), Volume V: Radiographic Interpretation.
Columbus, OH: The American Society for Nondestructive Testing,
Topical Outline
Inc. 2012.*
"Available only as part of five-volume set.
2.7 Radiographic Testing
2.7.1 Fundamentals
2.7.1.1 Sources Radiographic Testing Review Questions
2.7.1.2 Detectors
2.7.1.2.1 Imaging 1. The penetrating ability of an X-ray beam is governed
2.7.1.2.2 Nonimaging by:
2.7.1.3 Nature of penetrating radiation and
interactions with matter a. kilovoltage or wavelength.
2.7.1.4 Essentials of safety b. time.
2.7.2 Radiographic testing c. milliamperage.
2.7.2.1 Basic imaging considerations d. source-to-film distance.
2.7.2.2 Test result interpretation; discontinuity
indications
2.7.2.3 Systems factors (source/test object/detector
interactions)
2.7.2.4 Applications
2.7.2.4.1 Castings
2.7.2.4.2 Welds
2.7.2.4.3 Assemblies
2.7.2.4.4 Electronic components
2.7.2.4.5 Field inspections
63
Basic I SECTION II

2. Two X-ray machines operating at the same nominal 8. The fact that gases, when bombarded by radiation,
kilovoltage and milliamperage settings: ionize and become electrical conductors makes them
useful in:
a. will produce the same intensities and energies of
radiation. a. X-ray transformers.
b. will produce the same intensities but may b. fluoroscopes.
produce different energies of radiation. e. masks.
c. will produce the same energies but may produce d. radiation detection equipment.
different intensities of radiation.
d. may give not only different intensities but also 9. The reason exposure time must be increased by a
different energies of radiation. factor of four when the source-to-film distance is
doubled is that the:
3. Short wavelength electromagnetic radiation
produced during the disintegration of nuclei of a. intensity of radiation decreases at an exponential
radioactive substances is called: rate when the source-to-film distance is
increased.
a. X-radiation. b. energy of radiation is inversely proportional to
b. gamma radiation. the square root of the distance from the source to
c. scatter radiation. the film.
d. beta radiation. e. intensity of radiation is inversely proportional to
the square of the distance from the source to the
4. Almost all gamma radiography is performed with: film.
d. scattered radiation effect is greater as the
a. natural isotopes. source-to-film distance increases.
b. artificially produced isotopes.
c. Radium. 10. The most important factor in X-ray absorption of a
d. Co-60. specimen is:

5. The energy of gamma rays is expressed by which of a. the thickness of the specimen.
the following units of measurement? b. the density of the specimen.
c. Young's modulus of the material.
a. Curie (gigabecquerel). d. the atomic number of the material.
b. Roentgen (coulomb per kilogram).
c. Half-life. 11. The maximum permissible dose per calendar year is
d. Kiloelectronvolts (keV) or megaelectronvolts 5 rem (0.05 Sv) for:
(MeV).
a. extremities.
6. Of the following, the source providing the most b. skin.
penetrating radiation is: c. whole body (total effective dose equivalent).
d. a fetus from occupational exposure of a declared
a. Co-60. pregnant woman.
b. 220 kVp X-ray tube.
e. 15 MeV betatron. 12. Exposure to small doses of X-rays or gamma rays:
d. electrons from 1r-192.
a. has a cumulative effect that must be considered
7. The difference between the densities of two areas of a when monitoring for maximum permissible dose.
radiograph is called: b. is beneficial because it serves to build an
immunity in humans to radiation poisoning.
a. radiographic contrast. e. will have no effect on human beings.
b. subject contrast. d. will have only a short-term effect on human
c. film contrast. tissues.
d. definition.

64
 CHAPTER 4 General Applications of Various NDTMethods

13. Which of the following technique variables is most 19. At voltages above 400 kV, tb use oflead to provide
commonly used Lo adjust subject contrast? protection may present serious structural problems.
If this should be the case, which of the following
a. Source-to-film distance. materials would most likely be used as a substitute?
b. Milliamperage.
c. Kilovoltage. a. Concrete.
d. Focal spot size. b. Aluminum.
c. Steel.
14. A basic difference between a radiograph and a d. Boron.
fluoroscopic image is that:
20. A distinctive characteristic of megavolt radiography
a. the fluoroscopic image is more sensitive. is that it:
b. the fluoroscopic image is positive whereas the
radiographic image is negative. a. results in comparatively high subject contrast.
c. the fluoroscopic image is brighter. b. results in comparatively high radiographic
d. there is no basic difference between the two. contrast.
c. is applicable to comparatively thick or highly
15. Thin sheets of lead foil in intimate contact with absorbing specimens.
X-ray film during exposure increase film density d. is utilized for stainless steels only.
because they:
21. Given the radiographic equivalency factors of 1.4 for
a. fluoresce and emit visible light, which helps Inconel' and 1.0 for 304 stainless steel, what is the
expose the film. approximate equivalent thickness of Inconel" to
b. absorb the scattered radiation. produce the same exposure as a 3.S mm (0.15 in.)
c. prevent backscattered radiation from fogging the thickness of 304 stainless steel?
film.
d. emit electrons when exposed to X- and gamma a. 3 mm (0.11 in.).
radiation, which helps to darken the film. b. 9 mm (0.35 in.).
c. IS mm (0.7 in.).
16. When viewing a radiograph, an image of the back of d. 36 mm (1.4 in.).
the cassette superimposed on the image of the
specimen is noted. This is most likely due to: 22. The fact that each solid crystalline substance
produces its own characteristic X-ray pattern is the
a. undercut. basis for:
b. overexposure.
c. X-ray intensity being too high. a. xeroradiography.
d. backscatter radiation. b. X-ray diffraction testing.
c. fluoroscopic testing.
17. An image quality indicator OQI) is used to measure d. polymorphic testing.
the:
23. When inspecting a light metal casting by
a. size of discontinuities in a part. fluoroscopy, which of the following discontinuities
b. density of the film. would most likely be detected?
c. quality of the radiographic technique.
d. amount of radiation that penetrates the test a. Copper shrinkage.
object. b. Microshrinkage.
c. Shrinkage.
IS. In film radiography, IQls are usually placed: d. Fine cracks.

a. between the intensifying screen and the film.

b. on the source side of the test object.
c. on the film side of the test object.
d. between the operator and the radiation source.

65
Basic I SECTION II

24. For testing a 25 mm (l in.) steel plate 305 mm 27. Miniature electronic components are to be
(12 in.) square for laminar discontinuities, which of radiographically inspected to reveal broken copper
the following would be most effective? wire leads of 0.2 mm (0.008 in.) diameter. Which of
the following image quality indicators (IQIs) would
a. 3.7 TBq (l00 Ci) ofIr-l92. be most effective to use in establishing a reliable
b. 925 GBq (25 Ci) of Co-60. technique?
c. 250 kVp X-ray machine.
d. An ultrasonic device. a. A series of steel plaque-type IQIs ranging in
thickness from 0.1 mm (0.005 in.) to 0.4 mm
25. A critical weld was made with a double vee-groove. (0.015 in.), containing IT, 2T, and 4Tholes.
Among those listed, which radiographic technique b. A plastic block with the radiographic thickness
would provide coverage with the greatest probability equivalent of the test objects, containing
for detecting the most serious discontinuities? precision-drilled holes ranging from 0.1 mm
(0.005 in.) to 0.4 mm (0.015 in.) diameter.
a. A single exposure centered on the weld and c. A plastic block with the radiographic thickness
perpendicular to the principal surface of the equivalent of the test objects, containing copper
plate. wires ranging from 0.1 mm (0.005 in.) to 0.4 mm
b. Two exposures aligned with the vee-groove, focus (0.015 in.) diameter.
±30° off perpendicular. d. A series of copper shims ranging in thickness
c. Two exposures, perpendicular to the plate, offset from 0.1 mm (0.005 in.) to 0.4 mm (0.015 in.),
by the width of the weld bead. containing 1/2T and 1Tholes.
d. A single exposure as in (a), above, but with two
films aligned ±30° off perpendicular.
Thermal/Infrared Testing (IR)
26. A fuse assembly is radiographed so that
measurements can be made on the film to determine Topical Outline
a minimum internal clearance dimension. What
should be factored into the dimension taken from the 2.8 Thermal/Infrared Testing
film? 2.8.1 Fundamentals
2.8.1.1 Principles and theory of thermal/infrared
a. Projection magnification. testing
b. Film latitude. 2.8.1.2 Temperature measurement principles
c. Slope of the characteristic curve. 2.8.1.3 Proper selection of thermal/infrared technique
d. Image quality indicator (IQI) alignment. 2.8.2 Equipment/materials
2.8.2.1 Temperature measurement equipment
2.8.2.2 Heat flux indicators
2.8.2.3 Noncontact devices
2.8.2.4 Contact temperature indicators
2.8.2.5 Noncontact pyrometers
2.8.2.6 Line scanners
2.8.2.7 Thermal imaging
2.8.2.8 Heat flux indicators
2.8.3 Applications
2.8.3.1 Exothermic or endothermic investigations
2.8.3.2 Friction investigations
2.8.3.3 Fluid flow investigations
2.8.3.4 Thermal resistance investigations
2.8.3.5 Thermal capacitance investigations
2.8.4 Interpretation and evaluation

66
 CHAPTER 4 General Applications of Various NDTMethods

References 6. As a surface cools, the peak of its radiated infrared

ASNT Level III Study Guide: Infrared and Thermal Testing Method. energy:
Columbus, OH: American Society for Nondestructive Testing, Inc.
Latest edition. a. shifts to longer wavelengths.
ASNT Questions & Answers Book: Thermal & Infrared Testing Method. b. shifts to shorter wavelengths.
Columbus, OH: American Society for Nondestructive Testing, Inc. c. remains constant if emissivity remains constant.
Latest edition.
d. remains constant even if emissivity varies.
Maldague, X.P.V., technical ed., P.O. Moore, ed. Nondestructive
Testing Handbook, third edition: Volume 3, Infrared and Thermal
Testing. Columbus, OH; The American Society for Nondestructive
7. A graybody surface with an emissivity of 0.04 would
Testing. 2001. be:
Wolfe, W.L. and G.J. Ziessis, eds. The Infrared Handbook. The
Environmental Research Institute of Michigan (prepared for The a. transparent to infrared radiation.
Department of Navy). 1985. b. a fairly good emitter.
c. almost a perfect reflector.
Thermal/Infrared Testing Review Questions d. almost a perfect emitter.

1. Thermal resistance is: s. If a surface has an emissivity of 0.35 and a reflectivity

of 0.45, its transmissivity would be:
a. analogous to electrical current.
b. a material's impedance to heat flow. a. impossible to determine without additional
e. proportional to the fourth power of emissivity. information.
d. proportional to the rate of heat flow. b. o.so.
c. 0.10.
2. Conductive heat transfer cannot take place: d. 0.20.

a. across a vacuum. 9. The spectral band in which glass transmits infrared

b. within organic materials such as wood. radiation most efficiently is the:
c. between two solid materials in contact.
d. between dissimilar metals. a. 3-6 flm region.
b. 2-3 flm region.
3. The infraredlthermal energy emitted from a target c. 6-9 flm region.
surface: d. 9-11 flm region.

a. occurs only in a vacuum. 10. Infrared thermal detectors:

b. is inversely proportional to surface emissivity.
c. is proportional to the fourth power of the a. have a broad, flat spectral response.
absolute surface temperature. b. have much faster response times than photon
d. is totally absorbed by water vapor in the air. detectors.
c. usually require cooling to operate properly.
4. Thermal radiation reaching the surface of a thermally d. have much greater sensitivity than photon
opaque object will only be: detectors.

a. absorbed by the surface. 11. A diffuse reflecting surface is:

b. absorbed and reflected by the surface.
c. reflected by the surface. a. a polished surface that reflects incoming energy
d. transmitted and absorbed by the surface. at a complementary angle.
b. a surface that scatters reflected energy in many
5. The following spectral band is included in the directions.
infrared spectrum: c. also called a specular reflecting surface.
d. highly transparent to infrared radiation.
a. 0.1-5.5 flm.
b. 0.3-10.6 flm.
e. 0.4-20 flm.
d. 0.75-100 flm.

67
Basic I SECTION II

12. The minimum resolvable temperature difference is a 17. A line scanner is best used for applications:
subjective measurement that depends on:
a. requiring online real-time process monitoring
a. the infrared imaging system's spatial resolution and control of a linear thermal process.
only. b. where the material is stationary.
b. the infrared imaging system's measurement e. where the process speed is no greater than 3 mis.
resolution only. d. where the maximum temperature of the material
e. the infrared imaging system's thermal sensitivity is 300°C (572 OF).
and spatial resolution.
d. the infrared imaging system's minimum spot size. 18. Most infrared focal plane array imagers:

13. The spatial resolution of an instrument is related to a. use more costly optics than scanning radiometers.
the: b. offer better spatial resolution than scanning
radiometers.
a. thermal resolution. c. offer better thermal resolution than scanning
b. spectral bandwidth. radiometers.
c. system responsivity. d. offer less diagnostics features than scanning
d. instantaneous field of view and the working radiometers.
distance.
19. When measuring the temperature of a nongray
14. The noise equivalent temperature difference (NETD) target:
of a thermal infrared imager tends to:
a. the viewing angle is not critical.
a. improve as the target temperature increases. b. always assume a uniform emissivity.
b. degrade as the target temperature increases. c. varying surface temperature differences can be
c. remain constant regardless of the target ignored.
temperature. d. errors may occur when using a variety of
d. improve with increasing working distance. instruments.

15. The 3-5 11mspectral region is well suited for the 20. Thermal diffusivity is:
inspection of materials that exhibit:
a. high for metals and low for porous materials.
a. distinct spectral characteristics limiting b. the same for all metals.
inspection to 3-5 11m. e. low for metals and high for porous materials.
b. measuring targets at extremely long working d. the same for all porous materials.
distances.
c. measuring targets warmer than 200°C (392 OF). 21. The term used to describe a material's surface
d. operating at elevated ambient temperatures. temperature response to a given energy input is
called:
16. When measuring the temperature of glass while
using a mid-wave (3-5 11m)infrared imaging system, a. diffuse reflectivity.
which of the following steps is necessary? b. thermal conductance.
c. thermal effusivity.
a. Use a 3.2 11mlow-pass filter. d. spectral transmittance.
b. Use a 5 11mhigh-pass filter.
c. No filter is necessary if using the same emissivity
setting used with long-wave imaging systems.
d. Use a 3.9 11mbandpass filter.

68
 CHAPTER 4 General Applications of Various NDT Methods

Ultrasonic Testing (UT) Ultrasonic Testing Review Questions

Topical Outline 1. Ultrasonic waves propagate through test materials in

the form of:
2.9 Ultrasonic Testing
2.9.1 Fundamentals a. electromagnetic waves.
2.9.1.1 Wave propagation b. low-voltage electric fields.
2.9.1.1.1 Sound fields c. discontinuous radio waves.
2.9.1.1.2 Wave travel modes d. mechanical vibrations.
2.9.1.1.3 Refraction, reflection, scattering, and
attenuation 2. When an ultrasonic beam passes through the
2.9.1.2 Transducers and sound beam coupling interface of two dissimilar materials at an angle, a
2.9.2 Ultrasonic testing new angle of sound travel takes place in the second
2.9.2.1 Basictypes of equipment material due to:
2.9.2.2 Reference standards
2.9.2.3 Test result interpretation; discontinuity a. refraction.
indications b. attenuation.
2.9.2.4 System factors c. rarefaction.
2.9.2.5 Applications d. compression.
2.9.2.5.1 Flaw detection and evaluation
2.9.2.5.2 Thickness measurement 3. The gradual loss of energy as ultrasonic vibrations
2.9.2.5.3 Bond evaluation travel through material is referred to as:
2.9.2.5.4 Process control
2.9.2.5.5 Castings a. reflection.
2.9.2.5.6 Weldments b. refraction.
c. compression.
References d. attenuation.
ASNT Level II Study Guide: Ultrasonic Testing Method. Columbus,
OH: The American Society for Nondestructive Testing, Inc. Latest edi- 4. Ultrasonic velocities are different for different
tion. materials. These differences are primarily caused by
ASNT Level III Study Guide: Ultrasonic Testing Method. Columbus, differences in the materials':
OH: The American Society for Nondestructive Testing, Inc. Latest edi-
tion.
a. frequency and wavelength.
ASNT Questions & Answers Book: Ultrasonic Testing Method. b. thickness and travel time.
Columbus, OH: The American Society for Nondestructive Testing,
c. elasticity and density.
Inc. Latest edition.
d. chemistry and permeability.
Gao, H. Programmed Instruction Series: Ultrasonic Testing (PTP
Series), Volume I: Ultrasonic Principles and Basic Techniques.
Columbus, OH: The American Society for Nondestructive Testing, 5. Ultrasonic energy for immersion testing is
Inc. 2013.* transmitted to the test object as a compressional
Gao, H. Programmed Instruction Series: Ultrasonic Testing (PTP wave because:
Series), Volume II: Ultrasonic Evaluation and Advanced Techniques.
Columbus, OH: The American Society for Nondestructive Testing, a. compressional waves travel faster and will
Inc. 2013.* therefore reduce the distance of the interface
Marks, P.T. Ultrasonic Testing Classroom Training Book (PTP Series), signal.
second edition. Columbus, OH: The American Society for b. liquids will only sustain compressional waves.
Nondestructive Testing, Inc. 2015.
c. compressional waves are used with immersion
Workman, G.L. and D. Kishoni, technical eds.; P.O. Moore, ed.
testing only.
Nondestructive Testing Handbook, third edition: Volume 7, Ultrasonic
Testing. Columbus, OH: The American Society for Nondestructive d. the higher intensity of compressional waves is
Testing, Inc. 2007. necessary to overcome high attenuation in
"Available only as part of two-volume set. liquids.

69
Basic I SECTION II

6. When inspecting coarse-grained materials, which of 11. In a basic pulse-echo ultrasonic instrument, the
the following frequencies will generate a sound wave component that produces the voltage that activates
that will be most easily scattered by the grain the search unit is called:
structure?
a. an amplifier.
a. 1.0 MHz. b. a receiver.
b. 2.25 MHz. c. a pulser.
c. 5 MHz. d. a synchronizer.
d. 10 MHz.
12. The primary purpose of reference blocks is to:
7. In general, shear waves are more sensitive to small
discontinuities than longitudinal waves for a given a. aid the operator in obtaining maximum back
frequency and in a given material because: reflections.
b. obtain the greatest sensitivity possible from an
a. the wavelength of shear waves is shorter than the instrument.
wavelength of longitudinal waves. c. obtain a common reproducible reference
b. shear waves are not as easily dispersed in the standard.
material. d. establish the size and orientation of a
c. the direction of particle vibration for shear waves discontinuity.
is more sensitive to discontinuities.
d. the wavelength of shear waves is longer than the 13. The general use of distance-amplitude correction is
wavelength of longitudinal waves. to compensate for:

8. The ability of transducers to detect echoes from small a. attenuation, distance, and beam spread.
discontinuities is a definition of: b. amplitude of noise Signals.
c. velocity changes.
a. resolution. d. vertical nonlinearity in the ultrasonic instrument.
b. sensitivity.
c. definition. 14. In area-amplitude ultrasonic standard test blocks, the
d. gain. flat-bottom holes in the blocks are:

9. Which of the following will create a resonance a. all the same diameter.
condition in a specimen? b. different in diameter, increasing in 0.4 mm
(0.02 in.) increments from the No.1 block to
a. Continuous longitudinal waves. the No.8 block.
b. Pulsed longitudinal waves. c. largest in the No.1 block and smallest in the No.
c. Pulsed shear waves. S block.
d. Continuous shear waves. d. drilled to different depths from the front surface
of the test block.
10. The display on most basic pulse-echo ultrasonic
instruments consists of: 15. Which of the following factors has the least influence
on the amount of energy reflected from a
a. automatic read-out equipment. discontinuity?
b. an A-scan presentation.
c. a B-scan presentation. a. Size of the discontinuity.
d. a C-scan presentation. b. Orientation of discontinuity.
c. Discontinuity type.
d. Test frequency.

70
 CHAPTER 4 General Applications of Various NOTMethods

16. The presence of a discontinuity will not produce a 20. The most commonly used method of producing
specific discontinuity indication on the display shear waves in a test part when inspecting by the
screen when which of the following techniques is immersion method is by:
used?
a. transmitting longitudinal waves into a part in a
a. Straight-beam testing. direction perpendicular to its front surface.
b. Surface-wavetesting. b. using two crystals vibrating at different
c. Through-transmission testing. frequencies.
d. Angle-beam testing. c. using a low-frequency transducer.
d. angulating the search tube to the proper angle
17. Lack of parallelism between the entry surface and the with respect to the entry surface of the test part.
back surface:
21. In immersion testing, proof that the search unit is
a. may result in a screen pattern that does not normal (perpendicular) to a flat entry surface is
contain back reflection indications. indicated by:
b. makes it difficult to locate discontinuities that lie
parallel to the entry surface. a. maximum reflection amplitude from the entry
c. usually indicates a porous condition existing in surface.
the metal. b. elimination of water multiples.
d. will decrease the penetrating power of the test. c. maximum reflection amplitude from the back
surface.
18. Significant errors in ultrasonic thickness d. maximum amplitude of the initial pulse.
measurement can occur if:
22. In immersion testing, the water distance between the
a. test velocity is varied. search unit and the test piece:
b. the velocity of propagation deviates substantially
from an assumed constant value for a given a. should be as small as possible.
material. b. will have no effect on the test.
c. water is used as a couplant between the c. should be the same as the water distance used
transducer and the part being measured. during calibration.
d. longitudinal waves are used. d. should be as great as possible.

19. In contact testing, shear waves can be induced in the 23. Generally, the best ultrasonic testing technique for
test material by: detecting discontinuities oriented along the fusion
zone in a welded plate is:
a. placing an X-cut quartz crystal directly on the
surface of the material and coupling through a a. an angle-beam contact method employing surface
film of oil. waves.
b. using two transducers on opposite sides of the b. an immersion test using surface waves.
test specimen. c. a resonance technique.
c. using an angle-beam transducer with the d. an angle-beam method using shear waves.
transducer mounted on a plastic wedge so that
sound enters the part at an angle. 24. Thin sheet may be inspected for laminar
d placing a spherical acoustic lens on the face of the discontinuities with the ultrasonic wave directed
transducer. normal (perpendicular) to the surface by observing:

a. the amplitude of the front surface reflection.

b. the multiple reflection pattern.
c. the amplitude of the initial pulse.
d. signals that "walk" or move along the time base as
the transducer is scanned over the sheet.

71
Basic I SECTION II

25. Ultrasonic inspection of castings is occasionally 30. Ultrasonic testing techniques are useful in testing
impractical because of: laminate and sandwich construction test objects for:

a. extremely small grain structure typical in a. paint thickness.

castings. b. bond integrity.
b. coarse grain structure. c. leakage.
c. uniform flow lines. d. surface roughness.
d. random orientation of discontinuities.
31. Ultrasonic techniques are frequently used in online
26. Angle-beam testing of plate will often miss: automatic process control applications to measure
and control:
a. cracks that are perpendicular to the sound wave.
b. inclusions that are randomly oriented. a. moisture content in materials.
c. laminations that are parallel to the front surface. b. surface roughness of turbine blade castings.
d. a series of small discontinuities. c. the thickness of cold-rolled strips, sheets, and
plates.
27. Reflection indications from a weld area being d. chemical activity in chemical etching processes.
inspected by the angle-beam technique may
represent all of the following except: 32. Which of the following statements about field
inspection applications of ultrasonic testing is true?
a. porosity.
b. cracks. a. Manual and automatic systems can be used for
c. the weld bead. field inspections.
d. laminations in the base metal. b. Because the equipment is large and bulky, field
inspections are difficult, at best.
28. An ultrasonic test using a straight-beam contact c. Aircraft and other field maintenance inspections
search unit is being conducted through the thickness usually require three persons: one to manipulate
of a flat part, such as plate. This test should detect: the transducer, one to monitor the instrument,
and one to record results.
a. laminar type discontinuities with major d. Digital displays must be used for outdoor
dimensions parallel to the plane of the rolled inspection because of the limited brightness of
surface. screen displays.
b. transverse type discontinuities with major
dimensions at right angles to the plane of the
rolled surface. Visual Testing (VT)
c. radial discontinuities with major dimensions
along the length but radially oriented to the Topical Outline
rolled surface.
d. rounded discontinuities at the edges of the rolled 2.10 Visual Testing
plate. 2.10.1 Fundamentals
2.10.1.1 Principles and theory of visual testing
29. The resonance technique of thickness measurement 2.10.1.2 Selection of correct visual technique
has been mostly replaced by: 2.10.1.3 Equipment and materials
2.10.2 Specific applications
a. through-transmission longitudinal wave 2.10.2.1 Metal joining processes
techniques. 2.10.2.2 Pressure vessels
b. acoustic emission monitoring. 2.10.2.3 Pumps
c. pitch-and-catch shear-wave techniques. 2.10.2.4 Valves
d. linear time-base pulse-echo techniques. 2.10.2.5 Bolting

72
 CHAPTER 4 General Applications of Various NDT Methods

2.10.2.6 Castings 4. When measuring surface roughness, Ra is defined as

2.10.2.7 Forgings what?
2.10.2.8 Extrusions
2.10.2.9 Microcircuits a. Average distance between the peak and valley
2.10.3 Interpretation and evaluation points.
2.10.3.1 Codes and standards b. Average waviness from crest to trough.
2.10.3.2 Environmental factors c. Average distance of the profile to the mean line.
d. Parameter of friction between contact surfaces.
References
Allgaier, M.W. and R.E. Cameron, technical eds.; P.O. Moore, ed. 5. What do inspectors need to have in addition to being
Nondestructive Testing Handbook, third edition: Volume 9, Visual proficient in the testing process to increase the
Testing. Columbus, OH: The American Society for Nondestructive probability of finding rejectable discontinuities with
Testing, Inc. 2010.
maximum efficiency?
ASNT Level II Study Guide: Visual Testing Method. Columbus, OH:
The American Society for Nondestructive Testing, Inc., Latest edition.
a. Ironclad specifications.
ASNT Level III Study Guide: Visual and Optical Testing Method. b. Knowledge of acceptance criteria.
Columbus, OH: The American Society for Nondestructive Testing,
Inc. Latest edition.
c. Motivation to perform.
d. Caring supervision.
ASNT Questions & Answers Book: Visual and Optical Testing Method.
Columbus, OH: The American Society for Nondestructive Testing,
Inc., Latest edition. 6. What magnifying power is typically available for
field, pocket, pen, or measuring microscopes that are
small and handheld?
Visual Testing Review Questions
a. Between Sx and 20x.
1. What is visual testing? b. Between lOx and SOx.
e. Between Sx and 100x.
a. Detection of surface anomalies and various color d. Greater than SOx.
variations.
b. Optical detection of surface anomalies and 7. What is the minimum luminance recommended by
checking conformance to specification. the Illuminating Engineering Society (IES) for task
c. Evaluation of metallurgical conditions via lighting with medium contrast and small size
electronic microscope. detection desired?
d. Examination for wide variety of discontinuities
open to the surface or just below. a. 100 lx.
b. 200 lx.
2. What element of the eye is analogous to the film of a c. 500 lx.
camera, receiving and documenting an image of the d. 2000 lx.
world?
8. What is the direction of view called in a borescope or
a. Optic nerve. videoscope when viewing 45 degrees off the
b. Iris. straight -ahead direction of the probe?
c. Cornea.
d. Retina. a. Forward slant.
b. Forward oblique.
3. Illumination varies inversely as the square of the c. Forespective.
distance between the source and the point on the d. Angulated.
surface increases. What is this law called?

a. Inverse square law.

b. Cosine law.
c. Generation of light law.
d. Lambert's law.

73
Basic I SECTION II

9. How many bundles are there in a fiber optic 15. What is pillowing on aircraft lap joints, typically on
borescope and what are they called? aircraft skins, usually attributed to?

a. One; monochromatic bundle. a. Misalignment of fasteners used to attach the skins

b. Two; light guide and image guide. to the airframe.
c. Two; light guide and CCD cable bundle. b. Stretching of the skins beyond their yield points
d. Three; light guide, image guide, and fiber sheath. over time.
c. Expansion of corrosion products under the skins.
10. Which remote camera system is Singularlybest d. Twisting of the airframe during tight turns and
suited to inspect stainless tubing for weld conditions similar maneuvers.
or cleanliness, process piping, drain lines, and heat
exchanger tubing? 16. When inspecting welds for discontinuities located by
visual testing of pressure vessels and storage tanks,
a. Crawler mounted camera. which of the following discontinuities is allowed to
b. Probe camera. be present to some degree?
c. Pan, tilt, and zoom camera.
d. Push camera. a. Undercut.
b. Cracks. "
11. What is a commonly evident surface discontinuity c. Lack of fusion.
visible to the unaided eye following forming? d. Incomplete penetration.

a. Forging bursts at the center of the billet. 17. Which of the following is an example of an
b. Laminations at end preparations of plate for organization that publishes standards for test
welding. techniques?
c. Edge breaks in temper-rolled sheets of steel.
d. Segregation between pours. a. ASNT.
b. API.
12. What type of cracking occurs at the last termination c. OSHA.
point of a weld by shielded metal arc welding? d. ASTM.

a. Crater crack. 18. How can the heat-affected zone (HAZ) of carbon
b. Hot tearing. steel welds be made visible?
c. Cold cracking.
d. Hot cracking. a. Etchants to enhance the visibility of the
microstructure.
13. Which type of nuclear reactor vessel may have all its b. High-frequency ultrasonic microscopic means.
internal components removed from the vessel to c. Color-contrast penetrating liquids.
allow visual inspection? d. Arrays of temperature-sensitive markings.

a. Boiling water reactor (BWR). 19. Pixels used in digital photographs or images is a term
b. Pressurized water reactor (PWR). that comes from what combination of words?
c. Light water reactor (LWR).
d. Heavy water reactor (HWR). a. Photography, inserts, and electric laser.
b. Pie, excel, and light.
14. What might be required after visual inspection of c. Positional "x" elements.
steel fasteners in wrought aluminum plate in a lap d. Picture elements.
joint of an aircraft with evidence of exfoliation?

a. Computed radiography exams.

b. Immersion ultrasonic exams.
c. Fluorescent penetrant testing.
d. Ultrasonic C-scan.

74
 CHAPTER 4 General Applications of Various NDT Methods

3. What particular type of discontinuity would not

Magnetic Flux Leakage Testing (MFL) typically be indicated by magnetic flux leakage
techniques?
Topical Outline
a. Laps.
2.11 Magnetic Flux Leakage Testing b. Pitting with cracking.
2.11.1 Fundamentals c. Surface contamination.
2.11.1.1 Magnetic field principles d. Longitudinal seams.
2.11.1.2 Magnetization by means of electric current
2.11.1.3 Flux leakage 4. The strength of the magnetic field in the interior of a
2.11.2 Flux leakage inspection coil is determined by the:
2.11.2.1 Basic types of equipment and inspection
materials a. number of turns in the coil only.
2.11.2.2 Types of discontinuities found by magnetic b. strength of applied current only.
flux leakage inspection c. number of turns in the coil and the strength of
2.11.2.3 Sensors used in magnetic flux leakage the applied current.
inspection d. direction of applied current in the coil.
2.11.3 Applications
2.11.3.1 Wire rope inspection 5. The current used for magnetization when performing
2.11.3.2 Pipe body inspection magnetic flux leakage inspection must be a:
2.11.3.3 Tank floor/steel plate inspection
a. steady nonfluctuating current.
References b. current that reverses direction at a consistent
Moore, D.G., technical ed.; P.O. Moore, ed. Nondestructive Testing rate.
Handbook, third edition: Volume 8, Magnetic Testing. Columbus, OH: c. current that fluctuates on and off at a consistent
The American Society for Nondestructive Testing. 2008. rate.
Udpa, S.S., technical ed.; P.O. Moore, ed. Nondestructive Testing d. current that varies based on the thickness of the
Handbook, third edition: Volume 5, Electromagnetic Testing. material.
Columbus, OH: The American Society for Nondestructive Testing.
2004.
6. As a general rule, hard (high-strength) ferromagnetic
materials have:
Magnetic Flux Leakage Testing Review Questions
a. high coercive force and are easily demagnetized.
1. In magnetic flux leakage inspection for b. high coercive force and are not easily
discontinuities using an active field, the part being demagnetized.
inspected should be magnetized: c. low coercive force and are easily demagnetized.
d. low coercive force and are not easily
a. beyond saturation. demagnetized.
b. to saturation or near saturation.
c. well below saturation. 7. In magnetic flux leakage testing, the greatest tube
d. near the point of maximum permeability. wall thickness for which maximum sensitivity can be
maintained is:
2. An advantage that magnetic flux leakage testing has
in comparison with electromagnetic testing is that a. 0.08 mm (0.003 in.).
magnetic flux leakage testing is: b. 0.8 mm (0.03 in.).
c. 8 mm (0.318 in.).
a. less sensitive to interferences caused by surface d. 76 mm (3 in.).
roughness.
b. useful on products at temperatures above the
curie point.
c. useful on austenitic steels.
d. easier to use on ferromagnetic materials.

75
Basic I SECTION II

8. In the examination of above-ground storage tanks 10. A break in the magnetic uniformity of a part that is
where the flux sensor is on the top surface: called a magnetic discontinuity is related to a sudden
change in:
a. only top surface discontinuities are detected.
b. only bottom surface discontinuities are detected. a. resistivity.
c. both top and bottom surface discontinuities can b. inductance.
be detected and can generally be distinguished c. permeability.
from each other. d. capacitance.
d. both top and bottom surface discontinuities can
be detected but generally cannot be distinguished 11. A hysteresis curve describes the relation between:
from each other.
a. magnetizing force and flux density.
9. Materials that are weakly repelled magnetically are b. magnetizing force and applied current.
called: c. strength of magnetism and alignment of domains
within material.
a. diamagnetic. d. magnetic flux density and the current generated.
b. nonmagnetic.
c. paramagnetic. 12. When inspecting wire rope, a magnetic flux loop is
d. ferromagnetic. used to monitor:

a. broken external wires.

b. broken internal wires.
c. changes in inspection speed.
d. reductions in cross-sectional area.

76
 CHAPTER 4 General Applications of Various NDT Methods

Answers to Review Questions

Acoustic Emission Testing
lb 2d 3d 4c Sa 6c 7a Sb 9d lOa

Electromagnetic Testing
lc 2a 3b 4c Sa 6c 7d Sc 9c 10d lld 12b 13c 14b
lSa 16b 17c lSb 19a 20d 21d 22b 23a 24a 2Sb 26d 27a

Leak Testing
ld 2a 3d 4c Sb 6c 7a Sc 9b lOa

Liquid Penetrant Testing

lb 2d 3a 4d Sd 6b 7b Sa 9d lOa llc 12b 13a 14c
lSb 16b 17a lSa 19c 20d 21c 22c 23b 24c 2Sd

Magnetic Particle Testing

la 2c 3b 4c Sa 6b 7d Sb 9a 10c 11a 12d 13c 14d
lSb 16c 17d lSc 19a 20b 21a 22d

Neutron Radiographic Testing

lc 2d 3a 4d Sb 6a 7b Sd 9c lOa 11d 12c 13d 14b
lSc 16c 17b lSa 19a 20b 21a 22b 23a 24b 2Sc 26d 27d 2Sc

Radiographic Testing
la 2d 3b 4b Sd 6c 7a Sd 9c 10d llc 12a 13c 14b
lSd 16d 17c lSb 19a 20c 21a 22b 23c 24d 2Sb 26a 27c

Thermal/Infrared Testing
lb 2a 3c 4b Sd 6a 7c Sd 9b lOa llb 12c 13d 14a
lSc 16d 17a lSb 19d 20a 21c

Ultrasonic Testing
ld 2a 3d 4c Sb 6d 7a Sb 9a lOb llc 12c 13a 14b
lSd 16c 17a lSb 19c 20d 21a 22c 23d 24b 2Sb 26c 27d 2Sa
29d 30b 31c 32a

Visual Testing
lb 2d 3a 4c Sc 6b 7c Sb 9b 10d llc 12a 13b 14d
lSc 16a 17d lSa 19d

Magnetic Flux Leakage Testing

lb 2d 3c 4c Sa 6b 7c Sd 9a 10c lla 12d

77
 SECTION III
MATERIALS, FABRICATION,
AND PRODUCT TECHNOLOGY
"
CHAPTER 5
Materials and Processes for NDT Technology

Overview So fundamental is this relationship that the book

Materials and Processesfor NDT Technology was prepared
Commensurate with the need for NDT Level III person-
and published in 1981 and revised in 2016. The questions
nel to have basic knowledge of materials and processes,
here follow the chapters in this second, updated edition of
books have been written specifically for the purpose of pre- the book.
senting the fundamentals of these subjects from an NDT As a suggestion in the use of this section of the study
perspective. Clearly, not all NDT Level III personnel need guide, try to answer the questions about a particular chapter
to specialize in depth in more than a few facets of industrial before proceeding to the next chapter. If the subject matter
materials and manufacturing processes. However, the rela- is unfamiliar, or if the questions are difficult to answer, read
tionships between NDT technology and materials and pro- the chapter, especially the section(s) referenced by the ques-
cessing are pervasive. NDT personnel charged with the tion. The material in the book is presented specifically with
responsibilities of selecting appropriate NDT methods, the NDT technologist in mind. It is concise and well illus-
developing techniques and procedures, and directing the trated, but it does not require an engineering or scientific
efforts of others in providing meaningful and reliable NDT background to be comprehended. Complex theories and
must have a fundamental and broad knowledge of the ori- unimportant details are not included.
gins, nature, behavior, and application of materials and the The Basic Examination Level III Topical Outline for 3.0
processes by which they are shaped into the products of Basic Materials, Fabrication, and Product Technology in
today's commerce. ANSI/ ASNT CP-l 05: ASNT Standard Topical Outlines for
The importance of the relationships between NDT and Qualification of Nondestructive Testing Personnel (2016) is
materials and processing technology is characterized in the presented below for your reference:
ASNT Level III Basic Examination. Approximately
one-third of the Basic Examination covers fundamentals of
basic materials, fabrication, and product technology. Listed 3.1 Fundamentals of material technology
on the following pages are sample questions typical of those 3.1.1 Properties of materials
that have importance to NDT personnel. Note that most 3.1.1.1 Strength and elastic properties
have an underlying basis that ties their content to decision 3.1.1.2 Physical properties
points in NDT. 3.1.1.3 Material properties testing
Some NDT Level III personnel are not placed by their 3.1.2 Origin of discontinuities and failure modes
employers in work assignments that require significant 3.1.2.1 Inherent discontinuities
knowledge of materials and processing technology. 3.1.2.2 Process-induced discontinuities
However, progression in NDT technology from Level II to 3.1.2.3 Service-induced discontinuities
Level III in most industrial and commercial situations does 3.1.2.4 Failures in metallic materials
require the individual to respond to more complex techni- 3.1.2.5 Failures in nonmetallic materials
cal questions, not only about the details of NDT but also 3.1.3 Statistical nature of detecting and characterizing
about issues related to causes and effects. Imagine being discontinuities
called upon to select NDT methods, develop techniques and
procedures, and instruct others in carrying out an inspec- 3.2 Fundamentals of fabrication and product technology
tion of a critical component without knowing whether the 3.2.1 Raw materials processing
component was a casting, forging, or weldment. Even with 3.2.2 Metals processing
the knowledge of the component's processing history, if the 3.2.2.1 Primary metals
Level III lacks the knowledge of what could go wrong dur- 3.2.2.1.1 Metal ingot production
ing that processing, how can the Level III be expected to 3.2.2.1.2 Wrought primary metals
render important decisions about what NDT should be 3.2.2.2 Castings
used and how NDT should be used? 3.2.2.2.1 Green sand molded
3.2.2.2.2 Metal molded
3.2.2.2.3 Investment molded

81
Basic I SECTION III

3.2.2.3 Welding 3.2.3 Nonmetals and composite materials processing

3.2.2.3.1 Common processes 3.2.3.1 Basic materials processing and process control
3.2.2.3.2 Hard-surfacing 3.2.3.2 Nonmetals and composites fabrication
3.2.2.3.3 Solid-state 3.2.3.3 Adhesive joining
3.2.2.4 Brazing 3.2.4 Dimensional metrology
3.2.2.5 Soldering 3.2.4.1 Fundamental units and standards
3.2.2.6 Machining and material removal 3.2.4.2 Gaging
3.2.2.6.1 Turning, boring, and drilling 3.2.4.3 Interferometry
3.2.2.6.2 Milling
3.2.2.6.3 Grinding The questions that follow are referenced in Materials
3.2.2.6.4 Electrochemical and Processes for NDT Technology, second edition, pub-
3.2.2.6.5 Chemical lished in 2016. References are keyed in brackets. The first
3.2.2.7 Forming number refers to the chapter and subsequent numbers to
3.2.2.7.1 Cold-working processes sections and subsections within the chapter. Some chapters
3.2.2.7.2 Hot-working processes are more heavily weighted than others to better reflect the
3.2.2.8 Powdered metal processes kinds of questions appearing on a Basic Level III examina-
3.2.2.9 Heat treatment tion. Although very few questions derive from Chapter 12
3.2.2.10 Surface finishing and corrosion protection in this unit, this chapter in particular provides a good
3.2.2.10.1 Shot peening and grit blasting overview of various NDT methods that would enhance the
3.2.2.10.2 Painting study of Section II of this study guide.
3.2.2.10.3 Plating
3.2.2.10.4 Chemical conversion coatings
3.2.2.11 Adhesive joining

82
 CHAPTER 5 Materials and Processes for NOT Technology

Review Questions

Chapter 1: "Manufacturing and Materials" 5. Design engineers are responsible for establishing the
function, appearance, quality, and cost of a product.
1. Most solid metals and plastics that have reasonable Regarding the role of NDT in product design, which
strength at room temperature are called: of the following is true?

a. composite materials. a. As a group, designers (by their training and

b. manufacturing materials. education) are adequately informed about NDT
c. allotropic materials. to establish NDT procedures and acceptance
d. engineering materials. criteria.
[1.1] b. When NDT appears necessary in a design, the
designer should properly select the methods and
2. Manufacturing refers to processing that starts with techniques to be used by reference to NDT
raw material in a bulk form and is concerned mainly handbooks.
with processing the raw material in a manner that e. Designers should depend solely upon NDT
changes its: personnel to establish acceptance criteria.
d. Designers should seek input from NDT personnel
a. shape. to ensure all required inspections can be
b. chemical form. performed.
e. mechanical properties. [1.6.3)
d. physical properties.
[1.5) Chapter 2: "Classification, Structure, and
Solidification of Materials"
3. Manufacturing processes change raw material by:
1. Under ordinary usage, metals exist as:
a. stress relieving.
b. machining. a. amorphous solids.
c. case hardening. b. mixtures and compounds of iron and carbon.
d. electroplating. c. crystalline solids.
(1.5) d. face-centered cubic lattices.
[2.4)
4. Frequently, dimensions are permitted to vary within
specified limits. These variations are called: 2. The terms body-centered cubic,foce-centered cubic,
and hexagonal close-packed all refer to the:
a. variances.
b. fudge factors. a. different size grains that can exist at the same
c. tolerances. time in a metallic structure.
d. factors of safety. b. sequence of crystalline growth in a typical mild
(1.6.2] steel.
c. lattice structures that make up unit cells in a solid
metallic structure.
d. change in a metallic structure as it undergoes
plastic deformation.
[2.4)

83
Basic I SEGION III

3. Which of the following materials cannot typically be 9. Attacks on metals by direct chemical action and/or
used in the as-cast state? electrolysis are called:

a. Aluminum. a. corrosion.
b. Pure iron. b. rust.
c. Zinc. c. austenitic transformations.
d. Magnesium. d. galvanization.
[2.5.4J [2.7.3]

4. Processes called austenitizing, annealing, and 10. Which of the following does not help prevent
normalizing are: corrosion?

a. approximate equilibrium heat-treatment a. Alloying with nickel.

processes. b. Anodizing.
b. performed only on nonferrous metals. c. Corrosion inhibitors.
c. cold-working processes. d. Insulating.
d. age-hardening processes. [2.7.4)
[2.6.3)
11. The process of returning ductility to a cold-worked
5. Annealing is usually performed to: low-carbon steel is called:

a. increase hardness. a. precipitation.

b. reduce corrosion. b. recrystallization.
c. remove strain hardening. c. allotropic change.
d. increase conductivity. d. austenitization.
[2.6.3) [2.8.6]

6. The term precipitation hardening is often used 12. When used as an in-process treatment,
interchangeably with the term: recrystallization can:

a. age hardening. a. improve ductility.

b. recrystallization. b. enlarge grains.
c. annealing. c. increase hardness.
d. work hardening. d. passivate the surface.
[2.6.4) [2.8.7)

7. In a tensile test on a cylindrical specimen, the strain Chapter 3: "Properties of Materials"

measured on the specimen gage length is used to
calculate: 1. Material properties, as used in design, are most
frequently determined by:
a. age hardening.
b. the strain rate. a. theoretical analysis.
c. the modulus of elasticity. b. materials testing.
d. instability. c. the National Institute of Standards and
[2.6.5) Technology (NIST).
d. fracture mechanics testing.
8. Which of the following material properties are of (3.1]
most concern if corrosion resistance is essential?

a. Processing properties.
b. Mechanical properties.
c. Physical properties.
d. Electrochemical properties.
[2.7.2)

84
 CHAPTER 5 Materials and Processes for NOT Technology

2. Which of the following statements is true regarding 5. Tensile tests are conducted on specimens from a
the electrical conductivity of aluminum alloys? newly developed alloy in order to determine the
ultimate tensile strength of the material. Such tests
a. Most aluminum alloys are in the range of 70% to are referred to as:
96% lACS.
b. Clad aluminum takes on the conductivity of the a. indirect tests.
base metal. b. physical properties tests.
c. Each basic wrought aluminum alloy has a c. destructive tests.
conductivity distinct from any other. d. acoustic emission tests.
d. The conductivity of an aluminum alloy is lower [3.3.2)
than that of pure aluminum.
[3.2.3) 6. In Figure 2, which of the following ranges indicates
the effect of work hardening (to its maximum)
3. Which of the following may lead to permanent caused by plastic flow of the material during a tensile
deformation? load?

a. Load below the yield strength point. a. A-B.

b. Low-frequency dynamic loading. b. B-C.
c. Strain hardening. c. C-D.
d. Elongation within the elastic range. d. D-E.
[3.3) [3.3.3)

4. In Figure 1, point B is called the:

Figure 2
a. linear-elastic region. Stress
b. yield strength point.
c. ultimate tensile strength.
d. modulus of elasticity.
[3.3.11

Figure 1
900
800 /c
.-.. 700
~ 600
e500 7. In Figure 2, the points represented by E and F would
I/) E
l{l 400 be closer together if the material being tested were:
~ 300
~~B
200 a. less ductile.
100 b. loaded in tension.
0 c. loaded in lapshear.
0 0.02 0.04 0.06 0.08 0.1 0.12
d. more ductile.
Strain (mm)
[3.3.3)

8. The modulus of elasticity, or Young's modulus, is the

quotient of strength divided by strain up to the:

a. yield strength.
b. tensile strength.
c. compressive strength.
d. resistance to stress.
[3.3.3)

85

\
Basic I SEGIONIII

Chapter 4: "Production and Properties of

9. Direct hardness tests provide a measure of a Common Metals"
material's ability to resist:
1. The reduction of iron ore, by mixing with coke,
a. bending. limestone, and oxygen for combustion of the coke, is
b. permanent deformation or penetration. accomplished in:
c. tensile stresses.
d. elongation. a. a blast furnace.
[3.3.5] b. an open-hearth furnace.
c. a bessemer converter.
10. What does Figure 3 indicate? d. a basic oxygen furnace.
[4.1.2]
a. Endurance limit.
b. Toughness related to strength. 2. In the iron-and steelmaking process, pig iron refers
c. Number of fatigue cycles. to:
d. Creep rate at a specific temperature and load.
[3.3.8] a. the waste material that contains high
concentrations of impurities and slag and is
either discarded or used as a byproduct.
Figure 3
b. a high-carbon, low-ductility metal produced in
the blast furnace that can be used to make
Fracture
subsequent types of iron and steel.
c. the molten metal from the blast furnace that is
t
c:
not usable and is poured off into a series of crude
o castings called "pigs."
~Ol d. low-cost metal used in large production factories.
c:
o [4.1.2]
jjj
;f.
3. An undesirable byproduct of the steelmaking process
is:
Time---
a. coke.
b. low-carbon steel.
c. low-alloy steel.
d. slag.
11. Figure 4 typifies: [4.1.2]

a. an S-N plot. 4. Which of the following techniques is often used to

b. a creep test curve. speed up the steelmaking process?
c. a stress-strain diagram.
d. a true stress-strain diagram. a. Adding large amounts of carbon to the molten
[3.3.8] metal.
b. Reducing the amount of scrap steel that is often
added to the molten metal.
Figure 4
c. Adding oxygen to the molten metal.
d. Converting the old open-hearth furnaces into
~60~
electric furnaces.
III 50 [4.1.3]
~
ii5 40
E
E
.;c 30
C!I
:::=
20r--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--
104 105 106 107 108 109 1010
Cycles

86
 CHAPTER 5 Materials and Processes for NOT Technology

5. Typically, the highest quality of steel is produced in: 10. Which of the following is true relative to the
comparison of the properties of aluminum-based
a. an electric furnace. alloys and iron-based alloys?
b. an open-hearth furnace.
c. a bessemer furnace. a. Iron has a lower melting point than aluminum.
d. a basic oxygen furnace. b. Iron can exist in several different crystalline
[4.1.3] structures, and its properties can be controlled by
heat treatment.
6. By which of the following processes is most of the c. Iron can be alloyed to increase its strength,
world's steel produced? whereas aluminum is strongest in its pure state.
d. Iron is preferred in load-carrying designs, but it
a. Bessemer converter. should not be used for any deformation type of
b. Electric furnace. manufacturing process.
c. Open hearth. [4.1.8]
d. Basic oxygen furnace.
[4.1.3] 11. Corrosion-resistant steels having relatively high
percentages of nickel and chromium are called:
7. What percentage of carbon is found in steel?
a. wrought iron.
a. Between 3% and 4%. b. low-alloy steels.
b. Between 2% and 3%. c. stainless steels.
c. Less than 0.2%. d. nonferrous steels.
d. Less than 2%. [4.1.8)
[4.1.6)
12. Austenitic stainless steels are paramagnetic; this
8. A steel with 40 points of carbon contains: means that:

a. 40% carbon. a. alternating current must be used when using the

b. 4% carbon. magnetic particle testing method.
c. 0.4% carbon. b. the steel is very dense and, relative to other steels,
d. 0.04% carbon. difficult to penetrate with X-rays.
[4.1.6] c. ultrasonic testing is the logical NDT method to
choose because of the coarse-grained nature of a
9. Low-carbon steel contains approximately: paramagnetic material.
d. the material has a very low permeability.
a. 0.6 to 2.5% carbon. [4.1.8)
b. 0.06 to 0.25% carbon.
c. 0.5 to 1.6% carbon. 13. Which of the following is an advantage of cast steel
d. 5 to 16% carbon. over wrought steels?
[4.1.6)
a. Cast steels usually have higher mechanical
properties than wrought steels.
b. Cast steels have more isotropic properties than
wrought steels.
c. Cast steels are more corrosion-resistant than
wrought steels.
d. Cast steels cannot be heat treated, and are thus
less expensive to produce than wrought steels.
[4.1.10)

87
Basic I SECTIONIII

14. Which of the following nonferruus metals is the most 19. Which of the following metal alloys has a density
important structural material? approximately two-thirds that of aluminum?

a. Copper alloys. a. Magnesium.

b. Nickel alloys. b. Beryllium.
c. Zinc alloys. c. Copper.
d. Aluminum alloys. d. Nickel.
[4.2.1] [4.7.1]

15. Many metals exhibit an increase in strength caused 20. A high-strength, low-density, corrosion-resistant
by plastic flow beyond the elastic limit. This effect is metal alloy of significance in the aircraft, marine, and
called: chemical processing industries is:

a. twinning. a. tungsten.
b. plastic deformation. b. zinc.
c. work hardening. c. titanium.
d. age hardening. d. magnesium.
[4.2.2] [4.8]

16. The heat treatment of aluminum for the purpose of Chapter 5: "Polymers, Ceramics, and
hardening and strengthening: Composites"

a. is not possible with aluminum alloys because they 1. Which of the following statements is true concerning
contain no carbon and cannot undergo allotropic plastics following their initial polymerization?
changes.
b. can produce tensile strengths equivalent to some a. Thermoplastics harden when reheated.
carbon steels. b. Thermosetting plastics do not soften, but char
c. requires the use of special furnaces and is rarely and deteriorate when reheated.
done as a practical application. c. All plastics are synthetic and contain no natural
d. requires that iron and carbon be alloyed for the materials.
best results. d. Plastics have a complex molecular structure,
[4.2.4] making it expensive to bind with other materials.
[5.1.1.2]
17. Brass and bronze are alloys of zinc, tin, and a large
percentage of: 2. Based on the strength-to-weight ratio:

a. beryllium. a. no plastic materials can compare with metals.

b. copper. b. plastics, as a group, are superior in strength to
c. lead. most ferrous metals.
d. nickel. c. some plastics, including nylon, may have
[4.3.1] strengths greater than some steels.
d. plastics, being chemically inert, retain their
18. Monel" and Inconel" are: strength longer than carbon steels in corrosive
environmen ts.
a. nickel alloys. [5.1.2]
b. steel alloys.
c. magnesium alloys.
d. aluminum alloys.
[4.4.3; Table 4.12)

88
 CHAPTER 5 Materials and Processes for NOT Technology

3. Which of the following statements is true regarding 6. Which of the following statements is true concerning
plastics processing? composite materials?

a. Unlike metals, plastics must be processed without a. Composite materials are engineered from one or
the addition of heat. more reinforcing agents and a matrix to increase
b. All plastic molding processes use liquid-state strength and reduce weight.
materials introduced into the mold cavity. b. When composite materials are cured, the
c. Injection molding can be done only with constituents lose their original identity and form
thermosetting materials. chemical compounds with one another.
d. Both thermoplastics and thermosetting plastics c. A unique feature of composite materials is that
may be processed by molding, casting, and their tensile strength frequently exceeds the
extrusion. strength of the strongest constituent.
[5.1.3) d. Composites are usually formed into complex
three-dimensional shapes with each dimension
4. Reinforced plastic molding involves use of: approximately equal to the other two.
[5.3)
a. thermosetting plastics and fibrous reinforcement
materials. 7. Which of the following materials is typically
b. thermosetting plastics and metallic powder considered when the application requires high
reinforcement. compressive strength?
c. thermoplastics and wood fiber reinforcement
materials. a. Glass fibers.
d. thermoplastics and metallic powder b. Aramid fibers.
reinforcement. c. Carbon fibers.
[5.1.3.51 d. Ceramic fibers.
[5.3.3.2]
5. The major difference between materials classified as
composites and those classified as mixtures is that: 8. Which of the following statements is true concerning
honeycomb?
a. composites contain metallic constituents and
mixtures are nonmetallic. a. The function of a honeycomb core is to lighten,
b. mixtures start as liquids blended together and stiffen, and strengthen by utilizing the sandwich
composites start as solids. principle.
.1 c. mixtures are elastomeric, whereas composites are b. In honeycomb, the walls of the cellular core
characterized as having at least one plastic material are aligned parallel with the plane of the
component. face sheets.
d. mixtures are a type of composite with random c. Honeycomb containing nonmetallic elements can
orientation and shape of the constituents. be bonded by adhesives, brazing, or diffusion
[5.2.1) welding.
d. Honeycomb combining metallic and nonmetallic
elements cannot be used in cryogenic service due
to the permeability of the nonmetallic elements.
[5.3.5)

9. The mechanism of adhesion may combine

mechanical interlocking with:

a. stickiness of the adhesive.

b. roughness of the adherends.
c. dynamic mechanical forces.
d. cohesion.
[5.3.6.2)

89
Basic I SECTIONIII

10. Which of the following tests uses a pendulum to 4. Which of the following may cause a discontinuity
break a specimen that is notched and supported on even though its intended purpose is to prevent
both ends, with the result of measuring energy shrinkage cavities by absorbing heat from the molten
absorption? metal in the center of the casting?

a. Creep test. a. Riser.

b. Charpy test. b. Internal chill.
e. Fatigue test. c. Core.
d. Transverse rupture test. d. Chaplet.
[5.3.7.2] [6.1.1.5]

Chapter 6: "Casting" 5. In a casting, shrinkage occurs:

1. The design of the casting is important because the a. only after the transformation from liquid to solid.
quality of the finished product can be adversely b. only during the transformation from liquid to
affected by all of the following except: solid.
c. before, during, and after the transformation from
a. lack of molten metal to compensate for liquid to solid.
contraction. d. only when the metal is in the liquid state.
b. location of the gate with reference to either [6.1.2.2]
progressive solidification or directional
solidification. 6. Large voids or porosity in a casting result from:
e. the location of hot spots in areas of the casting
that are isolated by thin sections. a. turbulent flow of the molten metal during
d. temperature of the mold immediately prior to pouring.
casting. b. alloy element segregation.
[6.1.1.1] e. molten metal boiling because of superheat.
d. gas evolution before and during solidification.
2. The part of the casting where the gate or riser [6.1.2.2]
attaches:
7. During the solidification of a casting, the shrinkage
a. is the area used to establish reference standards that occurs:
for cast materials.
b. provides the best quality material because of a. may cause cavities that are enlarged by the
rapid cooling in this area. evolution of gases.
c. may provide a concentration point for b. may cause porosity and shrinkage cavities
discontin uities. primarily in the outer surfaces where the metal
d. is designed to create nonuniform section cools first.
thicknesses. c. requires that the pattern used be slightly smaller
[6.1.1.3] than the desired dimension of the finished
casting.
3. Risers, feeders, or feed heads in castings serve to d. may be eliminated by investment casting.
provide sources of molten metal to compensate for: [6.1.2.2]

a. misruns. 8. A casting process used to produce elongated shapes

b. cold shuts. by drawing solidified metal from a water-cooled
c. dendritic grain growth. mold backed by molten metal is:
d. shrinkage.
[6.1.1.4] a. centrifugal casting.
b. continuous casting.
e. draw casting.
d. extrusion.
[6.2.1]

90
 CHAPTER 5 Materials and Processes for. Nor Technology

9. Green sand casting molds include: 14. Another term for precision casting and the lost-wax
process is:
a. sand, clay, and water.
b. sand, wax, and solvent. a. investment casting.
c. sand, refractory metals, and water. b. die casting.
d. sand, carbon, and green clay. c. metal mold casting.
[6.2.2.2) d. shell mold casting.
[6.2.4)
10. Which of the following NDT methods can be
commonly used to inspect castings for core shift and 15. Permanent molds are most frequently made of:
unfused chaplets and to determine that all core
materials have been removed? a. ceramics.
b. fused sand and plastic.
a. Ultrasonic testing. c. metal.
b. Magnetic particle testing. d. plaster.
c. Radiographic testing. [6.2.6)
d. Electromagnetic testing.
[6.2.2.6) 16. A casting process used to produce hollow products
like large pipes and hollow shafts is:
11. Mold material in the form of inserts that exclude
metal flow and thus form internal surfaces or a. investment casting.
passages in a casting are called: b. blow casting.
c. core casting.
a. chills. d. centrifugal casting.
b. chaplets. [6.2.7]
c. cores.
d. patterns. 17. Which of the following metals has low strength and
[6.2.2.6) high corrosion resistance, and is used largely in
die-casting operations?
12. Small metal supports used to support and position
cores become part of a casting by fusing with the a. Zinc.
molten metal. Such devices are called: b. Aluminum.
c. Magnesium.
a. core hangers. d. Manganese.
b. chills. [6.2.8)
c. risers.
d. chaplets. 18. Which of the following is true regarding
[6.2.2.6) solidification of molten metal in a casting mold?

13. Casting molds made by covering a heated metal a. The metal cools at a constant rate, thus providing
pattern with sand that is mixed with particles of fine equiaxed grains throughout.
thermosetting plastic are called: b. Cooling takes place in phases having different
rates that produce different types of grain
a. green sand molds. structure in different sections of the casting.
b. shell molds. c. Solidification occurs at a constant rate, beginning
c. die casting molds. at the interior of the casting and progressing
d. permanent molds. outward.
[6.2.2.10) d. Thick sections tend to cool more rapidly than
thin sections because thin sections consist mostly
of fine equiaxed grains.
[6.3.2)

91
Basic I SEGIONIII

19. The term used to describe a discontinuity in a casting 5. Which of the following product forms is generally
that occurs when molten metal interfaces with selected for high strength and controlled property
already solidified metal with failure to fuse at the directionality?
interface is:
a. Castings.
a. hot tear. b. Forgings.
b. cold shut. c. Extrusions.
c. lack of fusion. d. Hot-rolled flat stock.
d. segregation. [7.2.1]
[6.4.3]
6. NDT is often used on products intended for
Chapter 7: "Metal Forming" secondary operations to:

l. Deformation of metals provides a number of a. ensure that further operations are not performed
advantages. Which of the following is not an on material that contains discontinuities that
advantage? could cause rejection of the manufactured part.
b. determine that discontinuities do not exist in the
a. Deformation processes increase the probability of material that could damage the rolling mills and
discontinuity formation. other equipment.
b. High duplication accuracy results from most c. determine the ductility of the material after the
deformation processes. rolling operation is complete.
c. In general, the properties of wrought metals are d. accurately determine the compressive strength of
improved over their cast counterparts. the material after it passes through the rolling
d. Thin sections can be more economically and mill.
more successfullyproduced than by casting. [7.2.1.1]
[7.2]
7. An NDT method best suited to locating
2. Which of the following would have the least discontinuities caused by inclusions rolled into steel
ductility? plate is:

a. Cold-rolled steel plate. a. radiographic testing.

b. Hot-rolled steel plate. b. ultrasonic testing.
c. Cast iron. c. visual testing.
d. Hot-rolled aluminum plate. d. magnetic particle testing.
[7.2] [7.2.1.1]

3. Forged products invariably exhibit: 8. Slabs, blooms, and billets are:

a. high susceptibility to corrosion. a. the shapes that the ingot is rolled into prior to a
b. lower strength than their cast counterparts. variety of secondary operations.
c. directional properties. b. the three consecutive stages that the metal goes
d. poor weldability. through during the production of products such
[7.2.1] as angle iron and channel iron.
c. types of discontinuities that occur during the hot
4. The millworking process used most to form metals rolling of steel.
into three-dimensional shapes is: d. the three different shapes produced during
typical cold-rolling operations.
a. casting. [7.2.2.1]
b. cold rolling.
c. welding.
d. forging.
[7.2.1]

92
 CHAPTER 5 Materials and Processes for NOT Technology

9. Before cold-finishing operations can be done on 13. Which of the following statements is true concerning
hot-rolled materials, cleaning is often done by deformation processes?
immersing the hot-rolled material in acid baths in a
process called: a. Hot working usually follows cold working.
b. Hot working must be followed by heat treatment.
a. degreasing. c. Cold working usually follows hot working.
b. descaling. d. Cold working renders brittle material more ductile.
c. pickling. [7.2.2.2)
d. anodizing.
[7.2.2.1] 14. Machinability and fatigue resistance are improved in
most metals that have been:
10. During the steelmaking process, a large number of
discontinuities such as slag, porosity, and shrinkage a. hot worked.
cavities exist in the top of the ingot. These b. cold worked.
discontinuities are: c. heat treated.
d. cast.
a. mostly eliminated in subsequent hot working due [7.2.2.2)
to the pressure that "welds" the void shut.
b. located with NDT at later stages of production. 15. The millworking process performed principally on
c. almost nonexistent with modern steelmaking flat products and bars that improves hardness,
processes. strength, surface finish, and dimensional accuracy is:
d. removed by cropping up to one-third off the top
of the ingot. a. cold rolling.
[7.2.2.1) b. hot rolling.
c. forging.
11. Discontinuities with their origin in the original ingot d. sintering.
can be reduced in severity by the closing and welding [7.2.2.2)
of voids and the breaking up and elongation of
inclusions by which of the following processes? 16. Most seamless tubing made without welds is
processed by:
a. Cold working.
b. Hot rolling. a. casting.
c. Heat treatment. b. piercing.
d. Welding. c. cold rolling.
[7.2.2.1) d. brazing.
[7.2.2.2)
12. Cold rolling sheet steel usually begins with a material
that: 17. With flat products such as cold-rolled strip and
sheet, ultrasonic and radiation gages may be used to
a. has been completely inspected with an automated provide an accurate measurement of:
radiographic system.
b. has been previously hot rolled to dimensions a. strain rate.
close to the size of the finished product. b. surface roughness.
c. has less ductility and greater hardness than c. thermal properties.
typical hot-rolled steel. d. thickness.
d. will have a lower yield and tensile strength after [7.2.2.2)
cold working.
[7.2.2.2) 18. Most steel pipe is produced by forming and:

a. drawing.
b. welding.
c. extrusion.
d. pressing.
[7.2.2.3)

93
Basic I SEmON III

19. A process that requires the use of large, powerful 24. Most new developments in sheet-metal forming
equipment that forms ductile material into a wide typically use nonconventional energy sources. What
variety oflong-length, uniform, cross-sectional is a common feature of these processes?
shapes best describes:
a. The use of lasers for controlled heat input.
a. forging. b. The use of cryogenics to super-cool the metal
b. powder metallurgy. prior to forming.
c. extrusion. c. The use of energy sources that release large
d. die casting. amounts of energy in a very short time.
[7.2.3] d. The use oflarge autoclaves that contain both the
tooling and the metal being formed.
20. Among other factors, the advantageous effects of [7.3.4)
recrystallization depend upon the:
25. Which of the following is not an application for
a. rate of heating. powdered metal products?
b. temperature at which deformation takes place.
c. presence of carbon in excess of 25% for steels. a. Chemical catalysts.
d. presence of silicon in excess of 0.1 % for steels. b. Filtering elements.
[7.2.4] c. Bearings.
d. Electric motor housings,
21. In drawing and deep drawing, the final shape often [7.4]
can be completed in a series of draws, each
successivelydeeper. What process performed 26. Powder metallurgy provides two unique advantages
between draws might effectivelyreduce the number in metals processing. One is the capability to produce
of draws required? shapes and objects of refractory metals that are
extremely difficultor impractical to melt; the other is
a. Recrystallization. to:
b. Pickling.
c. Etching. a. economically produce metals with extremely low
d. Hardening heat treatment. melting temperatures.
[7.2.4] b. produce metal shapes with controlled porosity.
c. produce metals that can be easily machined by
22. Spinning can be used to form: electrochemical processes.
d. produce metals that are corrosion resistant.
a. spherical deep-drawn shapes. [7.4.1]
b. cemented carbide cutting tools.
c. rectangular sheet metal tanks. 27. A major purpose of pressing the metal powders
d. solid spheres. during powder metallurgy processing is to:
[7.2.4)
a. squeeze out excess moisture.
23. Which of the following terms does not describe b. further refine the grains.
operations that bend, stretch, and shape sheet metal c. compact the powders into mechanical and atomic
into three-dimensional shapes with significant plastic closeness.
flow and deformation? d. decrease the contact area.
[7.4.2)
a. Bending.
b. Forming. 28. Powdered metallurgy products cannot:
c. Drawing.
d. Shearing. a. be hot worked after sintering.
[7.3.2] b. be heat treated after sintering.
c. be machined after sintering.
d. attain 100% of theoretical density.
[7.4.2]

94
 CHAPTER 5 Materials and Processes for NOT Technology

29. In the powder metallurgy process, sintering is: 5. Pressure welding can be accomplished with pressure
alone, but what else is usually added?
a. in most cases a fully solid-state process.
b. never a fully solid-state process. a. Heat.
c. principally done at room temperature. b. Filler material.
d. always done at elevated temperature and high c. Oxides.
pressure. d. Adhesives.
[7.4.31 [8.1.2.2)

Chapter 8: "Joining and Fastening" 6. In pressure bonding, heat has the effect of:

1. An assembly that has been created by joining two or a. increasing malleability.

more parts by one or more welds is called a: b. age hardening.
c. reducing the grain size.
a. joint. d. causing a phase change.
b. bonded structure. [8.1.2.2)
c. weld.
d. weldment. 7. Soldering, brazing, and braze welding all:
[8.11
a. have the same strength characteristics.
2. A general definition of welding describes the joining b. use a process where only the filler metal is
of two surfaces: actually melted.
c. are fusion-type weldments.
a. with a filler metal that has a higher melting point d. use liquid penetrant inspection to reveal porosity
than the base metal. within the joint.
b. with a filler material that is different from the [8.1.2.3)
base material.
c. in a permanent union established by 8. Proper brazing depends upon numerous factors
atom-to-atom bonds. being controlled. Of the following, which is not
d. where both heat and pressure are necessary for appropriate?
permanent bonding.
[8.11 a. Proper joint fit-up and joint preparation.
b. Adequate heat to melt the braze filler metal.
3. Of the following, which is not a requirement for c. Selection of proper braze filler metal.
fusion bonding? d. Complete melting of the step metal and diffusion
of the braze filler metal into the base metal.
a. Melting. [8.1.3.2)
b. Atomic closeness.
c. Atomic cleanliness. 9. In the process of diffusion welding, often called
d. Pressure. diffusion bonding, the base metal is joined by:
[8.1.2.11
a. melting the weld joint area with strip heaters.
4. Metallurgical effects in a weld, such as grain size b. using high-temperature adhesives.
variation and shrinkage, are similar to those that c. putting it under pressure at temperatures below
occur in: the melting point.
d. the heat of frictional movement between the
a. forgings. surfaces to be joined,
b. castings. [8.1.4)
c. extrusions.
d. hot-rolled plates.
[8.1.2.1)

95
Basic I SECTIONIII

10. What type of weld joint is depicted in Figure 5?

13. The uneven shrinkage and brittle structures that
a. Corner joint. occur due to the rapid cooling of a weld can often be
b. Butt joint. reduced by:
c. Tee joint.
d. Edge joint. a. preheating the weldment prior to welding.
[8.2.1.1] b. using a filler metal with a higher carbon content
than the base metal.
e. clamping the weldment in a rigid fixture.
Figure 5 d. overdesigning the size of the weldment to prevent
Arrow side
shrinkage.
of joint [8.2.21

14. Welds and weldments have been known to develop

cracks long after cooling but prior to being used in
service. What is the principal cause for such cracks?

a. Accelerated corrosion at high temperature.

b. Scattered porosity in the weld.
Other side e. Improper selection of base material.
of joint
d. Excessive residual stresses.
[8.2.21

15. The principal purpose of preheat treatment and

post-heat treatment in welds is to:
11. What type of weld joint preparation is shown in
Figure 6? a. reduce the probability of formation of porosity in
the weld.
a. I-groove. b. neutralize residual stresses and geometric
b. Double l-groove. distortion.
c. Vee-groove. c. create grains in the weld that are the same as
d. Square groove. those in the base metal.
[8.2.1.1] d. cause the weld ripple and reinforcement to blend
into the base metal.
Figure 6 [8.2.21

Vee groove 'Y_

Figure 7

12. In Figure 7, which sketch contains an incorrect

welding symbol with respect to the weld joint shown?

a. A.
b. B. A 8

e. C.
d. D.
[8.2.1.1]
c D

96
 CHAPTER 5 Materials and Processes for NOTTechnology

16. In welding, the most obvious discontinuities are 20. The burn-off rate and amount of spattering during
those associated with structural anomalies in the the arc welding process can often be controlled by:
weld itself. Conditions not considered welding
process discontinuities are: a. proper post-heating of the entire weldment.
b. frequent changing of the tungsten electrode.
a. improper weld dimensions and profiles. c. maintaining the longest arc length possible to
b. base metal irregularities that have been enlarged reduce the heat in the weld zone.
by welding stresses and distortion. d. selecting the proper electrode polarity.
e. corrosion of the structural members. [8.2.5.1)
d. structurally sound welds, but those with
inadequate properties caused by errors in filler 21. Due to high temperatures and rapid rate of cooling,
metal selection. the filler material used in fusion welds:
[8.2.2)
a. is coated with an oxide to help reduce weld
17. Thermal conductivity of a metal is an important discontinuities.
factor to consider in making quality weldments b. contains alloys that will help compensate for
because: properties lost during the welding process.
c. is alloyed with nickel, copper, and carbon to
a. some metals, such as aluminum, have a low eliminate cracking.
conductivity, which results in weld d. should be as close as possible to the same alloy
discontinuities due to localized heat buildup. content as the base material.
b. some metals, such as stainless steel, have a high [8.2.6)
conductivity, which results in lack of fusion
discontinuities as the heat is quickly removed 22. When molten metal is transferred from the electrode
from the weld zone. to the weld zone, it can be shielded from the
e. in some metals, such as aluminum, very high atmosphere by all of the following except:
temperature gradients are produced, causing
stresses during cooling. a. the burning of coatings on the welding electrode.
d. some metals, such as stainless steel, have low b. maintaining the arc beneath flux powders.
conductivity, which results in weld c. the flow of a shielding gas around the arc.
discontinuities caused by localized overheating. d. switching to a 2% ceriated tungsten electrode
[8.2.2) when performing the GTAW process.
[8.2.6)
18. In arc welding, the electric arc is usually sustained
between an electrode and the: 23. Which of the following welding processes uses a
nonconsumable electrode with the arc maintained in
a. welding machine. an atmosphere of inert gas?
b. workpiece.
c. coating on the electrode. a. Gas tungsten arc welding.
d. shielding gas. b. Submerged arc welding.
[8.2.5) c. Gas metal arc welding.
d. Electroslag welding.
19. Which of the following gases are most frequently [8.2.6)
used as shielding to provide an inert atmosphere in
the vicinity of the weld? 24. Shielding in the submerged arc welding process is
provided by:
a. Argon, helium, and carbon dioxide.
b. Neon, tritium, and helium. a. gases.
c. Sulphur dioxide, argon, and oxygen. b. a flux-coated welding rod.
d. Argon, nitrogen, and hydrogen. e. granular flux that completely surrounds the are.
[8.2.5; 8.2.5.4) d. chopped glass fibers.
[8.2.6)

97
25. A welding process that is most frequently carried out 29. If the vee-groove weld shown in Figure 9 was made
in a vacuum chamber is: in multiple passes and not clamped or restrained,
typical warping would take place in which direction?
a. plasma arc welding.
b. electron-beam welding. a. Edges A and B would be raised due to the
c. electroslag welding. contraction of the weld metal.
d. friction welding. b. Edges A and B would be lowered due to the
[8.2.7) expansion of the weld metal in the weld zone.
c. In a multipass weld, there would be little if any
26. The welding process capable of very high intensity warpage.
and rate of heat transfer is: d. Expansion and contraction would be equal in a
vee-groove weld as shown.
a. braze welding. [8.3.2]
b. diffusion welding.
c. soldering.
d. plasma arc welding.
Figure 9
[8.2.9]

27. The welding process in which the arc is extinguished

after melting a slag cover and in which the base metal
and copper slides form a sort of moving mold is
called:

a. submerged arc welding.

h. electroslag welding.
c. electron-beam welding.
d. slag-mold welding.
[8.2.14)

28. Which welding process is depicted in Figure 8? 30. Cracks in the weld metal are primarily of which three
types?
a. Electron-beam welding.
b. Plasma arc welding. a. Shallow, deep, and intermittent.
c. Resistance spot welding. b. Longitudinal, transverse, and crater.
d. Friction welding. c. Laminar, through, and oblique.
[8.2.15) d. Longitudinal, laminar, and intermittent.
[8.3.3]

31. A slag inclusion can result from which of the

Figure 8
following?
L.---water
a. Small pieces of tungsten being dislodged from the
electrode in the gas tungsten arc process.

] Weld nugget
b. Excessiveoverlap on intermediate passes in a
multipass weldment.
c. Insufficient cleaning of successivepasses in a
multipass weldment.
d. Contaminants in the welding flux.
Transformer
[8.3.3]

98
32. Undercut on a weld pass is usually caused by: 36. When steel has been quench hardened and then
reheated to some point below the lower
a. poor operator technique. transformation temperature for the purpose of
b. a rate of travel that is too slow, which causes the reducing brittleness, this is called:
base metal to become too hot.
c. the use of an electrode that is too large for the a. austenitization.
current capacity of the welding machine. b. thermal slip deformation.
d. welding in the vertical position. c. allotropic change.
[8.3.3) d. tempering.
[8.3.4.2)
33. Crater cracks may take the form of a Singlecrack or
star-shaped cracks and will usually be found: Chapter 9: "Material Removal Processes"

a. by magnetic particle techniques since crater l. In describing machinability, three different

cracks are always subsurface. measurements are generally considered on a relative,
b. anywhere along a weld where the welding was if not quantitative, basis. These are:
stopped and restarted.
c. in the natural crater formed between the two a. shear, tensile, and impact strength of the material
plates in a typical fillet weld. being machined.
d. in the root area of a multiple-pass weld where the b. surface finish of the material achievable, power
weld metal failed to flow completely into the root consumption required to remove a given volume
opening. of material, and expected tool life.
[8.3.3) c. softness of the material, sharpness of the cutting
tool, and type of machine used to remove the
34. Weldments subject to restraint during welding en material.
develop high residual stresses. Unrestrained d. volume of material before machining, volume of
weldments can develop: material after machining, and time required to
remove that volume.
a. geometric distortion. [9.1.4)
b. high residual stresses.
c. cracking after the weld has cooled. 2. Machines designed to hold a cutting tool and a
d. fatigue cracking. workpiece and establish a suitable set of motions
[8.3.4.1) between them to remove material from the
workpiece are called:
35. After welding, many steel weldments are heat treated
to obtain more uniform properties between the weld a. mill-working machines.
and base metal and to relieve stress. Which b. factory machines.
heat-treatment method is often used following c. machine tools.
welding? d. metal-cutting machines.
[9.2.1)
a. Tempering.
b. Martensitic aging. 3. A cutting operation that has the ability to cut
c. Normalizing. through thicknesses of over 0.9 m (3 ft) of steel and
d. Spheroidizing. is commonly used to remove surface discontinuities
[8.3.4.1) on castings and forgings by scarfing is called:

a. oxyacetylene cutting.
b. friction cutting.
c. ultrasonic cutting.
d. plasma arc cutting.
[9.2.2.1)

99
4. The process used for shaping metals by chemical 7. The process illustrated in Figure 11 is called:
dissolution only, with selective removal
accomplished by masking areas where metal is not to a. ultrasonic machining.
be removed, is called: b. electrical discharge machining.
c. electrochemical machining.
a. electrical discharge machining. d. abrasive drilling.
b. chemical milling. [9.4.5]
c. electrochemical machining.
d. electro forming.
[9.4.2]
Figure 11
5. The acronym EDM refers to:

a. engineering design materials. High-

frequency Magnetostrictive
b. energy discharge machines. amplifier transducer
c. electrodynamic machining. _/
d. electrical discharge machining.
[9.4.3]
Support and feed
6. Figure 10 illustrates: at node

a. chemical milling.
b. electrochemical machining.
c. ultrasonic machining.
d. electrolytic grinding.
[9.4.4] .

Figure 10 8. When used with respect to machine tools, the

acronym NIC means:

a. nonmetal cutters.
Tool
b. noncorrosive coolant.
c. numerical control.
DC
power d. negative clearance.
supply
[9.5]

9. Which of the following can result in economical

setup and reduced machine time with an increase in
repeatability and accuracy for a variety of machining
Work operations?
'----- -----' +
Electrolyte a. The use of NDT to evaluate the finished product.
b. The use of electrical discharge machining to
replace the conventional lathes and surface
grinders.
c. The use of modern ultrasonic machining
operations.
d. The use of numerical control systems applied to
conventional types of machining operations.
[9.5]

100
Chapter 10: "Surface Treatments and Coatings" 6. A process that is the reverse of electrochemical
machining and that involves the deposition of metals
1. Which of the following statements is not true on other metals or nonmetals is called:
concerning surface finishing?
a. chemical milling.
a. Cleaning operations are considered to be b. electrical discharge machining.
surface-finishing processes. c. electroplating.
b. Surface finishing is often performed for corrosion d. magneto forming.
protection. [10.4.2]
c. Surface finishing is always followed by further
processes. 7. Metals commonly applied to other metals by
d. Surface finishing is sometimes performed to electroplating are:
improve surface and near-surface mechanical
properties. a. nickel, chromium, and cadmium.
[10.1] b. tin, zinc, and tungsten.
c. silver, gold, and carbon.
2. Carburizing and flame hardening are examples of: d. copper, aluminum, and magnesium.
[10.4.2]
a. annealing processes.
b. case-hardening processes. 8. All of the following statements concerning
c. processes that produce ductile surfaces. electrostatic spraying are true except:
d. electrochemical processes.
[10.2] a. the material being sprayed is directly attracted to
all of the surfaces to be covered.
3. Which of the following nondestructive tests would b. there is less waste due to oversprayed material.
provide the best results in measuring the case depth c. there is more uniform coverage of the surfaces.
on a case-hardened part? d. the parts being sprayed require a high current to
attract the spray media.
a. Ultrasonic immersion testing using a very [10.4.4]
low-frequency probe.
b. Radiographic testing. 9. Some materials, such as aluminum, are corrosion
c. Electromagnetic testing. resistant:
d. Magnetic particle testing.
[10.2.1) a. by virtue of the immediate oxidation of newly
exposed surfaces.
4. The best and most economical cleaners used for b. only if anodized.
removal of oils and greases are: c. because the material itself will not readily
combine with oxygen.
a. pickling baths. d. against all types of corrosive atmospheres.
b. deionized water sprays. [10.4.5)
c. wire brushes and cloth buffers.
d. petroleum solvents. 10. A process that converts the base metal surface to an
[10.3.2] oxidized barrier layer of very small porous cells is
called:
5. Coatings are often applied to protect a material; their
thicknesses can frequently be determined a. galvanizing.
nondestructively by: b. anodizing.
c. plating.
a. acoustic emission testing. d. metallizing.
b. electromagnetic testing. [10.4.5]
c. surface-wave ultrasonic techniques.
d. optical holography.
[10.4.2)

101
11. The anodized surface on aluminum: 3. Which of the following is not a function of NDT?

a. can produce a high background during a a. Identification and sorting of material.

penetrant test. b. Identification of material properties.
b. is very dense and makes X-ray penetration c. Ensuring absence of faults or discontinuities that
difficult. could cause a part to fail.
c. can produce cracks that are easily detected by d. Determining the remaining life of a structure.
electromagnetic testing techniques. [11.2)
d. must be removed before performing ultrasonic
tests. 4. An important basis for the success of nondestructive
[10.4.5) testing design procedures is:

12. A corrosion protection material commonly applied a. the need to ensure that unexpected
to steel by hot dipping and galvanizing is: discontinuities of some critical size are not
present when the component enters service.
a. porcelain. b. that all discontinuities are detected by NDT or
b. paint. proof testing before the component enters
c. zinc. service.
d. chromic acid. c. in the use of large factors of safety.
[10.4.6.2] d. in the use of a value of strength that the material
used in the design is presumed to possess.
[11.2)

Chapter 11: "Introduction to Nondestructive 5. If properly used, NDT can assist in determining
Testing" whether a test specimen is functioning as designed
by:
l. Which of the following statements best differentiates
a defect from a discontinuity? a. accurately measuring the tensile strength of
design materials.
a. Discontinuities can propagate and become b. predicting the time it will take a given size
defects. discontinuity to grow to a critical size.
b. All discontinuities are defects. c. determining the corrosion rate.
c. All defects will lead to failure if undetected; d. providing an accurate evaluation of the number
discontinuities are harmless. and type of discontinuities that exist in a
d. Discontinuities are external natural boundaries material.
only; defects are internal flaws originating from (11.2)
errors in processing.
[11.1) 6. Even at the early stages of product planning, NDT
should be considered because:
2. Nondestructive testing (NDT) is often differentiated
from other measurement or inspection techniques in a. codes and specifications are too restrictive.
that: b. the design of the part should permit easy access
to critical areas for later inspection.
a. NDT is a measurement of dimensions, geometry, c. the NDT method may strengthen the product.
and appearance. d. the NDT processes are generally more
b. NDT uses electronic instruments to identify, time-intensive than other processes.
evaluate, and locate discontinuities. [11.2)
c. NDT involves indirect tests related to some other
quality or characteristic of the material.
d. NDT is an inspection tool used to confirm the
findings of the many other quality assurance
techniques.
[11.1)

102
7. A fatigue failure can often be prevented by using Chapter 12: "Nondestructive Testing Methods"
NDTto:
1. In visual testing, which of the following
a. verify the cyclic loading on a component. measurement tools uses the principle of light wave
b. detect surface discontinuities that could be stress interference to check surface flatness?
risers.
c. measure the endurance limit of a part undergoing a. Optical comparator.
cyclic stresses. b. Vernier caliper.
d. determine percent elongation of a material before c. Sine bar.
it is placed in service. d. Optical flat.
[11.2] [12.1.2.1)

8. A technique for the inspection of manufactured 2. Devices that show magnified, reflected, or profile
products that utilizes the selection of a certain images of the workpiece on a frosted glass screen are
percentage of parts for inspection is called: called optical:

a. standard deviation. a. comparators.

b. natural selection. b. flats.
c. analysis of variance. c. projectors.
d. sampling. d. micrometers.
[11.2] [12.1.2.1)

9. Implied in sampling inspection is: 3. An NDT method that has the ability to measure
changes in electrical conductivity caused by the
a. that the chosen plan will produce precise effects of heat treatment is:
numbers of acceptable parts.
b. the need for a sample size of 100 units or a. magnetic particle testing.
multiples thereof. b. acoustic emission testing.
c. a willingness to sometimes accept defective c. electromagnetic testing.
products. d. immersion ultrasonic testing.
d. the need to collect data in the form of variables [12.8.1]
instead of attributes.
[11.2) Chapter 13: "NOT Applications"

10. A vernier line measurement in a vision test permits 1. Process control based on the means and ranges of
verification of: measurements taken on periodic samples requires
the measurements to be taken of:
a. letter recognition.
b. trichromatic vision. a. attributes.
c. code interpretation. b. variables or parameters.
d. hyperacuity. c. either attributes or variables.
[11.3.2] d. neither attributes nor variables.
[13.1)
11. Factors of safety are often in the range of 2 to 4.
These factors: 2. Monitoring temperature for industrial process
control is an example of:
a. are provided for engineering mistakes.
b. are added as a corrosion allowance. a. parameter-based measurement.
c. could be reduced with the assurance of NDT b. geometric dimensioning and tolerancing.
techniques that the material was free of c. the direct comparison technique.
discontinuities. d. lateral measurement.
d. provide allowances for poor welding techniques. [13.1)
[11.3.3]

103
3. Metal corrosion that is accelerated when the metal is 2. On the probability of detection (PoD) curve shown
under load is called: in Figure 12:

a. pitting corrosion. a. the ANDE line indicates the length of discontinuity

b. galvanic corrosion. that is undectable in the given test.
c. electrochemical corrosion. b. the Y axis is set for a 90% confidence level that
d. stress corrosion. detectable discontinuities will be detected.
[13.4.2] c. the Y axis is set for a 90% probability level that
detectable discontinuities will be detected.
Chapter 14: "NOT and Engineering" d. only "hits" are recorded, not "misses."
[14.2)
1. A statement that a particular experiment produced a
0.9 probability of detection with a 95% confidence
level means that: Figure 12
i : I I j
1.0
a. there is a 5% probability that the probability of
detection is overstated.
---rt~:-:-:
-~
---
0.8
b. there is a 95% probability that the probability of >-1-
detection is overstated.
C 0.6
c. on the average, 90% of all discontinuities will be o
detected. Il..
0.4
d. on the average, 95 out of 100 discontinuities will
be detected 90% of the time.
0.2
---~----- -1-- ~t~I---
[14.2]
0.0
11=--1=::t-:-=-:-j':-=I:~~it ;;--~J ,
,
-r

i I I i

0.002 0.005 0.020 0.050 AN DE 0.200

Length (in.)

104
Answers to Review Questions

Chapter 1: "Manufacturing and Materials"

ld 2a 3b 4c Sd

Chapter 2: "Classification, Structure, and Solidification of Material"

lc 2c 3b 4a Sc 6a 7b 8d 9a lOd 11b 12a

Chapter 3: "Properties of Materials"

lb 2d 3c 4b Sc 6d 7a 8a 9b lOd lla

Chapter 4: "Production and Properties of Common Metals"

la 2b 3d 4c Sa 6d 7d 8c 9b lOb llc 12d 13b
14d lSc 16b 17b 18a 19a 20c

Chapter 5: "Polymers, Ceramics, and Composites"

lb 2c 3d 4a Sd 6a 7c 8a 9d lOb

Chapter 6: "Casting"
ld 2c 3d 4b Sc 6d 7a 8b 9a lOc llc 12d 13b
14a lSc 16d 17a 18b 19b

Chapter 7: "Metal Forming"

la 2c 3c 4d Sb 6a 7b 8a 9c lOd 11b 12b 13c
14b lSa 16b 17d 18b 19c 20b 21a 22a 23d 24c 2Sd 26b
27c- 28d 29a

Chapter 8: "Joining and Fastening"

ld 2c 3d 4b Sa 6a 7b 8d 9c lOa 11c l2a 13a
l4d lSb l6c l7d l8b 19a 20d 21b 22d 23a 24c 2Sb 26d
27b 28c 29a 30b 31c 32a 33b 34a 3Sc 36d

Chapter 9: "Material Removal Processes"

lb 2c 3a 4b Sd 6b 7a 8c 9d

105
Chapter 10: "Surface Treatments and Coatings"

lc 2b 3c 4d Sb 6c 7a 8d 9a lOb 11a l2c

Chapter 11: "Introduction to Nondestructive Testing"

1a 2c 3d 4a Sd 6b 7b 8d 9c 10d 11c

Chapter 12: "Nondestructive Testing Methods"

1d 2a 3c

Chapter 13: "NOT Applications"

1b 2a 3d

Chapter 14: "NOT and Engineering" "

1a 2c

106
APPENDIXES
 Appendix A
Code of Ethics for Level III NDT Personnel
Certified by ASNT

The "Code of Ethics for LevelIII NDT Personnel 2.2 The Level III shall make claims regarding certification
Certified by ASNT" is part of the ASNT Level III only with respect to the scope for which certification
Certification Application for the Basic Examination and all has been granted; and
Method examinations, including the PdM Basic and IR 2.3 The Level III shall not use their certification in a
Method examinations. By signing the application, the appli- misleading manner or in such a manner as to bring
cant agrees to abide by the Code of Ethics for as long as he ASNT into disrepute, nor to make any statement
or she is certified. A link to the ASNT Level III Certification regarding the certification which ASNT may consider
Application may be downloaded from the ASNT website at misleading or unauthorized.
asnt.org under the Certification drop-down menu. The text
of the Code of Ethics is reprinted below in full: 3. Responsibility to the Public
The Level III shall:
1. Preamble 3.1 Protect the safety, health, and welfare of the public in
1.1 In order to safeguard the life, health, property, and the performance of professional duties. Should the
welfare of the public, to maintain integrity and high case arise where the Level III faces a situation where
standards of skills and practices in the profession of the safety, health, and welfare of the public are not
nondestructive testing, the following rules of protected, he/she shall:
professional conduct shall be binding upon every 3.1.1 Apprise the proper authority if it is evident
person issued a certificate by ASNT as a Level III. that the safety, health, and welfare of the
1.1.1 The Level III who holds a certificate is charged public are not being protected; and
with having knowledge of the existence of the 3.1.2 Refuse to accept responsibility for the design,
reasonable rules and regulations hereinafter report, or statement involved; and
provided for his/her conduct as ASNT Level III, 3.1.3 If necessary, sever relationship with the
and also shall be familiar with their provisions employer or client; and
and understand them. Such knowledge shall 3.1.4 Undertake to perform assignments only when
encompass the understanding that the qualified by training and experience in the
practice of nondestructive testing under this specific technical fields involved. In the event
certification is a privilege, as opposed to a a question arises as to the competence of a
right, and the Level III shall be forthright and Level III to perform an assignment in a field of
candid in statements or written responses to specific discipline which cannot be otherwise
the Ethics Committee of the Certification resolved to the Ethics Committee's
Management Board. satisfaction, the Ethics Committee, either upon
1.1.2 The "Level III" as referred to herein is that request of the Level III, or by its own volition,
individual who has been issued a certificate by may require him/her to submit to an
the American Society for Nondestructive appropriate inquiry by or on behalf of the
Testing, lnc., pursuant to its heretofore Ethics Committee; and
published requirements, rules, and procedures 3.1.5 Be completely objective in any professional
for such certification. This Code of Ethics is report, statement, or testimony, avoiding .any
binding upon all individuals so certified. omission which would, or reasonably could,
lead to fallacious inference, finding, or
2. Integrity misrepresentation; and
2.1 The Level III is obligated to act with complete 3.1.6 Express an opinion as a technical witness
integrity in professional matters for each client or before any court, commission, or other
employer as a faithful agent or trustee; shall be tribunal, only when such opinion is founded
honest and impartial; and shall serve the public, upon adequate knowledge of the facts in
clients, and employer with devotion; issue, upon a background of technical

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\
 competence in the subject matter, and upon 6. Solicitation of Employment
an honest conviction of the accuracy or 6.1 The Level III shall not pay, solicit, nor offer, directly or
propriety of the testimony. indirectly, any bribe or commission for professional
em ployment with the exception of payment of the
4. Public Statements usual commission for securing salaried positions
4.1 The Level III will issue no statements, criticisms, or through licensed employment agencies.
arguments on nondestructive testing matters 6.2 The Level III shall seek professional employment on
connected with public policy which are inspired or the basis of qualification and competence for proper
paid for by an interested party, or parties, unless accomplishment of work.
he/she has prefaced the remark(s) by explicitly 6.3 The Level III shall not falsify or permit
identifying himself/herself, by disclosing the identities misrepresentation of his/her, or his/her associates',
of the party, on whose behalf he/she is speaking, and academic or professional qualification. He/she shall
by revealing the existence of any pecuniary interest not misrepresent or exaggerate the degree of
he/she may have in these matters. responsibility in or for the subject matter of prior
4.2 The Level III will publicly express no opinion on a assignments.
nondestructive testing matter unless it is founded 6.4 Brochures or other presentations incident to the
upon adequate knowledge of the facts in issue, upon solicitation of employment shall not misrepresent
a background of technical competence in the subject pertinent facts concerning employers, employees,
matter, and upon honest conviction of the accuracy associates, joint ventures, or past accomplishments
and propriety of the testimony. with the intent and purpose of enhancing
qualifications and work.
5. Conflict of Interest
5.1 The Level III shall conscientiously avoid conflict of 7. Improper Conduct
interest with the employer or client, but when 7.1 The Level III shall not sign documents for work for
unavoidable, shall forthwith disclose the which he/she does not have personal professional
circumstances to the employer or client. knowledge and direct technical supervisory control
5.2 The Level III shall promptly inform the client or and responsibility.
employer of any business associations, interests, or 7.2 The Level III shall not knowingly associate with, or
circumstances which could influence his/her permit the use of, his/her name or firm name in a
judgment or the quality of services to the client or business venture by any person or firm which he/she
employer. knows, or has reason to believe is engaging in
5.3 The Level III shall not accept compensation, financial business or professional practices of a fraudulent or
or otherwise, from more than one party for services dishonest nature.
on the same project, or for services pertaining to the
same project, unless the circumstances are fully 8. Unauthorized Practice
disclosed to, and agreed to, by all interested parties 8.1 Any violation of this code shall be deemed to be an
or their duly authorized agents. unauthorized practice and upon proper complaint,
5.4 The Level III shall not solicit or accept financial or investigation, due process hearing, and ruling of the
other valuable consideration from material or Ethics Committee of the ASNT Certification
equipment suppliers for specifying their products. Management Council in accordance with procedures
5.5 The Level III shall not solicit or accept gratuities, heretofore established and published, sanctions may
directly or indirectly, from contractors, their agents, or be applied to the individual(s) in violation.
other parties dealing with the client or employer in 8.2 If the applied sanction is suspension or revocation of
connection with work for which he/she is responsible. certification, the certificate holder agrees to
5.6 As an elected, retained, or employed public official, discontinue all claims of ASNT certification and must
the Level III (in the capacity as a public official) shall return all certificates and wallet cards issued by ASNT.
not review or approve work that was performed by
himself/herself, or under his/her direction, on behalf 9. Rulings of Other Jurisdictions
of another employer or client. Conviction of a felony while ASNT certification is valid or
the revocation or suspension of a Professional Engineer's
License by another jurisdiction or similar rulings by other
professional associations may be grounds for a charge of
violation of this Code.

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Appendix B
CP-ASNT-J B: ASNT NOT Level III Program

CP-ASNT-IB is a document that outlines and describes PdM personnel qualification and certification, and the
the ASNT NDT Level III Program. It is reprinted in full basic principles of PdM methods.
from the ASNT website below. 2.7 Examination, Method: A Level III written examination
on the principles, theory, techniques, and applications
1. Scope within an NDT/PdM method.
1.1 It is recognized that the effectiveness of 2.8 Examination, Specific: An examination on
nondestructive testing (NDT) and predictive specifications, equipment, techniques, and
maintenance (PdM) applications depends upon the procedures applicable to the employer's product(s)
capabilities of the personnel who are responsible for, and methods.
and perform, NDT or PdM. The AsNT Level III program 2.9 Experience: Work activities accomplished in the
provides third-party certification for NDT or PdM applicable NDT/PdM method under the direction of
personnel whose specific jobs require appropriate qualified supervision, including the performance of
knowledge of the technical principles underlying the the method and related activities but not including
tests they perform, witness, monitor, or evaluate. time spent in organized training programs.
1.2 This document establishes the system for AsNT Level 2.10 Qualification: Demonstration or possession of
III certification in nondestructive testing and education, skills, training, knowledge, and experience
predictive maintenance in accordance with required for personnel to properly perform NDT to a
Recommended Practice No. SNT-TC-7A. Certification level as specified in this document
under this system results in the issuance of an AsNT 2.11 Recertification: The process of extending one's
certificate attesting to the fact that the certificate certification after the initial period of validity, and
holder has met the published guidelines for the Basic maintaining certification for a specified period
and Method examinations as detailed in thereafter.
Recommended Practice SNT-TC-7A. 2.12 Recommended Practice No. SNT-TC-7A: The NDT
Personnel Qualification and Certification in
2. Definitions Nondestructive Testing document providing the
2.1 ASNTcertification: The process whereby AsNT certifies guidelines for the establishment of qualification and
that an individual has met the basic and method certification programs for NDT.
examination guidelines of Recommended Practice No. 2.13 Training: An organized program developed to impart
SNT-TC-7A. the knowledge and skills necessary for qualification.
2.2' ASNTNOT Levell/I: An individual who, having passed
AsNT administered Basic and Method(s) 3. Certification Outcome
Examinations, holds a current, valid AsNT Level III 3.1 An AsNT Level III certificate holder shall have the skills
certificate in at least one method. and knowledge to establish techniques, to interpret
2.3 Certification: Written testimony of qualification. codes, standards, and specifications, and to prepare
2.4 Employer:The corporate, private, or public entity that or approve procedures and instructions.
employs personnel for wages or salary,and is responsible 3.2 An AsNT NDT Level III shall also have general
for authorizing personnel to perform NDT or PdM. familiarity with other nondestructive testing methods,
2.5 Examination, NOT Basic:A Level III written shall be capable of conducting or directing the
examination of knowledge of materials science and training and examination of testing personnel in the
processes technology, NDT personnel qualification methods for which the ASNT Level III is qualified, and
and certification, and the basic principles of NDT shall have knowledge of materials, fabrication, and
methods. product technology in order to establish techniques
2.6 Examination, PdM Basic: A Level III written and to assist in establishing acceptance criteria when
examination of knowledge of machinery technology, none are otherwise available.

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 3.3 An ASNT PdM Level III shall also have general 5.2.3 Method Examination: This written
familiarity with other predictive maintenance examination consists of a minimum of 90
methods, shall be capable of conducting or directing questions that assessthe candidate's
the training and examination of testing personnel in knowledge and application of fundamentals,
the methods for which the ASNT Level III is qualified, principles, and techniques for that method in
and shall have knowledge of applicable machinery which certification is sought. The Method
technology in order to establish techniques and to Examination may include a portion that
assist in establishing acceptance criteria when none examines the candidate's ability to
are otherwise available. comprehend a specification and apply its
requirements.
4. Eligibility for Examination 5.3 NDT/PdM or PdM/NDT Conversion
4.1 ASNT has no restrictions relative to the gender, creed, 5.3.1 Personnel with currently valid NDT certificates
race, or nationality of applicants. in Methods for which PdM certification is
4.2 Candidates shall have a combination of education available may attain PdM Certification in those
and experience in accordance with the guidelines in Methods by successfully completing the PdM
Recommended Practice No. SNT-TC-l A. Basic examination.
4.3 When applying for examination(s), the candidate shall 5.3.2 Personnel with currently valid PdM certificates
document the validity of the personal information may attain NDT Certification in those Methods
requested, including education and experience by successfully completing the NDT Basic
needed to establish eligibility. examination.
4.4 The Candidate shall agree to abide by the code of 5.4 Employer Responsibility
ethics for ASNT Level III personnel. 5.4.1 Additional, specific examinations may be
required by employers, customers, or other
5. Qualification Examinations bodies. Examinations for specialized NDT/PdM
5.1 Eligibility. All ASNT Level III Candidates must techniques or unique product forms are the
successfully complete both: responsibility of the employer and are outside
5.1.1 a Basic Examination, regardless of the the scope of this document.
method(s) for which the candidate seeks 5.5 Examination Grading
certification; and The grading of qualification examinations shall be
5.1.2 a Method Examination, which is given at the done by ASNT Technical Services staff in accordance
candidate's request, in one or more of 11 with nationally accepted psychometric principles.
different NDT methods, or two PdM methods.
5.2 Examination Descriptions 6. Examination Results
5.2.1 NDT Basic Examination: This written 6.1 Candidates that successfully pass all required
examination consists of 135 questions that examinations for ASNT certification, shall be issued
assessthe candidate's knowledge of: certification documents as described in 7. Certification.
5.2.1.1 other NDT methods as required for 6.2 Candidates that do not pass all required examinations
ASNT Level II personnel; for ASNT certification will be sent written notification
5.2.1.2 materials, fabrication, and product of their results and may reapply to retake the failed
technology; and examinations.
5.2.1.3 qualification and certification 6.3 For employers wishing to use ASNT as a third-party
according to the ASNT, SNT-TC-lA, examination source for the purpose of adding
and ANSI/ASNTCP-189,latest edition. Methods for in-house Level III personnel, examination
5.2.2 PdM Basic Examination: This written results will be sent by letter only. No certificate will be
examination consists of 90 questions that issued.
assessthe candidate's knowledge of: 6.4 Notification of results will be sent to each candidate
5.2.2.1 other PdM methods as required for within thirty (30) business days from the date of the
ASNT Level II personnel; examination.
5.2.2.2 applicable machinery technology;
and
5.2.2.3 qualification and certification
according to the ASNT, SNT-TC-1A,
and ANSI/ASNTCP-189,latest edition.

112
7. Certification again as long as certification is continuously
7.1 Based on successful completion ofthe necessary maintained; or
qualification examinations, ASNT will issue the 9.2.2 By application through points, demonstrating
candidate an ASNT certificate and wallet card. a combination of active employment and
7.2 ASNT certification attests to an individual having continuing participation/education in
satisfied the requirements for the Basic and Method NDT/PdM.
examinations as detailed in Recommended Practice No. 9.3 Personnel that attempt renewal by examination and
SNT-TC-7A. This does not constitute license or fail an examination may not renew by points in that
authorization to perform NDT or PdM, as the test method until the examination has been passed.
employer has the sole responsibility for authorizing
employees to perform NDT/PdM. The employer, 10. Applicant Rights
through a Level III, or other designated person as 10.1 Appeals, Complaints, and Disputes: An appeals
denoted in the employer's written practice, should process exists for the resolution of appeals,
review the individual's qualification records for complaints, and disputes received from candidates,
satisfactory completeness prior to authorizing the certified persons, their employers, and other parties
individual to perform NDT or PdM. These records shall regarding the certification process, qualification
be retained as specified in Recommended Practice No. criteria, or the performance of certified persons.
SNT-TC-7A. 10.2 Confidentiality: Information gained in the course of
7.3 ASNT NDT and PdM Level III certificates and wallet the certification process shall not be disclosed to any
cards remain the property of ASNT and shall be third party except as required by law.
surrendered to ASNT on demand.
11. Program Changes
8. Validity Changes to the ASNT Level III program are posted on the
8.1 Initial certification shall be valid for a period of five (5) ASNT Internet website, at www.asnt.org under the
years, with the certification period to start on the date "Certification" link, and notification of changes will be
that a candidate successfully passes both the Basic published in the ASNT monthly periodical, Materials
and Method examinations. Evaluation magazine.
8.1.1 When the Basic examination is passed, that
result shall remain valid for a period of 5 years 12. Accommodation for Disabilities
from the examination date. If the Method ASNT will make appropriate accommodations for persons
examination is not passed within that period, with documented disabilities. Candidates should contact
the Basic examination must be retaken. the ASNT Technical Services Department prior to
8.1.2 When the Method examination is passed, that examination dates to arrange special accommodations.
result shall remain valid for a period of 2 years
from the examination date. If the Basic
examination is not passed within that period,
the Method examination must be retaken.
8.2 Certification shall be revoked if ASNT determines that
an ASNT certificate holder has violated the ASNT
Level III code of ethics.

9. Recertification
9.1 Recertification is required at five (5) year intervals in
order to extend certification beyond the initial or
previous period of validity.
9.2 Certified individuals may recertify in one of the
following two ways:
9.2.1 By examination, prior to expiration of
certification in the applicable method. The
Basic examination does not have to be taken

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Appendix C
Measurement Units for Nondestructive Testing

In 1960, the General Conference on Weights and In the International System of Units, the distinction
Measures established the International System of Units (SI). between upper and lower case letters is meaningful and
SI units are designed so that a single set of measurement should be observed. For example, the meanings of the prefix
units can be used by all branches of science, engineering, m (milli) and the prefix M (mega) differ by nine orders of
and the general public. magnitude.
SI units are the modern version of the metric system For more information, the reader is referred to the
and end the division between metric units used by scientists information available through national standards organiza-
and metric units used by engineers and the public. For tions and specialized information compiled by technical
example, scientists have given up their units based on cen- organizations.
timeter and gram, and engineers have abandoned the kilo-
gram-force in favor of the newton. Electrical engineers have Table 2. SI derived units with special nornes."
retained the ampere, volt, and ohm but changed all units
related to magnetism. Relation to
Quantity Units Symbol Other SI
Table 1 lists the seven base SI units. Table 2 lists derived Unitsb
units with special names. In SI units, the unit of time is the
second (s); the hour (h) is also recognized for common use. Capacitance farad F C·V-1
Traditional or imperial units should not be used in science Catalytic activity katal kat s-1·mol
and engineering. Table 3 gives some conversions to SI units. Conductance siemens S A.V 1
In science and engineering, very large or very small Energy joule J N·m
numbers with units are expressed by using multipliers, 1.5-1
Frequency (periodic) hertz Hz
prefixes of 103 or 10-3 intervals (Table 4). The multiplier
Force newton N kgm-s ?
becomes a part of the SI symbol. For example, a millimeter
(mm) is 0.001 meter (rn). The volume unit cubic centimeter Inductance henry H Wb·A-1
(ern') is (0.01 m)", Unit submultiples such as the centi, deci, Illuminance lux Ix Im·m-2
and hecto are less common in scientific and technical uses Luminous flux lumen 1m cd·sr
of SI units because of their variance from the convenient Electric charge coulomb C A·s
103 or 10-3 intervals that make equations easy to Electric potential" volt V W.A 1
manipulate. V·A-1
Electric resistance ohm W
Magnetic flux weber Wb V·s
Magnetic flux density tesla T Wb-rn ?

Plane angle radian rad 1

Table 1. SI base units.
Power watt Q J·s-1
Quantity Unit Symbol Pressure (stress) pascal Pa N.m 2

Length meter m Radiation absorbed dose gray Gy f-kg 1

Radiation dose equivalent sievert Sv J-kg-1
Mass kilogram kg Bq 1·s-1
Radioactivity becquerel
Time second s Solid angle steradian sr 1
Temperature degree celsiu °C K
Electric current ampere A
Time" hour h 3600 s
Temperature kelvin K Volume" liter L dm"
a. Hour and liter are not SIunits but are accepted for use
Amount of substance mole mol with SI.
b. Number one (1) expresses a dimensionless relationship.
Luminous intensity candela cd c. Electromotive force.

115
 Angle

Distance

Luminance

116
a. Avoid these prefixes (except in drn" and cm3) for science
and engineering.

117