Organization of the Test. Staff and Training Problems

Abstract

Where the same testing problems on identical or at least very similar specimens occur frequently, it is recommended that the head of the testing department works out a test specification and that the tests are carried out by a trained examiner. From complaints and experience gained in destructive tests, the suspected nature, size and position of flaws will be known, on which the non-destructive test then concentrates to eliminate any unnecessary effort. The specification should cover: designation of specimen, possibly with sketch, instructions whether and where the surface should be prepared, couplant, setting of instrument with probe for each testing procedure, together with indication of testing track and suspected position of flaw, reference to possible echoes which should not be confused with flaw echoes. In the case of mass tests, the examiner can, as a rule, be relieved of the necessity of preparing individual reports; on the evidence of the flaw echoes he can quickly make his own decision whether a given specimen should be rejected or not. In the case of more costly test pieces, sorting out of doubtful specimens is advisable; these are then submitted to the more experienced head of the testing department for decision.