Non Destructive Testing Specialist

Also known as:

Industrial Radiographer
Radiographer, Industrial
NDT Specialist

Introduction

Non-destructive testing (NDT) specialists test the safety of structures, vehicles and vessels including aircraft, trains, bridges, dams and pipelines. NDT means that after a structure has been tested, it remains useable. NDT specialists use a variety of techniques to search for signs of corrosion, structural damage or weakness, metal fatigue and other flaws.

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Work Activities

Non-destructive testing specialists examine vitally important structures and vehicles, including aircraft, trains, bridges and pipelines. They use non-destructive testing methods (NDT) - this means that after specialists have tested a component it remains useable.

Non-destructive testing specialists look for signs of corrosion, metal fatigue, cracks and other flaws. NDT is essential for safety; specialists may also use it to improve output or profitability, for example, to make sure an oil rig is working safely and at full capacity.

There are many different methods of carrying out NDT. The original method is a visual examination. With advances in technology, NDT specialists can now examine structures and components by using lenses, closed circuit television and fibre optic devices. This technology enables specialists to examine structures on the seabed, or look at components in a radioactive environment.

In liquid penetrant testing, the most common type of NDT, specialists coat an object with a visible or fluorescent dye. Any cracks in the surface will draw in the dye. After cleaning away excess penetrant, NDT specialists use a developer (which acts like blotting paper) to draw the dye back up, therefore revealing the crack.

Non-destructive testing specialists can use radiography to produce an image of an object on a film. For example, they may use X-ray or gamma radiation to look for internal defects in metal castings. They may also use ultrasonics to detect faults in solid materials. This follows a similar principle to that used in sonar equipment at sea.

NDT specialists introduce sound into the test object. By looking at how the sound travels within the object, they can map the presence of imperfections (which might bounce the sound around). They use ultrasound to examine welds in nuclear reactors, and in medical imaging studies.

NDT is a very fast-moving area; specialists are developing and using new methods all the time, like acoustic emission (which 'listens' to the growth of a crack), leak testing and thermography (used to analyse temperature data). Specialists often develop expertise in one or two methods of NDT, but they need to know how to interpret all methods. They also need to develop an understanding of the manufacturing processes they are involved in, to predict the type, position and effect of faults.

From time to time, specialists may have to work away from home for short periods.

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Personal Qualities and Skills

To be a non-destructive testing specialist, you must have strong engineering knowledge and skills, to understand and use the principles of non-destructive testing. You also need good IT skills.

You must enjoy solving problems, and have a logical and methodical approach to this. You will need to be inquisitive and observant.

Safety is a vital aspect of this job, for example, when you deal with radiation, so you must have a strong sense of responsibility, a calm approach and the ability to follow strict procedures. You must be self-reliant because you may be working on your own.

You will need good communication skills, to work in teams with other non-destructive testing specialists, and to pass on your findings in a clear verbal or written report.

You need good eyesight and colour vision.

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Pay and Opportunities

The pay rates given below are approximate.

Non-destructive testing (NDT) specialists earn in the range of £310 - £370 a week, rising to £460 - £580. Higher earners can make around £620 a week.

They usually work a 39-hour week, which may include some Saturdays. Overtime may be available.

Testing may take place in a laboratory or outside.

Specialists work in manufacturing and construction firms concerned with metal fabrication, in heavy engineering and related industries such as shipbuilding/repair and engineering construction.

Employers include:
• manufacturing companies
• companies who carry out NDT inspections for clients
• firms that operate installations such as offshore gas and oil platforms
• organisations such as airlines who employ an NDT team to check equipment performance.

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Adult Opportunities

It is now illegal for any organisation to set age limits for entry to employment, education or training, unless they can show there is a real need to have these limits.

A relevant industrial background, such as in metal fabrication, can be helpful.

• 3% of people in occupations such as non-destructive testing work part-time.
• 10% have flexible hours.
• 2% of employees work on a temporary basis.

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New Developments

Some people working in this occupation may be involved in the green jobs sector in areas such as renewable energy or waste management.