NONDESTRUCTIVE TESTING OF WELDED STRUCTURAL STEELWORK

The purpose of non-destructive testing of welded structural steelwork is to try to ensure that no unacceptable flaws remain in the structure when it enters service. A brief description is given first of the main types of weld flaw which can occur, and of their significance on a fitness-for-purpose basis. The basic principles of the main non-destructive testing methods used are then described, covering visual, dye penetrant, magnetic particle, eddy current, radiographic, acoustic emission, and ultrasonic techniques. For each method, its capabilities, advantages and disadvantages, with respect to flaw detection, location, characterization and sizing, are discussed in relation to the various types of flaw that are of concern.