Instrumentation Reference Book, 4th Edition

Chapter 31. Non-Destructive Testing

Scottish School of Non-Destructive Testing

31.1. Introduction

The driving force for improvements and developments in non-destructive testing instrumentation is the continually increasing need to demonstrate the integrity and reliability of engineering materials, products, and plant. Efficient materials manufacture, the assurance of product quality, and re-assurance of plant at regular intervals during use represent the main need for non-destructive testing (NDT). This “state-of-health” knowledge is necessary for both economic and safety reasons. Indeed, in the UK the latter reasons have been strengthened by legislation such as the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, and in the United States by the Occupational ...