Advanced NDE

Module from the Inspection and NDE Curriculum curriculum.

Module 4 - Advanced NDE Methods · Learning Objectives · 1. Apply Automated UT (AUT) for pipeline girth welds · 2. Use TOFD for accurate crack sizing · 3. Apply ACFM for CUI and coated crack detection · 4. Use eddy current (ET) for tube and non-ferromag surfaces · 5. Apply acoustic emission (AE) for leak and active crack detection · Advanced NDE Selection Matrix

Method	Primary Application	Material	Key Advantage	Limitation	Ref
AUT (automated UT)	Pipeline girth welds	CS, alloy	High speed, digital	Requires setup	API RP 1103
TOFD	Pressure vessel welds	Any	Accurate sizing	Near-surface deadzone	ASME V Art 4
ACFM	CUI, coated surface	Ferromag	No surface prep needed	Specialized training	NACE RP 0192
Eddy current (ET)	Tubes, condenser	Non-ferromag	Fast tube inspection	Material dependent	ASME V Art 8
Remote field (RFT)	CS tubes	Ferromag	Through-wall sensitivity	Lower resolution	API RP 583
Guided wave UT	Long piping, under tack	Any	Long range inspection	Lower sensitivity	Inspection Engineering
AE (acoustic emission)	Active leaks, growing cracks	Any	Large area	Requires stress	ASTM E1211
Thermography IR	Coating disbondment, insulation	Any	Area scan	Conditional	ASTM E1934
Digital RT	Conventional + computer image	Any	Archival, no film	Equipment cost	ASME V Art 2

Source: Inspection_NDE_Curriculum_v1.xlsx · Sheet: Advanced NDE

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