Ultrasonic Testing (UT) Level I & II

Ultrasonic Testing (UT) Level I & II Course

The Ultrasonic Testing (UT) Level I & II Course provides comprehensive training on the principles, techniques, and application of ultrasonic testing as a non-destructive testing (NDT) method. It is designed for individuals aiming to become proficient in UT inspection for detecting internal and surface defects in materials and components, primarily used in industries like oil and gas, manufacturing, aerospace, and construction.

This course is divided into two levels: Level I and Level II, each catering to different stages of proficiency and responsibility in UT inspection.

Course Objectives:

Level I:

• Learn the basics of ultrasonic testing and understand how sound waves interact with different materials.
• Acquire skills to set up and calibrate ultrasonic testing equipment.
• Understand the types of discontinuities and defects that can be detected using UT.
• Gain the ability to perform basic ultrasonic inspections under the guidance of a certified Level II or III inspector.

Level II:

• Master advanced concepts of UT, including data interpretation and analysis of results.
• Be capable of selecting and setting up equipment for specific inspection tasks.
• Learn how to prepare detailed reports and assess material integrity based on inspection results.
• Qualify to supervise Level I inspectors and independently carry out UT inspections on various components.

Key Components of the Course:

1- Introduction to Ultrasonic Testing (UT)

• Understanding the fundamentals of ultrasonic waves and how they propagate through materials.
  • Sound waves: Longitudinal, shear, and surface waves.
  • Frequency and wavelength: Their influence on defect detection.
  • Acoustic impedance: How different materials affect sound wave transmission.
• Overview of common UT applications: Weld inspection, corrosion detection, and thickness measurement.

2- Principles of Ultrasonic Testing (UT)

• Explanation of the key principles behind UT:
  • Pulse-echo method: Sending sound waves into a material and analyzing the returning echoes.
  • Transmission method: Using separate transmitter and receiver transducers to detect defects.
  • Attenuation: Understanding the reduction in sound wave energy as it travels through a material.
• Interaction of sound waves with defects such as:
  • Reflection: Echoes from discontinuities or material boundaries.
  • Diffraction: How sound waves bend around edges or small obstacles.

3- Ultrasonic Testing Equipment and Calibration

• Transducers: Types (e.g., straight beam, angle beam) and selection for specific testing needs.
• Ultrasonic flaw detectors: How to use UT equipment for defect detection and thickness measurements.
• Calibration: Ensuring accuracy by setting up the equipment with reference standards and materials.

4- Types of Discontinuities Detected by UT

• Internal defects like cracks, voids, inclusions, and porosity in materials.
• Surface defects, especially in welds or castings.
• Thickness changes due to corrosion or erosion in pipelines or storage tanks.

5- Non-Destructive Testing Techniques Using UT

• Straight Beam Testing: For detecting internal defects.
• Angle Beam Testing: Used to inspect welds and locate defects at various angles.
• Immersion Testing: Involves submerging the part in water to enhance wave transmission.
• Phased Array UT: Advanced technique that uses multiple transducers for improved defect detection and imaging.
• Time of Flight Diffraction (TOFD): Specialized technique to detect cracks and other critical defects.

6- Data Interpretation and Defect Analysis (Level II)

• How to interpret A-scan, B-scan, and C-scan displays for defect analysis.
• Differentiating between signals caused by real defects and false indications.
• Determining the size, location, and orientation of defects.

7- Reporting and Documentation (Level II)

• Preparing inspection reports that include details of the inspection setup, findings, and conclusions.
• Recording the location, type, and severity of any defects discovered.
• Understanding the significance of the acceptance criteria based on industry standards (e.g., ASME, API).

8- Safety Considerations in Ultrasonic Testing

• Following safe practices while handling UT equipment, especially in high-voltage environments.
• Ensuring proper usage of personal protective equipment (PPE), especially in hazardous or confined spaces.

Target Audience:

• NDT Technicians: Those seeking to develop or advance their skills in ultrasonic testing.
• Quality Control Personnel: Individuals responsible for ensuring product and material integrity.
• Maintenance Inspectors: Technicians involved in the routine inspection and evaluation of industrial components.
• Weld Inspectors: Inspectors who ensure the quality of welded joints using UT.
• Engineers and Supervisors: Professionals overseeing NDT teams or involved in component design and integrity assessment.

Certification:

• Level I Certification: Upon successful completion of the Level I training and exams, participants will be certified to perform basic UT inspections under supervision.
• Level II Certification: Upon successful completion of the Level II training and exams, participants will be certified to perform UT inspections independently, supervise Level I personnel, and interpret results.