Ultrasonic Testing

This course is a combination of the Ultrasonic Testing Introduction course with appropriate Ultrasonic Testing theory and practical training. This course is PCN recognised and provides excellent preparation for Ultrasonic Testing Level 1 examinations. It meets in full the training hour requirements as specified by the relevant PCN documentation.

• Ultrasonic testing terminology
• Basic ultrasonic concepts
• Ultrasound
• Principals of ultrasonic testing
• Flaw detector (operation and use)
• Defect location and sizing techniques
• Use of calibration and reference blocks
• Plotting systems
• Application of a written instruction
• Examination of samples, welds, castings and wrought products
• Report writing and discussion of relevant standards and specifications (BS EN etc.)

Full PCN certification is only achieved once the required experience is acquired following the completion of the required training hours and passing of the examination:

An individual certified to Ultrasonic Testing Level 1 has demonstrated competence to carry out Ultrasonic Testing according to written instructions and under the supervision of Level 2 or Level 3 personnel. Within the scope of the competence defined on the certificate, Level 1 personnel may be authorised by the employer to perform the following in accordance with Ultrasonic Testing instructions:

• Set up Ultrasonic Testing equipment
• Perform Ultrasonic Inspection tests
• Record and classify results of the tests according to written criteria
• Report the results of Ultrasonic tests

Ultrasonic Testing Level 1 certified personnel shall neither be responsible for the choice of test method or technique to be used, nor for the interpretation of the test results.

These are guidance courses aimed at the PCN requirements for Ultrasonic Practitioner Level 3 in either welds, casting or wrought products. The main objective is to make candidates fully aware of the scope of the examination and level of knowledge required (This will also enable candidates to identify their weak subject areas). Advice will be given on any further tuition required. Candidates should ideally hold a PCN Level 2 approval in Ultrasonic Testing as a minimum and have at least 3 years experience in NDT Inspection before attempting these courses.

Candidates are required to complete and pass the PCN Level 3 Basic training course before attempting individual methods.

• Terminology and definition of UT
• Physical principlle of the method and associated knowledge
• Products Knowledge and releted capability of the method and derived techniques
• Equipments
• Information prior to test
• Testing techniques
• Evaluation reporting
• Assessment, Quality aspects and developments
• Analysis of procedures
• Procedure writing
• Mock examinations

Full PCN certification is only achieved once the required experience is acquired following the completion of the required training hours and passing of the examination:

An individual certified to Ultrasonic Testing Level 3 has demonstrated competence to perform and direct Ultrasonic Testing operators for which he is certified. Ultrasonic Testing Level 3 personnel have demonstrated:

• The competence to evaluate and interpret results in terms of existing standards, codes, and specifications
• Sufficient practical knowledge of applicable materials, fabrication, process, and product technology to select Ultrasonic Testing methods, establish Ultrasonic Testing techniques and assist in establishing acceptance criteria where non are otherwise available
• A general familiarity with other NDT methods

Within the scope of the competence defined on the certificate, Ultrasonic Testing Level 3 personnel may be authorised to:

• Assume full responsibility for the test facility or examination centre and staff
• Establish, review for editorial and technical correctness and validate Ultrasonic Testing instructions and procedures
• Interpret codes, standards, specifications and procedures
• Designate the particular Ultrasonic test methods, techniques and procedures to be used
• Within the scope and limitations of any certification held, carry out all tasks at all levels
• Provide guidance for Ultrasonic Testing personnel at all levels

Level 3 certified personnel may be authorised to carry out, manage and supervise PCN qualification examinations on behalf of the British Institute of NDT (BINDT).

Where Level 3 duties require the individual to apply routine NDT by a method or methods within a particular product or industry sector, BINDT strongly recommends that the industry demand that this person should hold and maintain Level 2 certification in the applicable method(s) and sector(s).

The range and scope of PCN certification available at each level is defined in the relevant appendix to these general requirements.

Ideal for those who already have a basic understanding of the techniques of ultrasonic inspection and would like intensive instruction to improve their knowledge and increase their experience in preperation for a recertification examination. The course is suitable for candidates who are wishing to progress towards any of the ultrasonic examination qualifications and has a high practical content; all equipment is provided.

• Revision of basic techniques
• Probe identification
• Test sensitivity
• Equipment checks
• Geometry/ultrasonic technique selection
• Defect response
• Practical exercises on a wide variety of weldments
• Defect sizing methods

Candidates have the option of single or multiple days and a flexible option for candidates undertaking ultrasonic training covering both welds, cast or wrought products.