Many things need to be tested to confirm their strength and integrity remain intact. This can be done before a project is completed, on completion, or during its normal life expectancy. The problem is that most testing methods are destructive. In other words, the item being tested is broken during the process, it’s the best way of identifying its limits and how well it is performing.
Of course, in many cases, this is not a viable option. For example, if you want to test the strength and integrity of your home you don’t want to destroy it in the process.
The good news is that non-destructive testing is possible. The following processes allow you to test the current strength and weaknesses of specific items, helping you to decide if they are still fit for purpose without destroying them in the process.
- Liquid Penetrant
Liquid or dye penetrant testing involves applying a fluid to the surface being tested. The fluid has a low viscosity which means it is very thin and flows easily. As it moves across the surface it will find any blemishes and fill them.
Because the fluid is also colored it is easy to see the blemishes and assess how serious they are.
- Magnetic Particle Testing
This approach uses magnets to create a magnetic field across the surface to be tested. The field will distort where there are irregularities in the surface, helping you to identify the flaws.
- Leak Testing
If you’re looking to verify the presence of a leak in any pipework then you’ll want to use leak testing methods. The most common is to use a tank of liquid with soap in it. When this liquid passes over a leak you’ll see bubbles, helping you to identify the issue and deal with it.
- Laser Testing
Lasers can be used to detect changes in the surface of any material. They are played across the surface and any blemishes will cause the laser to fracture. This will show on the associated image giving you an exact graph of the damage.
- Electromagnetic Testing
It’s possible to pass an electrical current through anything conductive to assess the efficiency of the object. The more damage there is the less conductive the material will be. In short, the longer the sign takes to get through or the weaker it becomes, the bigger the issue with the item being tested.
- Radiographic Testing
This form of testing uses radiation. The radiation is passed through the item and creates an image of its surfaces and integrity. It’s the same principle as that used in x-rays. You’ll have a clear image of the surface and any issues within the item.
There are other non-destructive testing methods but these are the most common ones.
Final Thoughts
Many of the non-destructive test methods are specialized and need to be undertaken by professionals. However, in many cases, the procedure is more expensive than destructive testing, but also more effective and can save you money if the item being tested passes.
