NDT to verify penetration?

[dbooker630]

Other than destructive testing, does anyone know of any reliable, portable NDT methods of verifying weld penetration? I'm uncertain about UT or RT. The joint is a FCAW fillet weld of 90-60 cast steel to 1026 wrought using E70T-1 wire. Thanks!

 

[CoryPad]

Why are you uncertain about ultrasonic testing and radiographic testing? These are the standard nondestructive techniques for analyzing welds.

Regards,

Cory

Please see FAQ731-376 for tips on how to make the best use of Eng-Tips Fora.

 

[metengr]

Depending on the weld joint configuration, RT and UT are capable NDT methods and are used by Codes and Standards in the boiler, piping and pressure vessel industry.

 

[dbooker630]

The welds are on motor vehicle axles, that's why I was concerned about the effectiveness of a portable method.

 

[CoryPad]

Portable ultrasonic testing is capable of analyzing the type of welds found on vehicle axles.

Regards,

Cory

Please see FAQ731-376 for tips on how to make the best use of Eng-Tips Fora.

 

[metengr]

dbooker630;
We use UT for flaw sizing and detection in welds and base metal on various pieces of equipment at our Plants. One word of caution, you should have a qualified NDT inspector perform this activity, and the technique must be verified so that it can be repeated with confidence in production or even in the field.

I can't provide any additional information about your specific application other than contact a local NDT firm and have them evaluate your application. I will say that you might end up having to destructively examine one of the axle welds to provide a suitable mock-up and standard for UT application.

 

[Goahead]

Alternatively it is possible to set up a special fixture to measure by US one specific part for one specific threshold of weld penetration. The device operates like a "go-no-go" gage that does not need certified inspector.

http://www.welding-advisers.com/