Nondestructuve Inspection Testing

What preparatory step is generally required before performing most types of NDI on a component?

Cleaning the component thoroughly

What is the advantage of the "pulse echo" ultrasonic inspection method?

It can detect flaws with access to only one side of the part

Which statement best describes the limitation of visual inspection in detecting aircraft defects?

Some defects are too small or below the surface to be detected visually

Why must radiographic interpretation be performed by highly qualified personnel?

Incorrect interpretation can result in missed defects and compromise structural safety

Why must personnel performing and interpreting NDI results be certified to specific standards such as MIL-STD-410 or ATA iSpec 105?

To ensure proper detection and evaluation of discontinuities

Why is it essential to magnetize a component in more than one direction during magnetic particle inspection?

To ensure defects in all orientations are revealed

Why must the defect be open to the surface for liquid penetrant inspection to be effective?

The penetrant must be able to enter the opening

When choosing an NDI method, what is the most critical consideration if the manufacturer or FAA has not specified a procedure?

The advantages and disadvantages of each method

What is a Type II defect found in bonded structure inspection?

Disbond or void at the adhesive-to-core interface

What is the primary purpose of demagnetizing aircraft parts after magnetic particle inspection?

To prevent them from attracting metallic debris that could cause damage

What is a major benefit of acoustic emission inspection compared to other NDI methods?

It can detect and locate all activated flaws in a structure during one test

What is the effect of increasing the magnetic flux density during magnetic particle inspection?

It can increase test sensitivity but may also cause nonrelevant indications if too high

Which property does eddy current inspection primarily rely on to detect flaws in metal components?

Variation in electrical conductivity and magnetic permeability

What is the primary advantage of using a borescope during inspection?

It allows internal inspection without disassembly

Magnetic particle inspection is only applicable to which category of materials?

Ferromagnetic metals such as iron and steel

How does eddy current inspection detect subsurface corrosion or cracks without removing surface coatings?

By measuring impedance changes caused by flaws beneath the surface

What is a distinguishing feature of false indications in penetrant inspection?

They are typically broad and result from incomplete washing

What is the primary hazard associated with radiographic (x-ray/gamma) inspection?

Harmful ionizing radiation that can damage living tissue

Why is the direction and angle of light important when searching for surface cracks?

It helps highlight cracks by creating shadows

In radiographic inspection, which flaw type poses the greatest risk to material strength and is most likely to be rejected?

Sharp-pointed flaws such as cracks and cold shuts

Why is the choice of couplant important in ultrasonic inspection?

It ensures efficient transmission of sound energy between transducer and test piece

What is the primary objective of nondestructive inspection (NDI) and nondestructive testing (NDT) in aircraft maintenance?

To determine airworthiness without causing damage

During penetrant inspection, what may result from excessive washing or rinsing before development?

Removal of penetrant from the defect, hiding the flaw

Which type of defect can be detected using ultrasonic resonance methods?

Thickness variations in metals with parallel and smooth surfaces

Why are reference standards necessary in eddy current and ultrasonic inspection?

They provide known flaws to verify instrument sensitivity and accuracy