A Guide to Nondestructive Testing and Evaluation

5-minute read

In this article:

• Discover the differences between Nondestructive Testing (NDT) and Nondestructive Evaluation (NDE).
• Learn about the different tools that empower the different types of NDT and how Constellation Clearsight maximizes them.
• Explore how Constellation Clearsight utilizes advanced techniques and innovative technology.

Nondestructive Testing (NDT) and Nondestructive Evaluation (NDE) mean the same thing to most people, however they take on a specific meaning in certain industries. Either way, their intended purpose is to maintain the integrity and reliability of America’s energy infrastructure. By employing sophisticated techniques, NDT and NDE enable comprehensive inspections and assessments of various components and materials without causing damage, harm to people, harm to components, or cause power disruption.

In this article, we’ll explore what NDT and NDE are, their benefits, the types of NDT, how Constellation Clearsight employs NDE, and the specific tools and methods we utilize.  

Nondestructive Testing vs. Nondestructive Evaluation

Nondestructive Testing and Nondestructive Evaluation, though often used interchangeably, refer to two slightly different concepts.

• NDT refers to the methods used to inspect an object, a piece of equipment, or system without impairing its future usefulness. It’s a testing procedure designed to detect, locate, and measure flaws without causing any structural harm.
• NDE takes the process a step further. While it encompasses the principles of NDT, it also includes the interpretation of the testing results to evaluate present conditions and predict future reliability. In other words, NDE not only identifies the flaws but also assesses the overall quality and remaining longevity of the component.

Benefits of NDT and NDE

NDT and NDE offer several key advantages that contribute to the overall integrity and reliability of critical infrastructure:

• Safety: NDT and NDE techniques are performed to confirm components remain able to perform their intended design form, fit, and function without sacrificing the health and safety of employees and the general public.
• Cost Efficiency: Identifying potential defects early allows for planned engineering analysis and coordination of long lead time deliverables necessary to perform cost-effective maintenance repairs or replacement while reducing downtime and cost.
• Preservation: These methods used to conduct testing are nondestructive, as the name implies. They do not result in any damage or harm to the component being tested all while maintaining its usefulness and lifespan.

Types of NDT

There are several types of NDT methods, including Visual Inspection (VT), Ultrasonic Testing (UT), Magnetic Particle Testing (MT), Liquid Penetrant Testing (PT), Radiographic Testing (RT), and Eddy Current Testing (ET) as well as several other methods and techniques not mentioned. Each of these methods can be applied for specific applications. The selection of methods deployed depends on the type of material, the nature of the defect, and the accessibility of the test area.

How Constellation Clearsight Performs NDE

Clearsight utilizes advanced digital technologies, including our Non-Destructive Evaluation (NDE) Drone, to perform thorough inspections. Our NDE Drone is equipped with an ultrasonic thickness transducer sensor, enabling us to conduct safe examinations of structures at power generation and industrial facilities. 

This innovative approach eliminates the need for traditional methods like scaffolding, cranes, or rope access rappelling, allowing us to inspect from a distance.

The data captured by the drone is then analyzed and interpreted, enabling us to locate potential defects and evaluate the equipment’s overall structural health. This data-driven approach allows us to provide targeted and proactive maintenance recommendations that can significantly improve the efficiency and reliability of the infrastructure.

Watch our video that shows the capabilities of the NDE Drone:

Related: Emerging Tech, Best Practices in Wood Pole Inspections for Electric Cooperatives

Bottom Line

Nondestructive Testing and Evaluation are vital to maintaining the resilience of our energy infrastructure. At Constellation Clearsight, we are proud to utilize these advanced techniques, combined with innovative technology solutions, to offer top-tier inspection services. 

By employing a comprehensive approach to NDT and NDE, we ensure that the energy sector is equipped with the detailed, accurate data needed to maintain a reliable, efficient, and cost-effective infrastructure.

Related: Electric Cooperatives, Wood Pole Inspections, and Data Management