Visual testing is a popular, low-cost method to perform.



Introduction

Visual testing (VT) is also known as visual testing examination, nondestructive inspection, or nondestructive evaluation or examination. Visual testing is the most common nondestructive testing method. Visual testing is a popular NDT method, because it is so easy to perform, it is a low-cost method, and it requires minimal equipment. VT involves observing a component with the naked eye to evaluate the presence of surface discontinuities. VT can be assisted with optical instruments such as magnifying glasses, boroscopes, mirrors, and other computer equipment for remote viewing. If a component can be viewed, visual testing is the first method of testing in an NDT examination. Visual testing can be performed on components that show visible corrosion or degradation such as welds, storage tanks, piping, boilers, and pressure vessels.



VT Applications

Examining the surface condition of a component



Examining alignment of mating surfaces

Checking presence of leaks



VT Equipment



Magnifying glasses

Fillet weld gauge



Microscopes

Computer equipment (remote viewing)



Illuminated magnifier

Inspection glass

Boroscope

Mirrors



The eyes!

VT Advantages

Simple method to perform

Examination can be performed quickly



Low-cost method



Minimal training

Minimal equipment



VT Disadvantages

Inspector training necessary

Good eyesight required or eyesight corrected to 20/40

Can miss internal defects

Report must be recorded by inspector

Open to human error

VT Industries

Steel Industry

Automotive

Oil and Gas

Power Generation

Aerospace

VT Training



In order to perform visual examinations, technicians must trained in Level I and II visual testing courses. These are foundation level courses, so there is no prior training or experience required by the student. Becoming qualified in visual testing is a great starting point for NDT technicians.



Citations:

Field Inspections Visual Testing (VT). (n.d.). Retrieved December 19, 2019, from https://www.mistrasgroup.com/how-we-help/field-inspections/traditional-ndt/visual-testing/?fbclid=IwAR22S5oQasfwhWQzwm-KCAb5b0gUFd4pNxSEJ0zsRVpNuejvPhHUkpYWFXg.

Visual Inspection (VT). (n.d.). Retrieved December 19, 2019, from https://ndt-training.org/cat_vtcourse.htm.

Visual Testing: NDT Service. (n.d.). Retrieved December 19, 2019, from http://www.ndt.kalkars.com/visual-testing-training?fbclid=IwAR0qonbzuf3sUfjW0LD-gwgn08OwJDShNkL_KTG28uN-84E-yNZrCLbu5oY.