Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) Practice Test

What must be done if an eddy current inspection device displays unreliable results?

1. Ignore the readings

2. Run a second inspection with the same method

3. Switch to another NDT method

4. Recalibrate the device immediately

The correct answer is: Switch to another NDT method

Switching to another NDT method is essential when an eddy current inspection device displays unreliable results. This is because different NDT methods can provide additional or complementary information about the material or component being inspected. For instance, if eddy current testing is yielding inconsistent readings due to issues like environmental interference, operator error, or material conductivity variations, utilizing a different technique such as ultrasonic testing or dye penetrant inspection can help confirm or refute the initial findings. Moreover, depending on the specific characteristics of the defect or condition under inspection, another NDT method might be better suited to provide accurate results. This approach enhances the likelihood of detecting flaws that the unreliable eddy current method may have missed or mischaracterized, ensuring overall reliability and safety in applications where precise measurements are crucial. While recalibrating the device can sometimes help address reliability issues, it doesn’t necessarily guarantee that the technique itself is still appropriate for the material conditions; thus, a thorough investigation involving multiple techniques is often warranted.