ISO/TC 135 - Non-destructive testing

This document specifies a method of penetrant testing used to detect discontinuities, e.g. cracks, laps, folds, porosity and lack of fusion, which are open to the surface of the material to be tested using white light or UV-A (365 nm) radiation. It is mainly applied to metallic materials, but can also be performed on other materials, provided that they are inert to the test media and not excessively porous (castings, forgings, welds, ceramics, etc.) This document also includes requirements for process and control testing, but is not intended to be used for acceptance criteria. It gives neither information relating to the suitability of individual test systems for specific applications nor requirements for test equipment. NOTE 1 Methods for determining and monitoring the essential properties of penetrant testing products to be used are specified in ISO 3452-2 and ISO 3452-3. NOTE 2 The term "discontinuity" is used in this document in the sense that no evaluation concerning acceptability or non-acceptability is included. NOTE 3 CEN/TR 16638 addresses penetrant testing using actinic blue light.

This document specifies the technical requirements and test procedures for penetrant materials for their type testing and batch testing. This document covers the temperature range from 10 °C to 50 °C. Additional tests in ISO 3452-5 or ISO 3452-6 can be required outside this range. On-site control tests and methods are detailed in ISO 3452‑1.

This document gives general provisions for applying ultrasonic testing with arrays using FMC/TFM techniques and related technologies. It is intended to promote the adoption of good practice either at the manufacturing stage or for in-service testing of existing installations or for repairs. Some examples of applications considered in this document deal with characterization and sizing in damage assessment. Materials considered are low-alloyed carbon steels and common aerospace grade aluminium and titanium alloys, provided they are homogeneous and isotropic, but some recommendations are given for other materials (e.g. austenitic ones). This document does not include acceptance levels for discontinuities. For the application of FMC/TFM to testing of welds, see ISO 23864.

This document defines terms used in ultrasonic testing with arrays. This includes phased array technology and signal processing technology using arrays, e. g. the full-matrix capture (FMC) (3.3.1.28) and the total focusing technique (TFM) (3.3.1.35).

This document provides general principles for thermoelastic stress measuring method of infrared thermographic testing in the field of industrial non-destructive testing (NDT).

This document specifies methods, tolerances and acceptance criteria for verifying the performance of combined ultrasonic test equipment (i.e. instrument, probes and cables connected) by the use of appropriate standard calibration blocks. These methods are specifically intended for manual test equipment, i.e. ultrasonic instruments according to ISO 22232-1, and for manual ultrasonic non-destructive testing with single- or dual-transducer probes according to ISO 22232-2. This document is also applicable for multi-channel instruments. For automated test equipment, different tests can be needed to ensure satisfactory performance. The specified methods are intended for the use by operators working under site or shop floor conditions. These methods are not intended to prove the suitability of the equipment for particular applications. This document excludes ultrasonic instruments for continuous waves. This document also excludes ultrasonic phased array systems, see e. g. ISO 18563-3. If a phased array instrument is used in combination with single- or dual-transducer probes, this document is applicable to this combination.

This document specifies the characteristics of probes used for non-destructive ultrasonic testing in the following categories with centre frequencies in the range of 0,5 MHz to 15 MHz, focusing or without focusing means: a) single- or dual-transducer contact probes generating longitudinal and/or transverse waves; b) single-transducer immersion probes. Where material-dependent ultrasonic values are specified in this document they are based on steels having a sound velocity of (5 920 ± 50) m/s for longitudinal waves, and (3 255 ± 30) m/s for transverse waves. This document excludes periodic tests for probes. Routine tests for the verification of probes using on-site procedures are given in ISO 22232-3. If parameters in addition to those specified in ISO 22232-3 are to be verified during the probe's life time, as agreed upon by the contracting parties, the procedures of verification for these additional parameters can be selected from those given in this document. This document also excludes ultrasonic phased array probes, therefore see ISO 18563-2.

This document specifies methods and acceptance criteria within the frequency range of 0,5 MHz to 15 MHz, for assessing the electrical performance of digital ultrasonic instruments for pulse operation using A-scan display, for manual ultrasonic non-destructive testing with single- or dual-transducer probes. This document is also applicable for multi-channel instruments. This document can partly be applicable to ultrasonic instruments in automated systems, but other tests can be needed to ensure satisfactory performance. This document excludes ultrasonic instruments for continuous waves. This document also excludes ultrasonic phased array instruments, see e.g. ISO 18563-1. If a phased array instrument has dedicated connectors for single- or dual-transducer probes this document is applicable for these channels.

This document is used for non-destructive testing by the gamma ray scanning method for troubleshooting and testing process columns in industries. This document is applicable to the testing of all kinds of separation processes columns and pipes. This includes columns with different tray configurations and with packed beds.

This document describes the test method for determining residual stresses in polycrystalline materials by neutron diffraction. It is applicable to both homogeneous and inhomogeneous materials including those containing distinct phases. The principles of the neutron diffraction technique are outlined. Suggestions are provided on: — the selection of appropriate diffracting lattice planes on which measurements should be made for different categories of materials, — the specimen directions in which the measurements should be performed, and — the volume of material examined in relation to the material grain size and the envisaged stress state. Procedures are described for accurately positioning and aligning test pieces in a neutron beam and for precisely defining the volume of material sampled for the individual measurements. The precautions needed for calibrating neutron diffraction instruments are described. Techniques for obtaining a stress-free reference are presented. The methods of making individual measurements by neutron diffraction are described in detail. Procedures for analysing the results and for determining their statistical relevance are presented. Advice is provided on how to determine reliable estimates of residual stresses from the strain data and on how to estimate the uncertainty in the results.

This document gives requirements and recommendations for non-destructive testing (NDT) training syllabuses, with the intention of harmonizing and maintaining the general standard of training of NDT personnel for industrial needs. It also establishes the minimum requirements for effective structured training of NDT personnel to ensure eligibility for qualification examinations leading to third-party certification according to recognized standards. In addition to non-destructive testing in general, its guidelines for syllabuses cover acoustic emission testing, eddy current testing, leak testing, magnetic testing, penetrant testing, radiographic testing, ultrasonic testing, visual testing, thermographic testing, and strain gauge testing. ISO/TS 25108 gives requirements and recommendations for NDT training organizations.

This document defines the general principles to be applied to non-destructive eddy current examination of products and materials in order to ensure defined and repeatable performance. It includes guidelines for the preparation of application documents which describe the specific requirements for the application of the eddy current method to a particular type of product.

This document specifies a test for damage qualification of reinforced concrete beams in services as bridges, docks and buildings.

This document establishes a measurement method for acoustic emission signals in concrete.

The following documents are referred to in the text in such a way that some or all of their content constitutes requirements of this document. For dated references, only the edition cited applies. For undated references, the latest edition of the referenced document (including any amendments) applies. ISO 12713, Non-destructive testing — Acoustic emission inspection — Primary calibration of transducers ISO 12714, Non-destructive testing — Acoustic emission inspection — Secondary calibration of acoustic emission sensors ISO 12716, Non-destructive testing — Acoustic emission inspection — Vocabulary ISO/TR 13115, Non-destructive testing — Methods for absolute calibration of acoustic emission transducers by the reciprocity technique

This document specifies the application of phased array technology for the semi- or fully automated ultrasonic testing of fusion-welded joints in steel parts with thickness values between 3,2 mm and 8,0 mm. This meets the typical range of tube wall thickness values in boilers, which is an important application of this testing technology. The minimum and maximum value of the wall thickness range can be exceeded, when testing level "D" of this document is applied. This document applies to full penetration welded joints of simple geometry in plates, tubes, pipes, and vessels, where both the weld and parent material are low-alloy and/or fine grained steel. NOTE "Semi-automated testing" encompasses a controlled movement of one or more probes on the surface of a component along a fixture (guidance strip, ruler, etc.), whereby the probe position is unambiguously measured with a position sensor. The probe is moved manually. "Fully automated testing" includes mechanized propulsion in addition. Where material-dependent ultrasonic parameters are specified in this document, they are based on steels having a sound velocity of (5 920 ± 50) m/s for longitudinal waves, and (3 255 ± 30) m/s for transverse waves. It is necessary to take this fact into account when testing materials with a different velocity. This document provides guidance on the specific capabilities and limitations of phased array technology for the detection, location, sizing and characterization of discontinuities in fusion-welded joints. Ultrasonic phased array technology can be used as a stand-alone technique or in combination with other non-destructive testing (NDT) methods or techniques, during manufacturing and testing of new welds/repair welds (pre-service testing). This document specifies two testing levels: — level "C" for standard situations; — level "D" for different situations/special applications. This document describes assessment of discontinuities for acceptance purposes based on: — height and length; — amplitude (equivalent reflector size) and length; — go/no-go decision. This document does not include acceptance levels for discontinuities.

This document gives requirements and recommendations for non-destructive testing (NDT) training organizations, with the intention of harmonizing and maintaining the general standard of training of NDT personnel for industrial needs. It also establishes the minimum requirements for effective structured training of NDT personnel to ensure eligibility for qualification examinations leading to third-party certification according to recognized standards. NOTE ISO/TS 25107 gives requirements and recommendations for NDT training syllabuses intended for training.

This document specifies fundamental techniques of film and digital radiography with the object of enabling satisfactory and repeatable results to be obtained economically. The techniques are based on generally recognized practice and fundamental theory of the subject. This document applies to the radiographic examination of steel pipes for service induced flaws such as corrosion pitting, generalized corrosion and erosion. Besides its conventional meaning, "pipe" as used in this document is understood to cover other cylindrical bodies such as tubes, penstocks, boiler drums and pressure vessels. Weld inspection for typical welding process induced flaws is not covered, but weld inspection is included for corrosion/erosion type flaws. The pipes can be insulated or not, and can be assessed where loss of material due, for example, to corrosion or erosion is suspected either internally or externally. This document covers the tangential inspection technique for detection and through-wall sizing of wall loss, including with the source: a) on the pipe centre line; and b) offset from pipe centre line by the pipe radius. ISO 20769-2 covers double wall radiography, and note that the double wall double image technique is often combined with tangential radiography with the source on the pipe centre line. This document applies to tangential radiographic inspection using industrial radiographic film techniques, computed radiography (CR) and digital detector arrays (DDA).

This document specifies fundamental techniques of film and digital radiography with the object of enabling satisfactory and repeatable results to be obtained economically. The techniques are based on generally recognized practice and fundamental theory of the subject. This document applies to the radiographic examination of pipes in metallic materials for service induced flaws such as corrosion pitting, generalized corrosion and erosion. Besides its conventional meaning, "pipe" as used in this document is understood to cover other cylindrical bodies such as tubes, penstocks, boiler drums and pressure vessels. Weld inspection for typical welding process induced flaws is not covered, but weld inspection is included for corrosion/erosion type flaws. The pipes can be insulated or not, and can be assessed where loss of material due, for example, to corrosion or erosion is suspected either internally or externally. This document covers double wall inspection techniques for detection of wall loss, including double wall single image (DWSI) and double wall double image (DWDI). Note that the DWDI technique described in this document is often combined with the tangential technique covered in ISO 20769-1. This document applies to in-service double wall radiographic inspection using industrial radiographic film techniques, computed digital radiography (CR) and digital detector arrays (DDA).

This document specifies a method of determining the total image unsharpness and basic spatial resolution of radiographs and radioscopic images. The IQI with up to 13 wire pairs can be used effectively with tube voltages up to 600 kV. The IQI with more than 13 wire pairs can be used effectively at tube voltages lower than 225 kV. When using source voltages in the megavolt range, it is possible that the results are not be completely satisfactory.

This document specifies a procedure for the control of film processing systems.

This document describes the acoustic emission (AE) testing technique used to perform structural integrity evaluation on steel structures of overhead travelling cranes and portal bridge cranes. This document applies to the testing of steel structures of in-service overhead travelling cranes and portal bridge cranes. Testing of other kinds of cranes can refer this document. This testing method is not intended to be an alone NDT standard method for the evaluation of the structural integrity of overhead travelling cranes and portal bridge cranes. Other NDT methods are used to verify and supplement the AT results. This document does not establish evaluation criteria.

ISO 20486:2017 specifies the calibration of those leaks that are used for the adjustment of leak detectors for the determination of leakage rate in everyday use. One type of calibration method is a comparison with a reference leak. In this way, the leaks used for routine use become traceable to a primary standard. In other calibration methods, the value of vapour pressure was measured directly or calculated over a known volume. The comparison procedures are preferably applicable to helium leaks, because this test gas can be selectively measured by a mass spectrometer leak detector (MSLD) (the definition of MSLD is given in ISO 20484). Calibration by comparison (see methods A, As, B and Bs below) with known reference leaks is easily possible for leaks with reservoir and leakage rates below 10−7 Pa·m3/s. Figure 1 gives an overview of the different recommended calibration methods.

ISO 20485:2017 describes the techniques to be applied for the detection of a leak, using a tracer gas and a tracer gas specific leak detector.

ISO 16809:2017 specifies the principles for ultrasonic thickness measurement of metallic and non-metallic materials by direct contact, based on measurement of time of flight of ultrasonic pulses only.

The information in ISO/TS 16829:2017 covers all kinds of ultrasonic testing on components or complete manufactured structures for either correctness of geometry, for material properties (quality or defects), and for fabrication methodology (e.g. weld testing). ISO/TS 16829:2017 enables the user, along with a customer specification, or a given test procedure or any standard or regulation to select: - ultrasonic probes, probe systems and controlling sensors; - manipulation systems including controls; - electronic sub-systems for the transmission and reception of ultrasound; - systems for data storage and display; - systems and methods for evaluation and assessment of test results. With regard to their performance, ISO/TS 16829:2017 also describes procedures for the verification of the performance of the selected test system. This includes - tests during the manufacturing process of products (stationary testing systems), and - tests with mobile systems.

ISO 16371-2:2017 specifies fundamental techniques of computed radiography with the aim of enabling satisfactory and repeatable results to be obtained economically. The techniques are based on the fundamental theory of the subject and tests measurements. ISO 16371-2:2017 specifies the general rules for industrial computed X-rays and gamma radiography for flaw detection purposes, using storage phosphor imaging plates (IP). It is based on the general principles for radiographic examination of metallic materials on the basis of films, as specified in ISO 5579. The basic set-up of radiation source, detector and the corresponding geometry are intended to be applied in accordance with ISO 5579 and corresponding product standards such as ISO 17636 for welding and EN 12681 for foundry. ISO 16371-2:2017 does not lay down acceptance criteria of the imperfections. Computed radiography (CR) systems provide a digital grey value image which can be viewed and evaluated on basis of a computer only. This practice describes the recommended procedure for detector selection and radiographic practice. Selection of computer, software, monitor, printer and viewing conditions are important but not the main focus of ISO 16371-2:2017. The procedure it specifies provides the minimum requirements and practice to permit the exposure and acquisition of digital radiographs with a sensitivity of imperfection detection equivalent to film radiography and as specified in ISO 5579. Some application standards, e.g. EN 16407, can require different and less stringent practice conditions.

ISO 19285:2017 specifies acceptance levels for the phased array ultrasonic testing technique (PAUT) of full penetration welds in ferritic steels of minimum thickness of 6 mm which correspond to the quality levels of ISO 5817. These acceptance levels are applicable to indications classified in accordance with ISO 13588.

ISO 18563-2:2017 specifies the characterization tests performed at the end of the fabrication of a phased array probe. It defines both methodology and acceptance criteria. ISO 18563-2:2017 is applicable to the following phased array probes used for ultrasonic non-destructive testing in contact technique (with or without a wedge) or in immersion technique, with centre frequencies in the range 0,5 MHz to 10 MHz: a) non-matrix array probes: - linear; - encircling; - partial annular sectorial (type "daisy"); b) 2D-matrix array probes. ISO 18563-2:2017 does not give methods and acceptance criteria to characterize the performance of an ultrasonic phased array instrument or the performance of a combined system. These are given in ISO 18563?1 and in ISO 18563?3.

ISO 20339:2017 identifies the functional characteristics of eddy current array probes and their interconnecting elements and provides methods for their measurement and verification. The evaluation of these characteristics permits a well-defined description and comparability of eddy current array probes. Where relevant, this document gives recommendations for acceptance criteria for the characteristics.

ISO 20484:2017 defines the terms used in leak testing.

ISO 20669:2017 specifies the pulsed eddy current (PEC) testing technique used to perform thickness measurement on ferromagnetic metallic components with or without the presence of coating, insulation and weather sheeting. ISO 20669:2017 applies to the testing of in-service components made of carbon steel and low-alloy steel in the temperature of −100 °C to 500 °C (temperature measured at metal surface). The range of wall thickness of components is from 3 mm to 65 mm and the range of thickness of coatings is from 0 mm to 200 mm. The tested components also include piping of diameter not less than 50 mm. The technique described in this document is sensitive to the geometry of the component and applying the technique to components outside of its scope will result in unpredictable inaccuracy. This document does not apply to the testing of crack defects and local metal loss caused by pitting. ISO 20669:2017 does not establish evaluation criteria. The evaluation criteria shall be specified by the contractual agreement between parties.

ISO 16946:2017 specifies the dimensions, material, and manufacture of a step wedge steel block for the calibration of ultrasonic instruments.

ISO 15708-2:2017 specifies the general principles of X-ray computed tomography (CT), the equipment used and basic considerations of sample, materials and geometry. It is applicable to industrial imaging (i.e. non-medical applications) and gives a consistent set of CT performance parameter definitions, including how those performance parameters relate to CT system specifications. ISO 15708-2:2017 deals with computed axial tomography and excludes other types of tomography such as translational tomography and tomosynthesis.

ISO 15708-1:2017 gives the definitions of terms used in the field of computed tomography (CT). It presents a terminology that is not only CT-specific but which also includes other more generic terms and definitions spanning imaging and radiography. Some of the definitions represent discussion points aimed at refocusing their terms in the specific context of computed tomography.

ISO 15708-3:2017 presents an outline of the operation of a computed tomography (CT) system and the interpretation of results with the aim of providing the operator with technical information to enable the selection of suitable parameters. It is applicable to industrial imaging (i.e. non-medical applications) and gives a consistent set of CT performance parameter definitions, including how those performance parameters relate to CT system specifications. ISO 15708-3:2017 deals with computed axial tomography and excludes other types of tomography such as translational tomography and tomosynthesis.

ISO 5577:2017 defines the terms used in ultrasonic non-destructive testing and forms a common basis for standards and general use. This document does not cover terms used in ultrasonic testing with phased arrays. NOTE Terms for phased array ultrasonic testing are defined in EN 16018.

ISO 18251-1:2017 describes the main components, and their characteristics, constituting an infrared (IR) imaging system and related equipment used in non-destructive testing (NDT). It also aims to assist the user in the selection of an appropriate system for a particular measurement task. The following items are specified: - objective lens; - detector; - image processor; - display; - thermal stimulation source; - accessories.

ISO 15708-4:2017 specifies guidelines for the qualification of the performance of a CT system with respect to various inspection tasks. It is applicable to industrial imaging (i.e. non-medical applications) and gives a consistent set of CT performance parameter definitions, including how those performance parameters relate to CT system specifications. ISO 15708-4:2017 deals with computed axial tomography and excludes other types of tomography such as translational tomography and tomosynthesis.

ISO 10880:2017 provides general principles for infrared thermographic testing in the field of industrial non-destructive testing (NDT).

ISO 19675:2017 specifies requirements for the dimensions, material and manufacture of a steel block for calibrating ultrasonic test equipment used in ultrasonic testing with the phased array technique.

ISO 9934-1:2016 specifies general principles for the magnetic particle testing of ferromagnetic materials. Magnetic particle testing is primarily applicable to the detection of surface-breaking discontinuities, particularly cracks. It can also detect discontinuities just below the surface but its sensitivity diminishes rapidly with depth. ISO 9934-1:2016 specifies the surface preparation of the part to be tested, magnetization techniques, requirements and application of the detection media, and the recording and interpretation of results. Acceptance criteria are not defined. Additional requirements for the magnetic particle testing of particular items are defined in product standards (see the relevant International Standards or European standards). ISO 9934-1:2016 does not apply to the residual magnetization method.

ISO 18211:2016 specifies a method for long-range testing of carbon and low-alloy steel above-ground pipelines and plant piping using guided ultrasonic waves with axial propagation applied on the entire circumferential pipe section, in order to detect corrosion or erosion damage. The guided wave testing (GWT) method allows for fast inspection of above-ground pipelines, plant piping and cased road crossings, giving a qualitative screening and localization of probable corroded and eroded areas. GWT is typically performed on operating piping systems. ISO 18211:2016 is applicable to the following types of pipes: a) above-ground painted pipelines; b) above-ground insulated pipelines; c) painted plant piping; d) insulated plant piping. NOTE Pipe sections within road crossings with external casings (without bitumen or plastic coating) are a special case of buried pipe where there is no soil pressure on the OD of the pipe. ISO 18211 :2016 applies to these cased road crossings. Other types of pipes not included in the above list need dedicated approaches due to increased complexity.

ISO 18081:2016 specifies the general principles required for leak detection by acoustic emission testing (AT). It is addressed to the application of the methodology on structures and components, where a leak flow as a result of pressure differences appears and generates acoustic emission (AE). It describes phenomena of the AE generation and influence of the nature of fluids, shape of the gap, wave propagation and environment. The different application methods, instrumentation and presentation of AE results is discussed. Also included are guidelines for the preparation of application documents which describe specific requirements for the application of the AE method. Different application examples are given. Unless otherwise specified in the referencing documents, the minimum requirements of this International Standard are applicable.

ISO 12707:2016 defines general terms specifically associated with magnetic particle testing.

ISO 18563-3:2015 addresses ultrasonic test systems implementing linear phased array probes, in contact (with or without wedge) or in immersion, with centre frequencies in the range of 0,5 MHz?10 MHz. It provides methods and acceptance criteria for verifying the performance of combined equipment (i.e. instrument, probe and cables connected). The methods described are suitable for users working under on-site or shop floor conditions. Its purpose is for the verification of the correct operation of the system prior to testing, and also the characterization of sound beams or verification of the absence of degradation of the system. The methods are not intended to prove the suitability of the system for particular applications, but are intended to prove the capability of the combined equipment to generate ultrasonic beams according to the settings used. The calibration of the system for a specific application is outside of the scope of part of ISO 18563 and it is intended that it be covered by the test procedure. ISO 18563-3:2015 does not address the following: - encircling arrays; - series of apertures having a different number of elements; - different settings for transmitting and receiving (e.g. active aperture, number of active elements, delays); - techniques using post-processing of the signals of individual elements in a more complex manner than a simple delay law (e.g. full matrix capture).

ISO 9934-3:2015 describes three types of equipment for magnetic particle testing: - portable or transportable equipment; - fixed installations; - specialized testing systems for testing components on a continuous basis, comprising a series of processing stations placed in sequence to form a process line. Equipment for magnetizing, demagnetizing, illumination, measurement, and monitoring are also described. This part of ISO 9934 specifies the properties to be provided by the equipment supplier, minimum requirements for application and the method of measuring certain parameters. Where appropriate, measuring and calibration requirements and in-service checks are also specified.

ISO 9934-2:2015 specifies the significant properties of magnetic particle testing products (including magnetic ink, powder, carrier liquid, contrast aid paints) and the methods for checking their properties.

ISO 18563-1:2015 identifies the functional characteristics of a multichannel ultrasonic phased array instrument used for phased array probes and provides methods for their measurement and verification. ISO 18563-1:2015 can partly be applicable to ultrasonic phased array instruments in automated systems, but then, other tests might be needed to ensure satisfactory performance. When the phased array instrument is a part of an automated system, the acceptance criteria can be modified by agreement between the parties involved. ISO 18563-1:2015 gives the extent of the verification and defines acceptance criteria within a frequency range of 0,5 MHz to 10 MHz. The evaluation of these characteristics permits a well-defined description of the ultrasonic phased array instrument and comparability of instruments.

ISO 18490:2015 specifies the form of the optotype, the quality requirements for the chart, the test procedure, and the acceptance level for near vision acuity of NDT personnel. It also addresses the qualification requirements for personnel permitted to carry out the test. ISO 18490:2015 only addresses near vision acuity under defined conditions similar to those encountered during routine NDT inspection. It does not address an individual's overall visual acuity and users are advised to consider the need for a general eye examination by specialist medical personnel to ensure general vision acuity is appropriate for job function. ISO 18490:2015 does not address colour vision requirements.