scope:

This publication contains the concepts, process controls, and theory of NDI methods and SHALL be used as a guide in development of NDI procedures and manuals. Guidance for development of NDI procedures is contained in MIL- DTL- 87929C, Appendix F. NDI procedures SHALL be detailed step-by-step instructions with illustrations so a qualified NDI technician can perform the required inspection. In addition this manual provides guidance in safety guidelines of these NDI methods. This manual is intended for use by Air Force, Navy Air, Army and DoD contractors when specified. When the guidelines of this manual conflicts with details in a depot local processing directive, or a weapon system specific directive, the latter SHALL take precedence.

PURPOSE.

Nondestructive Inspection (NDI) is the inspection of a structure or component in any manner that will not impair its future usefulness. The purpose of the inspection may be to detect flaws, measure geometric characteristics, determine material structure or composition, or it may characterize physical, electrical, or thermal properties without causing any changes in the part. The five standard NDI disciplines include:

Liquid Penetrant

Magnetic Particle

Eddy Current

Ultrasonic

Radiography

New and emerging technologies that are also considered NDI techniques are thermography and shearography. Visual inspections are not considered tasks or functions for NDI technicians under the scope of this manual.