11 Jun 2017

The Skills You Learn in Spartan’s Nondestructive Testing Courses

Nondestructive Testing (NDT) plays an important role in assuring that structural and mechanical components perform their function in a safe and reliable manner. Upon graduating from an NDT College, NDT technicians define and implement tests that locate and characterize material conditions and flaws that might otherwise cause planes to crash, reactors to fail, trains to derail, pipelines to burst, and a variety of less visible, but equally troubling events.

These testing methods are essential and create a high demand for technicians. That’s why here at Spartan College, we provide NDT training courses so students can learn how to perform each test safely and effectively. You can earn a nondestructive testing diploma in as little as 11 months! At Spartan College, we offer top-notch facilities and industry-respected professionals conduct all training.  Upon completing our NDT training program, you will possess the necessary skills and knowledge to perform various tests. Below are a few commonly used methods:

Visual and Optical Testing (VT) 

This visual examination is most common cost effective and basic way to recognize surface imperfections. Visual examiners use their knowledge of how a part was manufactured, the function of the human eye, lighting requirements, and precise measuring tools to see if surface imperfections are visible. Also, using computer controlled camera systems to automatically recognize and measure features of a component are helpful during this test.

Radiography (RT)


One of the most traditional NDT testing procedures is radiation testing. Radiographic examination involves using radioactive isotopes or X-rays on materials to look for defects or examine internal or hidden features. Radiation is directed through a part and onto film or other detector. The resulting shadowgraph shows the internal features, material thickness and density changes indicated by lighter or darker areas on the film or detector. The darker areas in the radiograph below represent internal voids in the component.

This method is very popular among testing companies and organizations. You can learn how to conduct radiation testing procedures through the nondestruction testing courses at Spartan College.

Electromagnetic Testing (ET) 

Using electromagnetic induction, eddy currents can be used to examine parts quickly. With an eddy current probe, electricity is conducted through a wire coil, creating an oscillating magnetic field. This area can then be used to examine materials and parts.

Eddy currents are ideal for identifying cracks, measuring conduction (such as heat), and detecting heat damage, among other things. Spartan’s nondestructive testing program will help you learn how to conduct eddy current tests.

Magnetic Particle Testing (MT)

Magnetic Particle Examination is very popular for testing the surface of materials and components. In many ways, MPT testing can be thought of as a combination of flux leakage and visual testing. Surface and near-surface flaws disrupt the flow of the magnetic field within the part and force some of the fields to leak out at the surface. Iron particles are attracted and concentrated at sites of the magnetic flux leakages. This produces a visible indication of defect on the surface of the material.