Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) Services

Applus+ Laboratories provides thorough NDT support for the aerospace industry, from initial design until final inspection phases. We count on a growing global network of multidisciplinary laboratories, expertise and capabilities that allow us to enhance product development for renowned high-tech OEMs.

What is NDT (Non-Destructive Testing)?

Non-destructive testing (NDT) is a set of techniques used in industry to evaluate the properties of a material, component or system without causing permanent damage or significant alterations to them. These tests are used to detect internal or surface defects, evaluate structural integrity, measure thicknesses, analyse chemical composition, among other applications, without affecting the functionality of the object under inspection.

The importance of NDT

To determine the useful life of components and prevent possible failures, manufacturers must verify material behavior throughout the product's life cycle: development, production and service.

NDT tests save costs and inspection times by using noninvasive techniques to detect surface and internal defects in composite and metal materials.

Where is NDT used?

Non-destructive testing (NDT) is essential in a wide range of industries including manufacturing, construction, aerospace, oil and others to ensure the safety, quality and reliability of products and structures.

What is the difference between Destructive Testing and Non-Destructive Testing?

Destructive testing involves damaging or destroying the test sample to understand its behavior under extreme conditions, while non-destructive testing allows for the inspection of materials or components without causing damage, making it suitable for assessing integrity and detecting flaws.

Both approaches are valuable in different contexts, depending on the objectives, constraints, and requirements of the testing process.

Benefits of Non-Destructive Testing (NDT)

Non-destructive testing has a number of benefits: 

• Reduce validation plan times
• Save production control costs
• Optimize maintenance costs

NDT Services for Aerospace

In the aerospace industry, NDT helps identify faults or compromised parts before moving on to the processing phase. These methods can range from magnetic particle testing, radiographic film testing or fluorescent penetrant testing.

Our capabilities, team of experts and facilities distributed in strategic points in the US and Canada have allowed us to become one of the leading non-destructive testing providers for the aerospace sector.

We specialise in the development of customized NDT solutions for machinery and composite aerospace materials and structures. Backed up with a wide scope of NDT method equipment, consumables, procedures, and applications.

We can meet most Nadcap accreditation requirements and benchmarks for NDT of high-performance components. And can also conduct formal training sessions to fulfill the qualification requirements as defined by NAS 410 and ASNT SNT-TC-1A.

Our range of non-destructive testing services include:

NDT for composites

NDT for metals

Remote Inspection

NDT Consulting

Automated NDT Equipment

NDT Services for Composite Parts

There’s an increase in the use of composite materials when it comes to the aerospace industry due to their high strength and low weight properties. Our NDT laboratories count on the right NDT inspection techniques, equipment and capabilities to optimise the NDT process for these complex materials.

Our NDT Inspection Techniques for Composite Parts

We use a range of advanced methods to ensure thorough evaluation and quality assurance. These techniques include:

• Conventional & Phased Array Ultrasound 
• Thermography 
• Digital X-Ray 
• Eddy Current 
• Optical Dimension Analysis

NDT Inspection Equipment & Capabilities

• In-house developed, Robotic & Gantry Systems
• Cost-Effective, time-efficient and superb-quality systems
• High-speed scanning of large, complex composite structures
• Automated, multi-method tool changing

NDT Inspection for Metallic Parts

The most accurate and exhaustive NDT methodologies have to be used to deliver proper testing for metallic parts. This is mainly due because of the complex internal and external characteristics of metallic parts. Our experts thrive in methodologies such as Neutron radiography and testing through liquid penetrants.

Metal Testing Methods

Metal testing methods include a variety of techniques that are critical to ensuring the quality and integrity of metal components. Let's take a look at some of the key techniques used:

• Radiography & Digital X-Ray
• Neutron Radiography
• Magnetic Particle Inspection
• Liquid Penetrant Testing
• Ultrasonic Inspection
• Chemical Processing

Inspection Equipment & Capabilities

• Large X-ray processing capacity even with high volume production 
• 150 kV to 450 kV cabinets for quick production turnaround  
• Walk-in cell with accessibility for larger parts  
• Neutron radiography for Turbine Engine Parts 
• Ultrasonic Immersion Tanks for cylindrical parts or rings up to 57” and weighing up to 500 lbs 
• Multidirectional systems for large volume, MP inspections

NDT Remote Inspection Solutions

In addition to traditional NDT methods and an experienced training consulting group, we provide remote inspection solutions to optimise the inspection process saving clients time and cost savings related to transport of parts.

We’ve become one of the first to venture in this field, with the world’s first NADCAP approved remote image and film interpretation process. Our method for remote interpretation of radiographic images isn’t just groundbreaking, but also safe as data can be securely transferred, thanks to our GCC High Tenant Security. Our systems are made to provide customized solutions, but also to support operational readiness and a production surge.

Our Remote Inspection Solutions

With advances in technology, remote inspection has become a powerful tool for efficiently and accurately assessing components, particularly in scenarios where physical access is limited or impractical.

We present our Remote Inspection Solutions, a comprehensive suite of services designed to meet the evolving needs of modern industries.

• Remote NDT inspection of components
• X-ray or Immersion UT applications
• Remote Read can be performed on digital images or on film. In instances where film is used, you ship only the film – eliminating cost and unnecessary risk to parts.

NDT Consulting

Through our NDT consulting services, we provide precision paired with competence to deliver state-of-the-art solutions tailored to your specific inspection needs.

• Level 3 Composite & Metals experienced teams
• Definition of NDI requirements
• Design and implementation of NDT programs or customized solutions.
• Support on Nadcap criteria and audit processes, as well as customer approvals.
• More than 75 years of experience in NDT testing methods and procedures.

Automated NDT Equipment

Aerospace manufacturers and suppliers require custom-built automated NDT equipment that meets their precise specifications. We count on state-of-the-art customized automated NDT machines to meet stringent industry standards.

Automated NDT Equipment & Capabilities

For automated non-destructive testing, we have a wide range of equipment and capabilities:

• State-of-the-art customized automated NDT machines: robotic systems, gantry systems, immersion tanks.
• High accuracy machinery capable of inspecting large and complex components.
• Up to 32-axis in synchronized motion working in a single coordinate system.
• Multiple inspection technologies: conventional ultrasonics, phased array, thermographic and digital x-ray inspections

NDT Testing Labs distributed around the US and Canada

Our NDT laboratories are strategically located in the USA and Canada to provide a complete offering to leading aerospace suppliers, experts and manufacturers. Applus+ NRAY laboratories are located in both the USA and Canada, while Applus+ XRI and Arcadia Aerospace laboratories are located in different parts of the USA. As a result, we have become one of the leading NDT, inspection and consultancy providers to aerospace manufacturers in the region.

Why choose Applus+ Laboratories for Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) Services?

Overall, choosing Applus+ Laboratories for Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) Services guarantees world-class experience, advanced technology, customized solutions, and reliable results, backed by a commitment to quality and efficiency.