Visual Inspection

This is the start of a series on non-destructive testing methods.  Over the upcoming weeks, I will do a very quick review of all the main NDT methods, starting with Visual Inspection.  Visual Inspection is really made up of two significantly different components and it is important to understand the difference.  First, what is visual inspection?

Visual Inspection:

As per our Visual Inspection Procedure:

Visual examination is used to determine surface condition, alignment, shape, and evidence of defects. This can be done using direct examination or remote.  A direct examination would be done with the examiner being within 24” of the surface to be examined.  Remote examination can be done using a suitable instrument for inspection.

The inspector must be able to see the item being inspected, within 24″. though this now can be done remotely.

Visual Inspection:

Visual inspection is used as the first line of inspection, initially to ensure adequate quality control of a fabricated item. In welding inspection, this method is used as it is relatively inexpensive, uses portable equipment[1] and provides important information about the general conformity of welding and fabrication[2].  Visual inspection is also used to locate any deficiencies in the fabrication of a product. Deficiencies can be of material type, welding process or procedure, fit up or quality of workmanship, among other things.

Visual Welding Inspection

Visual Weld Inspection includes verifying the weld size

There is an important distinction between Visual Welding Inspection and Visual Inspection of an item.  Visual weld inspection is governed by the CSA W178.2 Code whereas other types of visual inspection, are governed under other codes and stands.

Visual Inspection that is not of welding, can include dimension or camber measurements, Issues of gulling or deformation as well as verification of rebar placement installation of columns and connections.

Why we inspect

Below the Hook Lifting Device Inspection

Visual inspection is an important component from fabrication, manufacturing, erection and in-service inspection.

Field Verification Quality Assurance

For more information about our visual inspection services, check out our website, but more so, I would love to hear from you, if you have any questions about visual inspection and Quality assurance services.

Until Next week,

Bonnie

[1] (B.J. Moniz, 2015)

[2] (Edward A Fenton, 1968)