Resource
NDT Glossary of Terms
Plain-English definitions of common Non-Destructive Testing and inspection terms.
Overview
Non-Destructive Testing has its own vocabulary. This glossary explains the terms you'll encounter in inspection reports and quotes, in plain English.
Common Terms
- NDT — Non-Destructive Testing; inspection without damaging the asset
- UT — Ultrasonic Testing; sound waves detect internal flaws
- ECT — Eddy Current Testing; electromagnetic surface crack detection
- MPI — Magnetic Particle Inspection; magnetic surface crack detection in steel
- PT — Penetrant Testing; dye reveals surface-breaking defects
- VT — Visual Testing; systematic visual examination
- SWL — Safe Working Load; maximum load an item may safely carry
- Fitness for Service — engineering assessment of continued safe use
- Major Inspection — detailed standards-mandated equipment assessment