Taking a deeper look at NDT

Rapid adoption of composites in aircraft has accelerated the need for newer and faster nondestructive testing methodologies. We look at some of the issues.

Two trends have converged to make nondestructive testing (NDT) increasingly attractive to aerospace: widespread use of composites and the ever-increasing sophistication in ways to look below the surface of parts. NDT's obvious draw is its ability to evaluate parts without compromising functionality. Since composites bring an urgent need to see voids or lamination problems, it brings a corresponding need for more effective technologies to see into components.

TÜV Rheinland of North America Inc. has gathered a stable of NDT companies under the aegis of its TÜV Rheinland Industrial Solutions, including Non-Destructive Testing Services Inc. and Unified Testing Services Inc.