Visual Testing (VT) — Simply with the Highest Level of Expertise
A relatively broad variety of non-destructive testing methods are used.
The effectiveness of different methods may be affected by several factors; therefore, it is very important to select and apply the most appropriate testing method; our highly qualified staff provide assistance and deliver advice in this regard.
One of the most widely used non-destructive testing method is visual testing (VT). It can be considered as a simple testing to detect different surface defects.
In the field of materials testing, visual testing (VT) is typically not only a stand-alone testing method, but also inherent in other non-destructive testing methods as part of a complex inspection.
However, on the other hand, visual testing (VT) requires high-level expertise and experience. Our principle thus is that only well-trained and long-experienced inspectors can carry out non-destructive testing, including visual testing (VT).
Purposes and Techniques of Visual Testing (VT)
The main aim of non-destructive testing, including visual testing (VT), is to evaluate the presence of surface discontinuities in structural parts and components. A great advantage of non-destructive testing methods is that NDT does not permanently alter or cause damage to the test piece being inspected.
Two techniques can be distinguished in visual testing (VT). Direct visual inspections may be by direct viewing, using line-of sight vision or a hand lens to detect surface imperfections. Besides the former method, indirect (remote) visual testing method is also commonly used; in this case, visual inspection is enhanced with the use of optical instruments (such as borescopes, fiberscopes, and endoscopes) when objects are not directly accessible.
Applications and Advantages of Visual Inspection (VT)
This non-destructive testing method can be used to detect larger discontinuities and material loss, to evaluate geometric imperfections and to detect the presence of corrosion. One of the main advantages of visual inspection (VT) is that it is, in principle, a simple testing method; other instruments is only used in indirect visual inspections. The detected flaws and defects can easily be documented by taking photographic evidence.
