Reliability of Nondestructive Inspections
Abstract
The results of a four-year Air Force Logistics Command program to determine the reliability of Air Force nondestructive inspection capability are presented. The report completely describes the program-its objectives, scope, planning and logistics, participants, data collection, analysis, conclusions and recommendations. Actual aircraft structural samples containing fatigue damage were transported to 21 different Air Force bases and depots, where approximately 300 Air Force technicians performed ultrasonic, eddy current, penetrant and radiographic nondestructive inspections (NDI) on the samples. The same detailed NDI procedures were followed by all participating technicians. The individual results were recorded and accumulated in terms of 'finds', 'misses' and 'false calls' compared to a preliminary knowledge of actual flaw locations. A detailed teardown inspection of the samples at the end of the program verified and refined actual flaw tabulations. Results were computerized for data storage and retrieval and analyzed for each NDI method and structure sample type to provide detection probability versus flaw size (POD) curves. Other analyses provide POD curves for years training, experience, age, etc. The program results indicate that Air Force NDI needs improvement in several specific areas in order to meet existing requirements for inspection of Air Force hardware. Some conclusions were derived concerning factors that apparently affect Air Force inspection reliability. Recommendations for making both short-term and long-term improvements in NDI proficiency are presented.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 01, 1978
- Accession Number
- ADA072097
Entities
People
- Bruce D. Dodd
- James M. Hamilton
- William H. Lewis
- William H. Sproat