N E (NDE) : Ondestructive Xamination

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20
NONDESTRUCTIVE EXAMINATION (NDE)
Jon E. Batey1
20.1
INTRODUCTION
The purpose of this chapter is to provide users of the ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code Section V [1] an insight into the signicant Section V requirements, NDE methods, and NDE methodology, as well as the relation of Section V to other ASME book sections and to the use of the American Society for Testing Materials (ASTM) Standards [2]. The information provided in this chapter is based on the 2007 edition of Section V with 2007 addenda, dated July 1, 2007. The charter and scope for the Subcommittee for Section V (SCV) is to develop and maintain Code rules for NDE methodology and equipment involved in surface and volumetric testing methods. These test methods are used for the detection and sizing of defects, discontinuities, and aws in materials and weldments during the manufacture, fabrication, and construction of parts, components, and vessels in accordance with the ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code and other ASME Codes; for example, B31.1 for Power Piping [3]. SCV members consist of representatives from manufacturers, insurance companies, architectural engineering companies, research organizations, utilities, consulting rms, and the National Board of Boiler and Pressure Vessel Inspectors. All additions, revisions, inquires, and Code Cases relating to Section V are reviewed and approved by the SCV before being presented to the Main Committee for review and approval for adoption.
Technical Inquiries to the Boiler and Pressure Vessel Committee and is therefore of utmost importance to users. Before submitting an inquiry to SCV, users should carefully consider their specic problem and select the proper category from the following listing in this Mandatory Appendix: (1) (2) (3) (4) a proposed revision to present Code rule(s); a new or additional Code rule(s); a Code Case; and a Code Interpretation.
20.2
ORGANIZATION OF SECTION V
The SCV receives many inquries that do not provide the required details. Unfortunately, this lack of specicity only delays the review process. Inquiries that request a Code Interpretation must be composed as brief and precise questions that can be answered by a simple yes or no. On occasion, requests for Code Interpretations are submitted after the fact. In other words, a disagreement on interpretation of a requirement has occurred between the parties involved long after the work or examination(s) has been completed. Obviously, the SCV reply is not going to favor one of the parties. It is therefore of utmost importance to resolve, if at all possible, any differences before work progresses beyond the point of no return. For example, the radiographic technique and completed radiographs should be reviewed by all parties involved as soon as possible upon the completion of such work. It is too late to submit a request for a Code Interpretation after the component or vessel has been completed and is sitting, waiting to be Code-stamped and accepted by all parties involved.
It is important for users to become familiar with the organization of Section V. The book is divided into two basic subsections. Subsection A of Section V contains Articles 1 through 17, including Mandatory and Nonmandatory appendices that address general requirements, test methods, and specic Code requirements. Subsection B of Section V contains the ASTM Standards (Articles 22 through 31) that have been adopted by the Code. Following Subsections A and B is Mandatory Appendix I, which provides guidance and directions for the Mandatory Submittal of
1
20.2.1
Essential and Nonessential Variables
Resulting from a request by the ASME Post Construction Code Standards Committee, Subcommittee V established essential variables for demonstrating performance capabilities to qualify procedures. While the request was specic to the ultrasonic examination method, the Subcommittee decided to proactively dene essential variables for all NDE methods in Section V. The format ultimately selected was based on the essential/nonessential variable format used by Section IX. Please note: Essential variable vs.
Harold C. Graber was the author for the rst edition of this chaptereditor
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nonessential variable is only important when procedure qualication is required by a referencing code. Otherwise, the combined lists of essential and nonessential variables simply represent items required to be described in a written procedure.
20.3
RELATION TO OTHER ASME CODE BOOK SECTIONS
As previously mentioned, Section V primarily addresses the test methods and methodology for NDE. Other ASME Code sections, such as I, III, VIII, and XI [4][7], include specic methodology requirements and provide acceptance criteria for the test methods referenced. To ensure that all contract requirements are satised, users must understand the relationship of Section V to the Codes other sections. As an example, let us step through the requirements that must be satised when the contract species for the component or vessel to be built in accordance with ASME Code Section I, 2007 edition with 2007 addenda [4]. First, we must look in Section I and determine the requirements for NDE. In Section I, we nd paragraph PW-11 to be pertinent, as it is called Radiographic and Ultrasonic Examination of Welded Butt Joints. Selecting the radiographic requirement, we nd that Table PW-11 requires all longitudinal and circumferential butt-welded joints to be radiographically examined throughout their entire length in accordance with Section V Article 2 and also meet the requirements of paragraph PW-51, with some exceptions. Assuming now that radiography for a butt-welded joint is required, we must look at the requirements of paragraph PW-51, which is titled Acceptance Standards for Radiography. The text of subparagraph PW-51.1 states that welds shall be examined throughout their entire length by the x-ray or gammaray method in accordance with Section VArticle 2, except that the requirements in Article 2, paragraph T-274 (Geometric Unsharpness) are to be used as a guide rather than for the rejection of radiographs unless the geometrical unsharpness exceeds 0.07 inch. Subparagraph PW-51.2 states that a single-welded circumferential butt joint with a backing strip may be radiographed with the backing strip intact, provided the backing strip is not to be subsequently removed and its image does not interfere with the interpretation of the radiographs. This is an example of where a Code section provides technical requirements that differ from the requirements of Section V. Next, let us look at the requirements for personnel qualication (PQ). Again, Section I, paragraph PW-50.1 provides requirements for PQ that states the manufacturer shall certify that personnel performing and evaluating radio-graphic examinations required by Section I have been qualied and certied in accordance with their employers written practice. The American Society for Nondestructive Testing (ASNT) [8] documents SNT-TC-1A [9] or CP-189 [10] shall be used as a guideline for employers to establish their written practice. Provisions for training, experience, qualication, and certication shall be provided and described in the manufacturers quality control system. PW-50.2 requires PQ by examination, including the certication of NDE Level III personnel beginning with the 2004 Edition of Section I with 2004 Addenda. Paragraph PW-50.3 addresses how personnel recertication is handled. This is important information to users, for the applicable edition of the ASNT document depends on the specic edition of the Code and is provided in Section I, Table A-360. For example, Table A-360 of the 2007 edition of Section I with 2007 addenda species SNT-TC-1A (2001) as the applicable edition.
Another signicant requirement of Section I is acceptance criteria. Paragraphs PW-51.3, PW-51.3.1, PW-51.3.2, PW-51.3.3, and PW-51.3.4 provide the acceptance criteria for imperfections (a term dened in Section V, Article 1, Mandatory Appendix I, Glossary of Terms, paragraph I-130). Paragraph PW-51.3.4 addresses rounded indications, and the size, frequency, and distribution are provided in detailed charts located in Appendix A-250. A typical example is as shown in Fig. 20.1. The charts provide graphic illustrations of random, isolated, and cluster distributions, as well as aligned indications. Charts are provided for 1 weld thicknesses of 1 - 1 in., inclusive; over 4 - 3 in., inclusive; 8 4 8 3 3 3 over 8 - 4 in., inclusive; over 4 -2 in., inclusive; over 24 in., inclusive; and over 4 in. Section I, paragraph PW-51.4 provides requirements for retention of completed radiographs. The current requirement (i.e., the 2007 edition with 2007 addenda) is that a complete set of radiographs for each job shall be retained by the manufacturer and kept on le for a period of 5 yr. This overview provides an insight into the interrelationships of the Code sections. Section I was selected as an example for simplicity; however, users should be cautioned that other Code sections for example, Section III [5] or Section XI [7]provide many more complex requirements and signicant changes to the requirements of Section V. It is important to remember that contract requirements should be reviewed and the applicable edition of the Code determined before production is started. This information should then be provided to all personnel involved to ensure that manufacturing plans, tests, and nondestructive examinations are performed in accordance with the correct requirements of the applicable Code edition. Making certain that the correct information is available at the start will prevent subsequent delays caused by the discovery of a noncompliance for work performed to the wrong Code edition or wrong addenda. Any noncompliance could very well result in an inquiry to the Code Committee, who cannot always resolve the inquiries in a timely fashion.
20.4
ARTICLE 1: GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
Section V, Article 1 addresses general requirements that are unique and applicable in most cases to the other articles. The scope of this article provides important information about the interface of Section V with other Code sections or documents. Of signicance is the statement: This section of the Code contains requirements and methods for nondestructive examination (NDE), which are Code requirements to the extent they are specically referenced and required by other Code sections or referencing document. The text also states that the test methods are intended to detect surface and internal discontinuities in materials, welds, and fabricated parts and components. The paragraph titled General provides an explanation of Subsections A and B. Subsection A describes the test methods to be used. When reference is made to a paragraph belonging to an article in Subsection A or to some other Code section, all of that paragraphs rules are applicable. For example, reference to paragraph T-270 (Examination) includes all the rules in subparagraphs T-271 through T-277.3. Subsection B lists documents and standards adopted by Section V, which are intended to be used for information purposes and are nonmandatory unless specically referenced in whole or part by the articles under Subsection A or
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COMPANION GUIDE TO THE ASME BOILER & PRESSURE VESSEL CODE 3
FIG. 20.1
CHARTS FOR T 1-1 IN., INCLUSIVE (Source: Fig. 3.1, Section I of the ASME B&PV Code)
other Code sections. It is important to note that a reference made to a standard is only mandatory to the extent specied in the article or other Code section. In essence, this means that an article may only reference a specic paragraph in an ASTM Standard [2]; therefore, only the referenced paragraph becomes a Code requirement, and the remainder of the standards requirements do not apply. The paragraph titled General also addresses personnel qualication and certication (PQ). This paragraph is probably one of the most signicant in Subsection A because of the various alternatives for meeting PQ requirements. For instance, let us take a look at the current requirements in Article 1. The rst document referenced is the 2001 edition of SNT-TC-1A, Personnel Qualication and Certication in Non-destructive Testing [9], published by the ASNT. A second document referenced is the 2001 edition of ANSI/ASNT CP-189 [10], also published by the ASNT. Either one of these documents may be used for PQ, unless requirements to the contrary are provided by other applicable Code sections. To further emphasize the importance of working to the control requirements, note that in the 1995 edition of Section V, Article 1, paragraph T-140, the pertinent reference is to the 1992 edition of SNT-TC-1A, while in the 1989 edition, paragraph T-140 species the use of the 1984 edition of SNT-TC-1A. This example illustrates how requirements change when later versions of documents are adopted. Again, users should be cautioned that the PQ version and edition listed in Section V, Article 1 may not be the same as the version and edition listed in a previous edition of Section V or in another Code section. Paragraph T-120 provides additional clarications for PQ and should be reviewed to ensure compliance. One last item of signicance in paragraph T-120 is that it addresses limited certication.
T-120(i) allows an exception to the requirements of SNT-TC-1 A or CP-189 regarding training and experience of personnel who do not perform all of the operations of a NDE method or who performs examinations of limited scope. However, if this limited certication is used, the limitations must be described in the manufacturers written practice and listed on the individuals certication records.
20.4.1
Paragraph T-150, Procedure
This paragraph provides the requirements for NDE technical procedures used for the test methods in Subsection A. It addresses situations where special congurations and materials may require modied methods and techniques, in which case the manufacturer must develop special procedures that are equivalent or superior to the test methods and techniques described in the applicable article. The special procedure or technique must be capable of producing interpretable results when one is performing the test under the special conditions. The procedure or technique may be a modication or combination of methods described in the article. Depending on the quality system used and as required by the referencing Code section, the special procedure shall be submitted to the Authorized Inspector (AI) for acceptance and then adopted as part of the manufacturers quaity control program. Paragraph T-150(c) specically states when required by a referencing Code section, all nondestructive examinations performed under this Code section shall be done to a written procedure. It also requires the procedure to be demonstrated to the satisfaction of the AI. When required, written procedures must be made available to the Inspector on request. At least one copy of the written procedure shall be readily available to the manufacturers nondestructive examination personnel for their reference and use.
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20.4.2
Paragraph T-160, Calibration
This paragraph is important in that it requires the manufacturer, fabricator, or installer to ensure that all calibrations of equipment are performed in accordance with the applicable articles in Subsections A or B. It also provides requirements addressing the use of special procedures and stipulates that the manufacturer, fabricator, or installer is responsible for specifying what calibrations are necessary and the calibration frequency.
in the article are eight Mandatory Appendices (I-VII) and three Nonmandatory Appendices (A, C, and D). The Mandatory Appendices are the following: Appendix I, In-Motion Radiography. Appendix II, Real Time Radioscopic Examination. Appendix III, Digital Image Acquisition, Display, and Storage for Radiography and Radioscopy. Appendix IV, Interpretation, Evaluation, and Disposition of Radiographic and Radioscopic Examination Test Results Produced by the Digital Image Acquisition and Display Process. Appendix V, Glossary of Terms for Radiographic Examination. Appendix VI, Digital Image Acquisition, Display, Interpretation, and Storage of Radiographs for Nuclear Applications. Appendix VII, Radiographic Examination of Metallic Castings. Appendix VIII, Radiography Using phosphor Imaging Plate. Users should be aware that before the 1998 edition of Section V, Radiographic Examination of Castings was covered in Article 3. The 1998 edition of Section V now covers Radiographic Examination of Metallic Castings in Mandatory Appendix VII. When using an appendix, the requirements as stated in the appendix apply as well as the requirements of the article; therefore, users should be cautioned to consider this when using a special test technique in the applicable appendix. The Nonmandatory Appendices (A, C, and D) are as follows: (A) Recommended Radiographic Technique Sketches for Pipe or Tube Welds. Techniques used for examination of pipe and welds are illustrated, providing guidance for various typical technique setups. (C) Hole-Type IQI Placement Sketches for Welds. Figures that illustrate typical hole-type IQI placement for welds are provided. Not being all-inclusive, they do not cover all applications of production radiography; however, they do provide a wide range of technique applications and serve as a tutorial. (D) Number of IQIs (Special Cases). Figures that illustrate examples of the required number and placement of IQIs used for special cases are provided. Paragraph T-277.2 describes the requirements for special cases, and the gures provide pictorial illustrations of IQI placements for typical congurations. Not all paragraphs in Article 2 will be addressed here, but only those of special signicance.
20.4.3
Paragraph T-170, Examinations and Inspections
This paragraph denes the term Inspector and the Inspectors duties and authority. Furthermore, it establishes the distinction between the terms inspection and examination. The user is advised to read this paragraph in its entirety to understand the distinctions of the variety of terms used.
20.4.4
Paragraph T-180, Evaluation
This paragraph simply informs the user of the fact that Section V does not provide acceptance criteria for the test methods listed in the articles and that one must refer to the referencing Code section for this information.
20.4.5
Paragraph T-190, Records
Records and documentation must be maintained by the manufacturer, fabricator, or installer in accordance with the applicable requirements of Subsections A or B and the referencing Code section.
20.4.6
Mandatory Appendix I, Glossary of Terms
This important appendix provides the standard terminology for NDE. The ASTM Standard E-1316, Standard Terminology for Nondestructive Examination, has been adopted as SE-1316 and is located in Article 30. This standard provides terminology for all NDE methods. However, Mandatory Appendix I in addition provides specic Code terms that either do not appear in E-1316 or are terms whose denitions have been changed to satisfy the Code. Users of Section V should be familiar with the terms in Mandatory Appendix I and, in particular, with the denitions for defect, discontinuity, evaluation, false indication, aw, aw characterization, imperfection, interpretation, nonrelevant indication, and relevant indication. All of these terms are used by the various Code sections and in their acceptance criteria. It is very important to understand the terms and their associated denitions when making acceptance-rejection decisions.
20.4.7
Article 1, Nonmandatory Appendix A
Article 1, Nonmandatory Appendix A adds Table A-110, provided here as Table 20.1, listing common imperfections vs. the type of NDE methods that are generally capable of nding them. Nonmandatory Appendix A was developed for people with a limited background in NDE, not for experienced NDE personnel. Users are encouraged to read the cautionary statement in A-110 plus the notes to Table A-110. Specically, Table A-110 must not be used as a basis for requiring nor for prohibiting a particular type of NDE method.
20.5.1
Paragraph 210 Scope
This paragraph covers the scope of the article. Note the requirement that this article shall be used together with Article 1. This simply means that the general requirements provided in Article 1 also apply unless stated otherwise or are modied by other Code sections or reference documents. The scope also species that the applicable denitions for terms used in the article are those provided in Mandatory Appendix V.
20.5
ARTICLE 2: RADIOGRAPHIC EXAMINATION
20.5.2
Paragraph T-220 General Requirements
Article 2 covers the radiographic test method used for the examination of materials, including castings and welds. Included
Paragraph T-220 covers the general requirements of the article, including some very signicant requirements that must be carefully addressed by users. The rst item concerns procedure and is
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therefore of great importance. In fact, for good practice regardless of whether a Code section requires a procedure, it is always advisable to prepare a written procedure covering all of the items listed in the paragraph. The procedure serves several purposes. Foremost, it provides the necessary guidance for the radiographer to properly perform radiography or radioscopy during production and later helps the radiographic interpreter prepare the required documentation. Whether a procedure is obligatory depends on the requirements stated in the pertinent Code sections. As an example of where a written procedure is required, Section III, Division 1, Subsection NB, Article NB-5000, paragraph NB-5112 states the following: All nondestructive examinations required by this Article shall be performed in accordance with detailed written procedures which have been proven by actual demonstration to the satisfaction of the Inspector [5]. Procedure demonstration and compliance to the written procedure is satised by assuring the required density and proper images appear on the production or technique radiographs.
20.5.5
Paragraph T-230, Equipment and Materials
20.5.3
Paragraph T-222, Surface Preparation
Surface preparation is probably one of the most subjective and difcult requirements to deal with satisfactorily for all parties involved. The requirement addresses both materials (including castings) and welds. The basic requirement for materials is that the surface being examined must satisfy the applicable Material Specication or referencing Code section. Additional surface conditioning by manual or mechanical processing may be required to assure that surface irregularities are removed to the extent they cannot mask or be confused with any discontinuity image on the radiograph. For welds, the requirement is the same, but with the additional requirements that weld ripples or weld surface irregularities on both sides of the weld (where accessible) shall be prepared. This is where the subjectivity comes in. To what extent must the surface be prepared to ensure that any remaining surface irregularity images cannot mask or be confused with images of a discontinuity? For example, in most cases as-welded surfaces where the weld ripples or valleys between beads are slight and essentially smooth, these irregularities will not appear as images on the radiograph because of their subtlety. However, if the weld ripples or valleys between beads are extreme, they will appear as signicant light/dark images on the radiograph. Depending on the height of the ripples and the depth of the valley between beads, the density of the images of these irregularities will be pronounced on the radiograph. If disagreements between parties occur regarding whether the surface irregularities can mask a discontinuity, one common way to resolve the impasse is to prepare the surface of a worst-case condition until the irregularities are removed entirely. If images appear upon reradiography of the selected area, then obviously a subsurface discontinuity is present and requires disposition. Remember the time to resolve any differences is as soon as possible after completing the radiography. This promptness serves two purposes: (1) it provides the interpreters with an opportunity to visually observe the questionable area(s), and (2) it allows for any additional surface conditioning to be preformed to conrm the presence of unacceptable discontinuities and in some cases before the area becomes inaccessible.
Subparagraph T-231.2 addresses lm processing and references two ASTM Standards [2] adopted by the Code: SE-999 and SE94, both of which are located in Article 22. It is important to note, however, that these two standards are to be used as guides and, as such, are not mandatory. Subparagraph T-233 covers IQI Design. The ASTM Standards E-1025 and E-747 provide IQI design requirements that have been adopted by the Code as SE-1025 and SE-747 and shall be followed in their entirety except that the largest wire number or the wire identity number may be omitted. (SE-1025 and SE-747 standards are also found in Article 22.) An example of the holetype IQI Design is shown in Fig. 20.2. Tables T-233.1 (given here as Table 20.2) and T-233.2 (given here as Table 20.3) provide a listing of ASME Standard IQIs for hole and wire-type IQIs. Table 20.2 provides the hole-type IQI designation, thickness, and 1T, 2T, and 4T hole diameters. It should be noted that this table is for standard IQIs, but if the situation warrants, nonstandard IQIs may be used. Table 20.3 provides the four sets of wire IQIs and the associated wire sizes in each set.
20.5.6
Paragraph T-260, Calibration
This paragraph is important because users are required to provide documented evidence of the physical size of x-ray and gamma-ray sources. This is another requirement that is vulnerable to audit. T-262 (Step Wedge Film and Densitometer) covers calibration of the densitometer. A calibrated step wedge lm traceable to a national standard is also required. Documentation of the authenticity of the calibrated step wedge lm should be maintained and kept on le.
20.5.7
Paragraph T-270, Examination
20.5.4
Paragraph T-226, Extent of Examination
The requirement is that the extent of examination shall be as specied by the referencing Code section. Again, it is important to be familiar with Code section and contract requirements. For example, Section VIII, Division 1, paragraph UW-52 provides rules for spot examination of welded joints [6].
Paragraph T-271 covers the requirements for single-wall and double-wall radiographic techniques. It should be noted that the double-wall radiographic technique where the radiation passes through two walls and the material or weld in both walls is viewed for acceptance is limited to materials and welds 31 in. (89 mm) or 2 less in nominal outside diameter. Other restrictions for number of exposures and radiation beam offset are also included. Nonmandatory Appendix A provides illustrations of techniques used for the examination of pipe and tube welds. Again, these illustrations are not mandatory, but provide excellent detailed information for establishing the proper technique. Paragraph T272 covers radiation energy. Paragraph T-274 covers geometric unsharpness limitations. Geometric unsharpness is directly related to the physical size of a gamma-ray source or the focal spot of an x-ray machine. The smaller, the better and the closer the radiation source can be in relation to the lm. This paragraph provides the maximum geometric unsharpness permitted for various material thicknesses. It should be noted that the referencing Code section, excludes or modies this requirement in some cases. Geometric unsharpness (Ug) values can be calculated in accordance with the formula Ug = Fd/D, provided in this paragraph. Paragraph T-275 covers location marker requirements both for single-wall and double-wall viewing and for using a map when inaccessibility or other limitations prevent placement of markers as required. Figure T-275 provides location marker sketches for various typical congurations and radiation source locations. Paragraph T-276, on IQI selection, is important and must be carefully addressed. One must ensure that the IQI selected is for the nominal single-wall thickness of the object, part, or components being radiographed. Table T-276 (given here as Table 20.4)
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FIG. 20.2
IQI DESIGN (Source: Fig.1, Article 22, Section V of the ASME B&PV Code)
provides the IQI required for single-wall material with thicknesses up to 20 in. The table also provides the hole-type IQI designation, and if a wire IQI is used, the required wire to be imaged. These IQI requirements are provided for both source-side and lm-side IQI placement. Paragraph T-276 also provides requirements for IQI selection for welds with reinforcements and without reinforcements. For welds with reinforcements, it is important to note that IQI selection is based on the nominal single-wall thickness plus the estimated weld
reinforcement, not to exceed the maximum permitted by the referencing Code section. For welds without reinforcement, the IQI is based on the nominal single-wall thickness, and backing rings or straps are not considered part of the weld thickness. Radiographic personnel should be very familiar with these requirements; note that for welds with reinforcement, the estimated reinforcement (i.e., it does not have to be physically measured) is considered when determining the total thickness upon which the IQI is based. One is reminded that the maximum reinforcement allowed cannot be
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exceeded. If the reinforcement is close to the maximum, then obviously one must physically measure it to ensure that the maximum is not being violated. Paragraph T-276 also covers IQI requirements for dissimilar metal welds joining dissimilar base materials. Paragraph T-277 covers the use of IQIs and the specic placement and number of IQIs. Film-side IQIs are permitted for those
cases where inaccessiblity prevents hand-placing the IQI on the source side. For example, a pipe weld is radiographed using an isotope placed on the I.D. of the pipe, and because the weld area cannot be reached physically by hand, it is permissible to use a lm-side IQI in this case. Paragraph T-277.2 provides requirements and Nonmandatory Appendix D provides guidance and direction for placement of IQIs for special applications.
20.5.8
Paragraph T-280, Evaluation
This paragraph covers several important requirements. Paragraph T-281, Quality of Radiographs, addresses requirements for the quality of the completed radiographic lm. If proper care and controls are not used in lm handling and processing, lm artifacts will occur and, if severe, can mask or be confused with the image of a discontinuity. Paragraph T-282, Radiographic Density, is important and must be carefully followed because it provides the required values for lm density. Users should remember that a densitometer is used to measure lm density and density strips or step wedge comparison lm are used to estimate or judge lm density. In cases where an absolute value must be determined, the only way to make the measurement is by using a densitometer. Paragraph T-285 covers evaluation. After the radiograph(s) have been completed, it is the manufacturers responsibility to ensure that the radiographs have been reviewed, interpreted, properly evaluated, and accepted in accordance with the requirements of Article 2 and, when applicable, the referencing Code section. A copy of the details of the radiographic technique and the radiographic review form documentation that shall accompany the radiographs.
20.5.9
Paragraph T-290, Documentation
An old cliche is that the work is not done until the paperwork is completed. Paragraph T-291 requires the manufacturer to
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prepare and document the details of the radiographic technique, including some specifically required information. The details listed are minimums, and it is good practice to include other specifics, such as IQI designation and IQI material, shims and shim thickness, and so forth. It is also important to note that acceptance of the radiographs by the manufacturer or the manufacturers authorized representative must be completed before presenting the radiographs and documentation to the Inspector. Paragraph T-292, Radiographic Review Form, states that the manufacturer is required to prepare a radiographic reivew form; this document provides details of the evaluation of the completed radiograph(s).
Article 4 and establish special technique(s), as permitted in Article 1 paragraph T-150(a).
20.6.1
General Requirements
Consistent with the other articles in SCV, Article 4 also activates Article 1 by stating that when Article 4 is specied by a referencing Code section, the ultrasonic method described in Article 4 shall be used together with Article 1 (General Requirements). Denitions of terms are provided in Mandatory Appendix III of Article 5.
20.6.2
Written Procedure Requirements
The examination shall be performed in accordance with a written procedure, and the procedure shall include the following list of information, as applicable: Weld congurations to be examined, including thickness dimensions, and base material product form (casting, plate, bar, tube, forging, and so forth). The surface(s) from which the examination will be performed. Surface condition (examination surface, calibration block). Couplant brand and type. Technique (straight beam, angle beam, contact, or immersion). Angles and mode(s) of wave propagation. Search unit type, size, and frequency. Special search unit wedges, shoes, or saddles. Instrument type. Description of calibration block. Directions and extent of scanning. Records and calibration data to be recorded, and the method of recording (manual or computer enhanced). Description of automatic alarm and recording equipment (if used). Scanning (manual vs. automatic). Scan overlap. Computer enhanced data acquisition (when used). Method for discriminating geometric vs. aw indications. Method for sizing indications. Personnel qualication requirements.
20.6
ARTICLE 4: ULTRASONIC EXAMINATION METHODS FOR WELDS
Article 4 describes and references requirements for ultrasonic examination of welds. When performing an examination in accordance with any part of the article that is a requirement of a referencing Code section, that referencing Code section shall be addressed for specic requirements for the following: Personnel Qualication/Certication, Procedure and/or Technique requirements, Examination System Characteristics, Retention and Control of Calibration Blocks, Acceptance Standards, Reports and Records Retention requirements, Extent of Examination and/or volume to be scanned. Users of the article should carefully review the requirements to ensure that all are satised. The requirements are established for the detection of reectors in the weld, heat-affected zone, and adjacent base material. Two general examination classications have been established: welds in ferritic product forms other than pipe, and ferritic welds in ferritic pipe. For austentic and high-nickel alloy welds, examination is usually more difcult because of wide variations in the material properties even in alloys of the same composition, product form, and heat treatment. Therefore, because of these difculties, it may be necessary to modify and/or supplement the provisions of
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20.6.3
Equipment and Supplies
20.6.3.1 Instrument The examination shall be performed with a pulse-echo instrument capable of generating frequencies over the range of 15 MHz. An instrument may be operated at a different frequency, provided equal or better sensitivity is demonstrated and documented. 20.6.3.2 Search Units and Contact Wedges Search units used to perform the examination shall meet the following criteria: Search units may have either single or dual transducer elements.
Contoured contact wedges connected to the search unit may be used to aid in coupling to the part contour or for sound transmission (e.g., angle beam mode or transmit receive applications). If contact wedges are used, they shall be in place when performing calibration. 20.6.3.3 Basic Calibration Block Requirements The basic calibration block conguration and calibration hole locations shall be as shown in Fig. T-434.2.1 (given here as Fig. 20.3). The material from which the block is fabricated shall be of the same product form and having the same Material Specication or equivalent P-number
FIG. 20.3
NON-PIPING CALIBRATION BLOCKS (Source: Fig.T-434.2.1, Section V of the ASME B&PV Code)
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grouping as one of the materials being examined. P-numbers 1, 3, 4, and 5 are considered equivalent. Calibration block material for dissimilar metal welds shall be based on the material on the side of the weld where the examination is performed. If the examination is performed from both sides of the weld, two calibration blocks are required, and the calibration block thickness shall be based on the average thickness of the weld. When the component material is covered with overlay cladding, the calibration block shall also be clad as well by using the same welding procedure that was used on the production part. If the production clad was performed by an automatic welding process, and it is impractical to perform automatic welding on the calibration block, the block may be clad by using a manual process. It is recommended that consideration be given to using dropouts or prolongations for the calibration blocks that have been welded by the production process before their removal from the production part. The calibration block shall receive at least the minimum tempering treatment required by the Material Specication for the type and grade, and also a postweld heat treatment if the block contains weld(s) other than cladding. The surface nish of the calibration block shall be representative of the surface nish on the production component(s). The calibration block material shall be examined 100% using straight beam. Areas of the block that contain reectors providing an indication exceeding the back reection shall be excluded from the sound path required to obtain a signal from the various calibration reector(s). 20.6.3.4 Piping Calibration Block Requirements The basic calibration block as shown in Fig. 20.4 (Fig. 434.3) shall be used. 20.6.3.4.1 Examination of Welds in Materials with Diameters Greater than 20 In. (508 mm) If the examination material surface is greater than 20 in. in diameter, a calibration block of essentially the same curvature is desired or, alternatively, a at calibration block may be used. As an alternative, when performing
the examination from a convex surface using the straight beam technique, Appendix G may be used. 20.6.3.4.2 Examination of Welds in Materials with Diameters Less than 20 In. (508 mm) If the examination material surface is less than 20 in. in diameter, a curved calibration block is required. A single curved block may be used to examine surfaces in the range of curvature 0.91.5 times the basic calibration block diameter.
20.6.4
Calibration
20.6.4.1 Screen Height Linearity The instrument shall provide a linear vertical presentation within ; 5% of the full screen height for 20100% of the calibrated screen height (baseline to maximum calibrated screen point or points). A procedure for determining and evaluating screen height linearity is provided in Mandatory Appendix I. The screen height linearity shall be performed at the beginning of each period of extended use (or every 3 mo. for analog instruments and 1yr for digital instruments, whichever is less). Users should pay close attention to maintaining the instrument screen height linearity within the limits to ensure accurate aw detection and sizing. 20.6.4.2 Amplitude Control Linearity The instrument shall use an amplitude control that is accurate over its useful range to 20% of the nominal amplitude ratio. The amplitude control accuracy is important for measuring indications beyond the linear range of the vertical display on the CRT screen. A procedure for determining and evaluating amplitude control linearity is provided in Mandatory Appendix II. Determination of amplitude control linearity shall be performed at the beginning of each period of extended use (or every 3 mo. for analog instruments and 1yr for digital instruments, whichever is less). Again, users should pay
FIG. 20.4
CALIBRATION BLOCK FOR PIPE (Source: Fig.T-434-3, Section V of the ASME B&PV Code)
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close attention to maintaining the amplitude control linearity within the limits to ensure proper measurement of indications beyond the linear range of the vertical display on the CRT screen. 20.6.4.3 Checking and Calibration of Equipment Proper functioning of the examination equipment shall be checked and the equipment calibrated by using the required calibration standard(s) at the beginning and end of each examination (when personnel are changed) and anytime a malfunction is suspected. These requisites are established as minimums, so users are reminded to pay close attention to ensuring that examination equipment is functioning properly at all times. For this reason, periodic calibration verications over the course of the work shift are strongly recommended, particularly when the examination extends over long time periods such as several days or longer. If during any of the checks the equipment is discovered to be functioning improperly, all of the work performed since the last acceptable verication check requires reexamination. Again, the importance of verifying calibration cannot be overemphasized, for such verication can save time by preventing the need for performing a reexamination. 20.6.4.4 System Calibration Calibration shall include the complete system used to perform the production examination. Each calibration shall be performed from the surface (clad or unclad) of the calibration block corresponding to the surface of the component being examined. Appendices B and C of Article 4 provide general techniques for both angle beam and straight beam calibration. Other techniques may be used. 20.6.4.5 Angle Beam Calibration As applicable, the calibration shall include the following requirements in addition to the general requirements specied in Article 4, Appendix B: (1) distance-range calibration; (2) distance-amplitude correction; (3) echo amplitude measurement from the surface notch in the basic calibration block. When an electronic distance-amplitude correction device is used, the primary reference responses from the basic calibration block shall be equalized over the distance range to be used for the production examination. The response equalization line shall be at 4080% of full screen height. 20.6.4.6 Straight Beam Calibration The straight beam calibration requirements are the same as those described for angle beam calibration, except that echo amplitude measurement is not applicable. 20.6.4.7 Calibration Check Using the Basic Calibration Block or Simulator If any part of the examination system is changed, a calibration verication check shall be performed by using the basic 1 calibration block to verify that 4 /T, 1 /2T, and 3 /T points on the sweep 2 4 and distance amplitude correction values previously recorded satisfy the initial calibration data. At the completion of each examination or series of examinations (when personnel are changed) and every 4 hr. during the examination, a calibration check using at least one of the calibration reectors in the basic calibration block or simulator shall be performed. The sweep and distance amplitude correction values recorded shall satisfy the straight beam calibration verication. When a simulator is used, the checks shall be correlated with the data obtained during original calibration on the basic calibration block. A simulator may be, for example, an IIW
block or electronic simulation. The simulation used shall be completely identiable on the calibration sheet(s). The accuracy of the simulator checks shall be conrmed by using the basic calibration block at the conclusion of each period of extended use or every 3 mo., whichever is less. The requirements for calibration conrmation shall be met. Calibration conrmation is not satised for sweep-range correction if a point on the DAC has moved on the sweep line by more than 10% of the sweep reading or 5% of the full sweep, whichever is greater. One must then correct the sweep-range calibration and note the correction on the examination records. If reectors are recorded on the data sheets, those data sheets shall be voided and the new calibration recorded. All recorded indications since the last valid calibration or calibration check shall be reexamined with the corrected calibration and their values recorded on the data sheets. Calibration conrmation is not satised for DAC correction if a point on the DAC curve has decreased 20% or 2 db. In such a case, all data sheets since the last valid calibration or calibration check shall be marked void. A new calibration shall be performed and recorded, the area covered by the voided data shall be reexamined, and previously recorded indications values shall be changed and recorded on the data sheets.
20.6.5
Examination
20.6.5.1 Examination Coverage The volume shall be examined by moving the search unit over the examination surface to scan the entire volume. To ensure complete coverage, each pass of the search unit shall be overlapped a minimum of 10% of the transducer element dimension perpendicular to the direction of the scan. 20.6.5.2 Rate of Search Unit Movement The rate of the search unit movement shall not exceed 6 in./sec. unless calibration is veried or conrmed at the scanning speed used. 20.6.5.3 Surface Preparation The base metal on the side(s) of the weld from which the examination will be performed shall be free from weld spatter and foreign matter, and surface irregularities shall be removed by mechanical means to the extent that such removal does not interfere with the examination. The weld surface shall also be free from weld spatter and foreign matter, and where surface irregularities interfere with the examination, the surface shall be prepared to the extent necessary for the irregularities not to interfere. 20.6.5.4 Scanning Requirements The base material adjacent to the weld that will be involved in the examination shall be scanned using the straight beam technique to detect any base metal reectors that may interfere with the angle beam test results. The locations of the reectors shall be recorded for reference purposes only and shall not be evaluated in accordance with the acceptance criteria for the weld. Angle beam scanning for reectors oriented parallel to the weld shall be performed with the angle beam directed approximately at right angles to the weld axis from two directions (where possible). The search unit shall be manipulated so that the sound beam passes through the required volume of weld to be examined. Scanning shall also be performed at a gain setting of at least two times the primary reference level; however, evaluation of reectors shall be performed at the primary reference level. Angle beam scanning for reectors oriented transverse to the weld shall be performed with the angle beam directed essentially
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parallel with the weld. The search unit shall be manipulated so that the sound beam passes through the required volume of weld to be examined. Scanning shall be performed at a gain setting of at least two times the primary reference level; however, evaluation of reectors shall be performed at the primary reference level. The search unit shall be rotated 180 deg. and the examination repeated. 20.6.5.5 Cladding The following requirements apply only to weld-metal-overlay cladding and when examination is required by the referencing Code section. Test requirements for roll bond or explosive clad plate shall be performed in accordance with SA-578, located in Article 23. Two examination techniques are provided for weld-metal-overlay cladding: the rst is for lack of bond and clad defects, the second for lack of bond only. 20.6.5.5.1 Equipment, Calibration Block, Calibration, and Examination Requirements for Technique 1 Dual search units set up for pitch catch shall be used. The included angle between the two beam paths shall be such that maximum sensitivity of the search unit is in the area of interest. The calibration block shown in Fig. T-434.4.1 (given here as Fig. 20.5) shall be used. The block shall be clad using the same weld process as was used for the production part. The surface condition shall be equivalent to the 1 production part. Either a 16 in. (1.6 mm) diameter * 11 in. long 2 side-drilled hole located at the clad interface or a 1 in. (3.2 mm) 8 at-bottom hole drilled through the base material and terminating at the clad interface may be used. The thickness of the blocks base
material shall be at least two times the thickness of the cladding. The examination shall be performed from the clad surface, and the entire clad surface shall be examined where practical. The examination shall be performed with the plane separating the elements of the two search units placed parallel to the axis of the weld bead(s). Scanning shall be performed at two times the primary reference level and by moving the search unit perpendicular to the weld direction. All indications shall be evaluated at the primary reference level. 20.6.5.5.2 Equipment Calibration Block, Calibration, and Examination Requirements for Technique 2 Straight beam search units shall be used. A cladded calibration block is required using the same welding process as used in production, with the surface condition representative of the production part is used. A 3 8 in. (10 mm) at-bottom hole is drilled through the base material, terminating at the claddingweld-metal interface. The thickness of the base material shall be at least twice the thickness of the weldoverlay cladding. Calibration shall be performed by placing the search unit on the calibration block opposite from the drilled hole. The search unit shall be manipulated to obtain a maximum response from the calibration hole, and the gain shall be set so that this response is 80% ( 5%) of full screen height. This is the primary reference level. Scanning shall be performed at a gain setting at least two times the primary reference level, and scanning shall be performed on the clad surface if calibration is performed from the clad surface. All indications shall be evaluated at the primary reference level.
FIG. 20.5
CALIBRATION BLOCK FOR TECHNIQUE 1 (Source: Fig.T-434.4.1, Article 4, Section V of the ASME B&PV Code)
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20.6.6
Evaluation
20.7.1
General Requirements
Any imperfection that causes an amplitude response in excess of 20% DAC (or 40% of the rejectable aw size for non-distance amplitude techniques) shall be investigated to the extent that it can be evaluated in terms of the acceptance criteria required by the referenced Code section.
20.6.7
Reports and Records
A report of the examination is required. The report shall include a record (which may be a marked-up sketch) indicating the volume examined. The report shall also include the location of each recorded reector and identify the operator who performed (partly or entirely) the examination. Instrument calibrations, system calibrations, and calibration block identication, as required, shall be included in the calibration records. Examination records should include the following information in addition to any additional detailed information specied by the referencing Code section: (1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6) (7) (8) (9) (10) (11) (12) (13) (14) procedure identity; examination equipment; personnel identity and qualication level; calibration sheet identity; identication of weld or volume scanned and any inaccessible areas; identication of surface(s) used in the examination; a map or record of indications detected or, alternatively, areas clear of indications; the date(s) and time(s) when the examination was per formed; type of couplant used; calibration block identification and calibration data (including simulators, if used); surface condition; frequencies and angles used; equipment used (search units, cables); and a listing of any special equipment used.
When Article 5 is specied by a referencing Code section, the General Requirements section of Article 1 applies. Note: Written procedure requirements, equipments requirements, maximum search unit movement rate, calibration requirements, evaluation requirements, and documentation are very similar to those described for Article 4 in 20.6. In general, calibration reflectors in calibration blocks are described in referenced SA, SB, and SE documents in Article 22. However, there are important exceptions located in T-534. For example, longitudinal notches of 1 in. (25 mm) maximum length and 1/16 in. (1.6 mm) maximum width are required for pipe examinations. The notch depth cannot exceed 0.004 in. (0.10 mm) or 5% of the nominal wall thickness, whichever is greater.
20.7.2
Examination
Most examination requirements are described in the following documents located in Article 23: Plate-SA-435/SA-435M, SA-577/SA-577M, SA-578/SA578M, or SB-548, as applicable. Forgings/Bars-SA-388/SA-388M, or SA-745/SA-745M, as applicable. Tubular Products (such as Pipe)SE-213 or SE-273, as applicable. CastingsSA-609/SA-609M. Bolting MaterialSA-388/SA-388M. Thickness MeasurementSE-797. Inservice Examination of CladdingSA578/SA-578M. Note: This requirement excludes weld metal overlay; examination requirements for weld metal overlay are described in Article 4, T-473. As mentioned previously, Article 5 amends the SA, SB, and SE documents for certain requirements. In the case of conicting requirements, the amended exceptions in Article 5 take precedence over the requirements in the SA, SB, and SE documents. As an example, Article 5 amends the examination requirements of SA-609/SA-609M for casting by stating in T-571.4(a), For straight-beam examinations, the sensitivity compensation in paragraph 8.3 of SA-609/SA-609M shall not be used. Additional examination requirements are described in the Mandatory Appendices to Article 5 as follows: Pumps and ValvesMandatory Appendix I. Inservice Examination of Nozzle Inner Radius and Inner Corner RegionMandatory Appendix II. Inservice Examination of BoltingMandatory Appendix IV.
Records of any evaluations of indications shall be maintained and documented as required by the referencing Code section.
20.6.8
Article 4, Nonmandatory Appendix L
Article 4, Nonmandatory Appendix L provides methodology that can be used to demonstrate the ability of an ultrasonic system to size depth and length of indications using time-of-ightdiffraction (TOFD). Nonmandatory Appendix L specically pertains to a dual-probe, computer imaging TOFD technique and includes a system for classifying imperfections.
20.6.9
Article 4, Nonmandatory Appendix N
Article 4, Nonmandatory Appendix N provides useful information that can be used as an aid for interpreting TOFD images.
20.8 20.7 ULTRASONIC EXAMINATION METHODS FOR MATERIALS
ARTICLE 6: LIQUID-PENETRANT EXAMINATION
Article 5 describes the methodology for ultrasonic examination of plate, pipe, forgings, castings, and for thickness determinations. Denitions of terms used found in Mandatory Appendix III of this Article. When SA, SB, and SE documents are referenced, they are located in Article 23.
Article 6 describes the methodology and technques used for liquid-penetrant examinationone of the most frequently used methods and one that is required and referenced by many of the Code sections. When Article 6 is specied by a referencing Code section, the General Requirements section of Article 1 is also applicable.
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20.8.1
Procedures and Procedure Revision(s)
20.8.4
Surface Preparation
The examination shall be performed in accordance with a written test procedure, and the following items should be considered for inclusion in the procedure: (1) Material shapes and sizes, and extent of examination. (2) Type and letter or numerical designation of each penetrant, penetrant remover, emulsier, and developer. (3) Details for preexamination cleaning and drying, including the precleaning material(s) used and the minimum drying time. (4) Details for the application of the penetrant, penetrant dwell time, and temperature of the penetrant and of the part being examined (if the test is performed outside the temperature range of 50 125 F). (5) Details for removal of excess penetrant and drying of the surface before application of developer. (6) Details for applying the developer and the developing dwell time before interpretation. (7) Minimum light intensity. (8) Details for postcleaning. (9) Personnel qualication requirements.
The examination may be performed on the part without any surface conditioning, provided the surface irregularities cannot mask indications of unacceptable discontinuities. Surface preparation by mechanical means may be required. Article 24 contains Standard SE-165, Annex 1, and is a reference procedure for additional information on general precautions relating to surface conditioning. This reference should be reviewed by users for consideration in listing surface nish requirements in the test procedure. The test surface and all adjacent surfaces within 1 in. shall be dry and free of any extraneous materials (grease, dirt, scale, weld ux, spatter, oil, and so forth). Degreasing or ultrasonic cleaning methods may be required. After cleaning, the surface(s) shall be dried by normal evaporation or by using forced hot or cold air. The minimum drying time shall be established and specied before the penetrant application to ensure that the cleaning solvent has completely evaporated.
20.8.5
Techniques
Either a color-contrast (visible) penetrant or a uorescent penetrant shall be used with one of the following processes: (1) water washing; (2) postemulsifying; (3) solvent removal. For the standard technique, the temperature of the penetrant and surface of the part being examined shall be in the range of 40F (5C)125F (52C). When it is not practical to comply with this temperature range, other temperatures may be used if the procedure is both qualied and in accordance with the technique requirements for nonstandard temperatures, as specied in Article 6.
20.8.2
Equipment
The equipment, consisting of penetrant materials, includes all materials used for the examination, such as penetrants, cleaners, emulsiers, solvents, cleaning agents, developers, and so forth.
20.8.3
Control of Contaminants
Article 6 Appendix-II provides detailed information and requirements for the control of contaminants, as well as the certication requirements for penetrant materials (including precleaning solvents) that will be used on nickel-base alloys, austenitic stainless steels, and titanium materials. Article 24 contains SD standards 129, 1552, 516, 808, and SE-165, all of which are used for reference for material analysis procedures. Specic analysis requirements are provided in Article 6 Appendix-II. Users should be aware of the necessity to obtain certications from the manufacturers of penetrant materials and also to le the certications for verication during subsequent audits.
20.8.6
Calibration
Both visible and uorescent light meters shall be calibrated annually, or whenever the meter has been repaired.
20.8.7
Examination
The penetrant may be applied by any suitable means. The penetrant dwell time is critical, and the dwell time shall be as specied in Table 20.5 (Table T-672) or as qualied by demonstration for specic applications. The removal of excess penetrant is critical,
TABLE 20.5
MINIMUM DWELL TIMES (source: Table T-672, Section V of the ASME B&PV Code)
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and Article 6 provides specic requirements for removal of waterwashable, postemulsifying, and solvent-remover penetrants. Drying of the surface after the penetrant removal can be accomplished by blotting or by using circulating air for water-washable or postemulsifying penetrants; for solvent removal, drying may be performed by normal evaporation, blotting, wiping, or the use of forced air. Developer application for wet or dry developers may be performed by any suitable means. The minimum developing time shall be as specied in Table T-672 (given here as Table 20.5).
20.8.8
Interpretation
Final interpretation of the test results shall be made within 1060 min. after the developing dwell-time requirement has been satised. Longer periods are permitted if the bleed-out does not alter the results. When using color-contrast penetrant, the test results shall be viewed under a light intensity of 100 foot-candles (1000 Lx); for uorescent penetrants, the test results shall be viewed using a black light with an intensity of 1000 mW/sq. cm on the surface of the part. The black light intensity must be checked prior to use and after completion of examination(s), and it is good practice to document verication of the check.
particles and should be consulted when developing the test procedure. When using uorescent particles, the examination must be performed using an ultraviolet light (black light), and the examination must be performed in a darkened area unless the requirements of Mandatory Appendix III are met. The black light shall have an intensity of 1000 mW/sq. cm at the surface of the part; the light intensity shall be measured using a black-light meter prior to and at the completion of examinations plus any time the lights power supply is interrupted or changed. It is important to maintain records of the intensity measurements and frequency for subsequent audit verications. Pretest requirements for use of the black light include a warm-up period of 5 min., and the operator must be in the darkened area for 5 min. before starting the examination to enable the inspectors eyes to adapt to dark viewing. Photosensitive eyeglass lenses are not permitted.
20.9.3
Surface Conditioning
20.8.9
Evaluation
All indications shall be evaluated in accordance with the acceptance standards of the referencing Code section.
20.8.10
Documentation and Records
Documentation and records shall be completed in accordance with the requirements of the referencing Code section.
Surface conditioning is normally not necessary, and satisfactory results can be obtained when surfaces are, for example, in the aswelded, as-rolled, as-forged, or as-cast condition; however, surface preparation by any mechanical means may be required if the surface irregularities could mask indications. Before the examination, the surface to be examined and adjacent areas within 1 in. shall be cleaned by any suitable means to ensure removal of extraneous materials that could interfere with the examination. In Article 7, paragraphs T-741.1 and T-741.2 provide additional requirements regarding cleaning and use of surface-contrast enhancement coatings for enhancing particle contrast.
20.9.4
Procedure/Technique
20.9
ARTICLE 7: MAGNETIC-PARTICLE EXAMINATION
The test procedure shall include at the very least the following details: (1) materials, shapes, and sizes to be examined and the extent of examination; (2) magnetization technique used; (3) equipment used; (4) surface preparation (nishing and cleaning); (5) type of particles used; (6) magnetization current (type and amperage); (7) method of particle application; (8) method of excess particle removal; (9) minimum light intensity; (10) coating thickness; (11) examination surface temperature; (12) post examination cleaning technique; (13) demagnetization; and (14) personnel qualication requirements.
Article 7 describes the requirements and methodology for the performance of the magnetic-particle examination test method. Magnetic-particle examination is a widely used test method by the Code and is referenced as a requirement in many Code sections. Article 25 contains SE-709, which is a reference standard and should be consulted by users when establishing their test procedures. Also, when Article 7 is specied by a referencing Code section, the requirements of Article 1 apply. In some cases, the referencing Code section alters the Article 1 and Article 7 requirements; therefore, it is important to review the referencing Code section requirements when establishing the test procedure. Article 7 has three Mandatory Appendices: Mandatory Appendix I covers examination of coated ferritic materials using the AC yoke technique, Mandatory Appendix II covers the denition of terms, and Mandatory Appendix III covers examinations using the yoke technique with uorescent particles in an undarkened area.
20.9.5
Magnetic Field Adequacy and Direction
20.9.1
Equipment
The equipment selected must be capable of producing the necessary magnetic ux in the part being examined, using the continuous method and one or more of the following techniques: prod technique, longitudinal and circular magnetization techniques, yoke technique, and multidirectional technique.
A magnetic-particle eld indicator (also called a pie gage or pie indicator), described in Fig. T-764.1.7 (given here as Fig. 20.6), may be used when it is necessary to verify the adequacy or direction of the magnetizing eld. Because magnetic-particle eld indicator is only permitted within the limitations prescribed for various magnetizing techniques, it is important to review Article 7, paragraph T-764.3 for those limitations.
20.9.2
Examination Medium
20.9.6
Rectied Current
Dry, wet, visible, or uorescent particles may be used in accordance with the applicable technique selection. Article 25 contains SE-709, which provides specic requirements for all types of
Whenever direct current is required, rectied current may be used. The current shall be either three phase (full-wave rectied) or single phase (half-wave rectied).
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used. Additional requirements are listed in paragraph T-793. A technique sketch is required only if the multidirectional technique is used. The technique-sketch requirements are listed in paragraph T-791.
20.10
ARTICLE 8: EDDY-CURRENT EXAMINATION OF TUBULAR PRODUCTS
FIG. 20.6 MAGNETIC-PARTICLE FIELD INDICATOR (Source: T-764.1.1, Article 7, Section V of the ASME B&PV Code)
20.9.7
Demagnetization
This article covers the test method requirements for eddycurrent examination of tubular products. The methods and techniques substantially conform to SE standard 243 found in Article 26. SE-243 should be reviewed when developing the test procedure. When eddy-current examination is required by a referencing Code section, Article 1 requirements also apply. There are six Mandatory Appendices that accompany Article 8: Appendix I,. Glossary of Terms for Eddy-Current Examination; Appendix II, Eddy-Current Examination of Nonferromagnetic Heat Exchanger Tubing; Appendix III, Eddy-Current Examination on Coated Ferritic Materials; Appendix IV, External Coil Eddy Current Examination of Tubular Products; Appendix V, Eddy Current Measurement of Nonconductive-Nonmagnetic Coating Thickness on a Nonmagnetic Metallic Material; and Appendix VI, Eddy Current Detection and Measurement of Depth of Surface Discontinuities in Nonmagnetic Metals with Surface Probes. Again, the applicable Mandatory Appendix requirements shall be followed for the specic application.
Demagnetization is required when residual magnetization in the part could interfere with subsequent processing or usage. The demagnetization can be performed at any time after completion of the examination.
20.10.1
General
All eddy-current or electromagnetic examinations shall be performed in accordance with a detailed written procedure unless other provisions are stated in the referencing Code section.
20.9.8
Calibration of Equipment
Test equipment with ammeters must be calibrated at least once each year or whenever the equipment has been subjected to major repairs or overhaul. Article 7 provides details for the calibration procedure and tolerance values.
20.10.2
Personnel Qualications
Personnel qualication requirements are as specied in the referencing Code section.
20.10.3
Procedure
20.9.9
Lifting Power of Yokes
The lifting power of yokes shall be checked annually or if the yoke has been damaged. AC yokes must have a lifting power of 10 lb. and DC permanent yokes must have a lifting power of 40 lb. at maximum pole spacing.
The procedure used for the examination shall ensure a sensitivity level at which indications equal to or greater than those obtained from the reference standard are consistently detected. The written procedure shall include at least the following information: (1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6) (7) (8) (9) (10) (11) (12) frequency; mode; minimum ll factor; type of coil or probe; scanning speed and technique; type of material and size(s); reference standard notch or hole size; equipment manufacturer/model; scanning equipment; data recording equipment; cable type and length; and software used for acquisition/analysis.
20.9.10 Examination
At least two separate examinations shall be performed on each test area. For the second examination, the lines of ux should be approximately perpendicular to those used for the rst examination. The examinations shall be conducted with sufcient overlap to ensure that 100% coverage is obtained. Article 7 provides specic examination details for the ve techniques previously mentioned, and it is important to refer to the detailed requirements for the specic technique that will be used for the examination.
20.9.11 Evaluation
All indications shall be evaluated in accordance with the acceptance criteria in the applicable referencing Code section.
20.10.4
Reference Standard
20.9.12 Records
An examination record is required, documenting type of equipment, magnetic particles, lighting equipment, and technique
The reference standard (reference specimen) shall be the same as the parts being examined and processed in the same manner. The standard shall be of the same nominal diameter and same nominal composition as the parts being examined. Unless specied otherwise by the referencing Code section, the calibration reference
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shall be transverse notches or drilled holes, as specied in Article 26, SE-243. The standard shall be long enough to simulate the handling of the part through the inspection system equipment. The separation between the reference notches or drilled holes placed in the same reference standard should not be less than twice the length of the sensing unit on the inspection system.
20.11.2
Physical Requirements
Personnel performing visual examination shall have an annual vision test to ensure natural or corrected near-distance acuity. The test consists of the candidate being able to read the J-1 letters on standard Jaeger test charts. Equivalent tests may be used in lieu of the Jaeger test charts.
20.10.5
Calibration
20.11.3
Procedure/Technique
The inspection system shall be checked and veried by using the reference standard as follows: (1) at the beginning of each run of a given diameter and thickness; (2) at the end of the production run; and (3) anytime there is an equipment malfunction. If at anytime during calibration or the production run it is determined that the equipment is not functioning properly, all of the product tested since the last valid calibration or verication shall be reinspected.
20.11.3.1 Typical Applications The following several common applications of visual examination are used: (1) to determine if surface conditions of the part satisfy the surface requirements; (2) verication of alignment of mating surfaces; (3) verication of shapes; and (4) evidence of leaks during static or dynamic testing. 20.11.3.2 Techniques Techniques used are direct viewing, remote viewing, and translucent examination. Specic requirements for each technique are provided in the Article. 20.11.3.3 Evaluation All examination results shall be evaluated in accordance with the criteria required by the referencing Code section. An examination checklist is required to plan the visual examinations and verify that visual observations have been completed. 20.11.3.4 Documentation and Records When required by the referencing Code section a written report is made and shall be maintained as required by that referencing Code section. Specic items to be included in the report are listed in the Article.
20.10.6
Evaluation
Examination test results shall be evaluated in accordance with the requirements of the referencing Code section. As previously mentioned, there are six Mandatory Appendices accompanying Article 8 that address specic applications. Users should be aware of these specic applications, as they may be relevant to the examination being performed.
20.11
ARTICLE 9: VISUAL EXAMINATION
Appendix I, which is mandatory, accompanies Article 9 and provides a glossary of terms. Article 9 requirements at this time are primarily invoked by Section III. However, because it is good manufacturing practice to perform a visual examination to ensure product quality, users should become familiar with the requirements of Article 9 and apply visual examination as they see t.
20.12
ARTICLE 10: LEAK TESTING
Article 10 consists of the general section, ten Mandatory Appendices and one Nonmandatory Appendix. Most of these Appendices cover specic types of tests, as follows: Appendix I, Bubble Test (Direct Pressure Technique). Appendix II, Bubble Test (Vacuum Box Technique). Appendix III, Halogen Diode Detector Probe Test. Appendix IV, Helium Mass Spectrometer (Detector Probe Technique). Appendix V, Helium Mass Spectrometer (Tracer Probe Technique). Appendix VI, Pressure Change Test. Appendix VII, Glossary of Terms. Appendix VIII, Thermal Conductivity Detector Probe Test. Appendix IX, Helium Mass Spectrometer (Hood Technique). Appendix X, Ultrasonic Leak Detector Test. Appendix A, is Leak Testing Formula Symbols.
20.11.1
Written Procedure Requirements
The examination shall be performed in accordance with a written procedure prepared by the manufacturer. The manufacturer shall make available the procedure and a list of the examinations to be performed to the Authorized Inspector. The procedure shall include at least the following: (1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6) (7) (8) (9) equipment used for remote viewing equipment used for direct viewing personnel qualication requirements methods and/or tools used for surface preparation; whether direct or remote viewing will be used; special illumination, instruments, or equipment used; sequence of performing the operation, when applicable; lighting intensity; conguration to be examined;
The requirements of the applicable Mandatory Appendix must be followed for the specic test technique being performed.
20.12.1 Procedure
Written procedure requirements vary slightly according to technique. In general, the procedure shall include the following minimum information: (1) extent of the examination; (2) type of equipment used for detecting leaks or measuring leak rates;
Procedures may be general or specic for a certain application. The procedure shall contain or reference a report of the test method used to demonstrate the procedures adequacy. A ne line 1/32 in. or less in width or a similar articial aw placed on the surface at the least discernible location to be examined may be considered as a test method for the demonstration.
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(3) type of surface cleaning performed and equipment used; (4) method or technique of the test to be performed; and (5) temperature, pressure, gas, and % concentration to be used. The referencing Code section shall be consulted for additional information concerning the following: (1) (2) (3) (4) (5) personnel qualication/certication; technique(s)/calibration standards; extent of examination; test sensitivity or leakage rate; and report and records retention requirements.
formulas for calculating leak rates for the method or technique used are provided in the applicable Mandatory Appendices.
20.12.7
(1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6) (7) (8) (9) (10) (11)
Documentation
A test report shall contain the following minimum information: date of test; name and certication level of operator; test procedure number and revision; test method or technique; test results; component identication; instrument, calibrated leak standard, and material identication; test conditions, test pressure, and gas concentration; gage(s) manufacturer, model, range, and identication; temperature-measuring device used and identification number; and sketch showing method or technique setup.
20.12.2 Equipment (Gages)

If dial indicating or recording pressure gages are used, the dial should be graduated over a range of about double the intended or required pressure; however, in no case shall the gage be less than 11 or more than 4 times the required pressure. These limits do not 2 apply to dial indicating and recording vacuum gages. Other gage range requirements may be specied in the applicable Mandatory Appendix for the test technique being used. The gage location for pressure/vacuum leak testing shall be connected to the component in a remote location, with the gage position readily visible to the test operator throughout the duration of pressurizing, evacuating, testing, and depressurizing/venting. For large vessels or systems, a recording-type gage is recommended.
20.12.8
Record Retention
The test report must be maintained in accordance with the requirement of the referencing Code section.
20.13
ACOUSTIC EMISSION EXAMINATION
20.12.3 Requirements
The surface(s) to be tested shall be clean and free of any contaminants; all openings shall be sealed using plugs, covers, or other suitable material that can readily be removed after the test. The minimum metal temperature for all components during a test shall be as required in the referencing Code section. Components that are pressure-leak-tested shall not be tested at a pressure exceeding 25% of the design pressure unless specied otherwise by the referencing Code section.
Articles 11, 12, and 13 address acoustic emission examination methodology. To the best of the authors knowledge, to date no Code sections have adopted any of these articles. Section VIII has approved in Code Case 1968 the use of Article 12 for examination of specic low-pressure containers, and Section XI has approved the use of Article 13 for a specic application. Users should refer to the Code Case listing for the respective Code sections for the necessary details.
20.12.4 Technique
Before performing a sensitive leak test method, it may be expedient to perform a preliminary test to detect and eliminate gross leaks. It is recommended that leak testing be performed before the required hydrostatic or hydropneumatic test.
20.14
ARTICLE 11: ACOUSTIC EMISSION EXAMINATION OF FIBERREINFORCED PLASTIC VESSELS
20.12.5 Calibration
All pressure/vacuum dial indicating or recording gages shall be calibrated against either a standard deadweight tester, a calibrated master gage, or a mercury column, and recalibration shall be performed at least once a year when in use. All gages shall provide an accuracy within the manufacturers listed accuracy values. Temperature-measuring devices shall also be calibrated in accordance with the applicable Mandatory Appendix or the referencing Code section. Permeation-type leak standards shall leak through fused glass or quartz. The standard shall have a helium leak rate in the range of 1 * 10 - 6 to 1 * 10 - 10 std m3/sec. Capillary-type leak standards shall be a calibrated halogen or helium capillary leak through a tube. The standard shall have a leak rate of 1 * 10 - 4 to 1 * 10 - 5 std m3/sec.
Acoustic emission (AE) of ber-reinforced plastic vessels falls under the jurisdiction of Section X. Several references to Article 11 are found in Section X, including the following paragraphs: RQ-142 (acceptance test for qualifying Class II vessel design and fabrication), RT-111 (Article 11 provisions should be included in NDT Level II qualication), RT-521 (calibration of AE equipment), and several references in RT-620 (acceptance tests for Class II vessels). The article includes the following three Mandatory Appendices: Appendix I, Instrumentation Performance Requirements. Appendix II, Instrument Calibration. Appendix III, Glossary of Terms.
20.14.1
General
20.12.6 Evaluation
The acceptance standards used for the test shall be as required by the referencing Code section. The supplemental leak testing
When this article is specied by a referencing Code section, the methods and techniques shall be used together with Article 1. Discontinuities located by AE must be examined by other NDE methods and the test results evaluated in accordance with the applicable acceptance criteria.
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20 Chapter 20
20.14.2
Requirements
There are three Mandatory Appendices accompanying the article: Appendix I, Instrumentation Performance Requirements. Appendix II, Instrumentation Calibration and CrossReferencing. Appendix III, Glossary of Terms. The referencing Code section should be consulted for the following specic requirements: (1) (2) (3) (4) (5) personnel qualication/certication; extent of examination or volume(s) to be examined; acceptance criteria; report requirements; and content of records and records retention.
20.14.2.1 Vessel Conditioning For tanks and vessels that have been previously stressed, the operating pressure or load must be reduced in accordance with the operating levels provided in T-1121. 20.14.2.2 Vessel Stressing Arrangements must be made to stress the vessel at the prescribed design pressure or load, and the rate of application must be sufcient to expedite the examination with minimum extraneous noise. 20.14.2.3 Environmental Conditions Vessel and uid temperatures are critical and are listed for various conditions. 20.14.2.4 Noise Elimination Extraneous noise must be minimized because it may mask AE signals. Instrument settings shall be as prescribed in Mandatory Appendix II. 20.14.2.5 Sensors The mounting of sensors is critical, and the article describes requirements for mounting sensors and frequency channels required for both high and low frequencies. 20.14.2.6 Written Procedure The AE examination shall be performed in accordance with a written procedure when required by the referencing Code section. The procedure shall include as a minimum the following information: (1) materials and congurations to be examined, including dimensions and product form; (2) method for determining sensor locations; (3) sensor locations; (4) couplant; (5) sensor type, frequency, and location; (6) equipment type and frequency; (7) description of system calibration; (8) data to be recorded and method of recording; (9) report requirements; (10) postexamination cleaning used; and (11) qualication of the examiners.
When this article is specied by a referencing Code section, it is used together with Article 1.
20.15.1
General
The objectives of the AE examination are to locate and monitor emission sources caused by surface and internal discontinuities. All relevant indications caused by AE sources must be examined and evaluated by other NDE methods.
20.15.2
Requirements
20.15.2.1 Vessel Stressing The referencing Code section should provide the necessary detailed information to stress the vessel using internal pressure. 20.15.2.2 Noise Reduction External noise sources should be minimized, and the noise level must be below the system examination threshold. 20.15.2.3 Sensor Frequency Recommended sensor frequency is provided in Nonmandatory Appendix B. Sensor mounting, contact, and location details are provided in the general section. 20.15.2.4 Written Procedure The examination shall be per formed in accordance with a written procedure and, as a minimum, the procedure shall include the following: (1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6) (7) (8) (9) (10) (11) (12) (13) material and congurations to be examined; background noise measurements; sensor type, frequency, and manufacturer; method of sensor attachment; type of couplant; instrument type and lter frequency; sensor locations; method used for sensor selection; a description of system calibration(s); data to be recorded and method of recording; postexamination cleaning used; report requirements; and qualication/certication of examiner(s).
20.14.3
Additional Requirements
The Article provides further extensive requirement details addressing the following: (1) (2) (3) (4) (5) equipment and supplies; application requirements; calibration; evaluation; and documentation.
Users should thoroughly review these specic details when preparing their test procedure. Nonmandatory Appendix A (Sensor Placement Guidelines) should also be reviewed.
20.15
ARTICLE 12: ACOUSTIC EMISSION EXAMINATION OF METALLIC VESSELS DURING PRESSURE TESTING
20.15.3
Other Requirements
This article describes the methodology for conducting the AE examination of metallic vessels during acceptance pressure testing when specified by a referencing Code section.
The article provides additional specic requirement details on application requirements, calibration, evaluation, and documentation. Consequently, the article should be carefully reviewed when the user prepares the written procedure. Nonmandatory Appendix
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A (Sensor Placement Guidelines) and Nonmandatory Appendix B (Supplemental Information for conducting AE Examinations) should also be reviewed when preparing the written procedure.
20.16
ARTICLE 13: CONTINUOUS AE MONITORING
This article describes the requirements for continuous AE monitoring of metal or nonmetal pressure boundary components used for nuclear or nonnuclear service. The article contains the following seven Mandatory Appendices: Appendix I, Nuclear Components. Appendix II, Nonnuclear Metal Components. Appendix III, Nonmetallic Components. Appendix IV, Limited Zone Monitoring. Appendix V, Hostile-Environment Applications. Appendix VI, Leak-Detection Applications. Appendix VII, Glossary of Terms.
request of, and in collaboration with, the ASME Post Construction Standards Committee, which is developing inspection and repair documents for the non-nuclear codes and standards under the ASME Board on Pressure Technology Codes and Standards. Article 14 requirements are mandatory only when specically referenced by a referencing Code; no other Section V Articles reference Article 14. Article 14 currently contains two appendices, Mandatory Appendix I, Glossary of Terms for Examination System Qualification, and Mandatory Appendix II, UT Performance Demonstration Criteria.
20.18
ARTICLE 15: ALTERNATING CURRENT FIELD MEASUREMENT
20.16.1 General
20.16.1.1 Monitoring Objectives The examination objectives are to detect, locate, and characterize AE sources and interpret the response signals in order to evaluate their signicance relative to pressure-boundary integrity. All relevant indications detected during the AE examination should be examined by other NDE methods and evaluated in accordance with the applicable acceptance criteria. 20.16.1.2 Personnel Qualication An individual certied as a level III must approve all procedures used for qualifying, calibrating, installing, operating equipment, and data analysis. The level III must also verify AE System operation and data interpretation on approximately a monthly basis, or more frequently if system malfunctions occur. 20.16.1.3 Component Stressing Stress may be introduced by pressure or thermal gradients or a combination of both. 20.16.1.4 Noise Interference Noise sources that interfere with AE signal detection should be controlled to the greatest extent possible. 20.16.1.5 Coordination with Plant System OwnerOperator Because of operational circumstances of the AE method, close coordination between the AE system operator and the plant system operator should be established and maintained. Provisions for this function should be described in the written procedure.
This is a new Article which describes a surface examination method that can be used to detect cracks and other linear imperfections in welds. This method utilizes the induction of an AC magnetic eld by a magnetic yoke contained in a hand probe and causes alternating current to ow in the material. Surface or near surface discontinuities disrupt the current ow and the resulting changes in the magnetic eld are detected by sensing coils in the probe. Article 15 generally conforms to SE-2261 found in Article 31. SE-2261 should be consulted when developing a written procedure. Note: Article 15 is not presently referenced by other Code Sections.
20.18.1
Supplemental Requirements
Paragraph T-1521 contains important information regarding the difculty of examining welds in certain materials such as dissimilar metal welds and welds joining stainless steel.
20.18.2
Written Procedure
The examination shall be performed in accordance with a written procedure and shall include the following information: (1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6) instrument (model and serial number) probes (model and serial number) direction and extent of scanning method for sizing indications coating type and thickness surface preparation
20.18.3
Equipment
Requirements for the instruments display and operating frequency, nominal probe frequency, and calibration blocks is provided in Paragraph T-1530.
20.18.4
Miscellaneous Requirements
20.16.2 Other Requirements

The article provides additional specic details addressing equipment, test requirements, procedures, calibration, examination, evaluation and results, and reports and records. These specic details along with the Mandatory Appendices should be carefully reviewed by the user when he or she develops the written test procedure(s).
Paragraph T-I540 contains important information regarding surface conditioning, demagnication of residual magnetic elds, and requirements for identication of welds that are examined.
20.18.5
Calibration
20.17
ARTICLE 14: EXAMINATION SYSTEM QUALIFICATION
This Article was developed to establish requirements for qualication of personnel, procedures, and equipment collectively applied by a given examination technique. Article 14 was developed at the
Paragraph T-I560 contains requirements for calibration. Consistent with other NDE methods that require calibration, the same equipment, instrument settings, and maximum probe scanning speed used for the examination must be used during the calibration. A calibration verication check is required whenever any part of the examination system is changed, when examination personnel are changed, and at the completion of examination. The tolerance for changes in sensitivity during calibration verication checks is given in Paragraph T-1563.2.
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20.18.6
Examination
Paragraph T-I570 provides examination requirements. It is important to note that two separate examinations are required. For the second examination, the probe orientation must be approximately perpendicular to the probe orientation for the rst examination. Examination coverage and probe overlap requirements are provided in Paragraphs T-1572 and T- 1573, respectively.
20.18.7
Other Requirements
This article provides additional requirements addressing interpretation and evaluation, information to be recorded, and examination reports. These requirements need to be considered when developing written procedures.
20.19
ARTICLE 16: MAGNETIC FLUX LEAKAGE
This is a new article containing the requirements for magnetic ux leakage examination that were previously published in Article 7, Mandatory Appendix III.
(d) T-461, Instrument Linearity ChecksThis paragraph was modied to increase the frequency of linearity checks of digital instruments from three months to annually. Note: This same provision has also been added to Article 5, T-561. (e) Mandatory Appendix IIIMandatory Appendix III is a new appendix with requirements for the time of ight diffraction (TOFD) technique. (f) Nonmandatory Appendix EA cautionary statement was added to E-474 regarding the potentially inability of misoriented beams to detect planar reectors when using single line scanning phase array techniques. (g) Nonmandatory Appendix HThe guidelines in Nonmandatory Appendix H were incorporated into Nonmandatory Appendix D, and Nonmandatory Appendix H was deleted from Section V. (h) Nonmandatory Appendix MThis new appendix provides guidance for angle beam calibrations using longitudinal wave ultrasound. (i) Nonmandatory Appendix NThis new appendix provides guidance to aid in the interpretation of TOFD images.
20.20
ARTICLE 17: REMOTE FIELD TESTING
20.21.3
Technical Changes to Article 6 (PT)
This is a new Article which describes a method that is used for the examination of ferromagnetic tubing. RFT is often used when the eddy current method cannot be used, such as the examination of ferromagnetic tubing in heat exchangers. Article 17 references SE2096 for calibration standards. Note: When it is required to detect corrosion pitting, a second calibration standard that meets Fig. T-1762 must be used. Both Article 17 and Se-2096 should be consulted when developing written procedures for RFT examinations.
20.21
TECHNICAL CHANGES TO SECTION V SINCE THE 2ND EDITION
For convenience. the following paragraphs identify the signicant technical changes made to Section V since the 2nd Edition of the Companion Guide to ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Codes (i.e., since the publication of the 2004 Edition with 2004 Addenda).
(a) Table T-621, Paragraph T-652, and Paragraph T-653, TemperatureThe lower limit for the standard temperature range has been lowered from 5OF (10C) to 40F (5C). (b) T-676.4, Fluorescent PenetrantsThe 5 minute warm-up time was deleted to accommodate black light units with instant-on capability. The illumination level requirement is unchanged and the intensity has to be checked prior to use, whenever the power source is interrupted or changed, and at the completion of the examination. (c) Mandatory Appendix IIParagraphs II-64 1 and II-642 have been revised to reference the requirements for control of liquid penetrant contaminants in Article 24, SD-129, SD-516, and SE-165 for nickel base alloys, and SD-808 and SE-165 for austenitic or duplex stainless steel and titanium.
20.21.4
Technical Changes to Article 7 (MT)
20.21.1
Technical Changes to Article 2 (RT)
(a) Mandatory Appendix VIIIThis is a new mandatory appendix providing requirements for radiography using phosphor imaging plate (which is the non-lm radiography that was mentioned in the 2nd Edition in paragraph 20.19, Future Changes Anticipated for Section V).
20.21.2
Technical Changes to Articles 4 and 5 (UT)
(a) T-434.1.1, ReectorsThis paragraph was modied to add a provision for alternative reectors that produce a sensitivity equal to or greater than the specied reectors for calibration blocks. (b) T-434.1.2, MaterialThis paragraph was modied to add calibration block material requirements when examining dissimilar metal welds. (c) Figure T-434.2.1A new note was added to Figure T-434.2.1 requiring only the 1/2T side-drilled hole for basic (non-piping) calibration blocks less than 3 in. (19 mm) 4 thick.
(a) T-764.1.2 and Figure T-764.1.2, Articial Flaw Shims Figure T-764.1.2 has been redesignated as Figure T-764.1.2.1 and a new Figure T-764.1.2.2 has been added providing several new types of articial aw shims that may be used to determine the adequacy and direction of magnetizing elds. Note: The limitation in T-764.3 regarding use of eld indicators and articial aw shims remains unchanged. (b) T-777.2(c), Fluorescent magnetic ParticlesThe 5 minute warm-up time was deleted to accommodate black light units with instant-on capability. The illumination level requirement is unchanged and the intensity has to be checked prior to use, whenever the power source is interrupted or changed, and at the completion of the examination. (c) Mandatory Appendix IIIThis new appendix provides requirements for performing magnetic particle examination using the yoke technique and uorescent magnetic particles in an undarkened area. Note: The previous Mandatory Appendix III, Magnetic Flux Leakage Examination, has been moved to new Article 16.
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20.21.5 Technical Changes to Article 8

Article 8 and several of its mandatory appendices have been reorganized. Article 8 has been revised as a general eddy current document referencing several appendices for techniques. Mandatory Appendices I and II have been combined in a new Mandatory Appendix II (examination of heat exchanger tubing). Mandatory Appendix IV has been revised and redesignated as Mandatory Appendix I (glossary). The technique formerly in Article 8 has been placed in a new Mandatory Appendix IV (examination of tubular products). Finally, two new appendices have been added: Mandatory Appendix V provides requirements for measurement of nonconductive coating thickness; and Mandatory Appendix VI provides requirements for detection and depth measurement of surface discontinuities in nonmagnetic metals.
20.21.9
Technical Changes to Article 17
As stated above, this new article contains the requirements for remote eld testing.
20.22
20.22.1
FUTURE CHANGES ANTICIPATED FOR SECTION V

Incorporation of Code Case 2235
The requirements of Code Case 2235 (UT in lieu of RT) are being reviewed for incorporation into Section V. Note that incorporation would only include the methodology for performing UT in lieu of RT and that the acceptance criteria of Code Case 2235 plus any limitations on performing UT when RT is specied must be incorporated into referencing Code Sections.

New Mandatory Appendix II has been added that provides three levels of performance demonstration requirements for ultrasonic procedures, equipment, and personnel used to detect and size aws in welds.
20.22.2
Dry Film Conversion of Digital Radiographic Images

As stated above, this new article contains the requirements for examination using alternating current eld measurement.
Section V contains requirements obtaining digital radiographic images. A method for converting an accepted digital radiographic image to an analog format using a dry lm printer is being considered for incorporation into Section V.
20.22.3
Digital Radiography
20.21.8 Technical Changes to Article 16 (MFL)

As stated above, this new article contains the requirements for magnetic ux leakage examination that were previously published in Article 7, Mandatory Appendix III.
Digital radiographic (DR) techniques are being considered for incorporation into Section V as an alternative to lm radiography and radiography using phosphor imaging plates. With DR techniques, the image is transmitted directly from the detector as a digital image rather than using an intermediate process for conversion of an analog image to a digital format.
20.23
REFERENCES
1. ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code Section V, Nondestructive Examination; The American Society of Mechanical Engineers. 2. ASTM 03.03, Nondestructive Testing; The American Society for Testing and Materials. 3. ASME B31.1 Power Piping; The American Society of Mechanical Engineers. 4. ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code Section I, Rules for Con struction of Power Boilers; The American Society of Mechanical Engineers. 5. ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code Section III, Rules for Construction of Nuclear Power Plant Components; The American Society of Mechanical Engineers.
6. ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code Section VIII, Rules for Construction of Pressure Vessels; The American Society of Mechanical Engineers. 7. ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code Section XI, Rules for Inservice Examination of Nuclear Power Plant Components; The American Society of Mechanical Engineers. 8. ASNT; The American Society for Nondestructive Testing. 9. SNT-TC-1A, Recommended Practice for Personnel Qualication and Certication in Nondestructive Testing; The American Society for Nondestructive Testing. 10. ANSI/ASNT CP-189-ASNT, Standard for Qualification and Certication of Nondestructive Testing Personnel; The American National Standards Institute/The American Society for Nondestructive Testing.
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20.24
SUMMARY OF CHANGES
The 2007 Edition of this Code contains revisions in addition to the 2004 Edition with 2005 and 2006 Addenda. The revisions are identied with the designation 07 in the margin and, as described in the Foreword, become mandatory six months after the publication date of the 2007 Edition. To invoke these revisions before their mandatory date, use the designation 2007 Edition in documentation required by this Code. If you choose not to invoke these revisions before their mandatory date, use the designation 2004 Edition through the 2006 Addenda in documentation required by this Code. The BC numbers listed below are explained in more detail in List of Changes in BC Order following this Summary of Changes. Changes given below are identied on the pages by a margin note, 07, placed next to the affected area.
Page 41 42 44 45 51 56, 57 6568 73 76 104 114 115
Location T-421.2 T-434.1.2 Fig. T-434.2.1 T-434.2.2 T-472.3 III-471.8 Appendix D E-474 Appendix H T-522.2 T-621.2 Table T-621 T-652 T-653 Table T-672 II-641 II-642 II-643 III-610 III-641.1 III-641.2 T-721.2 T-731(b) T-764.1.2 Fig. T-764.1.2 Fig. T-762.1.2.2 Appendix III Article 8
Change (BC Number) First Sentence revised (BC06-115) Revised in its entirety (BC06-543) Note (h) added (BC06-543) Revised (BC06-543) Title corrected by errata (BC06-1321) Revised (BC06-705) Revised in its entirety in Article 4 (BC05-571) Fourth paragraph added (BC05-628) Deleted from Article 4 (BC05-571) First sentence revised (BC06-115) First sentence revised (BC06-115) Under Requirements, twelfth entry revised (BC05-1064) Revised (BC05-1064) Revised (BC05-1064) Note (1) revised (BC05-1064) Title and paragraph revised (BC05-300) Revised in its entirety (BC05-300) Deleted (BC05-300) Revised (BC05-1064) Title and paragraph revised (BC05-1064) Last line of rst paragraph revised (BC05-1064) First sentence revised (BC06-115) Revised (BC06-993) Revised and Note added (BC06-993) Redesignated as Fig. T-764.1.2.1 and revised (BC06-993) Added (BC06-993) Added to Article 7 (BC04-1404) (1) T-810 revised in its entirety (BC03-1284) (2) T-820 through T-892 deleted (BC03-1284) (3) Appendices I through VI revised in their entirety (BC03-1284) First sentence revised (BC06-115) First sentence revised (BC06-115) Added by errata (BC06-982) Deleted by errata (BC06-982) Added to Article 14 (BC03-1552) Subtitle revised (BC06-426) Subtitle revised (BC06-365)
116 119
120
122 127 128 135, 136 138153
154 157 159 179 241244 325 359
T-921.2 T-1021.3 T-1090 X-1090 Appendix II SE-1255 SA-435/SA-435M
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Page 362 365 371 381 392 397408 409413 414 426430 436443 471515 516 536
Location SA-577/SA-577M SA-578/SA-578M SA-609/SA-609M SA-745/SA-745M SE-114 SE-213 SE-273 SE-797 SD-516 SD-1552 SE-709 SE-243 SE-976
Change (BC Number) Subtitle revised (BC06-366) Subtitle revised (BC06-367) Subtitle revised (BC06-380) Subtitle revised (BC06-381) (1) Designator corrected by errata (BC06-341) (2) Subtitle revised (BC06-382) Revised in its entirety (BC04-1408) Revised in its entirety (BC04-1409) Designator corrected by errata (BC06-341) Revised in its entirety (BC05-1088) Revised in its entirety (BC04-1410) Revised in its entirety (BC05-1413) Subtitle revised (BC06-383) Designator corrected by errata (BC06-341)
NOTE: Volume 57 of the Interpretations to Section V of the ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code follows the last page of this Edition.
LIST OF CHANGES IN BC ORDER

BC Number BC03-1284 Change Article 8 is revised to reference several appendices. Appendices I and II are revised and combined into a new Appendix II. Appendix IV is revised and redesignated as Appendix I. Appendix 8 is revised and redesignated as Appendix IV. Appendix III references to Article 8 are updated reference new Appendix IV; eddy current abbreviation is removed. Article 14, App. II is added to provide requirements for qualifying ultrasonic examination systems. Article 7, Mandatory Appendix III is added to provide requirements for the performance of a Magnetic Particle examination (MT) using the yoke technique with uorescent particles in an undarkened area. Article 23, ASTM E 213-04 is adopted and replaces SE-213 (ASTM E 213-98). Article 23, ASTM E 273-01 is adopted and replaces SE-273 (ASTM E 273-93). Article 24, ASTM D 1552-03 is adopted and replaces SD-1552 (ASTM D 1552-00) Article 25, ASTM E 709-01 is adopted and replaces SE-709 (ASTM E 709-95). Article 6 and Article 6, Appendix II are revised to update the minimum standard temperatures from 500F(100C) to 400F(50C). Article 24, ASTM D 516-02 is adopted and replaces SD-516 [ASTM D 516-90 (R1995)]. Errata corrects Code Case 2476 by inserting missing para. 277.2. Article 6, II-641 and II-642 are revised to clarify references. Article 6, II-643 is deleted. Appendices D and H revised and combined into Appendix D to include recording reector relevant indications and length measurements. Article 4 Nonmandatory Appendix E is revised to include new paragraph concerning Sectorial scans (S-scans) and side drilled holes used for calibrations. T-421.2, T-522.2, T-621.2, T-721.2, T-823.2, T-921.2, and T-1021.3 are revised to clarify that procedure qualications are required only when specied by the referencing Code. Errata corrects misspelling of T-472.3 title.
BC03-1552 BC04-1404 BC04-1408 BC04-1409 BC04-1410 BC04-1413 BC05-1064 BC05-1088 BC05-1429 BC05-300 BC05-571 BC05-628 BC06-115 BC06-1321
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26 Chapter 20
BC Number BC06-341 BC06-365 BC06-366 BC06-367 BC06-380 BC06-381 BC06-382 BC06-383 BC06-426 BC06-543
Change SE-114, SE-797, SE-976, and SE-1419 are revised to delete .2 from Table of Contents and title pages. Article 23, ASTM A 435/A 435M-90 (R2001) is adopted and replaces SA-435/SA-435M [ASTM A 435/A 435M-90 (R1996)]. Article 23, ASTM A 577/A 577M-90 (R2001) is adopted and replaces SA-577/SA-577M [ASTM A 577/A 577M-90 (R1996)]. Article 23, ASTM A 578/A 578M-96 (R001) is adopted and replaces SA-578/SA-578M (ASTM A 578/A 578M-96). Article 23, ASTM A 609/A 609-91 (R2002) is adopted and replaces SA-609/SA-609M [ASTM A 609/A 609M-91 (R1997)] Article 23, ASTM A 745/A 745M-94 (R2003) is adopted and replaces SA-745/SA-745M (ASTM A 745/A 745M-94). Article 23, ASTM E 114-95 (R2005) is adopted and replaces SE-114 [ASTM E 114-95 (R2001)] Article 26, ASTM E 243-98 (R2004) is adopted and replaces SE-243 (ASTM E 243-97). Article 22, ASTM E 1255-96 (R2002) is adopted and replaces SE-1255 (ASTM E 1255-96). T-434.1.2 is revised to add dissimilar metal weld requirements. T-434.2.2 revised to reference Fig. T-434.2.1 for block thickness, T. Fig. T-434.2.1 revised to add Note (h) to dene weld thickness, t. Article 4, Appendix III, III-471.8 is revised to add the requirement that as a minimum a transverse examination needs to be performed per T-472.1.3. Errata corrects editorial mishap based on BC04-1679; T-1090 was deleted instead of X-1090. Article 7 is revised in accordance with SE-709.
BC06-705 BC06-982 BC06-993

N E (NDE) : Ondestructive Xamination

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N E (NDE) : Ondestructive Xamination

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ASME_Ch20_p001-000.

Essential and Nonessential Variables

RELATION TO OTHER ASME CODE BOOK SECTIONS

ARTICLE 1: GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

COMPANION GUIDE TO THE ASME BOILER & PRESSURE VESSEL CODE 3

Paragraph T-150, Procedure

Paragraph T-160, Calibration

Paragraph T-170, Examinations and Inspections

Paragraph T-180, Evaluation

Paragraph T-190, Records

Mandatory Appendix I, Glossary of Terms

Article 1, Nonmandatory Appendix A

Paragraph 210 Scope

ARTICLE 2: RADIOGRAPHIC EXAMINATION

Paragraph T-220 General Requirements

COMPANION GUIDE TO THE ASME BOILER & PRESSURE VESSEL CODE 5

Paragraph T-230, Equipment and Materials

Paragraph T-222, Surface Preparation

Paragraph T-260, Calibration

Paragraph T-270, Examination

Paragraph T-226, Extent of Examination

COMPANION GUIDE TO THE ASME BOILER & PRESSURE VESSEL CODE 7

Paragraph T-280, Evaluation

Paragraph T-290, Documentation

COMPANION GUIDE TO THE ASME BOILER & PRESSURE VESSEL CODE 9

Article 4 and establish special technique(s), as permitted in Article 1 paragraph T-150(a).

Written Procedure Requirements

ARTICLE 4: ULTRASONIC EXAMINATION METHODS FOR WELDS

Equipment and Supplies

COMPANION GUIDE TO THE ASME BOILER & PRESSURE VESSEL CODE 11

COMPANION GUIDE TO THE ASME BOILER & PRESSURE VESSEL CODE 13

Reports and Records

Article 4, Nonmandatory Appendix L

Article 4, Nonmandatory Appendix N

20.8 20.7 ULTRASONIC EXAMINATION METHODS FOR MATERIALS

ARTICLE 6: LIQUID-PENETRANT EXAMINATION

COMPANION GUIDE TO THE ASME BOILER & PRESSURE VESSEL CODE 15

Procedures and Procedure Revision(s)

Documentation and Records

ARTICLE 7: MAGNETIC-PARTICLE EXAMINATION

Magnetic Field Adequacy and Direction

COMPANION GUIDE TO THE ASME BOILER & PRESSURE VESSEL CODE 17

ARTICLE 8: EDDY-CURRENT EXAMINATION OF TUBULAR PRODUCTS

Personnel qualication requirements are as specied in the referencing Code section.

Lifting Power of Yokes

ARTICLE 9: VISUAL EXAMINATION

ARTICLE 10: LEAK TESTING

Written Procedure Requirements

COMPANION GUIDE TO THE ASME BOILER & PRESSURE VESSEL CODE 19

20.12.2 Equipment (Gages)

ACOUSTIC EMISSION EXAMINATION

ARTICLE 11: ACOUSTIC EMISSION EXAMINATION OF FIBERREINFORCED PLASTIC VESSELS

COMPANION GUIDE TO THE ASME BOILER & PRESSURE VESSEL CODE 21

ARTICLE 13: CONTINUOUS AE MONITORING

ARTICLE 15: ALTERNATING CURRENT FIELD MEASUREMENT

20.16.2 Other Requirements

ARTICLE 14: EXAMINATION SYSTEM QUALIFICATION

ARTICLE 16: MAGNETIC FLUX LEAKAGE

ARTICLE 17: REMOTE FIELD TESTING

Technical Changes to Article 6 (PT)

TECHNICAL CHANGES TO SECTION V SINCE THE 2ND EDITION

Technical Changes to Article 7 (MT)