Non-Destructive Testing
Non-destructive testing (NDT) encompasses a range of inspection and testing techniques that enable accurate inspection of pipelines, welds, pressure vessels, and structures across their full asset lifecycle. During manufacturing, in operation, and at scheduled maintenance intervals used in different industries to detect defects and assess the properties of structures or materials without causing damage.
As NDT inspection does not alter the part or structure being inspected, it is a highly effective technique that delivers cost and time savings across asset management, pipeline integrity, and failure prevention, reducing operational time and costs.
At Applus+, we have over 80 years of experience in non-destructive testing, dating back to the founding of Röntgen Technische Dienst (RTD) in 1937 in the Netherlands, the first non-governmental organization in the world to offer commercial NDT services. RTD was the world's first non-governmental organization dedicated to offering commercial Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) services, using X-rays to inspect welds on ships. In 2006, RTD became part of the Applus+ Group.
Every method and technology we deploy has been developed to solve a specific inspection challenge that standard market solutions could not adequately address.
What is non-destructive testing (NDT), and what are its main methods?
Non-destructive testing (NDT) encompasses a range of techniques used to evaluate the integrity of pipelines, welds, structures, and assets without damaging them. Methods range from conventional approaches (ultrasonic testing, radiography, magnetic particle inspection) to advanced technologies that deliver higher resolution and broader coverage. Because the asset is not affected by the inspection, NDT can be applied at any stage of the asset lifecycle without interrupting operations.
Where more detailed characterization is required (including exact defect location, dimensions, and progression over time), Applus+ deploys advanced NDT technologies. For full details, see our Advanced NDT (ANDT) services page.
NDT methods and technologies
Applus+ NDT technicians utilize a wide range of non-destructive methods and technologies, including both conventional and advanced NDT techniques, deployed across Oil & Gas, petrochemicals, aerospace, manufacturing, power generation, and pipeline integrity management.
Conventional NDT methods:
- Ultrasonic Testing (UT)
- Magnetic Particle Inspection (MPI)
- Liquid Penetrant Testing (LPT)
- Radiographic Testing (RT)
- Eddy Current Testing (ECT)
NDT technologies (proprietary):
- IWEX -Inverse Wavefield Extrapolation
- FMC/TFM (next generation UT technique)
- PTI- Pipeline Inspection Tool
- DTI Trekscan
- Rotoscan: Automated UT Weld Inspection
- RAZAR – Reduced Area Zone Automated Radiographic
- Eddy Current Testing
- IRIS - Internal Rotating Inspection System
Which NDT method is right for your asset?
Selecting the right non-destructive testing method depends on asset type, material properties, geometry, and your specific inspection objective. Applus+ evaluates each case individually to recommend the technique that delivers the most accurate results with the least operational disruption. Our extensive NDT experience enables us to combine multiple methods and techniques within a single asset or inspection challenge for more comprehensive and effective results.
|
Asset / Inspection challenge |
Recommended NDT method |
Key advantage |
|
Wall thickness measurement, internal flaws |
Ultrasonic Testing (UT) |
High accuracy, suitable for most materials |
|
Surface cracks in ferromagnetic components |
Magnetic Particle Inspection (MPI) |
Fast, cost-effective surface detection |
| Heat exchanger and boiler tube inspection | Eddy Current Testing (ECT) | No contact medium, quick screening |
| Hard-to-reach areas, visual confirmation |
Remote Visual Inspection (RVI) |
Real-time imaging without dismantling |
| Internal or surface defects, permanent record | Radiographic Testing (RT) |
2D/3D imaging, accepted by all inspection codes |
NDT Applications and Key Benefits
These techniques enable the detection of both internal and surface flaws, including 3D visualization, which helps optimize maintenance processes and ensure compliance with API 510, API 570, API 653, and ASME codes. NDT advantages include:
- Risk reduction: accurate identification of defects without compromising integrity
- Time and cost savings: efficient inspections throughout the asset lifecycle
- Regulatory compliance: meets applicable quality and safety standards, including API 510, API 570, API 653, and ASME codes
- Operational productivity: prevents failures that impact business continuity
- No operational downtime: the majority of Applus+ NDT inspections can be carried out on in-service assets without process shutdown
Summary of NDT methods & techniques and benefits — conventional and advanced
|
Methods and Techniques |
Application |
Main benefit |
| IWEX | Covers many anomalies and applications, and more | Superior accuracy&sizing, fast, deep penetration, cost-effective, real-time imaging (2D/3D), immediate result. |
|
Ultrasonic Testing (UT) |
Internal flaws, thickness measurement |
High accuracy, deep penetration |
|
Magnetic Particle Inspection (MPI) |
Surface flaws in ferromagnetic materials |
Fast detection, cost-effective |
|
Liquid Penetrant Testing (LPT) |
Cracks on non-porous surfaces |
High sensitivity, simple method |
|
Radiographic Testing (RT) |
Welds, internal structures |
2D/3D imaging, permanent records |
|
Remote Visual Inspection (RVI) |
Hard-to-reach areas |
Real-time imaging |
|
Eddy Current Testing (ECT) |
Surface flaws in conductive materials |
Quick results, no contact medium |
Can NDT inspections be performed during a plant shutdown or turnaround?
Applus+ deploys NDT inspection protocols specifically engineered for plant shutdown or turnaround: rapid mobilization, technicians certified in advanced methods, and real-time results delivery, so a pending final report never delays maintenance decisions.
If your next shutdown requires inspection of pressure vessels, pipelines, welds, or structures in accordance with international standards (such as API, ASME, ISO, or EN), the Applus+ team integrates into your work plan from the planning stage.
Do Applus+ NDT services comply with API, ASME, and ISO standards?
Yes. Applus+ NDT services comply with the primary international inspection standards, including API 510 (pressure vessels), API 570 (process piping), API 653 (aboveground storage tanks), and applicable ASME codes. Our technicians hold the qualifications required by each standard (ISO 9712, PCN, and ASME BPVC Section V) and apply the same criteria across every location where Applus+ operates.
Which industries does Applus+ serve with NDT services?
Applus+ NDT services are available across Oil & Gas (upstream, midstream, and downstream), petrochemicals, LNG storage, nuclear, thermal, and renewable power generation, aerospace, manufacturing, mining, and the general process industry. Applus+ operates in more than 50 countries, with identical inspection protocols, accreditations, and quality standards across all locations.
Why choose Applus+ for NDT services?
- Over 80 years of NDT expertise: methods developed and refined since 1937, applied across every industry and geography where asset integrity matters
- Minimal operational impact: the majority of Applus+ NDT inspections are carried out on in-service assets, with no need for process shutdown in most scenarios
- API, ASME, and ISO compliance: the same inspection standards are applied in every country where your assets operate
- Real-time results: inspection data delivered during the campaign, no waiting for a final report to make maintenance decisions
- Operations-focused R&D: the Applus+ Technology Center develops solutions from real problems raised by client integrity and operations teams
- Global reach, local execution: +50 countries, same protocols, same qualifications, same report format
Frequently asked questions about Applus+ NDT services
What non-destructive testing services does Applus+ provide?
Applus+ provides a full range of non-destructive testing services, including Inverse Wave field EXtrapolation (IWEX), ultrasonic testing (UT), phased array ultrasonic testing (PAUT), radiographic testing (RT), eddy current testing (ECT), magnetic particle inspection (MPI), liquid penetrant testing (LPT), and time-of-flight diffraction (TOFD), among others. For in-service assets requiring advanced characterization without shutdown, Applus+ also deploys proprietary technologies: see our Advanced NDT (ANDT) services page for full details.
Can NDT inspections be performed without shutting down operations?
Yes. The majority of NDT methods (including ultrasonic testing, eddy current inspection, and radiographic scanning) can be applied to live pipelines, pressurized vessels, and operating plant equipment without process shutdown. Applus+ evaluates access and safety constraints for each asset and recommends the approach that minimizes operational disruption.
What qualifications do Applus+ NDT technicians hold?
Applus+ NDT technicians hold internationally recognized certifications, including ISO 9712, PCN, and ASME BPVC Section V qualification schemes. Depending on project location and client requirements, our technicians also maintain client-specific qualifications required by major energy and petrochemical operators.
How far in advance should NDT services be planned for a scheduled shutdown?
For plant shutdowns with significant scope, a minimum lead time of several weeks is recommended. This ensures inspection procedures are aligned, required equipment and certified technicians are confirmed available, and all regulatory compliance documentation is coordinated in advance.
Are Applus+ NDT reports accepted for regulatory audits and integrity reviews?
Yes. Reports issued by Applus+ comply with documentation requirements established by API, ASME, and ISO standards. They are valid for integrity audits, equipment recertification, and regulatory reviews across all sectors and jurisdictions in which Applus+ operates.
Does Applus+ provide NDT services across multiple locations or countries?
Yes. Applus+ operates in more than 50 countries, applying the same technical standards, accreditations, and inspection protocols across all locations. For clients with multi-site or multinational asset portfolios, this enables full standardization of the integrity program: the same method, the same qualification framework, and the same report format.
What happens if a critical defect is detected during an NDT inspection?
Applus+ delivers inspection results in real time throughout the campaign. If an anomaly is identified and requires immediate assessment, the technical team issues a preliminary field report so the client can act without waiting for the final document. Where needed, Applus+ can extend the scope to include integrity consulting and fitness-for-service assessment.
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