Reader-friendly explanation of NDT technology for maintenance engineers

This is the final part of NDT technology explanation series that contribute to the preservation of structural integrity for engineers involved in equipment maintenance. In this commentary, non-destructive testing (NDT) and non-destructive inspection (NDI) are collectively referred to as NDT. Taking nuclear power generation facilities as an example, this paper explains the target defects and applied NDT in the material inspection and welding inspection at the fabrication stage, and the target defects and applied NDT in the periodic inspection (in-service inspection). NDT mainly applies the 'Codes for nuclear power generation facilities' of the Japan Society of Mechanical Engineers, as well as design/construction standards for material inspection, welding standards for welding inspection, and maintenance standards for periodic inspection. This paper picks up the establishment of a close cooperation system and the choice of appropriate defect detection targets as the prerequisite for realizing a highly reliable NDT. It also explains the efforts for homogenizing/stabilizing NDT inspection standards, efforts to improve the environment, and important items for performing NDT. As the future NDT, it describes the adoption of new technologies, expansion of knowledge and database creation, and streamlining of NDT. (A.O.)