API 510 Non-Destructive Examination Methods

Question 1

What is the advantage of ultrasonic testing (UT) for pressure vessel inspection?

Accepted Answer

It can measure remaining wall thickness and detect internal flaws

Answer

It is the cheapest method

Answer

It works only on new vessels

Answer

It requires no trained operators

Question 2

When is radiographic testing (RT) preferred for pressure vessel weld examination?

Accepted Answer

When volumetric examination of welds is required to detect internal discontinuities

Answer

Never used on pressure vessels

Answer

Only for surface defects

Answer

Only on plastic vessels

Question 3

What does magnetic particle testing (MT) detect?

Accepted Answer

Surface and near-surface discontinuities in ferromagnetic materials

Answer

Internal corrosion only

Answer

Chemical composition

Answer

Wall thickness

Question 4

What is the primary limitation of visual testing (VT)?

Accepted Answer

It can only detect surface-accessible defects

Answer

It is too expensive

Answer

It requires radiation

Answer

It damages the vessel

Question 5

What is liquid penetrant testing (PT) used for in pressure vessel inspection?

Accepted Answer

Detecting surface-breaking discontinuities in non-porous materials

Answer

Measuring pressure

Answer

Testing weld strength

Answer

Measuring temperature

Question 6

What qualification must NDE technicians hold to perform pressure vessel examinations?

Accepted Answer

Certification to SNT-TC-1A or equivalent standard for each method

Answer

No qualification needed

Answer

A college degree only

Answer

Manufacturer training only