Tuesday, Sept 14, 2004

5:30 PM - 9:00 PM

Abstract:

Instrumented NDT procedures require set-up and “calibration” before proceeding with an inspection. The “calibration” is frequently specified as “set-up and response from a single notch or other artifact of a given size”. The “standard artifact” method is convenient for set-up but provides little or no assurance of the reproducibility of the inspection procedure or the performance capability used in procedure validation.

The introduction of probability of detection (POD) has provided the basis for new understanding of the performance of NDT procedures and for improvement in NDT capability and the ability to reproduce the performance capability of a validated procedure applications.

This paper discusses the relationship between “calibration” and probability of detection and proposes a multipoint “calibration” method as a low cost improvement in inspection reliability. Further, “mastergaging” of “calibration artifacts” is proposed as a method of providing reproducible inspection capabilities at multiple inspection locations and using multiple inspection instruments.

Mr. Rummel will also eport on the highlights of the 16th World Conference on NDT that was held 29 August – 4 September 2004, Montreal, Canada.

About the Speaker:

Ward D. Rummel is a well know member of the Colorado Section and well known in the World NDT community. He is retired from 35 years service at Lockheed Martin; originated the probability of detection (POD) methodology that is now used world wide; author of the ” NDE Capabilities Databook”; Robert C. McMaster Gold Medal Winner (ASNT); and the John F. Lincoln Gold Medal Winner (USAF). He is an ASNT Fellow and an Honorary Fellow in the Indian Society for Nondestructive Testing.