NDT VTL-3-3

because the inert gas minimizes the evaporation of tungsten from the filament and its subsequent deposition
on the lamp wall, and any tungsten that does evaporate is combined with the halogen and redeposited on the
filament when the lamp is de-energized. This also minimizes the blackening of the lamp as is commonly
observed with incandescent lamps.
Fluorescent Lighting
Fluorescent light is produced by a gas within a gas envelope that fluoresces when it is excited by an electron
discharge. Electrons are discharged by filaments at one or both ends of the tube and their interaction with
the gas atoms causes the gas atoms to emit radiation in the infrared, visible and ultraviolet frequency range.
The powder coating on the inside surface of the tube is excited by the ultraviolet radiation and in turn emits
visible light.
Discharge (arc) Lighting
Discharge (arc) lamps use an electric arc to produce light. This lamp type is used in some videoprobe
imaging systems as a source of high-intensity illumination. The electrodes are housed in vacuum or gaseous
filled envelope and a reflector focuses the light on a specific exit point. Sapphire and quartz are commonly
used at the exit point because of their light transmission and thermal properties. The electrode gap, arc
voltage, reflector shape and material used at the light exit point determine the intensity and efficiency of
this type of lamp. When a sufficient voltage is applied, a rapid transfer of electrons crosses the electrode
gap and produces the visible light.
RECOMMENDED READING
SUBJECT REFERENCE*
Lesson Page No.
Vision 2 2-1 to 2-10
Fundamentals of Light 3 3-1 to 3-3
Measurement of Light &
4 4-1 to 4-6
Lighting Techniques
Factors That Affect Visual Testing
Factors that affect VT include material attributes, the inspection environment and physiological actors
that affect the inspector.
Material Attributes
The physical size and condition of the object(s) to be examined play a significant role in the outcome of an
examination. Knowledge of how each variable influences the examination will aid the inspector in
alleviating the possibility of missed indications.
Surface Conditions
Some surface condition that effect VT includes cleanliness, color, condition, shape, size, temperature and
texture.
Cleanliness
One basic requirement for an effective visual examination is a clean test item. Unwanted foreign material
such as dirt, oil, grease etc. Can mask the surface of actual discontinuities or present false indications. A
clean inspection of missed indications.
Color
The color of the incident light relative to the color of the object being examined can play a significant role
in the detection of discontinuities. The color of the light can be used to increase contrast by intensifying or
subduing certain colors. To intensify a color, the light source should be strong in that color. Conversely, to
subdue a color, the light source should have a relatively low output of the color. For example, as previously
mentioned, when examining chromium plating over nickel plating, a blue light such as that provided by
daylight fluorescent lamps can enhance any imperfections in the chromium.
Texture
The surface of a material is important in relation to the amount and quality of light reflected from it to the
examiner’s eye. A surface that is reflective can produce unacceptable glare, which may interfere with the
examination of the test surface. In this case, light applied during the examination should be considered
carefully. Conversely, an extremely rough surface may also require special lighting to sufficiently illuminate
the area without masking. Glare can be reduced by increasing the angle between the glare source and line
of sight or by dimming the light source. Decreasing the angle between the light source and line of sight
is also helpful when, examining rough surfaces because it decreases the shadow effect of surface
irregularities.
Physical Conditions
Physical conditions such as specimen condition, shape and size can act as limiting factors during VT.
Specimen Condition
The stages of the manufacturing process, service environment and applied surface coatings, all
influence the condition of the item being examined. Mill scale and weld slag remaining after manufacture
can mask discontinuities and painted or plated surfaces can mask other surface defects.
Shape
The shape of an object also affects the outcome of an examination. Complex-shaped objects, such
as keyways and splines, may hinder an examination and care should be taken in these areas.
Size
When examining objects of substantial size, certain precautions should be taken to ensure that a complete
examination has been performed.
Temperature
Elevated temperatures limit the service life of many metal components. Using metal components in high
temperatures can result in creep, thermal fatigue and overload failure. Creep is the deformation of metal
under stress, generally at higher temperatures than normal. Thermal fatigue cracks are the result of repeated
thermal cycles that cause expansion and contraction within the metal. If thermal cycles are caused by
friction, as in the case of brake components, thermal fatigue cracks called heat checking can occur. Engine
exhaust manifolds that are restrained during repeated heating and cooling cycles may develop fatigue cracks
due to residual tensile stress. Repeated thermal cycles of certain materials in an oxidizing atmosphere can
create scaly oxide layers over the material. These flaky layers may mask surface discontinuities and care
should be taken when inspecting areas of this nature.

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because the inert gas minimizes the evaporation of tungsten from the filament and its subsequent deposition

Discharge (arc) Lighting

Factors That Affect Visual Testing

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