NDT Careers 2022: Why Now is the Best Time to Start a Career in NDT

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NDT careers are exciting and both personally and financially rewarding. This makes NDT jobs extremely desirable. Whether you’re looking for a reliable career path or want to upgrade your career, NDT (non-destructive testing) offers many great opportunities. This includes numerous options for advancement and professional growth. Best of all, NDT careers in 2022 are in high demand and readily available. In fact, 2022 is the perfect time to get started in non-destructive testing!

Here’s what you can expect from a career in NDT and why now is the best time to get involved.

What does an NDT technician do?
How much do NDT technicians make in Canada?
Is NDT a good career choice?
Why now is the time to start an NDT career
How do I start a career in NDT?

What does an NDT technician do?

An NDT technician inspects various materials and structures for defects, flaws and damage. The main goal of an NDT technician is to ensure that equipment, structures and materials are safe and reliable.

There are many different non-destructive testing jobs available. Therefore, what an NDT technician does day-to-day, and the industry they work in, will vary depending on their expertise and level of training.

For instance, each type of NDT technician can be certified at three levels – Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3. An NDT technician can also be certified in more than one type of NDT. This means that a single technician can employ various methods of non-destructive testing. Technicians who are certified in multiple testing methods at higher levels (Level 3 being the highest) can provide more complex NDT services.

NDT careers are available in a wide variety of industries. Here’s where your career in NDT could take you.

Industries NDT Technicians Work In

NDT technician inspects weld as part of NDT career

Organizations in many different sectors require NDT technicians. Some of the most common industries in Canada that utilize non-destructive testing include:

  • Mining
  • Industrial construction
  • Aerospace
  • Automotive
  • Rail transportation
  • Defence
  • Heavy equipment manufacturing
  • Power generation
  • Pipeline
  • Oil and gas, and more

In Western Canada, pipeline and oil and gas are the biggest sectors that require NDT. This is one of the reasons that NDT careers in 2022 are so desirable (more on this below).

Think you could excel in an NDT career? Let’s take a look at the next big question – how much do NDT technicians make?

How much do NDT technicians make in Canada?

If you want to become an NDT technician, you’ll be happy to know that NDT careers pay well. In Canada, the average NDT technician makes approximately $60,000 to $200,000+ based on field experience, technical certification and desired work scope.

If you’re just starting out, you can expect to make around $50,000+ per year. As you gain more experience, certifications in additional testing methods and higher level designations, you’ll make even more. In fact, the more testing methods an NDT technician is certified to employ, and the higher their certification level (i.e. Level 1, Level 2, Level 3), the more they will make. A Level 3 NDT technician who is certified to conduct various types of non-destructive testing will make the most.

Now, based on everything we’ve discussed, you’re probably wondering – is NDT a good career choice? Here’s what we think.

Is NDT a good career choice?

Buffalo NDT technician completes ultrasonic inspection

NDT is a great career choice. It offers high pay, flexibility, the option to work in various industries and many opportunities for career growth. That being said, certain people are more suited to NDT careers than others.

Here are some important strengths and skills you’ll need to succeed.

Skills and Strengths Required in NDT Careers

Individuals who possess these qualities and most likely to excel in NDT careers.

  • Mind for mathematics and science
  • Ability to understand and work with technology
  • Strong problem-solving skills
  • Attention to detail
  • Strong reasoning skills
  • Ability to think quickly
  • Strong written and verbal communication
  • Good vision (especially colour vision)
  • Additional specialized skills, like rock climbing, are a bonus

If an NDT career seems suitable for you, you’ll be happy to know that 2022 is a great time to start! Here’s why.

Why NDT Careers Are In-Demand in 2022

The demand and price for oil and gas have skyrocketed in 2022. As a result of increased productivity in the oil and gas industry, the need for NDT technicians has grown. Therefore, more jobs and more opportunities are available in the field. This makes 2022 the perfect time to get started with a career in NDT.

Want to become an NDT technician? Here’s how you can get started.

How do I start a career in NDT?

Training for NDT careers

There are several steps you’ll need to take to start an NDT career in Canada. Here’s what you’ll need:

  1. High school diploma or GED equivalent
  2. College education in Material Science or Welding (this is not required, but will help reduce the time it takes to earn your NDT certification)
  3. NDT certification from a Recognized Training Organization (RTO) – this step includes extensive training and work experience. After completing your practical work experience, you must also pass the NRCan practical exam.

NRCan (Natural Resources Canada) is in charge of the Non-Destructive Testing Certification Body (NDTCB). Therefore, NRCan is responsible for the national program that certifies all NDT personnel in Canada.

NRCan and the NDTCB require NDT technicians to receive separate training and certification for each NDT method they wish to employ. Therefore, you will need to complete training and testing in all the NDT methods you wish to use in the field.

Keep in mind, once you are certified, you are also responsible for keeping your certification up-to-date. This means staying up to date with changes in technology and code and renewing your certification every 5 years.

NDT Careers at Buffalo Inspection Services

Ready to get started with an NDT career?

Buffalo is one of the top non-destructive testing companies in Western Canada. To provide reliable NDT services, we use the most advanced technology and equipment in the industry.

At Buffalo, we believe that our employees are our number one asset. Therefore, we focus heavily on safety and ongoing training. As a non-union NDT company, Buffalo also pays competitive wages – without the union fees.

We’re here to make your goals in the NDT field, whatever they may be, a reality. We’ll help you find a position that best suits your needs and support you in turning it into a life-long NDT career. Our top-notch training programs (BIS-EDO training), extensive safety programs, and our strong record with industry regulators make us a top choice for anyone considering an NDT career.

Get started with an NDT job at Buffalo today!

ndt inspection

5 NDT Services You Didn’t Know Buffalo Offered

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NDT services are essential for ensuring the safety and efficiency of assets and materials. To assist organizations in maintaining equipment and components, Buffalo Inspection Services offers a range of NDT services across Western Canada. Our technicians use both traditional and advanced technology to provide the most reliable NDT services and inspections. As a leader in non-destructive testing, Buffalo is well-known for providing high-quality pipeline, oil and gas, and mining inspections. However, we also offer many other NDT services that you may not be aware of.

Here are five NDT services you didn’t know Buffalo offered.

Film Digitization
Lifting Equipment Inspection
Wire Rope Inspections
Ultrasonic and Advanced Surface Inspection
Real-Time Reporting Systems

NDT Services Offered by Buffalo

Film Digitization

Radiography film being evaluated by NDT services provider in Edmonton

Buffalo Inspection Services provides film digitization using advanced NDT technology and tools. Utilizing our large, purpose-built film-reading room and VIDAR’s NDT PRO Industrial Film Digitizer, Buffalo can digitize large quantities of radiography film. The result – cost-effective and high-quality digital images.

Digitized radiography film offers numerous benefits, including:

  • Portability – digitized NDT film can be easily moved and shared via email, file transfer and even the cloud. As a result, the film can be viewed from anywhere, any time. If you are unable to access, store or move files due to IT restrictions, Buffalo will soon offer a SharePoint system as well. This system will manage all of your data storage, portability and movement requirements.
  • Accessibility and advanced interpretation – since digitized film is so portable, it can be easily accessed and reviewed by auditors, Level 3 auditing inspectors and customers. As a result, the quality of interpretation is much greater with digitized film.
  • Organization and archival benefits – digitized film can also be easily organized. Images can be archived alongside related documents such as RT reports, costing reports, location information and more.
  • Preservation – unlike traditional film, digital film can be preserved indefinitely. While physical film deteriorates over time, digital film will experience no reduction in quality.
  • Enhanced imaging – in addition to digitized images, Buffalo provides imaging software. This software will allow you to view, manipulate, enhance and zoom in on particular aspects.

As you can see, film digitization provides numerous advantages and a positive return on investment. Therefore, this NDT service is beneficial for any inspection program.

Lifting Equipment Inspection

Man lift that requires a lifting equipment NDT inspection

Buffalo’s NDT services also include lifting equipment inspections. The highly trained and experienced NDT technicians at Buffalo are capable of performing inspections and testing on various types of lifting and hoisting equipment. This includes:

  • Forklifts
  • Mobile truck cranes
  • Overhead industrial cranes
  • Man lifts and baskets, etc.

Hoisting and lifting equipment is consistently exposed to stress and fatigue. Therefore, NDT inspection is essential for safe and uninterrupted operation. Buffalo uses both advanced and traditional NDT methods to ensure accurate inspections and reliable results for the safe and efficient use of lifting equipment.

Buffalo’s lifting equipment inspection techniques include:

  • Visual Inspection (VT)
  • Magnetic Particle Inspection (MPI or MT)
  • Mobile Magnetic Particle Inspection
  • Liquid Penetration Testing (PT)

Need special service? Buffalo provides 24/7 lifting equipment inspections. For 24/7 dispatch, call 780.975.6475.

Wire Rope Inspections

Gondolas that require wire rope inspections

As a result of their limited service life, wire ropes require regular inspection. In many cases, this ensures the health and safety of both employees and the public. To help maintain the safety of wire ropes, Buffalo’s NDT services include wire rope inspections. 

To provide reliable testing, Buffalo’s NDT technicians use advanced Magnetic Flux Leakage Detection Technology. This technology not only allows for a reliable estimate of the condition of wire ropes but also an estimate of their remaining lifespan.

Buffalo technicians can provide inspections of wire ropes ranging in size from 10mm to 60mm in diameter.

At Buffalo, we inspect the following types of wire ropes:

  • Passenger ropeways (e.g. chairlifts, gondolas, etc.)
  • Elevator rope
  • Lifting device ropes
  • Bridge strand
  • Cable belt
  • Ziplines
  • Container crane ropes
  • Mine hoist ropes
  • Wire ropes for cable ferries

Ultrasonic and Advanced Surface Inspection

NDT services technician does ultrasonic testing on steel structure

Buffalo Inspection Services is dedicated to providing the most reliable and cost-effective NDT services. Therefore, we use the most advanced NDT technology and tools to help increase productivity and offer high-quality inspections.

Buffalo provides portable and complete ultrasonic and advanced surface inspections by employing state-of-the-art technologies (e.g. Total Focus Method) and cutting-edge tools (e.g. M2M GEKKO).

Buffalo’s ultrasonic and advanced surface inspection techniques and capabilities include:

  • Hardness Testing
  • Phased Array Ultrasonic Testing (PAUT)
  • Time of Flight Diffraction (​​TOFD)
  • Laser Alloy Testing (LIBS)
  • Magnetic Particle Inspection (MPI or MT)
  • Liquid Penetration Inspection (LPI)
  • Visual Inspection
  • Positive Material Identification (PMI), Spark Testing/CE
  • Ferrite Testing

Real-Time Reporting Systems for NDT Services

Buffalo Connect real-time reporting system for NDT services

In addition to the NDT services discussed above, Buffalo provides its partners with access to advanced real-time reporting systems.

To serve our clients better, Buffalo offers two custom NDT software programs – BUFFALO CONNECT and BUFFALO CONNEX. These reporting tools are unlike anything offered by other NDT companies in Western Canada. These systems offer numerous benefits and unmatched value and are, therefore, highly sought after.

Buffalo Connect

BUFFALO CONNECT is Buffalo’s client Extranet Portal. This portal allows our clients to:

  • Access work orders and reports in real-time, from anywhere, day or night
  • Easily and instantly share information and collaborate on projects
  • View and monitor project costs
  • Access asset records, such as tank and vessel reports
  • Access procedural manuals, as well as technician certifications and tickets
  • Search for reports that contain specific information (e.g. Report Number, Job Number, etc.)

Above all, BUFFALO CONNECT provides a level of transparency that is not commonly seen in the non-destructive testing industry. This transparency allows us to create open, honest and mutually-beneficial partnerships.

Check out a demo here – BUFFALO CONNECT Demo

Buffalo Connex

CONNEX is Buffalo’s proprietary work order management system. This real-time reporting system allows our experienced technicians to efficiently track and complete inspection reports. It also helps Buffalo comply with all contract requirements via real-time purchase order spend and invoice tracking.

Above all, CONNEX ensures real-time code compliance and provides technicians with the ability to integrate specific reporting requirements. As a result, Buffalo’s reporting meets the highest standards and is extremely consistent.

Learn more about CONNEX – BUFFALO CONNEX Demo

Become a Buffalo Partner and Benefit from Accurate and Reliable NDT Services

The NDT services above are just the tip of the iceberg – Buffalo offers an extensive range of NDT/NDE inspection services to ensure the safety, reliability and longevity of a wide range of materials and assets.

With more than 40 years of experience, 60 inspection crews and 28 locations throughout Western Canada (including satellite locations), Buffalo is able to provide fast, convenient and accurate inspections.

Above all, our expert NDT technicians foster a culture of safety, transparency and innovation. As a result, you will benefit from cost-effective, honest and high-quality service.

To learn more about Buffalo’s NDT services, or how to become a partner, contact us today at 1-780-486-7344.

Magnetic Particle Inspection and Fatigue: The Impact on Probability of Detection

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Not even the most advanced non-destructive testing (NDT) methods, including Magnetic Particle Inspection (MPI), are foolproof. Regardless of which NDT technique is used to evaluate a material, not all defects will be found. That being said, experienced NDT technicians can get extremely accurate results when they are aware of conditions that may impact the detection of flaws. For instance, a significant factor that can impact the probability of detection (POD) when using Magnetic Particle Inspection, or MPI testing, is fatigue.

Let’s take a look at Magnetic Particle Inspection and how fatigue impacts MPI testing.

What is Magnetic Particle Inspection?
How does fatigue impact the POD for Magnetic Particle Inspection?
How to increase the probability of detection with MPI testing

What is Magnetic Particle Inspection?

Magnetic Particle Inspection is a type of non-destructive testing. It is used to detect flaws on the surface or near the surface of ferromagnetic materials, such as iron and steel.

MPI testing is especially useful for detecting minor imperfections. This includes pores, cracks and other discontinuities. As a result, this NDT method is often used in welding inspections.

The benefits of Magnetic Particle Inspection include quick testing and immediate results. As well, this NDT method has the ability to detect flaws in materials with irregular shapes. Above all, MPI testing provides great defect resolution.

MPI testing can be conducted using several different techniques. One of the most common types of Magnetic Particle Inspection is the Yoke technique. This technique uses a portable hand-held device with an AC/DC or permanent Yoke to magnetize a material. The Yoke technique is versatile and relatively inexpensive to employ.

 

 

How is the MPI test carried out?

Magnetic Particle Inspection is conducted using several steps:

  1. Clean the surface of the material.
  2. Create a magnetic field in the material.
  3. Apply magnetic particles to the surface of the material.
  4. Remove any excess magnetic particles to uncover indications (shown by particle groupings).
  5. Clean and demagnetize the part, if necessary.

Detecting indications is straightforward in some cases. However, the probability of detection using MPI testing can become more difficult if a material has experienced fatigue.

How does fatigue impact the POD for Magnetic Particle Inspection?

Work hardening and fatigue are caused by physical processes and deformations imposed on a metal. For example:

  • Plastic deformation
  • Welding activities
  • Repeated stress and strain on the material

As mild steel experiences work hardening and fatigue, the magnetic properties of the steel change. Let’s take a look at the kinds of changes you can expect.

Property Changes Due to Fatigue

When metal becomes fatigued, three significant properties change.

  1. Coercivity Increases – the metal becomes more resistant to changes in magnetization.
  2. Remanence Decreases – after the magnetizing force is removed, very little magnetism remains.
  3. Permeability (μ) Decreases – fatigued metal becomes more difficult to magnetize.

When discussing Permeability, it’s important to note that Permeability (µ) is a ratio – a function of B and H. That is, B = µH, where B = flux density in Gauss and H = magnetizing force in Oersteds. So, when μ decreases, the amount of magnetizing force remains the same and the codes still mandate a 30 Oersted value for B. H for AC yokes is fixed. As a result, there is only physical spacing to reduce magnetizing force. 

This being said, it is important to be cognizant of the variables in order to get a result and maintain probability of Detection. B is generally overstated in the codes to a value that is three times that necessary. This results in spurious indications and a low probability of detection for Yoke MPI (i.e. around 44%).

To further illustrate the extent to which fatigue affects permeability, we’ve provided a visual representation below. What you’ll notice in this diagram is that the permeability of a cracked or fatigued material is approximately 30% less than the material in its original state.

When it comes to Magnetic Particle Inspection, changes in permeability have the most significant impact on POD.

But how does permeability impact the probability of detection when using MPI testing? Let’s take a look.

Impacts of Decreased Permeability on Magnetic Particle Inspection

Decreased permeability results in a lower probability of detection when using Magnetic Particle Inspection. More specifically, POD decreases because MPI testing using a permanent magnet (like that used with the permanent Yoke technique) does not allow the NDT technician to control magnetic current. As a result, the inspector may reach saturation levels, even though the material is not magnetic enough to accurately detect flaws. Overall, decreased permeability makes it difficult to effectively uncover indications, especially those that are not large or surface breaking.

The graph below demonstrates the relationship between permeability and induced magnetism based on the strength of the external magnetic field that is applied.

 

The probability of detecting indications with MPI testing is especially low when evaluating fatigued materials using the AC/DC or permanent Yoke technique. This is because the technique does not allow the NDT technician to control the amount of magnetization. Rather, the AC/DC or permanent Yoke technique is a one-size-fits-all method of testing.

In addition, welded and fatigued materials exhibit variances in permeability. In other words, different areas of the material (e.g. parent material, heat-affected zone, weld) will have different permeability values. Again, because it is a one-size-fits-all method, the AC/DC or permanent Yoke technique does not lend well to testing materials with varying permeability. However, there are ways to improve the probability of detection when using MPI testing.

How to increase the probability of detection with MPI Testing

While the POD for Yoke MPI testing is low, other Magnetic Particle Inspection techniques offer a higher probability of detection. In particular, MPI testing techniques that allow for control over the magnetizing force (i.e. current control) have the best probability of detection.

MPI Techniques

Several common techniques are used to induce magnetization when employing Magnetic Particle Inspection. These include:

  • Prods magnetization
  • Longitudinal magnetization
  • Circular magnetization
  • Yoke magnetization
  • Multi-vector magnetization

Of these MPI testing techniques, the ones that allow for the most control over magnetic current will have the highest probability of detection for fatigued materials.

In addition to employing a more reliable technique when fatigue is present, NDT technicians who are aware of the impacts of fatigue and changes in permeability can use this knowledge to offer better results in the field. Leading NDT companies, like Buffalo Inspections, employ knowledgeable technicians who are familiar with the implications of magnetic physics and can ensure the best probability of detection.

Get the Most Reliable NDT Results with Buffalo Inspections

The experienced NDT technicians at Buffalo Inspections provide the most detailed and reliable testing possible. Our highly trained technicians have extensive experience in the field and provide accurate testing using state-of-the-art NDT inspection technology.

For more information on Magnetic Particle Inspection and other advanced non-destructive testing methods, contact Buffalo today.