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  • What is visual inspection of welds?

    Visual inspection is conducted to identify surface flaws or conditions, that are visible to the naked eye. A visual inspector will examine the weld or asset visually and determine if any discontinuities or issues are present. This insection method also allows the inspector to uncover issues related to geometry of a weld or the condition of an asset. This non-destructive testing method is commonly used as a first step in welding or asset inspections, as it is a quick way to determine if any initial concerns are present. However, this inspection method has several limitations, including the fact that it can only be used to identify flaws that are visible. As well, visual inspections on welds may be conducted throughout the process to ensure a successful outcome.Read More...

  • What is the most commonly used method of weld inspection?

    There are two commonly used methods of weld inspection - Radiographic Testing (RT) and Ultrasonic Testing (UT). Both of these weld inspection methods are non-destructive and can be used to detect internal imperfections. These methods are versatile and can detect very slight flaws in a weld or component. Both Radiographic Testing and Ultrasonic Testing require skilled NDT inspectors to perform the examination and analysis. Professional and certified welding inspectors will ensure reliable results that help to maintain asset integrity. With the help of organizations that offer NDT inspection services for CSA Standard W178.1, companies can avoid detrimental damages and costs caused by unexpected asset failure.Read More...

  • What kind of inspections can be done on a weld?

    Two kinds of inspections can be done on a weld - destructive and non-destructive inspections. While destructive weld inspection physically destroys a portion of the weld in order to evaluate it, non-destructive testing allows for inspection without causing damage. Non-destructive testing (NDT) techniques are commonly used by weld inspection organizations in Canada, like Buffalo Inspection Services. This is due to the ability of NDT methods to accurately detect surface and subsurface flaws without destroying the weld. However, many non-destructive testing methods require skilled technicians to interpret the results and arrive at an accurate evaluation. Therefore, it is important that a certified welding inspector conducts non-destructive testing on welds.Read More...

  • How many types of welding inspections are there?

    There are five types of NDT welding inspection methods used in Canada. These include:
    1. Visual Testing (VT)
    2. Radiographic Testing (RT) or X-ray
    3. Ultrasonic Testing (UT)
    4. Magnetic Particle Testing (MT)
    5. Liquid Penetrant Testing (PT)
    Visual inspection is the simplest form of non-destructive testing for welding inspection. VT requires the welding inspector to examine the weld visually to identify surface flaws. Radiographic inspection, also referred to as X-ray, is also common and can be used to identify internal discontinuities in a weld. RT is a widely accepted inspection method and highly versatile. Magnetic Particle inspection is used to detect flaws on the surface and just below the surface of a weld. This option is more sensitive than some NDT methods, meaning it can identify tighter cracks and flaws. However, MT can only be used on ferromagnetic materials. Liquid Penetrant Testing is used to uncover surface cracks that cannot be detected by the naked eye. This non-destructive testing method can be used to easily detect flaws in materials that are complex in shape. Ultrasonic weld inspection is used to uncover internal and surface flaws. This method is extremely sensitive, allowing for the detection of minor discontinuities. Phased array ultrasonic technology allows for even more advanced inspection. Phased Array Ultrasonic Testing, or PAUT, evaluates a component from multiple angles. As a result, complex components can be quickly and easily inspected.Read More...

  • What is the purpose of inspection in welding?

    Welding inspection is important for several reasons. Most importantly, inspection in welding is used to determine whether a weld meets certain codes and standards, and is capable of fulfilling its intended purpose. When conducting inspections, welding inspectors can determine if any flaws or other shortcomings exist, in which case the weld may need to be repaired or replaced. Overall, welding inspection is important to ensure performance and safety. For example, the welding on pressure equipment must meet high standards to ensure safety. Inspections can also help companies save money by detecting possible issues before they arise. This reduces costs related to accidents and asset loss. However, above all, inspection helps to protect employees, the public, and the environment from unexpected asset failure.Read More...

  • Is Buffalo Inspection COR Certified?

    Yes, Buffalo Inspection Services Inc. is COR Certified. Buffalo is committed to fostering a company culture that highlights health and safety. To support this commitment and ensure the safety of all employees and stakeholders, Buffalo has created and implemented an NDT health and safety program. As a result, Buffalo has been COR Certified by the Government of Alberta.

    Wondering - what is COR?

    COR is a Certificate of Recognition that is issued by the Alberta Construction Safety Association. This certificate recognizes that the certified organization has developed and implemented an occupational health and safety program and that this program has been evaluated and approved by a certified auditor.

    Buffalo's health and safety program helps to guarantee both NDT quality and safety.Read More...

  • What is the difference between SNT-TC-1A and CP-189?

    Are you wondering - what is the difference between SNT-TC-1A and CP-189?

    Well, the biggest difference between the two is that SNT-TC-1A is a set of recommended standards for NDT companies to use when certifying NDT technicians. On the other hand, CP-189 is intended to be a set of standard requirements, rather than a guideline.

    Both use training, experience and examination to award NDT certification. However, while NDT inspection companies can alter certification requirements to meet their needs and the needs of technicians under the SNT-TC-1A program, CP-189  requirements cannot be adjusted.

    Another major difference between is the number of NDT levels offered. The SNT-TC-1A only has three levels of certification - Level I, Level II and Level III. The CP-189, on the other hand, has five levels. In addition to Level I, II and III, CP-189 also has trainee and instructor levels.

    NDT companies commonly use SNT-TC-1A in conjunction with CP-189 to create a company-administered NDT qualification system.Read More...

  • How do you become a Level 2 NDT in Alberta?

    To become a Level 2 NDT certified technician in Alberta, you must complete a certain amount of work experience, as well as training and education. In addition, you’ll need to pass written and practical exams.

    The amount of relevant work experience you need to become a Level 2 NDT in Alberta depends on which NDT method you wish to be certified in.

    For ET, RT, and UT NDT technicians, 9 months of experience is required to become Level 2 certified.

    For MT, PT, and VT NDT methods, 3 months of experience is required.

    To verify that you have completed this work experience before taking your examination, your employer must provide evidence on your Application Form for Non-destructive Testing Certification. This form must then be provided to the NRCan Non-Destructive Testing Certification Body (NDTCB).

    It’s important to note that only 25% of this work experience needs to be completed before you can take your practical exam.

    Keep in mind, a different amount of work experience will be required for different NDT levels.Read More...

  • How much does it cost to get NDT certified in Canada?

    How much it costs to get NDT certified in Canada depends on several factors, including:
    • • NDT method
    • • NDT level
    • • Sector in which you are completing your certification
    Candidates must pay application, registration and examination fees when completing an NDT certification. As well, a separate certification for each NDT method, level and sector is required. For example, in Canada, to receive a Level 1 RT (Radiographic Testing) certification in the Engineering, Materials and Components (EMC) sector, it will cost:

    • • $420.00 for registration with the NRCan NDT Certification Body
    • • $230 for written registration
    • • $190 for practical registration
    • • $165 for written examinations (i.e. papers)
    • • $250 for your final half-day exam
    Each NDT level will have additional requirements. This means that it will cost more to become an NDT technician at higher levels.Read More...

  • What is ASNT certification?

    ASNT certification is a credential provided by the American Society for Nondestructive Testing to NDT technicians. This certification verifies that an individual is competent in non-destructive testing. Currently, there are four certification programs. These include:
    • • ASNT NDT Level III
    • • ASNT Central Certification Program (ACCP)
    • • ASNT NDT Level II
    • • Industrial Radiography and Radiation Safety Personnel (IRRSP)
    All non-destructive testing technicians in Canada are required to be certified by an accredited institutional body. The list of accredited organizations for Canadian NDT technicians includes the American Society for Nondestructive Testing, as well as Canada’s National Non-Destructive Testing Certification Body, the Canadian General Standards Board (CGSB), the Personal Certification Network (PCN) and the Certification Scheme for Welding Inspection Personnel (CSWIP).Read More...