What is non-destructive testing?
Non-destructive testing (NDT) is a branch of engineering and quality assurance that involves inspecting, testing, and evaluating components or structures without causing any permanent damage or altering their integrity.
This essential protective measure helps ensure the long-term reliability of submarines and provides numerous advantages:
Testing techniques allow for comprehensive inspection and evaluation of submarine components, ensuring that they meet the required quality standards.
These methods help reduce risks by identifying defects early on in the manufacturing process and assessing the structural integrity of submarine components to ensure that they can operate in extreme pressure and corrosive conditions.
It enables the detection of defects and flaws without the need for destructive testing–which would require dismantling or damaging the components–helping to reduce production costs and minimize downtime during manufacturing.
These inspections are not only used during the manufacturing phase but also throughout the lifecycle of the submarine to help identify hidden defects, corrosion, or wear and tear in critical components.
It enables inspection without disassembling or altering the submarine structure significantly, which minimizes disruptions to the manufacturing process and ensures that the structural integrity of the submarine remains intact.
It provides a reliable means of assessing compliance, ensuring that the manufactured submarines meet the required specifications and safety standards set by regulatory bodies.
Where a close eye can save lives
Naval submarine crews rely on their vessels to keep them protected in the most extreme and treacherous environments. Through your diligent work as an NDT inspector, you will play a crucial role in enabling them to safeguard our nation while resting assured that they can rely on their equipment.
Imagine this scenario: A newly constructed submarine is undergoing a routine dive test when suddenly the vessel ascends at an alarming and dangerous rate. Thanks to your ultrasonic testing, you are able to detect microscopic cracks in the ballast tank that are then quickly repaired and re-inspected. Left unattended and unrepaired, these cracks could have led to a catastrophic outcome for the crew on board.
Your rigorous and meticulous testing will help avert potential disasters, safeguarding the lives and missions of our Naval fleets.
Is non-destructive testing right for you?
Do you want an impactful career where you use cutting-edge technology to apply your exceptional examination skills to safeguard the foundation and integrity of the next generation of military submarines?
Non-destructive testing could be the perfect opportunity for you.
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Leave no surface uninspected
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Want to start a career in non-destructive testing but not sure where to begin?
Learn how to employ advanced evaluation technologies with a range of training programs designed to equip you with the skills you need for success. Choose from a variety of training opportunities, including the Accelerated Training in Defense Manufacturing (ATDM) program, which can help you earn industry-recognized certifications in just four months.
Put your assessment skills to the ultimate test
You’ve dedicated your life to the art of assessing and your acceptance criteria are higher than anyone else’s you know. UT, MT, PT, RT, and ET aren’t just letters to you, they’re the techniques you use to certify that a material is solid through and through.
Whether you’re used to carefully assessing bridges, evaluating the integrity of pipelines, or using your critical eye in a nuclear power plant you have the talent and skill set that you can leverage to get started in a career in submarine manufacturing.
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