Quality of NDT

Quality of NDT

Quality of an NDT operation is defined as its performance in unambiguously revealing and reporting flaws of prescribed characteristics, in a cost effect way that safeguards the component's integrity and inspection's repeatability. This definition is helpful for the identification of the most important elements of a relevant quality assurance system. It is apparent that special managerial measures are demanded since the ultimate quality is decided by the day-to-day performance and not by the theoretical capability of procedures, equipment or operators. Quality assurance is the establishment of a program to guarantee the desired quality level of a product from raw materials through fabrication, final assembly and delivery to the customer. Quality control is the physical and administrative actions required to ensure compliance with the quality assurance program. These functions include physical and chemical tests and non-destructive tests. Growing concern for product quality calls for this kind of quality assurance program.The important requirements for an effective QA system for ensuring reliable NDT are (26)1. General requirements: quality policy, responsibilities, independence, confidentiality, corrective actions, cost-effectiveness2. Qualification operators: competence of the operator and care to guarantee continuing effectiveness3. Qualification of procedure: inspections must be conducted as per the procedures4. Qualification of equipment and materials: qualification, calibration, maintenance etc.5. Supervision and surveillance of operators: operator dependence, human errors minimisation6. Records: test records, results, reports and necessary visible evidence7. Quality audit: re-examination of methods, audit, review of procedures and system The leading companies now recognise the need for 'total quality management', which is defined as the optimisation of all parts of an organisation to achieve conformance to customer requirements and expectations. A total Quality Management is best defined as a world class competitive organisation and characterised by:+ A focus on customer needs+ Universal participation+ The realisation that every process contributes to quality+ The use of continuous improvement mechanisms+ An ongoing program of trainingThe setting up of co-located, multi-disciplinary, project teams for the development of both products and business process, appears to be the most effective route towards total quality. Total quality involves teamwork and commitment.