ASTM E543-21

Standard Specification for Agencies Performing Nondestructive Testing

ABSTRACT
This specification covers the minimum requirements for agencies performing nondestructive testing. It can also be used as a basis to evaluate testing or inspection agencies, or both that are intended for use in qualifying or accrediting, or both of testing or inspection agencies that are either public or private. A nondestructive testing agency's capabilities shall include, but not limited to, one or more of the following methods: magnetic particle, penetrant, radiographic/fluoroscopic, ultrasonic, eddy current, and leak testing. Minimum requirements include: a written Procedures Manual for the type of work for which the agency is contracted; process control or operation procedures that shall contain the information necessary to control the various activities necessary for materials examination; personnel qualification which include procedures for training, certification, and recertification; equipment maintenance and calibration which shall contain inventory listings; equipment operation and technique file; and records and documentation that shall be maintained in a central file and in other accessible files as necessary and shall be available for authority examination.
SCOPE
1.1 This specification covers minimum requirements for agencies performing nondestructive testing (NDT).  
1.2 When using this specification to assess the capability of, or to accredit NDT agencies, Guide E1359, Specification E329, ISO 9001, ISO 17025, or ISO 17020 may be used as a basis for the survey. It can be supplemented as necessary with more detail in order to meet the auditor's specific needs.  
1.3 This specification can be used as a basis to evaluate testing or inspection agencies, or both, and is intended for use for the qualifying or accrediting, or both, of testing or inspection agencies, public or private.  
1.4 Units—The use of SI or inch-pound units, or combination thereof, will be the responsibility of the technical committee whose standards are referred to in this standard.  
1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.  
1.6 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

General Information

• Status: Published
• Publication Date: 30-Jun-2021
• ICS: 03.120.10 - Quality management and quality assurance
• ICS: 19.100 - Non-destructive testing
• Technical Committee: E07 - Nondestructive Testing
• Drafting Committee: E07.09 - Nondestructive Testing Agencies

Relations

• Refers: ASTM E2580-24 - Standard Practice for Ultrasonic Testing of Flat Panel Composites and Sandwich Core Materials Used in Aerospace Applications
• Effective Date: 01-Feb-2024
• Refers: ASTM E1316-24 - Standard Terminology for <?Pub Dtl?>Nondestructive Examinations
• Effective Date: 01-Feb-2024
• Refers: ASTM E1004-23 - Standard Test Method for Determining Electrical Conductivity Using the Electromagnetic (Eddy Current) Method
• Effective Date: 01-Dec-2023
• Refers: ASTM E1255-23 - Standard Practice for Radioscopy
• Effective Date: 01-Dec-2023
• Refers: ASTM E3170/E3170M-18(2023) - Standard Practice for Phased Array Ultrasonic Testing of Polyethylene Electrofusion Joints
• Effective Date: 01-Dec-2023
• Refers: ASTM E746-23 - Standard Practice for Determining Relative Image Quality Response of Industrial Radiographic Imaging Systems below 4 MeV
• Effective Date: 01-Dec-2023
• Refers: ASTM E3167/E3167M-18(2023) - Standard Practice for Conventional Pulse-Echo Ultrasonic Testing of Polyethylene Electrofusion Joints
• Effective Date: 01-Dec-2023
• Refers: ASTM E329-23 - Standard Specification for Agencies Engaged in Construction Inspection, Testing, or Special Inspection
• Effective Date: 01-Nov-2023
• Refers: ASTM E2905/E2905M-20 - Standard Practice for Examination of Mill and Kiln Girth Gear Teeth&#x2014;Electromagnetic Methods
• Effective Date: 01-Jul-2020
• Refers: ASTM E803-20 - Standard Test Method for Determining the <emph type="ital">L/D&#x2009;</emph>Ratio of Neutron Radiography Beams
• Effective Date: 01-Jul-2020
• Refers: ASTM E750-15(2020) - Standard Practice for Characterizing Acoustic Emission Instrumentation
• Effective Date: 01-Jun-2020
• Refers: ASTM E690-15(2020) - Standard Practice for In Situ Electromagnetic (Eddy Current) Examination of Nonmagnetic Heat Exchanger Tubes
• Effective Date: 01-Jun-2020
• Refers: ASTM E570-20 - Standard Practice for Flux Leakage Examination of Ferromagnetic Steel Tubular Products
• Effective Date: 01-Jun-2020
• Refers: ASTM E587-15(2020) - Standard Practice for Ultrasonic Angle-Beam Contact Testing
• Effective Date: 01-Jun-2020
• Refers: ASTM E1606-20 - Standard Practice for Electromagnetic (Eddy Current) Examination of Copper and Aluminum Redraw Rod for Electrical Purposes
• Effective Date: 01-Jun-2020

Overview

ASTM E543-21: Standard Specification for Agencies Performing Nondestructive Testing sets forth the minimum requirements that organizations must meet to operate as service providers of nondestructive testing (NDT). The specification offers a framework for evaluating and accrediting both public and private testing or inspection agencies that perform NDT as part of material, component, or systems examination. The purpose of ASTM E543-21 is to ensure that agencies demonstrate competence, reliability, and compliance with quality management practices in the delivery of NDT services.

This standard is applicable to agencies using methods such as magnetic particle, penetrant, radiographic/fluoroscopic, ultrasonic, eddy current, and leak testing. It also addresses requirements related to operating procedures, personnel qualification and certification, equipment maintenance and calibration, records management, and quality control. Organizations seeking accreditation or qualification for NDT services can use ASTM E543-21 either independently or as a supplement to ISO or other related standards.

Key Topics

• Organizational Structure and Documentation

  • Agencies must provide detailed documentation about their legal structure, ownership, principal officers, affiliates, and technical services offered.
  • A comprehensive written procedures manual is required for all NDT activities.

• Quality Systems and Process Control

  • Agencies must maintain an effective quality system and conduct internal audits annually to ensure compliance.
  • Clear, documented operational procedures are necessary for receiving, testing, reporting, and quality control.

• Personnel Qualification and Certification

  • Personnel must be qualified and certified according to nationally or internationally recognized standards (e.g., ANSI/ASNT-CP-189, SNT-TC-1A, NAS-410, ISO 9712, ASME ANDE-1).
  • Agencies must keep up-to-date records of staff qualifications, training, and certifications.

• Equipment Management

  • All NDT equipment must be properly maintained, calibrated, and documented.
  • Agencies must have detailed inventory listings, calibration records, and operation manuals for each equipment type.

• Records and Documentation

  • Testing agencies are required to maintain central records for all examinations, certifications, procedures, and deviations.
  • Procedures for auditing reports and documentation of all activities must be in place.

Applications

ASTM E543-21 is valuable across many industries that require nondestructive testing for quality control and material verification, including:

• Construction and Infrastructure: Ensures building materials and welds are properly inspected for strength and integrity without causing damage.
• Aerospace and Defense: Verifies critical components conform to strict safety requirements.
• Manufacturing: Supports product quality assurance by detecting flaws or inconsistencies in metal, composites, and fabricated parts.
• Oil & Gas, Energy, and Utilities: Assures safety and compliance through regular inspection of piping, vessels, tanks, and pressure systems.

By complying with ASTM E543-21, agencies demonstrate to purchasers, regulatory bodies, and oversight authorities that their NDT processes meet globally recognized standards for competence, traceability, and reliability.

Related Standards

Agencies may reference or use ASTM E543-21 in conjunction with the following standards:

• ISO 9001: Quality Management Systems – Requirements
• ISO 17025: General Requirements for the Competence of Testing and Calibration Laboratories
• ISO 17020: Conformity Assessment – Requirements for Bodies Performing Inspection
• ASTM E329: Specification for Agencies Engaged in Construction Inspection, Testing, or Special Inspection
• ASTM E1212: Practice for Establishing Quality Management Systems for Nondestructive Testing Agencies
• ANSI/ASNT-CP-189 and SNT-TC-1A: Personnel Qualification and Certification in Nondestructive Testing
• NAS-410: Certification and Qualification of Nondestructive Personnel
• ASME ANDE-1: Nondestructive Examination and Quality Control Central Qualification and Certification Program

ASTM E543-21 helps ensure that agencies can be reliably assessed, accredited, or qualified according to both national and international criteria for nondestructive testing services. Agencies and clients in need of certified NDT partners can use this standard as a foundation for selection, assessment, and ongoing compliance.

Standards Content (Sample)

This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
Designation:E543 −21
Standard Specification for
Agencies Performing Nondestructive Testing
This standard is issued under the fixed designation E543; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
This standard has been approved for use by agencies of the U.S. Department of Defense.
1. Scope* E94 Guide for Radiographic Examination Using Industrial
Radiographic Film
1.1 This specification covers minimum requirements for
E114 Practice for Ultrasonic Pulse-Echo Straight-Beam
agencies performing nondestructive testing (NDT).
Contact Testing
1.2 When using this specification to assess the capability of,
E125 Reference Photographs for Magnetic Particle Indica-
ortoaccreditNDTagencies,GuideE1359,SpecificationE329,
tions on Ferrous Castings
ISO9001,ISO17025,orISO17020maybeusedasabasisfor
E127 Practice for Fabrication and Control of Flat Bottomed
the survey. It can be supplemented as necessary with more
Hole Ultrasonic Standard Reference Blocks
detail in order to meet the auditor’s specific needs.
E164 Practice for Contact Ultrasonic Testing of Weldments
E165 Practice for Liquid Penetrant Testing for General
1.3 This specification can be used as a basis to evaluate
testing or inspection agencies, or both, and is intended for use Industry
E213 Practice for Ultrasonic Testing of Metal Pipe and
for the qualifying or accrediting, or both, of testing or
inspection agencies, public or private. Tubing
E215 PracticeforStandardizingEquipmentandElectromag-
1.4 Units—The use of SI or inch-pound units, or combina-
netic Examination of Seamless Aluminum-Alloy Tube
tion thereof, will be the responsibility of the technical commit-
E243 Practice for Electromagnetic (Eddy Current) Examina-
tee whose standards are referred to in this standard.
tion of Copper and Copper-Alloy Tubes
1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the
E273 Practice for Ultrasonic Testing of the Weld Zone of
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
Welded Pipe and Tubing
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
E309 Practice for Eddy Current Examination of Steel Tubu-
priate safety, health, and environmental practices and deter-
lar Products Using Magnetic Saturation
mine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
E317 Practice for Evaluating Performance Characteristics of
1.6 This international standard was developed in accor-
Ultrasonic Pulse-Echo Testing Instruments and Systems
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
without the Use of Electronic Measurement Instruments
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
E329 Specification for Agencies Engaged in Construction
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
Inspection, Testing, or Special Inspection
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
E376 Practice for Measuring Coating Thickness by
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
Magnetic-Field or Eddy Current (Electromagnetic) Test-
ing Methods
2. Referenced Documents
E426 Practice for Electromagnetic (Eddy Current) Examina-
2.1 ASTM Standards:
tion of Seamless and Welded Tubular Products, Titanium,
B193 Test Method for Resistivity of Electrical Conductor
Austenitic Stainless Steel and Similar Alloys
Materials
E427 Practice forTesting for Leaks Using the Halogen Leak
Detector Alkali-Ion Diode (Withdrawn 2013)
E431 Guide to Interpretation of Radiographs of Semicon-
This specification is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee E07 on
ductors and Related Devices
Nondestructive Testing and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee E07.09 on
E432 Guide for Selection of a Leak Testing Method
Nondestructive Testing Agencies.
E433 Reference Photographs for Liquid Penetrant Inspec-
Current edition approved July 1, 2021. Published August 2021. Originally
tion
approved in 1976. Last previous edition approved in 2015 as E543 – 15. DOI:
10.1520/E0543-21.
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM
Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on The last approved version of this historical standard is referenced on
the ASTM website. www.astm.org.
*A Summary of Changes section appears at the end of this standard
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
E543−21
E479 Guide for Preparation of a Leak Testing Specification E999 Guide for Controlling the Quality of Industrial Radio-
(Withdrawn 2014) graphic Film Processing
E493 Practice for Leaks Using the Mass Spectrometer Leak E1001 Practice for Detection and Evaluation of Discontinui-
Detector in the Inside-Out Testing Mode
ties by the Immersed Pulse-Echo Ultrasonic Method
E494 Practice for Measuring Ultrasonic Velocity in Materi-
Using Longitudinal Waves
als by Comparative Pulse-Echo Method
E1004 Test Method for Determining Electrical Conductivity
E498 Practice for Leaks Using the Mass Spectrometer Leak
Using the Electromagnetic (Eddy Current) Method
Detector or Residual Gas Analyzer in the Tracer Probe
E1025 Practice for Design, Manufacture, and Material
Mode
Grouping Classification of Hole-Type Image Quality In-
E499 Practice for Leaks Using the Mass Spectrometer Leak
dicators (IQI) Used for Radiography
Detector in the Detector Probe Mode
E1030 Practice for Radiographic Examination of Metallic
E515 Practice for Leaks Using Bubble Emission Techniques
Castings
E545 Test Method for Determining Image Quality in Direct
E1032 Practice for Radiographic Examination ofWeldments
Thermal Neutron Radiographic Examination
Using Industrial X-Ray Film
E566 Practice for Electromagnetic (Eddy Current/Magnetic
E1065/E1065M Practice for Evaluating Characteristics of
Induction) Sorting of Ferrous Metals
Ultrasonic Search Units
E569 Practice for Acoustic Emission Monitoring of Struc-
E1067 PracticeforAcousticEmissionExaminationofFiber-
tures During Controlled Stimulation
glass Reinforced Plastic Resin (FRP) Tanks/Vessels
E570 Practice for Flux Leakage Examination of Ferromag-
E1118 Practice forAcoustic Emission Examination of Rein-
netic Steel Tubular Products
forced Thermosetting Resin Pipe (RTRP)
E571 PracticeforElectromagnetic(Eddy-Current)Examina-
E1139 Practice for Continuous Monitoring of Acoustic
tion of Nickel and Nickel Alloy Tubular Products
Emission from Metal Pressure Boundaries
E587 Practice for Ultrasonic Angle-Beam Contact Testing
E1208 Practice for Fluorescent Liquid Penetrant Testing
E592 Guide to Obtainable ASTM Equivalent Penetrameter
Using the Lipophilic Post-Emulsification Process
Sensitivity for Film Radiography of Steel Plates ⁄4 to 2 in.
E1209 Practice for Fluorescent Liquid Penetrant Testing
(6 to 51 mm) Thick with X-Rays and 1 to 6 in. (25 to 152
Using the Water-Washable Process
mm) Thick with Cobalt-60
E1210 Practice for Fluorescent Liquid Penetrant Testing
E650 Guide for Mounting Piezoelectric Acoustic Emission
Using the Hydrophilic Post-Emulsification Process
Sensors
E1211 Practice for Leak Detection and Location Using
E664 Practice for the Measurement of the Apparent Attenu-
Surface-Mounted Acoustic Emission Sensors
ation of Longitudinal Ultrasonic Waves by Immersion
E1212 Practice for Establishing Quality Management Sys-
Method
tems for Nondestructive Testing Agencies
E690 Practice for In Situ Electromagnetic (Eddy Current)
E1219 Practice for Fluorescent Liquid Penetrant Testing
Examination of Nonmagnetic Heat Exchanger Tubes
Using the Solvent-Removable Process
E703 PracticeforElectromagnetic(EddyCurrent)Sortingof
E1220 Practice for Visible Penetrant Testing Using Solvent-
Nonferrous Metals
Removable Process
E709 Guide for Magnetic Particle Testing
E1254 Guide for Storage of Radiographs and Unexposed
E746 Practice for Determining Relative Image Quality Re-
Industrial Radiographic Films
sponse of Industrial Radiographic Imaging Systems
E1255 Practice for Radioscopy
E747 Practice for Design, Manufacture and Material Group-
E1312 Practice for Electromagnetic (Eddy Current) Exami-
ing Classification of Wire Image Quality Indicators (IQI)
nation of Ferromagnetic Cylindrical Bar Product Above
Used for Radiology
the Curie Temperature
E748 Guide for Thermal Neutron Radiography of Materials
E1315 Practice for Ultrasonic Examination of Steel with
E749 Practice for Acoustic Emission Monitoring During
Convex Cylindrically Curved Entry Surfaces (Withdrawn
Continuous Welding
2006)
E750 Practice for Characterizing Acoustic Emission Instru-
E1316 Terminology for Nondestructive Examinations
mentation
E1324 GuideforMeasuringSomeElectronicCharacteristics
E751 Practice for Acoustic Emission Monitoring During
of Ultrasonic Testing Instruments
Resistance Spot-Welding
E1359 Guide for Auditing and Evaluating Capabilities of
E797 Practice for Measuring Thickness by Manual Ultra-
Nondestructive Testing Agencies
sonic Pulse-Echo Contact Method
E1417 Practice for Liquid Penetrant Testing
E801 Practice for Controlling Quality of Radiographic Ex-
E1418 Practice for Visible Penetrant Testing Using the
amination of Electronic Devices
Water-Washable Process
E803 TestMethodforDeterminingthe L/D RatioofNeutron
Radiography Beams E1419 Practice for Examination of Seamless, Gas-Filled,
E908 Practice for Calibrating Gaseous Reference Leaks Pressure Vessels Using Acoustic Emission
E1441 Guide for Computed Tomography (CT)
E976 GuideforDeterminingtheReproducibilityofAcoustic
Emission Sensor Response E1444 Practice for Magnetic Particle Testing
E543−21
E1496 Test Method for Neutron Radiographic Dimensional E2261 Practice for Examination of Welds Using the Alter-
Measurements (Withdrawn 2012) nating Current Field Measurement Technique
E1570 Practice for Fan Beam Computed Tomographic (CT) E2297 GuideforUseofUV-AandVisibleLightSourcesand
Meters used in the Liquid Penetrant and Magnetic Particle
Examination
Methods
E1571 Practice for Electromagnetic Examination of Ferro-
E2338 Practice for Characterization of Coatings Using Con-
magnetic Steel Wire Rope
formable Eddy Current Sensors without Coating Refer-
E1606 Practice for Electromagnetic (Eddy Current) Exami-
ence Standards
nation of Copper andAluminum Redraw Rod for Electri-
E2373 Practice for Use of the Ultrasonic Time of Flight
cal Purposes
Diffraction (TOFD) Technique
E1629 Practice for Determining the Impedance of Absolute
E2374 Guide for Acoustic Emission System Performance
Eddy-Current Probes
Verification
E1695 Test Method for Measurement of Computed Tomog-
E2375 Practice for Ultrasonic Testing of Wrought Products
raphy (CT) System Performance
E2445/E2445M Practice for Performance Evaluation and
E1742 Practice for Radiographic Examination
Long-Term Stability of Computed Radiography Systems
E1774 Guide for Electromagnetic Acoustic Transducers
E2479 Practice for Measuring the Ultrasonic Velocity in
(EMATs)
Polyethylene Tank Walls Using Lateral Longitudinal
E1781 Practice for Secondary Calibration ofAcoustic Emis-
(L ) Waves
CR
sion Sensors
E2491 Guide for Evaluating Performance Characteristics of
E1816 PracticeforMeasuringthicknessbyPulse-EchoElec-
Phased-Array UltrasonicTesting Instruments and Systems
tromagnetic Acoustic Transducer (EMAT) Methods
E2533 Guide for Nondestructive Examination of Polymer
E1888/E1888M PracticeforAcousticEmissionExamination
Matrix Composites Used in Aerospace Applications
of Pressurized Containers Made of Fiberglass Reinforced
E2534 Practice for Targeted Defect Detection Using Process
Plastic with Balsa Wood Cores
Compensated ResonanceTestingVia Swept Sine Input for
E1901 Guide for Detection and Evaluation of Discontinui-
Metallic and Non-Metallic Parts
ties by Contact Pulse-Echo Straight-Beam Ultrasonic
E2580 PracticeforUltrasonicTestingofFlatPanelCompos-
Methods
ites and Sandwich Core Materials Used in Aerospace
E1930 Practice for Examination of Liquid-Filled Atmo-
Applications
spheric and Low-Pressure Metal Storage Tanks Using
E2597/E2597M PracticeforManufacturingCharacterization
Acoustic Emission
of Digital Detector Arrays
E1932 Guide for Acoustic Emission Examination of Small
E2698 Practice for Radiographic Examination Using Digital
Parts
Detector Arrays
E1961 Practice for Mechanized Ultrasonic Testing of Girth
E2700 Practice for Contact Ultrasonic Testing of Welds
Welds Using Zonal Discrimination with Focused Search
Using Phased Arrays
Units
E2736 Guide for Digital Detector Array Radiography
E1962 Practice for Ultrasonic Surface Testing Using Elec-
E2737 Practice for Digital Detector Array Performance
tromagnetic Acoustic Transducer (EMAT) Techniques
Evaluation and Long-Term Stability
E2001 Guide for Resonant Ultrasound Spectroscopy for
E2884 Guide for Eddy Current Testing of Electrically Con-
Defect Detection in Both Metallic and Non-metallic Parts
ducting Materials Using Conformable Sensor Arrays
E2002 Practice for Determining Total Image Unsharpness
E2904 Practice for Characterization and Verification of
and Basic Spatial Resolution in Radiography and Radios-
Phased Array Probes
copy
E2905/E2905M Practice for Examination of Mill and Kiln
E2007 Guide for Computed Radiography
Girth Gear Teeth—Electromagnetic Methods
E2033 Practice for Radiographic Examination Using Com-
E2928/E2928M Practice for Examination of Drillstring
puted Radiography (Photostimulable Luminescence
ThreadsUsingtheAlternatingCurrentFieldMeasurement
Method)
Technique
E2075 Practice for Verifying the Consistency of AE-Sensor
E2985 Practice for Determination of Metal Purity Based on
Response Using an Acrylic Rod
Elastic Constant Measurements Derived from Resonant
E2076 Practice for Examination of Fiberglass Reinforced
Ultrasound Spectroscopy
Plastic Fan Blades Using Acoustic Emission
E3022 Practice for Measurement of Emission Characteris-
E2096 Practice for In Situ Examination of Ferromagnetic
tics and Requirements for LED UV-A Lamps Used in
Heat-Exchanger Tubes Using Remote Field Testing
Fluorescent Penetrant and Magnetic Particle Testing
E2191 Practice for Examination of Gas-Filled Filament-
E3024/E3024M Practice for Magnetic Particle Testing for
Wound Composite PressureVessels UsingAcoustic Emis-
General Industry
sion E3044/E3044M Practice for Ultrasonic Testing of Polyeth-
E2192 Guide for Planar Flaw Height Sizing by Ultrasonics ylene Butt Fusion Joints
E2223 Practice for Examination of Seamless, Gas-Filled,
E3052 Practice for Examination of Carbon Steel Welds
Steel Pressure Vessels Using Angle Beam Ultrasonics Using Eddy Current Array
E543−21
E3081 Practice for Outlier Screening Using Process Com- 3.2.2 authority, n—the owner, prime contractor, engineer,
pensated Resonance Testing via Swept Sine Input for architect, or purchasing agent in responsible charge of the
Metallic and Non-Metallic Parts work, or duly recognized or designated representative.
E3101 Practice for Microwave Examination of Polyethylene 3.2.2.1 Discussion—The agency and the authority may be
Butt Fusion Joints the same in some cases.
E3102 Practice for Microwave Examination of Polyethylene
Electrofusion Joints Used in Piping Application
4. Significance and Use
E3167/E3167M PracticeforConventionalPulse-EchoUltra-
4.1 This specification is applicable where the systematic
sonic Testing of Polyethylene Electrofusion Joints
assessment of the competence of a nondestructive testing
E3170/E3170M Practice for Phased Array Ultrasonic Test-
agency by a user or other party is desired.
ing of Polyethylene Electrofusion Joints
4.2 It is intended that the requirements specified in this
E3213 Practice for Part-to-Itself Examination Using Process
specificationapplytoindependent,public,orin-houseagencies
Compensated ResonanceTestingVia Swept Sine Input for
to the extent required by the purchase order or specification.
Metallic and Non-Metallic Parts
This specification does not apply to in-house equipment,
2.2 ASTM Document:
methods, and examinations used for the exclusive purpose of
SMPTE RP 133 Specifications for Medical Diagnostic Im-
internal process control. It is intended that this specification
aging Test Pattern for Television Monitors
5 apply to all examination(s) used for the final acceptance
2.3 ASNT Documents:
examination(s) if such examination(s) are required by the
ASNT Recommended Practice No. SNT-TC-1A Personnel
purchase order or specification.
Qualification and Certification in Nondestructive Testing
ANSI/ASNT-CP-189 ASNT Standard for Qualification and 4.3 Criteria are provided for evaluating the capability of an
Certification of Nondestructive Testing Personnel agency to properly perform designated examinations and
establishes essential characteristics pertaining to the
2.4 ISO Standards:
organization, personnel, facilities, and quality systems of the
ISO 9001 Quality Management Systems — Requirements
agency. This specification may be supplemented by more
ISO 9712 Nondestructive Testing — Qualification and Cer-
specific criteria and requirements for particular projects.
tification of NDT Personnel
ISO 17020 ConformityAssessment — Requirements for the
Operation of Various Types of Bodies Performing Inspec- 5. Organization of the Agency
tion
5.1 If the agency is accredited to ISO 17025, 17020, or
ISO 17025 General Requirements for the Competence of
Specification E329, they may be considered to meet the
Testing and Calibration Laboratories
requirements of this section, for the applicable scope of
2.5 AIA Document:
nondestructive testing.
NAS-410 Certification and Qualification of Nondestructive
5.2 The following information concerning the organization
Personnel (Quality Assurance Committee)
of the agency shall be provided by documentation:
2.6 ASME Document:
5.2.1 A description of the organization including:
ASME ANDE-1 ASME Nondestructive Examination and
5.2.1.1 The complete legal name and address of the main
Quality Control Central Qualification and Certification
office,
Program
5.2.1.2 Thenamesandpositionsoftheprincipalofficersand
directors,
3. Terminology
5.2.1.3 The agency’s ownership, managerial structure, and
3.1 Definitions—Additional definitions are contained in the
principal members,
specific specification or in Terminology E1316.
5.2.1.4 The functional description of the agency’s organiza-
3.2 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
tion structure, operational departments, and support depart-
3.2.1 agency, n—the public, independent, or in-house non-
ments and services. This may be demonstrated in the form of
destructive testing organization selected by the authority to
charts that depict all the divisions, departments, sections and
perform the examination(s) required by the purchase order or
units, and their relationships,
specification.
5.2.1.5 All relevant organizational affiliates of the agency
and the principal officers of affiliates and directors of the
affiliates where applicable,
Available from theASTM website, www.astm.org, or contactASTM Customer
5.2.1.6 External organizations and organizational compo-
Service at [e-mail].
AvailablefromAmericanSocietyforNondestructiveTesting(ASNT),P.O.Box
nents and their functions that are utilized for significant
28518, 1711 Arlingate Ln., Columbus, OH 43228-0518, http://www.asnt.org.
technical support services, and
Available from International Organization for Standardization (ISO), ISO
5.2.1.7 A brief history of the agency including its relation-
Central Secretariat, Chemin de Blandonnet 8, CP 401, 1214 Vernier, Geneva,
ship with its organizational component affiliations and other
Switzerland, https://www.iso.org.
Available from Aerospace Industries Association (AIA), 1000 Wilson Blvd.,
supporting information.
Suite 1700, Arlington, VA 22209, http://www.aia-aerospace.org.
5.2.2 A general description of the type of users of the
Available from American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME), ASME
agency’s services.
International Headquarters, Two Park Ave., New York, NY 10016-5990, http://
www.asme.org. 5.2.3 A listing of the relevant technical services offered.
E543−21
5.2.4 A list giving applicable dates of the qualifications, 7.3 The agency shall make available a description of its
accreditations, and recognition of the agency by others. meansofensuringthecontinuedcompetenceofitspersonnelto
perform NDT, including the maintenance of written records to
6. Responsibilities and Duties document the results.
6.1 A nondestructive testing agency’s capabilities should
8. Personnel Qualification/Certifications
include, but not be limited to, one or more of the following
8.1 Nondestructive testing (NDT) personnel shall be quali-
methods: magnetic particle, penetrant, radiographic/
fluoroscopic, ultrasonic, electromagnetic (eddy current), and fied and certified in accordance with a nationally or interna-
tionally recognized NDT personnel qualifications practice or
leak testing.
standards such as ANSI/ASNT-CP-189, SNT-TC-1A, NAS-
NOTE 1—A comparison of selected NDE Methods is provided as
410, ISO 9712, ASME ANDE-1, or a similar document. The
Appendix X1.
practice or standard used and the applicable revision shall be
6.2 It is the responsibility of the agency to ensure that:
specified in the contractual agreement between parties.
6.2.1 It performs only examinations for which it is ad-
equately equipped and staffed.
6.2.2 Its employees perform only examinations for which
PROCEDURE MANUAL
they are adequately qualified.
6.2.3 Its equipment is calibrated and personnel are certified
9. Minimum Requirements:
in accordance with applicable specifications.
9.1 If the agency is accredited to ISO 17025, 17020, or
6.2.4 All equipment is properly maintained.
Specification
E329, they may be considered to meet the
6.2.5 It informs the authority of any discrepancy or limita-
requirements of this section, for the applicable scope of
tion imposed on the testing accuracy by such factors as surface
nondestructive testing.
finish, form, shape, or procedure.
9.2 Each agency shall have prepared a written Procedures
6.3 The following duties are those usually performed by the
Manual for the type of work for which the agency is con-
agency:
tracted. The manual shall be prepared in accordance with the
6.3.1 To perform all examinations in accordance with speci-
requirements of Practice E1212. Additional requirements or
fied standards or quality-control criteria, or both. (The neces-
clarifications are contained in 9.3 through 9.7. The manual
sary documents shall be furnished by the authority, or the
shall be of sufficient detail to provide complete guidance for
agency, or both, as specified in the applicable purchase
their use by the agency’s personnel.
agreements.) The agency should call to the attention of the
9.2.1 The agency management shall designate a person or
authority at once any irregularity or deficiency noted in the
persons within the agency who has responsibility for maintain-
documents.
ing the agency’s quality system. This person(s) shall have
6.3.2 To submit promptly to the authority formal reports of
directaccesstotopmanagement.Thispersonshallconductand
all examinations that indicate compliance or noncompliance of
document an internal audit at least once every year to verify
the material with 6.3.1. The agency should be prepared to
that the quality system is functioning properly.
substantiate examination results when required.
9.3 Process Control (Operational Procedures)—This sec-
6.4 The agency may, in accordance with an agreement with
tion shall contain the information necessary to control the
the authority, report only compliance or noncompliance with
various activities necessary for the examination of materials.
the applicable specifications or control documents.The author-
Items covered shall include receiving and preparing material,
ity reserves the right for disposition of noncomplying material.
identification and marking, test procedures and specifications
6.5 The authority may, at its discretion, inspect the to use, reports, and return of material.
procedures, equipment, and personnel program of the agency.
9.4 Personnel Qualification—The requirements, procedures
for training, certification, and recertification for each level of
7. Personnel
qualification.
7.1 If the agency is accredited to ISO 17025, 17020, or
9.5 Equipment Maintenance and Calibration—This section
Specification E329, they may be considered to meet the
shall contain all of the following:
requirements of this section.
9.5.1 Inventory Listing—All available equipment shall be
7.2 The agency shall document the following:
listed with the following information noted:
7.2.1 Written outline or chart defining operational personnel 9.5.1.1 Name of the manufacturer.
positions and their lines of responsibility and authority.
9.5.1.2 Equipment model and serial number.
7.2.2 Summary job description for each professional, 9.5.1.3 Characteristics subject to calibration.
scientific, supervisory, and technical position category, docu- 9.5.1.4 Range of operation and range of calibration.
menting the required education, training, or experience, or a 9.5.1.5 Reference to recognized standardization procedures
combination thereof.
acceptable to the authority, if applicable.
7.2.3 Records or resumes that document the qualifications, 9.5.1.6 Frequency of calibration.
work experience, and training history of each person in a 9.5.1.7 Allowable tolerances or maximum sensitivity.
position described in 7.2.2. 9.5.1.8 Source of verification.
E543−21
9.5.2 Calibration—Each instrument or machine, when cali- 9.6.2.7 Recording of examination results.
bration is required, shall have either a calibration sticker
9.7 Records and Documentation:
affixed, or record of certification on file, containing the
9.7.1 Records—All applicable records pertaining to 9.3
following:
through 9.6 shall be maintained in a central file and in other
9.5.2.1 Instrument calibrated.
accessible files as necessary, and should be available for
9.5.2.2 Serial number.
examination by the authority.
9.5.2.3 Calibration date.
9.7.2 Theinternalprocessformsorjobrecordformsshallbe
9.5.2.4 Calibration next due.
filed with the written report to the authority and become a part
9.5.2.5 Name of individual who performed last calibration.
of the permanent record. They should include the following
If calibration is not required, a sticker, stating no calibration is
minimum information:
necessary shall be affixed, or a record shall be on file to this
9.7.2.1 Order and reference numbers.
effect.
9.7.2.2 Specification.
9.5.3 The equipment shall be calibrated against currently
9.7.2.3 Type of examination and procedure identification.
certified standards calibrated by accepted government or in-
9.7.2.4 Serial or part numbers, alloy numbers, heat and lot
dustrial agencies (or shall indicate that it is calibrated as used,
numbers, as applicable.
or that no calibration is necessary) at least at the intervals
9.7.2.5 Special instructions from the customer.
specified in the written procedure which shall also specify who
9.7.2.6 Customer’s (authority’s) name.
is to calibrate each equipment type.
9.7.2.7 Results of the examination.
9.5.4 Written records of the results of the checks and
9.7.2.8 A notation of all known deviations from any stan-
calibrations are to be maintained at a central location. The
dard examination method(s) referenced and all requirements of
required checks are minimum and do not relieve the responsi-
the examination method(s) that were not performed by the
bility of constantly checking and immediately repairing any
agency.
item which may affect examination results. A history of the
9.7.3 All applicable internal reports should be signed by the
repairs, modifications, or substitutions shall be maintained.
technician performing the work and by Level II or Level III
9.6 Equipment Operation and Technique File:
personnel. A procedure for auditing of reports by Level III
9.6.1 Each type of equipment in use shall have a complete
personnel must be included.
manual which contains all information necessary to operate
9.7.4 Personnelqualificationrecordsshouldbedevelopedin
and maintain the equipment in accordance with applicable
accordancewith8.1andbeavailableinanactivefileaslongas
codes and specifications. The manual shall include the main-
employment continues. When personnel leave the agency, the
tenance procedures and schedules for each type of equipment
records may be transferred to an inactive file but should not be
and the calibration schedule of each type of equipment.
discarded for a period of five years or as otherwise specified.
9.6.2 Atechnique file should be maintained for each type of
9.7.5 Specification File—The company should maintain an
equipment. It should be available for the guidance of the
orderly file containing all codes, specifications, and amend-
technician. The manual shall include:
ments under which it is performing work. The company does
9.6.2.1 Summary of examination procedure.
nothavetopossesscodesandspecificationsforwhichithasno
9.6.2.2 Step-by-step preparation of material for examina-
use.
tion.
9.6.2.3 Reference standard.
10. Keywords
9.6.2.4 Control of essential variables, such as the time
required for each examination step (if applicable). 10.1 equipment calibration; laboratory evaluation; NDT
9.6.2.5 What indications should appear at each step. laboratories; personnel certification; quality control; quality
9.6.2.6 Indications and their evaluations. manual
ANNEX
(Mandatory Information)
A1. EQUIPMENT FOR NONDESTRUCTIVE TESTING
E543−21
A1.1 General required, to rectify it. The equipment should contain an
ammeter to indicate the magnetizing amperage, suitable
A1.1.1 The agency responsible for nondestructive examina-
switches, and, when required, timers to control the length of
tion of material should be equipped with, or have access to, at
time that the current is applied. If different amperages are
least the equipment listed for the applicable processes.
required, the equipment shall produce the maximum required
A1.1.2 Nondestructive testing systems can include multiple
amperage with a suitable control for reducing the amperage to
examination stations with extensive supporting mechanisms
the required lower levels. Cables should be of adequate but not
and controls. Others may be simply utilizing only manual
excessive length and large enough to carry the required
application of a basic instrument.
amperage.
NOTE A1.1—Sections A1.2 through A1.8 of this specification are A1.2.1.4 Magnetic particles may be applied either wet or
intended to be educational, although they do contain some mandatory
dry. Dry particles should be applied uniformly with a dusting
requirements. Section 2 provides a list of documents which include
or light blowing action. Wet particles should be applied by
specific requirements in the applicable examination methods.
aerosol cans or by hosing. Provisions should be available to
A1.2 Magnetic Particle Equipment ensure that the required amount of particles are in suspension
when the spray is applied and to periodically check the
A1.2.1 Equipment for Magnetization of Parts shall be
concentration of the solution.
capable of inducing a flux density of sufficient intensity and
A1.2.1.5 Adequatelightingshallbeavailablewhentheparts
directiontoperformtherequiredexamination.Eithera-cord-c
are viewed for indications.When fluorescent dyed particles are
(fullwave or half-wave rectified) equipment or permanent
used, ultraviolet light (3200 to 3800 Å (320 to 380 nm)) must
magnets shall be used as specified by the contract, purchase
be available. Adequate white light must be available when
order, or specification to produce the required magnetization.
viewing visible dyed particles and should be available for use,
A1.2.1.1 The part or a section of the part may be magne-
as needed, when viewing fluorescent dyed particles.
tized by induction or by passing current through the part or
section by permanent conductors, contact plates, clamps, or
A1.2.2 Equipment for Demagnetization should be capable
prods.After proper cleaning of the part, the magnetic particles
of demagnetizing all part configurations, to the minimum
may be applied either wet or dry.
residual field specified in the specification or purchase
A1.2.1.2 Themagneticfieldisinducedinthepartbytheuse
document, regardless of size and configuration. Demagnetiza-
of any of the following:
tion is normally accomplished by stepping down a-c or d-c
(1) Yoke—Used to magnetize sections of parts. It is a
voltage while the direction of the d-c is changed between each
U-shaped iron core with a coil around the cross bar or a
step, or by withdrawing the part from an a-c field. Demagne-
U-shaped or flexible permanent magnet. The magnetic field
tization can be accomplished by induced fields or by passing a
across the open ends is used to induce a magnetic field in the
current through the part. Induced fields using coils are gener-
part or section.The yoke’s fixed or movable legs are
...

This document is not an ASTM standard and is intended only to provide the user of an ASTM standard an indication of what changes have been made to the previous version. Because
it may not be technically possible to adequately depict all changes accurately, ASTM recommends that users consult prior editions as appropriate. In all cases only the current version
of the standard as published by ASTM is to be considered the official document.
Designation: E543 − 15 E543 − 21
Standard Specification for
Agencies Performing Nondestructive Testing
This standard is issued under the fixed designation E543; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
This standard has been approved for use by agencies of the U.S. Department of Defense.
This specification has been approved for use by agencies of the Department of Defense.
1. Scope*
1.1 This specification covers minimum requirements for agencies performing nondestructive testing (NDT).
1.2 When using this specification to assess the capability of, or to accredit NDT agencies, Guide E1359 shall, Specification E329,
ISO 9001, ISO 17025, or ISO 17020 may be used as a basis for the survey. It can be supplemented as necessary with more detail
in order to meet the auditor’s specific needs.
1.3 This specification can be used as a basis to evaluate testing or inspection agencies, or both, and is intended for use for the
qualifying or accrediting, or both, of testing or inspection agencies, public or private.
1.4 Units—The use of SI or inch-pound units, or combination thereof, will be the responsibility of the technical committee whose
standards are referred to in this standard.
1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility
of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety safety, health, and healthenvironmental practices and determine the
applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
1.6 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization
established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued
by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
2. Referenced Documents
2.1 ASTM Standards:
B193 Test Method for Resistivity of Electrical Conductor Materials
E94 Guide for Radiographic Examination Using Industrial Radiographic Film
E114 Practice for Ultrasonic Pulse-Echo Straight-Beam Contact Testing
E125 Reference Photographs for Magnetic Particle Indications on Ferrous Castings
E127 Practice for Fabrication and Control of Flat Bottomed Hole Ultrasonic Standard Reference Blocks
E164 Practice for Contact Ultrasonic Testing of Weldments
E165 Practice for Liquid Penetrant Testing for General Industry
This specification is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee E07 on Nondestructive Testing and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee E07.09 on Nondestructive
Testing Agencies.
Current edition approved Feb. 15, 2015July 1, 2021. Published March 2015August 2021. Originally approved in 1976. Last previous edition approved in 20132015 as
E543 - 13.E543 – 15. DOI: 10.1520/E0543-15.10.1520/E0543-21.
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM Standards
volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on the ASTM website.
*A Summary of Changes section appears at the end of this standard
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
E543 − 21
E213 Practice for Ultrasonic Testing of Metal Pipe and Tubing
E215 Practice for Standardizing Equipment and Electromagnetic Examination of Seamless Aluminum-Alloy Tube
E243 Practice for Electromagnetic (Eddy Current) Examination of Copper and Copper-Alloy Tubes
E273 Practice for Ultrasonic Testing of the Weld Zone of Welded Pipe and Tubing
E309 Practice for Eddy Current Examination of Steel Tubular Products Using Magnetic Saturation
E317 Practice for Evaluating Performance Characteristics of Ultrasonic Pulse-Echo Testing Instruments and Systems without the
Use of Electronic Measurement Instruments
E329 Specification for Agencies Engaged in Construction Inspection, Testing, or Special Inspection
E376 Practice for Measuring Coating Thickness by Magnetic-Field or Eddy Current (Electromagnetic) Testing Methods
E426 Practice for Electromagnetic (Eddy Current) Examination of Seamless and Welded Tubular Products, Titanium, Austenitic
Stainless Steel and Similar Alloys
E427 Practice for Testing for Leaks Using the Halogen Leak Detector Alkali-Ion Diode (Withdrawn 2013)
E428 Practice for Fabrication and Control of Metal, Other than Aluminum, Reference Blocks Used in Ultrasonic Testing
(Withdrawn 2019)
E431 Guide to Interpretation of Radiographs of Semiconductors and Related Devices
E432 Guide for Selection of a Leak Testing Method
E433 Reference Photographs for Liquid Penetrant Inspection
E479 Guide for Preparation of a Leak Testing Specification (Withdrawn 2014)
E493 Practice for Leaks Using the Mass Spectrometer Leak Detector in the Inside-Out Testing Mode
E494 Practice for Measuring Ultrasonic Velocity in Materials by Comparative Pulse-Echo Method
E498 Practice for Leaks Using the Mass Spectrometer Leak Detector or Residual Gas Analyzer in the Tracer Probe Mode
E499 Practice for Leaks Using the Mass Spectrometer Leak Detector in the Detector Probe Mode
E515 Practice for Leaks Using Bubble Emission Techniques
E545 Test Method for Determining Image Quality in Direct Thermal Neutron Radiographic Examination
E566 Practice for Electromagnetic (Eddy Current/Magnetic Induction) Sorting of Ferrous Metals
E569 Practice for Acoustic Emission Monitoring of Structures During Controlled Stimulation
E570 Practice for Flux Leakage Examination of Ferromagnetic Steel Tubular Products
E571 Practice for Electromagnetic (Eddy-Current) Examination of Nickel and Nickel Alloy Tubular Products
E587 Practice for Ultrasonic Angle-Beam Contact Testing
E592 Guide to Obtainable ASTM Equivalent Penetrameter Sensitivity for Film Radiography of Steel Plates ⁄4 to 2 in. (6 to 51
mm) Thick with X-Rays and 1 to 6 in. (25 to 152 mm) Thick with Cobalt-60
E650 Guide for Mounting Piezoelectric Acoustic Emission Sensors
E664 Practice for the Measurement of the Apparent Attenuation of Longitudinal Ultrasonic Waves by Immersion Method
E690 Practice for In Situ Electromagnetic (Eddy Current) Examination of Nonmagnetic Heat Exchanger Tubes
E703 Practice for Electromagnetic (Eddy Current) Sorting of Nonferrous Metals
E709 Guide for Magnetic Particle Testing
E746 Practice for Determining Relative Image Quality Response of Industrial Radiographic Imaging Systems
E747 Practice for Design, Manufacture and Material Grouping Classification of Wire Image Quality Indicators (IQI) Used for
Radiology
E748 Guide for Thermal Neutron Radiography of Materials
E749 Practice for Acoustic Emission Monitoring During Continuous Welding
E750 Practice for Characterizing Acoustic Emission Instrumentation
E751 Practice for Acoustic Emission Monitoring During Resistance Spot-Welding
E797 Practice for Measuring Thickness by Manual Ultrasonic Pulse-Echo Contact Method
E801 Practice for Controlling Quality of Radiographic Examination of Electronic Devices
E803 Test Method for Determining the L/D Ratio of Neutron Radiography Beams
E908 Practice for Calibrating Gaseous Reference Leaks
E976 Guide for Determining the Reproducibility of Acoustic Emission Sensor Response
E999 Guide for Controlling the Quality of Industrial Radiographic Film Processing
E1001 Practice for Detection and Evaluation of Discontinuities by the Immersed Pulse-Echo Ultrasonic Method Using
Longitudinal Waves
E1004 Test Method for Determining Electrical Conductivity Using the Electromagnetic (Eddy Current) Method
E1025 Practice for Design, Manufacture, and Material Grouping Classification of Hole-Type Image Quality Indicators (IQI)
Used for Radiography
E1030 Practice for Radiographic Examination of Metallic Castings
E1032 Practice for Radiographic Examination of Weldments Using Industrial X-Ray Film
The last approved version of this historical standard is referenced on www.astm.org.
E543 − 21
E1033E1065/E1065M Practice for Electromagnetic (Eddy Current) Examination of Type F-Continuously Welded (CW)
Ferromagnetic Pipe and Tubing Above the Curie TemperatureEvaluating Characteristics of Ultrasonic Search Units
(Withdrawn 2019)
E1067 Practice for Acoustic Emission Examination of Fiberglass Reinforced Plastic Resin (FRP) Tanks/Vessels
E1118 Practice for Acoustic Emission Examination of Reinforced Thermosetting Resin Pipe (RTRP)
E1139 Practice for Continuous Monitoring of Acoustic Emission from Metal Pressure Boundaries
E1208 Practice for Fluorescent Liquid Penetrant Testing Using the Lipophilic Post-Emulsification Process
E1209 Practice for Fluorescent Liquid Penetrant Testing Using the Water-Washable Process
E1210 Practice for Fluorescent Liquid Penetrant Testing Using the Hydrophilic Post-Emulsification Process
E1211 Practice for Leak Detection and Location Using Surface-Mounted Acoustic Emission Sensors
E1212 Practice for Establishing Quality Management Systems for Nondestructive Testing Agencies
E1219 Practice for Fluorescent Liquid Penetrant Testing Using the Solvent-Removable Process
E1220 Practice for Visible Penetrant Testing Using Solvent-Removable Process
E1254 Guide for Storage of Radiographs and Unexposed Industrial Radiographic Films
E1255 Practice for Radioscopy
E1312 Practice for Electromagnetic (Eddy Current) Examination of Ferromagnetic Cylindrical Bar Product Above the Curie
Temperature
E1315 Practice for Ultrasonic Examination of Steel with Convex Cylindrically Curved Entry Surfaces (Withdrawn 2006)
E1316 Terminology for Nondestructive Examinations
E1324 Guide for Measuring Some Electronic Characteristics of Ultrasonic Testing Instruments
E1359 Guide for Auditing and Evaluating Capabilities of Nondestructive Testing Agencies
E1417 Practice for Liquid Penetrant Testing
E1418 Practice for Visible Penetrant Testing Using the Water-Washable Process
E1419 Practice for Examination of Seamless, Gas-Filled, Pressure Vessels Using Acoustic Emission
E1441 Guide for Computed Tomography (CT)
E1444 Practice for Magnetic Particle Testing
E1496 Test Method for Neutron Radiographic Dimensional Measurements (Withdrawn 2012)
E1570 Practice for Fan Beam Computed Tomographic (CT) Examination
E1571 Practice for Electromagnetic Examination of Ferromagnetic Steel Wire Rope
E1606 Practice for Electromagnetic (Eddy Current) Examination of Copper and Aluminum Redraw Rod for Electrical Purposes
E1629 Practice for Determining the Impedance of Absolute Eddy-Current Probes
E1695 Test Method for Measurement of Computed Tomography (CT) System Performance
E1742 Practice for Radiographic Examination
E1774 Guide for Electromagnetic Acoustic Transducers (EMATs)
E1781 Practice for Secondary Calibration of Acoustic Emission Sensors
E1816 Practice for Measuring thickness by Pulse-Echo Electromagnetic Acoustic Transducer (EMAT) Methods
E1888/E1888M Practice for Acoustic Emission Examination of Pressurized Containers Made of Fiberglass Reinforced Plastic
with Balsa Wood Cores
E1901 Guide for Detection and Evaluation of Discontinuities by Contact Pulse-Echo Straight-Beam Ultrasonic Methods
E1930 Practice for Examination of Liquid-Filled Atmospheric and Low-Pressure Metal Storage Tanks Using Acoustic Emission
E1932 Guide for Acoustic Emission Examination of Small Parts
E1961 Practice for Mechanized Ultrasonic Testing of Girth Welds Using Zonal Discrimination with Focused Search Units
E1962 Practice for Ultrasonic Surface Testing Using Electromagnetic Acoustic Transducer (EMAT) Techniques
E2001 Guide for Resonant Ultrasound Spectroscopy for Defect Detection in Both Metallic and Non-metallic Parts
E2002 Practice for Determining Total Image Unsharpness and Basic Spatial Resolution in Radiography and Radioscopy
E2007 Guide for Computed Radiography
E2033 Practice for Radiographic Examination Using Computed Radiography (Photostimulable Luminescence Method)
E2075 Practice for Verifying the Consistency of AE-Sensor Response Using an Acrylic Rod
E2076 Practice for Examination of Fiberglass Reinforced Plastic Fan Blades Using Acoustic Emission
E2096 Practice for In Situ Examination of Ferromagnetic Heat-Exchanger Tubes Using Remote Field Testing
E2191 Practice for Examination of Gas-Filled Filament-Wound Composite Pressure Vessels Using Acoustic Emission
E2192 Guide for Planar Flaw Height Sizing by Ultrasonics
E2223 Practice for Examination of Seamless, Gas-Filled, Steel Pressure Vessels Using Angle Beam Ultrasonics
E2261 Practice for Examination of Welds Using the Alternating Current Field Measurement Technique
E2297 Guide for Use of UV-A and Visible Light Sources and Meters used in the Liquid Penetrant and Magnetic Particle Methods
E2338 Practice for Characterization of Coatings Using Conformable Eddy Current Sensors without Coating Reference
Standards
E2373 Practice for Use of the Ultrasonic Time of Flight Diffraction (TOFD) Technique
E543 − 21
E2374 Guide for Acoustic Emission System Performance Verification
E2375 Practice for Ultrasonic Testing of Wrought Products
E2445/E2445M Practice for Performance Evaluation and Long-Term Stability of Computed Radiography Systems
E2479 Practice for Measuring the Ultrasonic Velocity in Polyethylene Tank Walls Using Lateral Longitudinal (L ) Waves
CR
E2491 Guide for Evaluating Performance Characteristics of Phased-Array Ultrasonic Testing Instruments and Systems
E2533 Guide for Nondestructive Examination of Polymer Matrix Composites Used in Aerospace Applications
E2534 Practice for Targeted Defect Detection Using Process Compensated Resonance Testing Via Swept Sine Input for Metallic
and Non-Metallic Parts
E2580 Practice for Ultrasonic Testing of Flat Panel Composites and Sandwich Core Materials Used in Aerospace Applications
E2597/E2597M Practice for Manufacturing Characterization of Digital Detector Arrays
E2698 Practice for Radiographic Examination Using Digital Detector Arrays
E2700 Practice for Contact Ultrasonic Testing of Welds Using Phased Arrays
E2736 Guide for Digital Detector Array Radiography
E2737 Practice for Digital Detector Array Performance Evaluation and Long-Term Stability
E2884 Guide for Eddy Current Testing of Electrically Conducting Materials Using Conformable Sensor Arrays
E2904 Practice for Characterization and Verification of Phased Array Probes
E2905/E2905M Practice for Examination of Mill and Kiln Girth Gear Teeth—Electromagnetic Methods
E2928/E2928M Practice for Examination of Drillstring Threads Using the Alternating Current Field Measurement Technique
E2985 Practice for Determination of Metal Purity Based on Elastic Constant Measurements Derived from Resonant Ultrasound
Spectroscopy
E3022 Practice for Measurement of Emission Characteristics and Requirements for LED UV-A Lamps Used in Fluorescent
Penetrant and Magnetic Particle Testing
E3024/E3024M Practice for Magnetic Particle Testing for General Industry
E3044/E3044M Practice for Ultrasonic Testing of Polyethylene Butt Fusion Joints
E3052 Practice for Examination of Carbon Steel Welds Using Eddy Current Array
E3081 Practice for Outlier Screening Using Process Compensated Resonance Testing via Swept Sine Input for Metallic and
Non-Metallic Parts
E3101 Practice for Microwave Examination of Polyethylene Butt Fusion Joints
E3102 Practice for Microwave Examination of Polyethylene Electrofusion Joints Used in Piping Application
E3167/E3167M Practice for Conventional Pulse-Echo Ultrasonic Testing of Polyethylene Electrofusion Joints
E3170/E3170M Practice for Phased Array Ultrasonic Testing of Polyethylene Electrofusion Joints
E3213 Practice for Part-to-Itself Examination Using Process Compensated Resonance Testing Via Swept Sine Input for Metallic
and Non-Metallic Parts
2.2 ASTM Document:
SMPTE RP 133 Specifications for Medical Diagnostic Imaging Test Pattern for Television Monitors
2.3 OtherASNT Documents:
ASNT Recommended Practice No. SNT-TC-1A Personnel Qualification and Certification in Nondestructive Testing
ANSI/ASNT-CP-189 ASNT Standard for Qualification and Certification of Nondestructive Testing Personnel
NAS-410 Certification and Qualification of Nondestructive Personnel (Quality Assurance Committee)
2.4 ISO Standards:
ISO 9001 Quality Management Systems — Requirements
ISO 9712 Nondestructive Testing — Qualification and Certification of NDT Personnel
ISO 17020 Conformity Assessment — Requirements for the Operation of Various Types of Bodies Performing Inspection
ISO 17025 General Requirements for the Competence of Testing and Calibration Laboratories
2.5 AIA Document:
NAS-410 Certification and Qualification of Nondestructive Personnel (Quality Assurance Committee)
2.6 ASME Document:
ASME ANDE-1 ASME Nondestructive Examination and Quality Control Central Qualification and Certification Program
3. Terminology
3.1 Definitions—Additional definitions are contained in the specific specification or in Terminology E1316.
Available from the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail].
Available from American Society for Nondestructive Testing (ASNT), P.O. Box 28518, 1711 Arlingate Ln., Columbus, OH 43228-0518, http://www.asnt.org.
Available from International Organization for Standardization (ISO), ISO Central Secretariat, Chemin de Blandonnet 8, CP 401, 1214 Vernier, Geneva, Switzerland,
https://www.iso.org.
Available from Aerospace Industries Association of America, Inc. (AIA), 1000 Wilson Blvd., Suite 1700, Arlington, VA 22209-3928,22209, http://www.aia-aerospace.org.
Available from American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME), ASME International Headquarters, Two Park Ave., New York, NY 10016-5990, http://
www.asme.org.
E543 − 21
3.2 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
3.2.1 agency—agency, n—the public, independent, or in-house nondestructive testing organization selected by the authority to
perform the examination(s) required by the purchase order or specification.
3.2.2 authority—authority, n—the owner, prime contractor, engineer, architect, or purchasing agent in responsible charge of the
work, or duly recognized or designated representative.
3.2.2.1 Discussion—
The agency and the authority may be the same in some cases.
4. Significance and Use
4.1 This specification is applicable where the systematic assessment of the competence of a nondestructive testing agency by a
user or other party is desired.
4.2 It is intended that the requirements specified in this specification apply to independent, public, or in-house agencies to the
extent required by the purchase order or specification. This specification does not apply to in-house equipment, methods, and
examinations used for the exclusive purpose of internal process control. It is intended that this specification apply to all
examination(s) used for the final acceptance examination(s) if such examination(s) are required by the purchase order or
specification.
4.3 Criteria are provided for evaluating the capability of an agency to properly perform designated examinations and establishes
essential characteristics pertaining to the organization, personnel, facilities, and quality systems of the agency. This specification
may be supplemented by more specific criteria and requirements for particular projects.
5. Organization of the Agency
5.1 If the agency is accredited to ISO 17025, 17020, or Specification E329, they may be considered to meet the requirements of
this section, for the applicable scope of nondestructive testing.
5.2 The following information concerning the organization of the agency shall be provided by documentation:
5.2.1 A description of the organization including:
5.2.1.1 The complete legal name and address of the main office,
5.2.1.2 The names and positions of the principal officers and directors,
5.2.1.3 The agency’s ownership, managerial structure, and principal members,
5.2.1.4 The functional description of the agency’s organization structure, operational departments, and support departments and
services. This may be demonstrated in the form of charts that depict all the divisions, departments, sections and units, and their
relationships,
5.2.1.5 All relevant organizational affiliates of the agency and the principal officers of affiliates and directors of the affiliates where
applicable,
5.2.1.6 External organizations and organizational components and their functions that are utilized for significant technical support
services, and
5.2.1.7 A brief history of the agency including its relationship with its organizational component affiliations and other supporting
information.
5.2.2 A general description of the type of users of the agency’s services.
5.2.3 A listing of the relevant technical services offered.
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5.2.4 A list giving applicable dates of the qualifications, accreditations, and recognition of the agency by others.
6. Responsibilities and Duties
6.1 A nondestructive testing agency’s capabilities should include, but not be limited to, one or more of the following methods:
magnetic particle, penetrant, radiographic/fluoroscopic, ultrasonic, eddy current, electromagnetic (eddy current), and leak testing.
NOTE 1—A comparison of selected NDE Methods is provided as Appendix X1.
6.2 It is the responsibility of the agency to ensure that:
6.2.1 It performs only examinations for which it is adequately equipped and staffed.
6.2.2 Its employees perform only examinations for which they are adequately qualified.
6.2.3 Its equipment is calibrated and personnel are certified in accordance with applicable specifications.
6.2.4 All equipment is properly maintained.
6.2.5 It informs the authority of any discrepancy or limitation imposed on the testing accuracy by such factors as surface finish,
form, shape, or procedure.
6.3 The following duties are those usually performed by the agency:
6.3.1 To perform all examinations in accordance with specified standards or quality-control criteria, or both. (The necessary
documents shall be furnished by the authority, or the agency, or both, as specified in the applicable purchase agreements.) The
agency should call to the attention of the authority at once any irregularity or deficiency noted in the documents.
6.3.2 To submit promptly to the authority formal reports of all examinations that indicate compliance or noncompliance of the
material with 6.3.1. The agency should be prepared to substantiate examination results when required.
6.4 The agency may, in accordance with an agreement with the authority, report only compliance or noncompliance with the
applicable specifications or control documents. The authority reserves the right for disposition of noncomplying material.
6.5 The authority may, at its discretion, inspect the procedures, equipment, and personnel program of the agency.
7. Personnel
7.1 If the agency is accredited to ISO 17025, 17020, or Specification E329, they may be considered to meet the requirements of
this section.
7.2 The agency shall document the following:
7.2.1 Written outline or chart defining operational personnel positions and their lines of responsibility and authority.
7.2.2 Summary job description for each professional, scientific, supervisory, and technical position category, documenting the
required education, training, or experience, or a combination thereof.
7.2.3 Records or resumes that document the qualifications, work experience, and training history of each person in a position
described in 7.1.27.2.2.
7.3 The agency shall make available a description of its means of ensuring the continued competence of its personnel to perform
NDT, including the maintenance of written records to document the results.
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8. Personnel Qualification/Certifications
8.1 Nondestructive testing (NDT) personnel shall be qualified and certified in accordance with a nationally or internationally
recognized NDT personnel qualifications practice or standards such as ANSI/ASNT-CP-189, SNT-TC-1A, NAS-410, ISO 9712,
ASME ANDE-1, or a similar document. The practice or standard used and the applicable revision shall be specified in the
contractual agreement between parties.
PROCEDURE MANUAL
9. Minimum RequirementsRequirements:
9.1 If the agency is accredited to ISO 17025, 17020, or Specification E329, they may be considered to meet the requirements of
this section, for the applicable scope of nondestructive testing.
9.2 Each agency shall have prepared a written Procedures Manual for the type of work for which the agency is contracted. The
manual shall be prepared in accordance with the requirements of Practice E1212. Additional requirements or clarifications are
contained in 9.29.3 through 9.69.7. The manual shall be of sufficient detail to provide complete guidance for their use by the
agency’s personnel.
9.2.1 The agency management shall designate a person or persons within the agency who has responsibility for maintaining the
agency’s quality system. This person(s) shall have direct access to top management. This person shall conduct and document an
internal audit at least once every year to verify that the quality system is functioning properly.
9.3 Process Control (Operational Procedures)—This section shall contain the information necessary to control the various
activities necessary for the examination of materials. Items covered shall include receiving and preparing material, identification
and marking, test procedures and specifications to use, reports, and return of material.
9.4 Personnel Qualification—The requirements, procedures for training, certification, and recertification for each level of
qualification.
9.5 Equipment Maintenance and Calibration—This section shall contain all of the following:
9.5.1 Inventory Listing—All available equipment shall be listed with the following information noted:
9.5.1.1 Name of the manufacturer.
9.5.1.2 Equipment model and serial number.
9.5.1.3 Characteristics subject to calibration.
9.5.1.4 Range of operation and range of calibration.
9.5.1.5 Reference to recognized standardization procedures acceptable to the authority, if applicable.
9.5.1.6 Frequency of calibration.
9.5.1.7 Allowable tolerances or maximum sensitivity.
9.5.1.8 Source of verification.
9.5.2 Calibration—Each instrument or machine, when calibration is required, shall have either a calibration sticker affixed, or
record of certification on file, containing the following:
9.5.2.1 Instrument calibrated.
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9.5.2.2 Serial number.
9.5.2.3 Calibration date.
9.5.2.4 Calibration next due.
9.5.2.5 Name of individual who performed last calibration. If calibration is not required, a sticker, stating no calibration is
necessary shall be affixed, or a record shall be on file to this effect.
9.5.3 The equipment shall be calibrated against currently certified standards calibrated by accepted government or industrial
agencies (or shall indicate that it is calibrated as used, or that no calibration is necessary) at least at the intervals specified in the
written procedure which shall also specify who is to calibrate each equipment type.
9.5.4 Written records of the results of the checks and calibrations are to be maintained at a central location. The required checks
are minimum and do not relieve the responsibility of constantly checking and immediately repairing any item which may affect
testexamination results. A history of the repairs, modifications, or substitutions shall be maintained.
9.6 Equipment Operation and Technique File:
9.6.1 Each type of equipment in use shall have a complete manual which contains all information necessary to operate and
maintain the equipment in accordance with applicable codes and specifications. The manual shall include the maintenance
procedures and schedules for each type of equipment and the calibration schedule of each type of equipment.
9.6.2 A technique file should be maintained for each type of equipment. It should be available for the guidance of the technician.
The manual shall include:
9.6.2.1 Summary of testexamination procedure.
9.6.2.2 Step-by-step preparation of material for examination.
9.6.2.3 Reference standard.
9.6.2.4 Control of essential variables, such as the time required for each testexamination step (if applicable).
9.6.2.5 What indications should appear at each step.
9.6.2.6 Indications and their evaluations.
9.6.2.7 Recording of testexamination results.
9.7 Records and Documentation:
9.7.1 Records—All applicable records pertaining to 9.29.3 through 9.59.6 shall be maintained in a central file and in other
accessible files as necessary, and should be available for examination by the authority.
9.7.2 The internal process forms or job record forms shall be filed with the written report to the authority and become a part of
the permanent record. They should include the following minimum information:
9.7.2.1 Order and reference numbers.
9.7.2.2 Specification.
9.7.2.3 Type of testexamination and procedure identification.
9.7.2.4 Serial or part numbers, alloy numbers, heat and lot numbers, as applicable.
9.7.2.5 Special instructions from the customer.
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9.7.2.6 Customer’s (authority’s) name.
9.7.2.7 Results of the examination.
9.7.2.8 A notation of all known deviations from any standard testexamination method(s) referenced and all requirements of the
testexamination method(s) that were not performed by the agency.
9.7.3 All applicable internal reports should be signed by the technician performing the work and by Level II or Level III personnel.
A procedure for auditing of reports by Level III personnel must be included.
9.7.4 Personnel qualification records should be developed in accordance with 8.1 and be available in an active file as long as
employment continues. When personnel leave the agency, the records may be transferred to an inactive file but should not be
discarded for a period of five years or as otherwise specified.
9.7.5 Specification File—The company should maintain an orderly file containing all codes, specifications, and amendments under
which it is performing work. The company does not have to possess codes and specifications for which it has no use.
10. Keywords
10.1 equipment calibration; laboratory evaluation; NDT laboratories; personnel certification; quality control; quality manual
ANNEX
(Mandatory Information)
A1. EQUIPMENT FOR NONDESTRUCTIVE TESTING
A1.1 General
A1.1.1 The agency responsible for nondestructive examination of material should be equipped with, or have access to, at least the
equipment listed for the applicable processes.
A1.1.2 Nondestructive testing systems can include multiple examination stations with extensive supporting mechanisms and
controls. Others may be simply utilizing only manual application of a basic instrument.
NOTE A1.1—Sections A1.2 through A1.8 of this specification are intended to be educational, although they do contain some mandatory requirements.
Section 2 provides a list of documents which include specific requirements in the applicable testexamination methods.
A1.2 Magnetic Particle Equipment
A1.2.1 Equipment for Magnetization of Parts shall be capable of inducing a flux density of sufficient intensity and direction to
perform the required examination. Either a-c or d-c (fullwave or half-wave rectified) equipment or permanent magnets shall be
used as specified by the contract, purchase order, or specification to produce the required magnetization.
A1.2.1.1 The part or a section of the part may be magnetized by induction or by passing current through the part or section by
permanent conductors, contact plates, clamps, or prods. After proper cleaning of the part, the magnetic particles may be applied
either wet or dry.
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A1.2.1.2 The magnetic field is induced in the part by the use of any of the following:
(1) Yoke—Used to magnetize sections of parts. It is a U-shaped iron core with a coil around the cross bar or a U-shaped or
flexible permanent magnet. The magnetic field across the open ends is used to induce a magnetic field in the part or section. The
yoke’s fixed or movable legs are used with the open ends in contact with the part. The yoke is normally operated by line voltages
(110 or 220 V).
(2) Coil—Used to magnetize parts or sections. It is a current-carrying conductor formed into a coil of several turns. The
magnetic field inside the coil is used to induce a magnetic field into the part or section.
(3) Prods—Used to magnetize sections of parts. They are rods, normally ⁄2 to 1 in. (12.7 to 25.4 mm) in diameter and 8 to
10 in. (203 to 254 mm) in length, made of copper with a handle on one end. The ends of a pair of prods are placed on the part
and current passed from one prod to the other through the part. The magnetic field is produced in the area between the prods.
(4) Clamps—Used to magnetize sections of parts. They are spring-loaded clamps with braided copper pads on the inside of
the jaws. The clamps are clamped onto the part and a current is passed from one clamp to the other through a part.
(5) Pads—Used in stationary equipment to magnetize parts. They are braided copper or lead pads placed at each end of the
part. Current is passed from one pad to the other through the part. Pads are normally used with stationary equipment and rigged
so that the pads are in contact with the part under pressure.
A1.2.1.3 The coils, prods, clamps, and pads are energized with high-amperage low-voltage currents. Therefore, equipment must
be available to transform line current and, when required, to rectify it. The equipment should contain an ammeter to indicate the
magnetizing amperage, suitable switches, and, when required, timers to control the length of time that the current is applied. If
different amperages are required, the equipment shall produce the maximum required amperage with a suitable control for reducing
the amperage to the required lower levels. Cables should be of adequate but not excessive length and large enough to carry the
required amperage.
A1.2.1.4 Magnetic particles may be applied either wet or dry. Dry particles should be applied uniformly with a dusting or light
blowing action. Wet particles should be applied by aerosol cans or by hosing. Provisions should be available to ensure that the
required amount of particles are in suspension when the spray is applied and to periodically check the concentration of the solution.
A1.2.1.5 Adequate lighting shall be available when the parts are viewed for indications. When fluorescent dyed particles are used,
ultraviolet light (3200 to 3800 Å (320 to 380 nm)) must be available. Adequate white light must be available when viewing visible
dyed particles and should be available for use, as needed, when viewing fluorescent dyed particles.
A1.2.2 Equipment for Demagnetization should be capable of demagnetizing all part configurations, to the minimum residual field
specified in the specification or purchase document, regardless of size and configuration. Demagnetization is normally
accomplished by stepping down a-c or d-c voltage while the direction of the d-c is changed between each step, or by withdrawing
the part from an a-c field. Demagnetization can be accomplished by induced fields or by passing a current through the part. Induced
fields using coils are generally the most effective method. Facilities should include a coil, cables (when required) and equipment
to produce adequate voltages and amperages, reversing and stepdown switches, and a meter to indicate residual external magnetic
fields.
NOTE A1.2—See Guide E709, Reference Photographs E125, Terminology E1316, and Practice E1444, and Practice E3024/E3024M for other requirements
for magnetic particle inspection.testing.
A1.3 X- and Gamma-ray Radiographic Equipment
A1.3.1 Radiation Source—The radiation source shall be capable of producing sufficient energy and intensity to examine materials
in accordance with required specifications. Either X-rays or gamma rays may be used, unless otherwise specified by the contract,
specification, or purchase order.
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A1.3.1.1 X-ray equipment should contain voltage and amperage controls (when applicable) and meters, a timer to time the length
of the exposure, or other approved controls, and provisions for positioning the tube head and the part being X-rayed (when
applicable). The voltage and amperage range of the equipment must be adequate to penetrate the thickness of the material to be
evaluated and produce acceptable film densities.
A1.3.1.2 Gamma rays are produced by radioactive materials, such as cobalt-60 cobalt-60, Se-75, and iridium-192. Different
isotopes emit gamma rays in a specific energy range. The isotope (size, energy level, and strength) should be selected in view of
the application (material, thickness, required image quality indicator, sensitivity) and a reasonable exposure time.
A1.3.2 Safety and Monitoring Equipment consistent with good practice and current regulations should be available and normally
includes safety switches, survey meters, film badges, dosimeters, signs, ropes, lead-lined room, and so forth, as applicable. Also,
lead sheet, shot, or leaded rubber should be available to control or reduce scattered radiation.
A1.3.3 Radiographic Quality Level and Identification Equipment. Image Quality Indicators (IQI’s) are used to evaluate the
sensitivity of both setup and processing techniques. They must be made from material that is radiographically similar to, and that
represents the specified percentage thickness of the material to be evaluated. The IQI’s must be clean and properly identified.
Blocks shall be available on which the IQI can be placed during the exposure, if required. The thickness of the blocks should be
approximately equal to the thickness of the sections being radiographed and radiographically similar. When exposing
nonhomogeneous specimens such as electronic components or other complex structured devices, IQI’s shall be selected to produce
similar image densities to that of the area of interest of the device being radiographed. Lead numbers and letters of adequate size
and thickness should be available for film identification purposes. There should be a sufficient number of each letter and number
to put all required identification on the film. However, alternative methods of permanent film identification are permitted. Examples
are light box exposures and permanent white ink.
A1.3.4 Imaging Systems—The imaging system, that is, film, fluoroscope, computed radiography scanner, digital detector array,
linear detector array, and so forth, shall be capable of recording or displaying an image to the sensitivity and contrast required by
the applicable specification, purchase order, or contract. Film, or paper if permitted, should be stored in a cool, dry place that is
completely protected from direct or scattered radiation (background radiation excluded). Various types of intensifying screens are
used in industrial applications, with the most common being lead compound (or lead oxide) and fluorescent. When intensifying
screens are employed, they should be clean and free of scratches, wrinkles, surface contamination, and any other conditions that
may interfere with the production of a quality radiograph. Imaging plates used in computed radiography scanners should be used,
stored, and handled according to Practice E2033. Digital detector arrays should be used according to Practice E2698.
A1.3.5 Processing and Viewing Equipment—Processing equipment, such as darkroom facilities, densitometers, and so forth,
image display monitors, shall be adequate to ensure that the quality intent of the applicable specifications is maintained.
A1.3.5.1 A darkroom or other suitable facility must be available to handle film when loading exposure holders, cutting preloaded
strip film, and when removing the film from the holder for processing. The darkroom should be equipped with both safe and white
lights and a work area to handle the film.
A1.3.5.2 When hand-processing equipment is used, facilities must be available to process the film, in developer solution, stop bath
or fresh water rinse, in fixer, and in a final fresh water rinse (preferably not the rinse used between develop and fix), and should
include the use of a film dryer and a timer with an alarm. A time/temperature relationship for film processing must be maintained.
A1.3.5.3 When automatic processing equipment is used, it must be clean and time/temperature relationships and replenishment
rates must be maintained.
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A1.3.5.4 Facilities for viewing the radiograph and for measuring photographic or optical density must be available. The viewing
equipment should include both high- and normal-intensity lights or separate viewers. A light transmission-type densitometer should
be available to measure film density. A reflection-type densitometer should be available to measure the density of X-ray paper.
A1.3.5.5 Facilities for viewing the digital radiograph on an image display monitor shall meet the requirements in Practices E2033
and E2698. A calibrated light meter shall be used to verify the image display monitor brightness and contrast. A test pattern for
verifying monitor performance shall comply with SMPTE RP 133. An image display test pattern, in accordance with the
requirements of SMPTE RP 133 shall be configured for the system display resolution and aspect ratio. Alternate test patterns may
be used providing they include the features described in SMPTE RP 133.
A1.3.6 Computed Tomography (CT)—CT equipment consists of a radiation source as in A1.3.1, a part manipulator, a digital image
detector as in A1.3.4, and control and processing computing. The part manipulator rotates the part while radiographic images are
taken from many different angles. The computer reconstructs one or many cross-sectional images of the part depending on how
the data is taken. The cross-sectional images may be stacked into a three-dimensional volume rendering. CT is performed and
controlled per Practice E1570.
A1.3.7 Reference Standards—Reference standards must be in accordance with authority-furnished standards or specifications, or
both, and when possible, should be established by the use of the applicable set of ASTM reference radiographs.
NOTE A1.3—See Guides E94, E431, and E592, E1441, E2007, and E2736; Practices E747, E801, E1025, E1255and, E1570, E1695, E1742, E2002,
E2033, E2445/E2445M, E2698, E2597/E2597M, and E2737; Test Methods E746, E1030, and E1032, and E1695; and Terminology E1316 for additional
information concerning radiographic examination, and Guides E999 and E1254 for information on film processing and storage.
A1.4 Neutron Radiographic Equipment
A1.4.1 Neutron Beam—The neutron beam shall consist mainly of collimated thermal neutrons, free of excessive scattered neutrons
and, for the direct exposure method as defined in Practices E748, free of excessive gamma radiation. The degree of collimation,
(L/D ratio) and neutron to gamma ratio shall be sufficient to provide clear images of objects in the area of interest. Other standards
or Method E545, or combinations thereof, should be used as appropriate to verify sensitivity and beam quality.
A1.4.1.1 The neutron source shall provide adequate neutron flux to produce the specified radiographic quality in a timely
exposure. The source aperture or other method of collimation must be well defined to provide the image sharpness required.
Method E803 can be used to make an analytical evaluation of the effective L/D ratio. The neutron source may be a reactor,
accelerator, or radioisotope, provided the requirements of the specification can be met.
A1.4.2 Safety and Monitoring Equipment, consistent with good practice and current regulations should be available and normally
includes area monitors, safety switches, survey meters, film badges, dosimeters, signs, personnel barriers, adequate gamma and
neutron shielding, etc., as appropriate to ensure the safety of operating and visiting perso
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