Ultrasonic Test (UT) Equipment Education and Training

Gain responsibility and learn more by progressing through Levels I-III of UT equipment training
By Virginia Franco, Freelance Writer Ultrasonic testing equipment, or UT equipment, are test machines with high or ultra-sound frequencies used to identify material thickness or anomalies. Ultrasonic test (UT) equipment is used by those in the petrochemical industry to test for proper thickness of pipe and pressure vessel walls, which can become thin over time due to corrosion and erosion.

To operate UT test equipment, or to perform ultrasonic thickness testing as well as other more technical testing, it is necessary to receive the appropriate ultrasonic test (UT) equipment education and training. There are various levels of education and the more you receive will dictate the complexity of the UT testing you are able to perform. This article will provide an overview of each of the UT test levels.

1. Level I courses offer a comprehensive overview for those with little or no background in ultrasonic testing and UT testing equipment.

2. Level II ultrasonic testing is considered an advanced course that provides a lot of lab work to help developing practical skills.

3. Ultrasonic testing Level III course work is for those who wish to supervise Level Is and IIs and teaches higher levels of interpretation and evaluation of UT equipment results.

Gain an overview with Level I UT testing training

An employee with ultrasonic test (UT) equipment education and training -- Level I under their belts can conduct thickness tests, but is usually not authorized to evaluate the results. Level I programs offer a detailed overview of UT theory and equipment operation. Students are taught how to test and record results properly.
Try:  Rockwood Services' Hellier's Level I course satisfies the training hours needed for SNT-TC-1A, ANSI/ASNT CP-189, and NAS-410. TCR Engineering Services' Institute for Materials Technology in Navi Mumbai, India, offers a 40-hour Level I course for international students.

Evaluate findings and get prepared for more "hands on" work with Level II UT test coursework

Those who go on to receive Level II certification are able to evaluate findings. The course generally teaches students practical skills about weld and bond inspection as well as immersion techniques.
Try:  PQT Services offers a 40-hour Ultrasonic Testing Level II course. Western Nevada College's Level II course also meets the requirements in SNT-TC-1A and the MIL-Std 410.

Gain supervisory responsibilities with UT testing Level III certification

Level III certification includes instruction in higher-level subjects including ultrasonic shear wave, time of flight diffraction and guided wave testing. Students are also taught more advanced ways to inspect welds and material thickness. Those with Level III UT certification can supervise others with Level I and II certifications.
Try:  Southern Inspection Services offers UT Level III preparatory coursework. Aquatech NDT Services offers training at its Miami and Trinidad locations.

• If your business is looking to obtain certification for several UT test candidates, consider hiring a training company to offer the coursework on site. While you will likely be responsible for airfare and lodging of the instructors, many companies will offer a negotiated price for several students.