PCN Training Curriculum

Ultrasonic Testing (UT)
What is Ultrasonic Testing?

Ultrasonic is a high frequency of sound pulses that are emitted from a transducer above a sample. The sound waves propagate through the sample, and reflect at interfaces. The reflected waves are monitored using a detector above the sample. The thickness of the sample, and the depth and type of flaw can be ascertained using this method. The method can be applied to most materials if sound transmission is good. Quick high sensitive results are obtained.

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For Level I
What are the responsibilities of a individual who is certified to Ultrasonic Level 1?

An individual certified to Ultrasonic Level 1 has to demonstrate competence to carry out NDT according to written instructions and under the supervision of Level 2 or Level 3 personnel. Within the scope of the competence defined on the certificate, Ultrasonic Level 1 personnel may be authorised by the employer to perform the following in accordance with NDT instructions:

Set up Ultrasonic Testing equipment;
Perform the Ultrasonic Inspection tests;
Record and classify the results of the tests according to written criteria;
Report the results
Level 1 certified personnel shall neither be responsible for the choice of test method or technique to be used, nor for the interpretation of test results.

Entry Requirements (For Examination)
The minimum required duration of training, which includes both theoretical and practical elements, is: : Level 1- 40 hours
The minimum duration for experience prior to or following success in the qualification examination is : Level 1 - 3 Months

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Ultrasonic Testing (UT)
For Level II
What are the responsibilities of a individual who is certified to Ultrasonic Level 2?

An individual certified to Ultrasonic Level 2 has demonstrated competence to perform NDT according to Ultrasonic Testing procedures. Within the scope of the competence defined on the certificate, Level 2 personnel may be authorised by the employer to:

Select the Ultrasonic technique for the test method to be used;
Define the limitations of application of the testing method;
Translate NDT codes, standards, specifications and procedures into NDT instructions adapted to the actual working conditions;
Set up and verify equipment settings;
Perform and supervise tests;
Interpret and evaluate results according to applicable standards, codes, specifications or procedures;
Prepare Ultrasonic written instructions
Carry out and supervise all tasks at or below level 2;
Provide guidance for personnel at or below level 2, and
Report the results of Ultrasonic test

Entry Requirements (For Examination)
The minimum required duration of training, which includes both theoretical and practical elements, is: : Level 2 - 120 hours
The minimum duration for experience prior to or following success in the qualification examination is : Level 2 - 12 Months

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PHASED ARRAY ULTRASONIC TESTING(PAUT)
For Level I

This programme provides detailed instructions on the inspection of ferritic welds by the use of phased array ultrasonic testing. Suitable only for holders of current, valid UT certification approved and accepted by PCN. This phased array training course is PCN recognised and provides excellent preparation for the Level 1 examinations.

Introduction and history of Ultrasonic Testing Phased Array Technique
Principles of Phased Array Probes and Beam forming
Phased Array Instrument
Scan plan preparation
Set of machine with calibrations and sensitivity
Scanning with phased array probe
Software for data collection
Software familiarity
Procedure for verification of flaw existence and position & Reporting
Use of software tools
Data analysis

Responsibilities of an Ultrasonic Phased Array Level 1 certified NDT professional:

An individual certified to Level 1 has demonstrated competence to carry out PAUT according to written instructions and under the supervision of Level 2 or Level 3 personnel.
Level 1 personnel may be authorised to perform the following in accordance with instructions:

Set up PAUT equipment
Perform the tests
Record and classify the results of the tests according to written criteria
Report the results
Level 1 certified personnel shall neither be responsible for the choice of test method or technique to be used, nor for the interpretation of test results.

Training and experience hours required for Certification
Full PCN certification is only achieved once the required experience is acquired following the completion of the required training hours and passing of the examination:

Ultrasonic Phased Array
Training - 40 hours
Experience - 1 months

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For Level II
What is Ultrasonic Phased Array?

Phased Array technology is the ability to modify electronically the acoustic probe characteristics. Probe modifications are performed by introducing time shifts in the signals sent to and received from individual elements of an array probe. Any Ultrasonic techniques for flaw detection and sizing can be applied using Phased-Array probes. Phased Array provides high speed electronic scanning without moving parts, improved inspection capabilities through software control of beam characteristics, inspection with multiple angles with a single electronically controlled probe, many configurations; P/E, T/R, TOFD and Tandem, and greater flexibility for inspection of complex geometries (optimized focusing and optimised beam angle).

Phased Array can be used for the following applications; raw material production, aircraft, naval, power generation, petrochemical and anything else that currently applies pulse-echo testing.

What are the responsibilities of a individual who is certified to Ultrasonic PA Level 2?
An individual certified to UT PA Level 2 has demonstrated competence to perform NDT according to UT PA procedures. Within the scope of the competence defined on the certificate, Level 2 personnel may be authorised by the employer to:

Select the UT PA technique for the test method to be used;
Define the limitations of application of the testing method;
Translate NDT codes, standards, specifications and procedures into NDT instructions adapted to the actual working conditions;
Set up and verify equipment settings;
Perform and supervise tests;
Interpret and evaluate results according to applicable standards, codes, specifications or procedures;
Prepare UT PA written instructions
Carry out and supervise all tasks at or below level 2;
Provide guidance for personnel at or below level 2, and
Report the results of UT PA test

General Theory:
Principles of Phased Array probes
Principles of inspection sensitivity
Phased Array Instrument
Scanning with Phased Array probes
Calibration and checks
Software for data collection and data analysis
Principles of data analysis
Software familiarity
Use of software tools for defect detection and sizing
Data analysis
Procedures for verification of flaw existence and position
Reporting

Entry Requirements (For Examination)
The minimum required duration of training, which includes both theoretical and practical elements, is: : Level 2 - 120 hours
The minimum duration for experience prior to or following success in the qualification examination is : Level 2 – 4 months minimum

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TIME OF FLIGHT DIFFRACTION ULTRASONIC TESTING (TOFD)
Level I

This TOFD welds course provides detailed information on the inspection of ferritic steel welds by the ultrasonic time of flight method. Suitable for personnel with existing UT Certification in welds, and recognised by PCN, providing excellent preparation for the Level 1 examinations. It meets the full training hour requirements as specified by the relevant PCN documentation.
(Note: Level 1 requires a minimum of 40 hours’ training. The course utilises the latest Technology Design and Olympus TOFD equipment.

Content
Ultrasonic theory
History of TOFD
Principles of TOFD
Hardware utilised in TOFD
Calibration/setting up of equipment
Effect of PCS and Probe angle and frequency
Extensive practical element
Analysis software
Analysis and interpretation
Reporting

Responsibilities of an Ultrasonic Time of Flight Diffraction (TOFD) Level I certified NDT professional

An individual certified to Level 1 has demonstrated competence to carry out ToFD according to written instructions and under the supervision of Level 2 or Level 3 personnel.

Level 1 personnel may be authorised to perform the following in accordance with TOFD NDT instructions:
• set up TOFD equipment
• perform the tests
• record and classify the results of the tests according to written criteria • Report the results
• TOFD Level 1 certified personnel shall neither be responsible for the choice of test method or technique to § be used, nor for the interpretation of test results carry out and supervise all tasks at or below Level 2

Training and experience hours required for Certification
Full PCN certification is only achieved once the required experience is acquired following the completion of the required training hours and passing of the examination:

Ultrasonic Time of Flight Diffraction
Training – 40 hours
Experience -3 months

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Level II
What is Ultrasonic TOFD?

Time of Flight Diffraction is an Ultrasonic technique developed originally to improve the sizing accuracy of flaws previously detected by other means. Early applications of the technique advanced from solely sizing flaws to applications relying on TOFD for principle detection means, this pioneering technology resulted in major flaws being missed due to poor application and a general lack of understanding by persons operating the equipment.

What are the responsibilities of an individual who is certified to UT TOFD Level 2?
An individual certified to UT TOFD Level 2 has demonstrated competence to perform NDT according to UT TOFD procedures. Within the scope of the competence defined on the certificate, Level 2 personnel may be authorised by the employer to:

Select the UT TOFD technique for the test method to be used;
Define the limitations of application of the testing method;
Translate NDT codes, standards, specifications and procedures into NDT instructions adapted to the actual working conditions;
Set up and verify equipment settings;
Perform and supervise tests;
Interpret and evaluate results according to applicable standards, codes, specifications or procedures;
Prepare UT TOFD written instructions
Carry out and supervise all tasks at or below level 2;
Provide guidance for personnel at or below level 2, and
Report the results of UT TOFD test

Entry Requirements (For Examination)
The minimum required duration of training, which includes both theoretical and practical elements, is: : Level 2 - 80 hours
The minimum duration for experience prior to or following success in the qualification examination is : Level 2 - 12 Months

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MAGNETIC TESTING (MT)
LEVEL 1

What is Magnetic Testing?
Magnetic Testing involves the magnetisation of a component, followed by the application of ferromagnetic particles. The particles align along discontinuities in the surface, or shallow sub-surface discontinuities. This method is used to test welds, castings, and forgings for surface or subsurface defects; however it can only be used on ferromagnetic metals.

What are the responsibilities of a individual who is certified to Magnetic Level 1?

An individual certified to Magnetic Level 1 has to demonstrate competence to carry out NDT according to written instructions and under the supervision of Level 2 or Level 3 personnel. Within the scope of the competence defined on the certificate, Magnetic Level 1 personnel may be authorised by the employer to perform the following in accordance with NDT instructions:

Set up Magnetic Testing equipment;
Perform the Magnetic Inspection tests;
Record and classify the results of the tests according to written criteria;
Report the results
Level 1 certified personnel shall neither be responsible for the choice of test method or technique to be used, nor for the interpretation of test results.

Entry Requirements (For Examination)
The minimum duration of training, which includes both theoretical and practical elements, is : Level 1 - 16 hours
The minimum duration for experience prior to or following success in the qualification examination is : Level 1- 1 Months)

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MAGNETIC TESTING (MT)
LEVEL II

What are the responsibilities of a individual who is certified to Magnetic Level 2?
An individual certified to Magnetic Level 2 has demonstrated competence to perform NDT according to Magnetic Testing procedures. Within the scope of the competence defined on the certificate, Level 2 personnel may be authorised by the employer to:

Select the Magnetic technique for the test method to be used;
Define the limitations of application of the testing method;
Translate NDT codes, standards, specifications and procedures into NDT instructions adapted to the actual working conditions;
Set up and verify equipment settings;
Perform and supervise tests;
Interpret and evaluate results according to applicable standards, codes, specifications or procedures;
Prepare Magnetic written instructions
Carry out and supervise all tasks at or below Level 2;
Provide guidance for personnel at or below Level 2, and
Report the results of Magnetic test

Entry Requirements (For Examination)
The minimum duration of training, which includes both theoretical and practical elements, is : Level 2 - 40 hours
The minimum duration for experience prior to or following success in the qualification examination is : Level 2 - 4 Months

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PENETRANT TESTING (PT)
LEVEL I

What is Penetrant Testing?
Penetrant testing involves applying a visible or fluorescent dye to the surface. The dye enters the discontinuities via capillary action. The method can be applied to any non-absorbent material with uncoated surfaces.

What are the responsibilities of a individual who is certified to Penetrant Level 1?
An individual certified to Penetrant Level 1 has to demonstrate competence to carry out NDT according to written instructions and under the supervision of Level 2 or Level 3 personnel. Within the scope of the competence defined on the certificate, Penetrant Level 1 personnel may be authorised by the employer to perform the following in accordance with NDT instructions:

Set up Penetrant Testing equipment;
Perform the Penetrant Inspection tests;
Record and classify the results of the tests according to written criteria;
Report the results
Level 1 certified personnel shall neither be responsible for the choice of test method or technique to be used, nor for the interpretation of test results.

Entry Requirements (For Examination)
The minimum required duration of training, which includes both theoretical and practical elements, is: : Level 1 - 16 hours
The minimum duration for experience prior to or following success in the qualification examination is : Level 1 - 1 Months

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PENETRANT TESTING (PT)
LEVEL II

What are the responsibilities of a individual who is certified to Penetrant Level 2?

An individual certified to Penetrant Level 2 has demonstrated competence to perform NDT according to Penetrant Testing procedures. Within the scope of the competence defined on the certificate, Level 2 personnel may be authorised by the employer to:

Select the Penetrant technique for the test method to be used;
Define the limitations of application of the testing method;
Translate NDT codes, standards, specifications and procedures into NDT instructions adapted to the actual working conditions;
Set up and verify equipment settings;
Perform and supervise tests;
Interpret and evaluate results according to applicable standards, codes, specifications or procedures;
Prepare Penetrant written instructions
Carry out and supervise all tasks at or below level 2;
Provide guidance for personnel at or below level 2, and
Report the results of Penetrant test

Entry Requirements (For Examination)
The minimum required duration of training, which includes both theoretical and practical elements, is: : Level 2 - 40 hours The minimum duration for experience prior to or following success in the qualification examination is : Level 2 - 4 Months

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RADIOGRAPHIC INTERPRETATION WELDS
LEVEL II

What is Radiographic Interpretation?
The Radiographic Interpretation course only covers the interpretation of the radiograph, therefore is suitable for personnel wishing to only interpret radiographs as opposed to creating radiographs via Radiographic testing.

What are the responsibilities of a individual who is certified to Radiographic Interpretation Level 2?

An individual certified to Radiographic Interpretation Level 2 has demonstrated competence to perform NDT according to Radiographic Interpretation procedures. Within the scope of the competence defined on the certificate, Level 2 personnel may be authorised by the employer to:

Select the Radiographic Interpretation technique for the test method to be used; Define the limitations of application of the testing method;
Translate NDT codes, standards, specifications and procedures into NDT instructions adapted to the actual working conditions;
Calibrate and verify equipment settings;
Interpret and evaluate results according to applicable standards, codes, specifications or procedures;
Prepare Radiographic Interpretation written instructions
Carry out and supervise all tasks at or below level 2;
Provide guidance for personnel at or below level 2, and
Report the results of Radiographic Interpretation tests

COURSE DURATION :
THE MINIMUM REQUIRED DURATION OF TRAINING, WHICH INCLUDES BOTH THEORETICAL AND PRACTICAL ELEMENTS, IS:LEVEL 2 - 56 HOURS

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS (FOR EXAMINATION)
THE MINIMUM DURATION FOR EXPERIENCE PRIOR TO OR FOLLOWING SUCCESS IN THE QUALIFICATION EXAMINATION IS:LEVEL 2 - 6 MONTHS Course Schedule: Contact us for Latest course schedule

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