Non-Destructive Ultrasonic Testing Technician

The purpose of this qualification is to prepare a learner to operate as a Non-Destructive Ultrasonic Testing Technician. A Non-Destructive Ultrasonic Testing Technician (NDT Level 2) applies a wide range of non-invasive analysis techniques used in science, engineering, and industry to evaluate the properties of a material, component, or system. A Non-Destructive Ultrasonic Testing Technician can set up and calibrate equipment (up to a point depending on the nature of the calibration), conduct the inspection according to procedures, interpret, evaluate, and document results in all the testing method(s). A qualified learner will be able to: • Select ultrasonic testing technique and prepare instructions. • Prepare for ultrasonic testing according to instructions. • Conduct ultrasonic testing and then interpret whether indications are relevant or non-relevant, according to prescribed procedures. • Evaluate ultrasonic testing results by applying technical methods to examine materials and evaluating results according to codes.

A non-destructive ultrasonic testing, a method of non-destructive testing (NDT), is one of the engineering sciences, which is on par with materials sciences, materials engineering, welding sciences and engineering, transport engineering, chemical engineering, and mechanical engineering - which includes finite element analysis (FEA), condition monitoring and fracture mechanics. This qualification is one of a suites of seven (7) non-destructive testing qualifications. All these non-destructive testing methods are based on international standards. The other six (6) methods are: • Non-Destructive Magnetic Particle Testing Technician. • Non-Destructive Liquid Penetrant Testing Technician. • Non-Destructive Radiographic Testing Technician. • Non-Destructive Visual Testing Technician. • Non-Destructive Eddy Current Testing Technician. • Non-Destructive Ultrasonic Wall Thickness Testing Operator Currently, ultrasonic testing competencies are found in the Further Education and Training Certificate: Welding Application and Practice (ID 57887) as an elective stream entitled Non-Destructive Testing. However, most of the industry seems to offer Non-Destructive Ultrasonic Testing qualifications based on international standards and programmes. Some offer ISO 9712 based programmes, others offer qualifications based on those of the British Standard Institute (BSI, or the European Standard (EN ISO: 9712) or the Training Guidelines in Non-destructive Testing Techniques: 2008 Edition of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) or the standards of the American Society for Non-destructive Testing (ASNT). The same ultrasonic testing methods and technologies, and the same type of codes, standards and procedures are applied in all industrial sectors (e.g. mechanical engineering, welding, materials, construction, mining, transport, chemical and electricity production engineering sectors). Ultrasonic testing spans several occupational levels, i.e. engineering, technologist, technician and operator. This qualification focuses on the Non-Destructive Ultrasonic Testing Technician (NDT Level II) and has a part qualification, the Non-Destructive Ultrasonic Testing Operator (NDT Level I). With the rapid growth of the NDT industry internationally and locally the industry believes that this qualification would give greater credence to non-destructive ultrasonic testing training programmes because these could be compared to national standards, which in turn, would be comparable to international standards. Typical learners are school leavers, qualifying learners from the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) College or workers who have been employed in the NDT industry. A learner will become a Non-Destructive Ultrasonic Testing Operator (NDT Level I) and then proceed to become a Non-Destructive Ultrasonic Testing Technician (NDT Level II). Learners will receive a high standard of training and education that is occupationally aligned. Qualifying learners will be able to further their education and obtain access to industry-related non-destructive testing programmes available in the sector. Employers in the sector will gain access to suitably qualified Non-Destructive Ultrasonic Testing Operators and Technicians to conduct testing at NDT Levels I and II and this shall bring great benefit to the economy as more qualified Non-Destructive Visual Testing Operators and Technicians will be available in industries while these individuals would be benefiting themselves as recruits into the industry as well as benefiting their societies. Qualifying learners will be able to progress from Ultrasonic Testing Level I to Ultrasonic Testing Level III and beyond. This will create a healthy employment cycle providing employment opportunities to unemployed youth and those interested in non-destructive testing. The manufacturing industries will be dependent on these skills to quality assure their products and maintain those products in operation.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL): RPL for access to the External Integrated Summative Assessment: Accredited providers and approved workplaces must apply the internal assessment criteria specified in the related curriculum document to establish and confirm prior learning. Accredited providers and workplaces must confirm prior learning by issuing a statement of result or certifying a work experience record. RPL for access to the Qualification: Accredited providers and approved workplaces may recognise prior learning against the relevant access requirements. Entry Requirements: • An NQF Level 3 qualification with Mathematics and Physical Science.

• Apply essential methods and procedures for the selections of ultrasonic testing techniques and preparation of instructions.
• Apply essential methods and procedures for the preparation of ultrasonic testing.
• Apply essential methods, procedures, and techniques to conduct ultrasonic testing and interpret relevancy of indications.
• Apply relevant technical methods to evaluate ultrasonic testing results and to examine materials according to codes.