Our Testing Methods
At American Precise Testing (APT), we offer a comprehensive range of Nondestructive Testing (NDT) and mechanical inspection services tailored to the high standards of the aerospace, defense, and precision manufacturing industries. All methods are performed by certified technicians in accordance with industry standards, ensuring accuracy, traceability, and regulatory compliance.
“All of our NDT inspectors are certified per NAS410 and ASNT SNT-TC-1A,
Ensuring every test is conducted by trained, qualified professionals”
Visual Inspection (VT)
Visual Testing is the most basic yet essential NDT method. It involves the direct observation of a part’s surface to identify visible defects such as cracks, corrosion, distortion, incomplete welds, and poor workmanship. VT can be performed unaided or with the help of tools like magnifiers, mirrors, borescopes, and lighting instruments. Often used as a preliminary or complementary inspection step, Visual Inspection plays a critical role in early defect detection and in verifying the results of other NDT methods.
Radiographic Testing (RT)
Radiographic Testing is a proven method for detecting internal discontinuities within materials. By exposing parts to X-rays or gamma rays and capturing the image, this technique allows inspectors to identify hidden flaws such as cracks, voids, porosity, and inclusions without damaging the component. RT provides a detailed image of a component’s internal structure without altering or damaging the part, making it ideal for inspecting welds, castings, and critical aerospace hardware.
Magnetic Particle Testing (MT)
Magnetic Particle Testing is used to detect surface and near surface defects in ferromagnetic materials such as carbon steel and certain alloys. The method involves magnetizing the part and applying finely milled magnetic particles to the surface. These particles gather at areas where magnetic flux is disrupted typically at cracks or seams making defects visible under white or ultraviolet light. MT is fast, reliable, and widely used in aerospace and structural inspections where fatigue cracks and stress failures must be prevented.
Penetrant Testing (PT)
Penetrant Testing is a widely used surface inspection method that reveals cracks and other discontinuities open to the surface of non-porous materials. This process involves applying a liquid dye (visible or fluorescent), allowing it to seep into any flaws, and then using a developer to draw the dye back to the surface, where indications become clearly visible. PT is effective on a wide range of materials including aluminum, stainless steel, and titanium. It is often used for final part inspection, maintenance checks, and quality verification in critical manufacturing processes.
Hardness Testing
Hardness Testing is used to measure a material’s resistance to indentation, which correlates with strength, wear resistance, and material processing quality. This test is essential for verifying heat treatment, material properties, and mechanical performance in critical components.
Hydrostatic Pressure Testing
Hydrostatic testing assesses the structural integrity of pressure-retaining components by filling them with water and applying controlled pressure. This test ensures a component can safely withstand operating conditions without leakage or deformation. It is often required for pressure vessels, valves, piping systems, and aerospace fluid systems. APT performs hydrostatic testing in accordance with applicable safety and industry standards.
Positive Material Identification (PMI) – XRF
PMI using X-ray fluorescence (XRF) technology determines the elemental composition of metals and alloys. It’s essential for verifying material grade, preventing mix-ups, and ensuring compliance with engineering specs especially in aerospace, power generation, and critical manufacturing environments. PMI is quick, non-destructive, and performed directly on the component surface with handheld analyzers.
Need Help Choosing the Right Method?
Our team is ready to help you determine the most effective NDT method for your application. Contact us today for a consultation or quote.
