ASTM E164-03

The techniques for ultrasonic examination of welds described in this practice are intended to provide a means of weld examination for both internal and surface discontinuities within the weld and the heat-affected zone. The practice is limited to the examination of specific weld geometries in wrought or forged material.

The techniques provide a practical method of weld examination for internal and surface discontinuities and are well suited to the task of in-process quality control. The practice is especially suited to the detection of discontinuities that present planar surfaces perpendicular to the sound beam. Other nondestructive tests may be used when porosity and slag inclusions must be critically evaluated.

When ultrasonic examination is used as a basis of acceptance of welds, there should be agreement between the manufacturer and the purchaser as to the specific reference standards and limits to be used. Examples of reference standards are given in Section 6. A detailed procedure for weld examination describing allowable discontinuity limits should be written and agreed upon.

Personnel Qualification—In order to meet the intent of this recommended practice, it is essential that evaluation be performed by properly trained and qualified testing personnel. The user is referred to Practice SNT-TC-1A published by American Society of Nondestructive Testing (ASNT) or other equivalent programs.

Nondestructive Testing Agency Evaluation—Use of an NDT agency (as defined in Practice E 543) to perform the examination may be agreed upon by the using parties. If a systematic assessment of the capability of the agency is specified, a documented procedure such as Practice E 543 shall be used as the basis for evaluation.

1.1 This practice covers techniques for the ultrasonic A-scan examination of specific weld configurations joining wrought ferrous or aluminum alloy materials to detect weld discontinuities (Note 1). The reflection method using pulsed waves is specified. Manual techniques are described employing contact of the search unit through a couplant film or water column.

1.2 This practice utilizes angle beams or straight beams, or both, depending upon the specific weld configurations. Practices for special geometries such as fillet welds and spot welds are not included. The practice is intended to be used on thicknesses of 0.250 to 8 in. [6.4 to 203 mm].

Note 1—This practice is based on experience with ferrous and aluminum alloys. Other metallic materials can be examined using this practice provided reference standards can be developed that demonstrate that the particular material and weld can be successfully penetrated by an ultrasonic beam.

Note 2—For additional pertinent information see Practice E 317, Terminology E 1316, and Practice E 587.

1.3 Values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as the standard. SI units are given for information only.

1.4 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 and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.