STRUCTURAL INSPECTION
Visual, NDT and Environmental-Damage Inspection
General selection and boundaries for visual, NDT, lightning and heat-damage inspection.
Key reference points
- Match inspection level to the expected damage.
- NDT requires qualified personnel and calibrated procedures.
- Lightning and heat events can have damage beyond the visible indication.
Organised training notes
1Visual inspection levels
Use the inspection level specified for the task rather than treating all visual checks as equivalent.
- 1.1 General visual inspectionA broad examination detects obvious damage, failure or irregularity using normally available access and lighting.
- 1.2 Detailed inspectionA focused examination uses adequate cleaning, access, lighting and aids such as mirrors or magnification.
2Nondestructive inspection
The approved method must be capable of detecting the expected defect in the material and geometry.
- 2.1 Ultrasonic methodsThrough-transmission and pulse-echo arrangements evaluate signal loss or reflections using qualified equipment, calibration and couplant control.
- 2.2 Tap testingA trained comparison of acoustic response may help locate disbond or delamination in approved thin bonded construction.
- 2.3 Other methodsEddy current, penetrant, magnetic-particle, radiographic or thermographic inspection is selected only when applicable approved data calls for it.
3Lightning, fire and heat exposure
Environmental events can affect more than the most visible mark and may involve structure, fasteners, bonding and systems.
- 3.1 Lightning eventInspect the likely entry and exit areas and the defined path for metallic melting, puncture, fastener, composite and system effects.
- 3.2 Fire or high temperatureLook for colour change, blistering, scorching, warping, cracking, exposed fibres or delamination, then apply the approved material tests.
- 3.3 Extent and dispositionMap all indications and use the applicable limits, NDT procedures and engineering route before rework.
Training-reference boundary
This summary is not approved repair or maintenance data. Do not inspect, classify, select material, alter structure or perform a repair from this page alone. Use the current applicable SRM, AMM, engineering order, drawing and company procedures.