Visual inspection (VT)

Visual inspection is generally known as the most common type of inspection within NDT. Highly cost-effective, it is typically the first and last NDT method employed to inspect a range of product forms including castings, machined components, forgings and weld elements. Visual inspection requires adequate illumination, specific technician training and certifications along with a variety of equipment that is generally utilized when performing visual inspections. Prior to inspection, the surfaces are typically cleaned and illuminated with adequate lighting and then examined. With any inspection type, Nortech also can upload photos to the inspection reports for our client’s reference.

Carried out correctly, visual inspection can be extremely effective in preventing weld issues and maintaining an acceptable level of welding quality. Visual inspection, is used across many industries such as structural steel, oil & gas, automotive, power generation, and aerospace.

Used in conjunction with other NDT methods

All other non-destructive testing methods require some form of visual intervention to interpret images while performing the examination, and for this, they rely on Visual Inspection.

For example, Radiographic Testing requires that operators perform a visual judgement to determine the viability of the test object. In the cases of Magnetic Particle Testing and Liquid Penetrant Testing, inspectors are able to visually identify surface indicators.

Visual Inspection process for weld inspection


It starts with a pre-weld inspection that allows us an opportunity to find and address conditions in advance of them becoming welding problems. During welding operation itself, inspection can serve to prevent problems in the finished weld through verification of the welding conditions and procedural requirements. Lastly, a post-weld visual inspection can provide a simple means to conducting a completed weld quality evaluation.