NES 729 Part 3 Requirements For Non-Destructive Examination Methods

Ministry of Defence
Defence Standard 02-729 (NES 729)

Issue 1 Publication Date 01 April 2000
Requirements For Non-Destructive

Examination Methods
Part 3
Eddy Current
Incorporating NES 729 Category 2

Issue 2 Publication Date December 1991
AMENDMENT RECORD
Amd No
Date
Text Affected
REVISION NOTE
This standard is raised to Issue 1 to update its content.
HISTORICAL RECORD
This standard supersedes the following:
Naval Engineering Standard (NES) 729 Part 3 Issue 2 dated December 1991.
Signature and Date
Ministry of Defence
Naval Engineering Standard
NES 729
Part 3
Issue 2 (Reformatted)
December 1991
REQUIREMENTS FOR NON-DESTRUCTIVE

EXAMINATION METHODS
PART 3
EDDY CURRENT
This NES Supersedes

NES 729 PART 3 ISSUE 1
Record of Amendments
AMDT
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
INSERTED BY
DATE
NAVAL ENGINEERING STANDARD 729

REQUIREMENTS FOR NON-DESTRUCTIVE EXAMINATION METHODS
PART 3
ISSUE 2 (REFORMATTED)
EDDY CURRENT
The issue and use of this Standard

is authorized for use in MOD contracts
by MOD(PE) Sea Systems and
the Naval Support Command
ECROWN COPYRIGHT
Published by:
Director of Naval Architecture
Procurement Executive, Ministry of Defence
Sea Systems, Foxhill, Bath BA1 5AB
i
ii
NES 729
Part 3
SCOPE
1.
This part of NES 729 defines the minimum requirements for methods of detection of surface
and near-surface discontinuities in electrically conductive materials, which may be
ferromagnetic or non-ferromagnetic, using eddy current examination techniques.
2.
The requirements for the use of manually operated portable eddy current instruments
designed specifically for the detection of surface-breaking cracks in welds are included.
3.
The requirements of this NES are applicable to all items for which specifications, standards,
drawings, refit or repair instructions require eddy current examination.
4.
The NES is also applicable to the Quality Assessment of Examining Authorities who perform
eddy current examination.
5.
This NES does not cover:

a.
the extent to which eddy current examination is required. This requirement is to be

stated in relevant Contract;
b.
acceptance criteria for defects;
c.
the examination of nuclear plant and machinery.
iii
NES 729
Part 3
iv
NES 729
Part 3
FOREWORD
Sponsorship
1.
This Naval Engineering Standard (NES) is sponsored by the Procurement Executive, Ministry
of Defence, Director Naval Architecture (Submarines) (DNA(SM)), Section NA 133.
2.
It is to be applied as required by any Procurement Executive, Ministry of Defence contract for

the Non-Destructive Examination of Metals and is applicable to Surface Ships and
Submarines.
3.
This NES comprises:

Requirements for Non-Destructive Examination Methods
Part 1
Radiographic
Part 2
Magnetic Particle
Part 3
Eddy Current (This Part)
Part 4
Liquid Penetrant
Part 5
Ultrasonic
4.
If it is found to be technically unsuitable for any particular requirement the Sponsor is to be

informed in writing of the circumstances with a copy to Director Naval Architecture
(Surface Ships) (DNA(SS)), Section NA 145.
5.
Any user of this NES either within MOD or in industry may propose an amendment to it.
Proposals for amendments which are:
a.
not directly applicable to a particular contract are to be made to the Sponsor of the NES;
b.
directly applicable to a particular contract are to be dealt with using existing procedures
or as specified in the contract.
6.
No alteration is to be made to this NES except by the issue of an authorized amendment.
7.
Unless otherwise stated, reference in this NES to approval, approved, authorized or similar
terms means by the Procurement Executive, Ministry of Defence.
8.
Any significant amendments that may be made to this NES at a later date will be indicated
by a vertical sideline. Deletions will be indicated by 000 appearing at the end of the line
intervals.
9.
This NES has been reissued to reflect the changes in nomenclature and technical
requirements in line with current policy.
NES 729
Part 3
Conditions of Release
General
10.
This Naval Engineering Standard (NES) has been prepared for the use of the Crown and of
its contractors in the execution of contracts for the Crown. The Crown hereby excludes all
liability (other than liability for death or personal injury) whatsoever and howsoever arising
(including but without limitation, negligence on the part of the Crown, its servants or agents)
for any loss or damage however caused where the NES is used for any other purpose.
11.
This document is Crown Copyright and the information herein may be subject to Crown or
third party rights. It is not to be released, reproduced or published without written permission
of the MOD.
12.
The Crown reserves the right to amend or modify the contents of this NES without consulting
or informing any holder.
MOD Tender or Contract Process

13.
This NES is the property of the Crown and unless otherwise authorized in writing by the MOD
must be returned on completion of the contract, or submission of the tender, in connection
with which it is issued.
14.
When this NES is used in connection with a MOD tender or contract, the user is to ensure that
he is in possession of the appropriate version of each document, including related documents,
relevant to each particular tender or contract. Enquiries in this connection may be made of
the local MOD(PE) Quality Assurance Representative or the Authority named in the tender
or contract.
15.
When NES are incorporated into MOD contracts, users are responsible for their correct
application and for complying with contracts and any other statutory requirements.
Compliance with an NES does not of itself confer immunity from legal obligations.
Related Documents
16.
In the tender and procurement processes the related documents listed in each section and
Annex A can be obtained as follows:
a.
British Standards
British Standards Institution,

389 Chiswick High Road,
London W4 4AL
b.
Defence Standards
Directorate of Standardization and Safety Policy,

Stan 1, Kentigern House, 65 Brown Street,
Glasgow G2 8EX
c.
Naval Engineering Standards
CSE3a, CSE Llangennech, Llanelli,

Dyfed SA14 8YP
d.
Other documents
Tender or Contract Sponsor to advise.
Note: Tender or Contract Sponsor can advise in cases of difficulty.

17.
All applications to Ministry Establishments for related documents are to quote the relevant
MOD Invitation to Tender or Contract Number and date, together with the sponsoring
Directorate and the Tender or Contract Sponsor.
18.
Prime Contractors are responsible for supplying their subcontractors with relevant
documentation, including specifications, standards and drawings.
vi
NES 729
Part 3
Health and Safety

Warning
19.
This NES may call for the use of processes, substances and/or procedures that may be injurious
to health if adequate precautions are not taken. It refers only to technical suitability and in
no way absolves either the supplier or the user from statutory obligations relating to health
and safety at any stage of manufacture or use. Where attention is drawn to hazards, those
quoted may not necessarily be exhaustive.
Safety
20.
All equipment involving the use of main electrical supply is to conform to the relevant
statutory requirements and safety regulations.
21.
All examinations referred to in this NES are to be carried out with due regard to the applicable
statutory requirements, safety regulations and Codes of Practice.
vii
NES 729
Part 3
viii
NES 729
Part 3
CONTENTS
Page No
TITLE PAGE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
SCOPE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
iii
FOREWORD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Sponsorship . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Conditions of Release . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
MOD Tender or Contract Process . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Related Documents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Health and Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Warning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
v
v
vi
vi
vi
vi
vii
vii
vii
CONTENTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
ix
SECTION
1.
ACCEPTANCE STANDARDS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1.1
SECTION
2.
2.1
2.2
GENERAL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Limitations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
BS 3889 Parts A and B . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2.1
2.1
2.1
SECTION
3.
3.1
3.2
3.3
EXAMINATION PROCEDURE REQUIREMENTS

Personnel Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Procedures and Inspections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Production Eddy Current Testing, Techniques
and Reporting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
FIGURE 3.1 EDDY CURRENT INSPECTION
REPORT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3.1
3.1
3.1
3.2
3.3
SECTION
4.
4.1
4.2
4.3
EQUIPMENT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Test Coils . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Driving Mechanism . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
4.1
4.1
4.1
4.1
SECTION
5.
CALIBRATION STANDARDS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
TABLE 5.1 REFERENCE STANDARD HOLE
DIAMETERS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
5.1
5.1
SECTION
6.
6.1
EQUIPMENT CALIBRATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Acceptance Level . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
6.1
6.1
SECTION
7.
EXTENT OF EXAMINATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
7.1
SECTION
8.
SURFACE CONDITION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
8.1
ix
NES 729
Part 3
SECTION
9.
9.1
9.2
9.3
9.4
9.5
PRODUCTION EXAMINATION TECHNIQUES .

Testing Speed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Manual Testing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Sensitivity Level . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Defect Indications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Additional Tests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
9.1
9.1
9.1
9.1
9.1
9.1
SECTION
10.
RECORDS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
10.1
ANNEX
A.
RELATED DOCUMENTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
A.1
ANNEX
B.
DEFINITIONS AND TERMS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
B.1
ANNEX
C.
PROCUREMENT CHECK LIST . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
C.1
ALPHABETICAL INDEX
NES 729
Part 3
1.
ACCEPTANCE STANDARDS
a.
The standards for acceptance of defect indications detected by eddy current

examination are to be as specified in the Contract Documents.
1.1
NES 729
Part 3
1.2
NES 729
Part 3
2.
GENERAL
2.1
Limitations
a.
2.2
Eddy current effects are susceptible to physical and chemical changes in

materials. Eddy current methods used for flaw detection are therefore most
effective for the examination of materials which have a homogeneous structure,
low permeability and precisely controlled sectional dimensions. Slight
variations in these parameters which in themselves are within the permitted
tolerances may influence the results of this method of examination.
BS 3889 Parts A and B

a.
Unless specified otherwise herein, mandatory requirements of BS 3889,

Parts 2A and 2B are to apply to eddy current testing of ferrous and non-ferrous
pipes and tubes, required by any MOD(PE) contract for Surface Ships or
Submarines. These standards may be also used for guidance, wherever
applicable, in the eddy current testing of other forms of material.
b.
It is not the intent of this NES to exclude proven eddy current inspection
procedures which can be demonstrated to the satisfaction of the MOD(PE) to
meet the quality requirements. Prior approval is to be obtained before such
procedures are used.
2.1
NES 729
Part 3
2.2
NES 729
Part 3
3.
EXAMINATION PROCEDURE REQUIREMENTS
3.1
Personnel Requirements
3.2
a.
The examining authority is to ensure that all personnel associated with eddy
current examination have been trained and certificated to the level appropriate
to their responsibilities. This certification is to relate to a National or
International Accreditation Scheme, eg Personnel Certification in
Non-Destructive Testing (PCN).
b.
A register of approved personnel is to be kept by the examining authority.
Procedures and Inspections

a.
Eddy current examination is to be performed in accordance with a written

examination procedure. Each Examining Authority is to certify that the
procedure is in accordance with this NES and is to submit each procedure to the
MOD QAR for written approval.
b.
Separate procedures are to be written to cover the requirements of the eddy

current inspection of welding or wrought products.
c.
The relevant contract is to define the extent of eddy current examination and
the appropriate acceptance standard.
d.
Inspection to eddy current procedures are to be carried out by approved

personnel certified in accordance with Clause 3.1a.
e.
Procedures are to reference all relevant documents, specifications and

acceptance standards. The procedures are to be recorded and maintained by
examining authorities for audit purposes.
f.
Eddy current procedures are to cover all prerequisites and technical

requirements associated with the application and are to contain specific
guidance information including the following, as applicable:
(1)
(a) Material type and descriptive details of the item to be tested

including size and shape.
(b) For weldments: the type of weld, location and surface condition.
(2)
(3)
(4)
(5)
Equipment description
(a)
Make/Model.
(b)
Details of monitoring and recording method.
(c)
Type of test coils or probes, size and current frequency.
Details of the technique to be used:

(a)
Coil or probe arrangement.
(b)
System used, eg absolute, differential or combined mode.
(c)
Saturation (if used).
(d)
Speed of test.
(e)
Probe scanning method or grid to be used.
Description of the calibration procedure and sensitivity checks including:

(a)
Full details of the calibration test pieces.
(b)
Method of frequency of production sensitivity checks.
Method of recording the results of tests.
3.1
NES 729
Part 3
3.3
Production Eddy Current Testing, Techniques and Reporting

a.
Eddy current inspections are to be recorded in an eddy current report. The

report is to include the following information:
(1)
relevant eddy current inspection procedure;
(2)
name/s of operator/s;
(3)
description of component or weld, material and location;
(4)
contract number and details;
(5)
eddy current inspection technique;
(6)
inspection coverage;
(7)
date and time of examination;
(8)
results of the examination.
A specimen eddy current inspection report showing the minimum information

to be recorded is shown at FIGURE 3.1.
3.2
NES 729
Part 3
Procedure No . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Issue No . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Date . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Company . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
............................
.......... .................
Procedure draft by . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Approved by . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Examination conducted by . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
COMPONENT DESCRIPTION
Title . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Material Type . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
MOD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Material Spec . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Contract/Order No . . . . . . . . . . . .
Drawing No . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Method of manufacture: Casting/Forging/Weld/Other . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Area(s) examined . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Locations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Surface Condition . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Surface Preparation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
..........................................................................
Acceptance Standard Specification . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
TECHNIQUE DETAILS
1.
Equipment
Make/Model . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Method of monitoring/recording . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Type of test coils/probes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Size of test coils/probes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Frequency test coils/probes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2.
Technique
Coils/probes arrangement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
System used . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Saturation (if used) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Speed of test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Probe scanning method . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
or grid used . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3.
Calibration
Details of calibration standards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
....................................................................
Calibration procedure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
...................................................................
Sensitivity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Method of production checks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Frequency production checks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Method of recording results . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Add supplementary information and sketches as necessary to show the coverage of the item
under test.
4.
Results of the Examination
FIGURE 3.1 EDDY CURRENT INSPECTION REPORT
3.3
NES 729
Part 3
3.4
NES 729
Part 3
4.
EQUIPMENT
4.1
General
4.2
4.3
a.
Depending upon the application, eddy current examination is to be performed

using approved automated or manually operated equipment and methods.
Manually operated equipment that has been designed specifically for the
detection of surface-breaking cracks in ferromagnetic and non-ferromagnetic
welds is to be used only for the intended purpose.
b.
Preferably, the required coverage is to be achieved by automatic methods with

positive control of:
(1)
coil/material configuration;
(2)
speed of scanning;
(3)
scanning helix, where applicable (see Clause 4.3a.).
Test Coils
a.
The equipment is to be capable of energizing test coils with alternating currents

of suitable frequencies and of sensing the changes in the electrical
characteristics of the test coils.
b.
The test coils are to be capable of inducing current in the item under test and
of sensing changes in the electrical characteristics of the item. Coils may be
encircling types or probe types depending upon the application.
Driving Mechanism
a.
In automated or semi-automated systems, means are to be provided for passing

the item through the test coil system or for transversing the test coil system
across the item, at a uniform speed with minimum vibration of the coil system
and of the item under test and for maintaining the item substantially concentric
with the test coil system. The equipment is to be capable of imparting relative
movement which is rotational and/or translational, thereby permitting a helical
test pitch to be obtained.
4.1
NES 729
Part 3
4.2
NES 729
Part 3
5.
CALIBRATION STANDARDS
a.
Test pieces are to be prepared from suitable lengths of material which simulate
the item to be tested with regard to sectional dimensions, material type,
metallurgical condition and surface finish. Reference standards
(see Clause B.1) are to be incorporated in the test pieces, in the form of holes,
notches or slits. When using manually operated equipment, a flaw-free
calibration test piece (see Clause B.1) of the same material type as that under
examination is to be additionally provided for reference.
b.
For tubing, the reference standards are to be either:

(1)
internal and/or external notches aligned either longitudinally or

transversely as appropriate and whose dimensions are:
Length:
25mm nominal
Depth:
t/20 or 0.1mm whichever is greater
Width:
1.6mm maximum
where t is the nominal wall thickness of the tube being examined.

The notches in the material surfaces are to be separated in such a way that
they can be clearly and individually resolved under production conditions;
(2)
three holes of the same nominal diameter drilled through the tube wall
perpendicular to the surface and displaced circumferentially 120 degrees
from each other; axial separation from each other and the ends of the
calibration test piece is to be such that the holes can be resolved clearly
and individually under production conditions; the hole diameter is to be
in accordance with TABLE 5.1 unless otherwise agreed between the
Design Authority and the Inspection Organization.
TUBE NOMINAL OD
mm
over 6.3 up to and including 19
HOLE NOMINAL DIAMETER

mm
0.65 max
over 19 up to and including 25
0.80 max
0.92 max
1.10 max
1.20 max
1.40 max
1.60 max
TABLE 5.1 REFERENCE STANDARD HOLE DIAMETERS

c.
Calibration test pieces for welded tubing are to contain reference standards in
the weld method and additionally in the parent metal when both materials are
to be examined.
d.
For bar material, notches or slits are to be cut in the material surface and spaced
as for tubes.
e.
The reference standard disposition, dimensions, orientation and numbers for

components other than tubes or bars are to be as agreed between the Design
Authority and the Examining Authority. The reference standards are to be
spaced such that they can be clearly and individually resolved under production
conditions.
5.1
NES 729
Part 3
f.
The introduction of the reference standards into the calibration test piece
whether by drilling, spark erosion or other methods, is to be carried out under
controlled conditions in order to minimize disturbance in adjacent material.
g.
The preferred methods of introducing the reference targets are respectively:

(1)
holesdrilling;
(2)
notchesspark erosion or by thin cutting wheel.
h.
The accuracy of the calibration test piece, and reference standard dimensions
and positions, is to be verified to the satisfaction of the MOD(PE).
i.
Calibration test pieces are to be frequently examined for signs of damage which
may impair performance and are to be renewed accordingly.
5.2
NES 729
Part 3
6.
6.1
EQUIPMENT CALIBRATION
a.
The equipment is to be calibrated immediately prior to any test or series of tests

to ensure that sensitivity is adequate and that the equipment is functioning in
a consistent and stable manner. The calibration is to be in accordance with
manufacturers recommendations.
b.
A test piece containing a reference standard(s) is used to calibrate the

equipment, to establish the test sensitivity and to execute routine calibration
checks and re-calibration.
c.
The calibration test piece is to be passed through the test unit or the test unit
is to traverse the test piece at the same relative speed and in the same direction
and manner as that to be used in the production examination.
(See Clause 9.1a.).
d.
The selected current frequency for production examination is to produce clear

and distinctive indications in the test unit by all the reference standards in the
calibration test piece.
e.
Where specified, a battery check is to be carried out prior to the calibration of

portable manually operated test units used for the examination of weldments.
If a low battery condition is indicated, the batteries are to be replaced or
recharged.
Acceptance Level
a.
To set the equipment to the agreed acceptance level (see Clause 1.a.) the
appropriate calibration test piece is to be subjected to the procedure in
Clause 6.c. The trigger/alarm or monitor level is then to be adjusted until the
acceptance standard will just indicate rejection.
6.1
NES 729
Part 3
6.2
NES 729
Part 3
7.
EXTENT OF EXAMINATION
a.
Items to be examined are to be completely examined wherever practicable so

that all significant defects are detected irrespective of their orientation.
b.
When complete coverage cannot be obtained, the actual extent of that achieved
is to be stated on the record of test. Examination of weldments is to be as
specified in the Contract. (See SCOPE 5.).
7.1
NES 729
Part 3
7.2
NES 729
Part 3
8.
SURFACE CONDITION
a.
Unless otherwise specified in the Contract, acceptance inspection is to be

performed on an item in the final surface condition and the final heat treated
condition.
b.
All surfaces to be examined are to be free from metallic particles, loose scale and
other foreign matter. Methods used for surface preparation are not to be
detrimental to the material or the surface finish.
c.
Surface preparation of weldments to be examined by instruments designed for

the purpose, is to be limited to the removal of loose scale, paint and corrosion
products from the areas to be traversed by the search probe.
d.
Surface coatings of a conductive nature, eg electroplating, metal spraying or

aluminizing, may give misleading results and make balancing of certain
instruments impossible and consequently prevent detection of defects in the
base metal. In such cases, it is first to be verified by examination of a similarly
coated test sample, with due consideration of the equipment manufacturers
recommendations, that meaningful results can be obtained.
8.1
NES 729
Part 3
8.2
NES 729
Part 3
9.
PRODUCTION EXAMINATION TECHNIQUES
9.1
Testing Speed
9.2
a.
The relative speed between the item and the test coil is not to vary from that
used during the calibration procedure by more than 10%.
b.
The speed of test as applied to the examination of weldments using equipment

with meter indication and hand held probes is not to exceed 1 metre per minute.
Where LED indication and gate circuits are provided, probe speed may be
increased to 3 metres per minute.
Manual Testing
a.
9.3
9.4
Sensitivity Level
a.
The specified sensitivity level is to be assured and maintained under all

prevailing examination conditions for the full duration of the examination of
the complete area.
b.
A sensitivity check system is to be applied before production examination

begins, at intervals of approximately 2 hours as examination proceeds and again
on conclusion, using the appropriate calibration test piece. Manually operated
equipment is to be checked frequently throughout the examination of the welds
to ensure the correct sensitivity is being maintained and to take account of any
local variations in response to eddy currents in the material.
c.
An indicated sensitivity reduction of more than 2dB will necessitate both

re-calibration and the re-examination of all the material examined since the
most recent satisfactory check.
Defect Indications
a.
9.5
The probe is to be held at a constant attitude to the contact surface and moved
in a path parallel to the weld and adjacent to it. Rocking of the probe and the
placing of the probe near to the edge of the workpiece are to be avoided as both
may cause spurious indications which may be misinterpreted as defects.
All defect indications are to be evaluated in accordance with the specified

acceptance standard. (See Clause 1.a.)
Additional Tests
a.
Areas containing defect indications observed during the examination of

ferromagnetic weldments are to be additionally tested by magnetic particle
examination in accordance with NES 729, Part 2, in order to verify the relevance
of these indications and extent of confirmed defect.
9.1
NES 729
Part 3
9.2
NES 729
Part 3
10.
RECORDS
a.
All records of eddy current examinations are to be sufficiently detailed and in

compliance with the agreed procedure in order to permit proper application of
the specified standard of acceptance. Details of retest and additional tests, as
required in Clause 9.5a., are to be included with the records.
10.1
NES 729
Part 3
10.2
NES 729
Part 3
ANNEX A.
RELATED DOCUMENTS
A.1
The following documents and publications are referred to in this NES:

See Clause
BS 3683
Glossary of terms used in

B.2
non-destructive testing:
Part 5:
Eddy current flaw detection
BS 3889
Methods for non-destructive testing of

pipes and tubes:
Part 2A: Automatic eddy current
testing of wrought steel tubes
Part 2B: Eddy current testing of
non-ferrous tubes
Requirements for Non-Destructive
Examination Methods:
Part 2:
Magnetic particle
NES 729
A.1
2.2a.
9.5a.
ANNEX A.
NES 729
Part 3
ANNEX A.
A.2
NES 729
Part 3
ANNEX B.
DEFINITIONS AND TERMS
B.1
B.2
Definitions
Calibration Test Piece
A conveniently sized sample of material of similar

electromagnetic properties to the item to be tested
and in which reference standards are located.
Design Authority
That section or group within the MOD that has

overall responsibility for the material, item,
structure, or vessel concerned.
Examining Authority
The Company, Organization, Establishment or

Naval Base that carries out eddy current
examination within the scope of this Part.
Reference Standard
An artificially produced imperfection of

predetermined dimensions, usually a notch or a
hole, used for the sole purpose of establishing the
test sensitivity of the eddy current equipment.
Trigger/Alarm Level
The level at which the electronic equipment is

required to differentiate between acceptable and
suspect items.
Terms
BS 3683 Part 5 is to apply to the terms used in this Part.
B.1
ANNEX B.
NES 729
Part 3
ANNEX B.
B.2
NES 729
Part 3
ANNEX C.
PROCUREMENT CHECK LIST
Notes:
1.
This Check List is to ensure that certain aspects of this Naval Engineering
Standard are consulted when preparing a Statement of Technical
Requirements for a particular application.
Clauses where a preference for an option is to be used or where specific data is
to be added are included in the Check List.
List
Each item is to be marked either
2.
3.
= included
NA
= not applicable
CHECK
CHECK
No
1
Extent of eddy current examination
CLAUSE No
SCOPE 5.
Standards for acceptance of defect indications
1.a.
Battery check before calibration
6.e.
Examination of weldments to be specified
7.b.
Surface condition and heat treatment condition
8.a.
C.1
! or NA
ANNEX C.
NES 729
Part 3
ANNEX C.
C.2
NES 729
Part 3
ALPHABETICAL INDEX
A
Acceptance standards, iii, 1.1, 6.1, 9.1, C.1
Additional tests, 9.1
Aluminized surfaces, 8.1
Attitude, probe, 9.1
Automatic methods, 4.1
B
Bar material, 5.1
Battery check, 6.1, C.1
C
Calibration
equipment, 6.1
reference standard hole diameter, 5.1
procedure, 9.1
standards, 5.1, 5.2
test piece, 5.2, 6.1, 9.1, B.1
procedure, 9.1
Conditions of issue, vi
Corroded surfaces, 8.1
Cracks, surface-breaking, iii
D
Defect indications, 9.1
Definitions, B.1
Design authority, 5.1, B.1
Driving mechanism, 4.1
E
Electroplated surfaces, 8.1
Equipment, 4.1
calibration, 6.1
driving mechanism, 4.1
general, 4.1
test coils, 4.1
Examination procedure requirements, 3.1, 3.2
Extent of examination, iii, 7.1, C.1
Examining authority, 5.1, B.1
F
Frequency, current, 6.1
INDEX.1
INDEX
NES 729
Part 3
H
Health and safety, vii
Heat treatment condition, 8.1, C.1
Holes, reference standard, 5.1, 5.2
Helical test path, 4.1
I
Inspection procedures, iii, 8.1
Introduction, v
Issuing authorities, A.1
L
Limitations, 2.1
M
Magnetic particle examination, 9.1
methods, 4.1, 6.1, 9.1
Metal sprayed surfaces, 8.1
N
Notches, reference standard, 5.1, 5.2
Nuclear plant and machinery, iii
P
Painted surfaces, 8.1
Personnel requirements, 3.1
Pipes, iii
Procedures and inspections, 3.1
Procurement check list, C.1
Production examination techniques, 9.1
additional tests, 9.1
defect indications, 9.1
sensitivity level, 9.1
testing speed, 9.1
Q
Quality assessment, iii
INDEX
INDEX.2
NES 729
Part 3
R
Re-calibration requirement, 9.1
Records, 7.1, 10.1
Reference standards, 5.1, 5.2, 6.1, B.1
Related documents, A.1
S
Safety, vii
Scope, iii
Semi-automated systems, 4.1
Sensitivity
check, 9.1
level, 6.1, 9.1
Slits, reference standard, 5.1
Speed of scanning, 4.1
Spurious indications, 9.1
Surface coatings, conductive, 8.1
Surface condition, 8.1, C.1
Surface preparation, 8.1
T
Test procedure, 3.3
Test coils, 4.1
Test piece, calibration, 5.1, 5.2, 6.1, B.1
Test sensitivity, 6.1
Testing speed, 9.1
Trigger/alarm level, 6.1, B.1
Tubes, iii, 5.1
W
Weldments, 6.1, 7.1, 8.1, 9.1, C.1
INDEX.3
INDEX
NES 729
Part 3
INDEX
INDEX.4
Inside Rear Cover
Crown Copyright 2000

Copying Only as Agreed with DStan
Defence Standards are Published by and Obtainable from:

Defence Procurement Agency
An Executive Agency of The Ministry of Defence
Directorate of Standardization
Kentigern House
65 Brown Street
GLASGOW G2 8EX
DStan Helpdesk
Tel 0141 224 2531/2
Fax 0141 224 2503
Internet e-mail enquiries@dstan.mod.uk
File Reference
The DStan file reference relating to work on this standard is D/DStan/69/02/729.
Contract Requirements
When Defence Standards are incorporated into contracts users are responsible for their correct
application and for complying with contractual and statutory requirements. Compliance with
a Defence Standard does not in itself confer immunity from legal obligations.
Revision of Defence Standards
Defence Standards are revised as necessary by up issue or amendment. It is important that
users of Defence Standards should ascertain that they are in possession of the latest issue or
amendment. Information on all Defence Standards is contained in Def Stan 00-00 Standards
for Defence Part 3 , Index of Standards for Defence Procurement Section 4 Index of Defence
Standards and Defence Specifications published annually and supplemented regularly by
Standards in Defence News (SID News). Any person who, when making use of a Defence
Standard encounters an inaccuracy or ambiguity is requested to notify the Directorate of
Standardization (DStan) without delay in order that the matter may be investigated and
appropriate action taken.

NES 729 Part 3 Requirements For Non-Destructive Examination Methods

Diunggah oleh

Informasi Dokumen

Judul Asli

Hak Cipta

Format Tersedia

Bagikan dokumen Ini

Bagikan atau Tanam Dokumen

Opsi Berbagi

Apakah menurut Anda dokumen ini bermanfaat?

Apakah konten ini tidak pantas?

Hak Cipta:

Format Tersedia

NES 729 Part 3 Requirements For Non-Destructive Examination Methods

Diunggah oleh

Hak Cipta:

Format Tersedia

Ministry of Defence

Defence Standard 02-729 (NES 729)

Requirements For Non-Destructive

Incorporating NES 729 Category 2

Signature and Date

Naval Engineering Standard

REQUIREMENTS FOR NON-DESTRUCTIVE

This NES Supersedes

NAVAL ENGINEERING STANDARD 729

The issue and use of this Standard

This NES does not cover:

the extent to which eddy current examination is required. This requirement is to be

acceptance criteria for defects;

the examination of nuclear plant and machinery.

It is to be applied as required by any Procurement Executive, Ministry of Defence contract for

This NES comprises:

Eddy Current (This Part)

If it is found to be technically unsuitable for any particular requirement the Sponsor is to be

No alteration is to be made to this NES except by the issue of an authorized amendment.

MOD Tender or Contract Process

British Standards Institution,

Directorate of Standardization and Safety Policy,

Naval Engineering Standards

CSE3a, CSE Llangennech, Llanelli,

Tender or Contract Sponsor to advise.

Note: Tender or Contract Sponsor can advise in cases of difficulty.

Health and Safety

EXAMINATION PROCEDURE REQUIREMENTS

PRODUCTION EXAMINATION TECHNIQUES .

DEFINITIONS AND TERMS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

PROCUREMENT CHECK LIST . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

The standards for acceptance of defect indications detected by eddy current

Eddy current effects are susceptible to physical and chemical changes in

BS 3889 Parts A and B

Unless specified otherwise herein, mandatory requirements of BS 3889,

EXAMINATION PROCEDURE REQUIREMENTS

A register of approved personnel is to be kept by the examining authority.

Procedures and Inspections

Eddy current examination is to be performed in accordance with a written

Separate procedures are to be written to cover the requirements of the eddy

Inspection to eddy current procedures are to be carried out by approved

Procedures are to reference all relevant documents, specifications and

Eddy current procedures are to cover all prerequisites and technical

(a) Material type and descriptive details of the item to be tested

Details of monitoring and recording method.

Type of test coils or probes, size and current frequency.

Details of the technique to be used:

Coil or probe arrangement.

System used, eg absolute, differential or combined mode.

Saturation (if used).

Probe scanning method or grid to be used.

Description of the calibration procedure and sensitivity checks including:

Full details of the calibration test pieces.

Method of frequency of production sensitivity checks.

Method of recording the results of tests.

Production Eddy Current Testing, Techniques and Reporting

Eddy current inspections are to be recorded in an eddy current report. The

relevant eddy current inspection procedure;

description of component or weld, material and location;

contract number and details;

eddy current inspection technique;

date and time of examination;

results of the examination.