Test technicians in NDT: a practical introduction to non-destructive testing

Particularly in metalworking, mechanical engineering and steel production, maintaining and strengthening existing leading positions is essential. At the same time, shortages of skilled staff have become a persistent issue in many technical fields. Demand for well-trained personnel in quality assurance and materials testing is correspondingly high.

The test technician qualification offers a practical way to introduce staff to non-destructive testing (NDT).

Flexible qualification in accordance with DIN 54161

A particular advantage of the test technician concept is that training in accordance with DIN 54161 can be adapted flexibly to the specific requirements of individual companies. The qualification can therefore focus on typical testing tasks in their production or quality assurance processes.

At the same time, test technician training supports ongoing staff training in line with the quality management requirements of DIN EN ISO 9001. It can also serve as preparation for further qualifications in accordance with DIN EN ISO 9712.

Typical tasks of a test technician

The test technician qualification provides the basic knowledge and practical skills needed in many areas of industrial quality assurance, such as incoming goods inspection, ongoing production checks and final inspection of components. The subjects covered include:

• method and equipment fundamentals for standard testing tasks
• safe handling of testing equipment and accessories
• carrying out functional checks
• performing tests with pre-set equipment in accordance with testing instructions
• detecting material damage
• recording and documenting test results

This gives staff a solid foundation for practical testing work in an industrial environment.

Training structure and duration

The test technician qualification consists of theoretical instruction and practical exercises. The minimum duration of training is specified in DIN 54161 and depends on the testing method. The minimum training times are:

• 12 hours for visual testing (VT), penetrant testing (PT) and magnetic particle testing (MT)
• 24 hours for ultrasonic testing (UT), radiographic testing (RT) and eddy current testing (ET)

This modular structure allows the qualification to be tailored to the testing methods used by the company.

Preparation for further NDT qualifications

The test technician qualification does not qualify for certification under DIN EN ISO 9712. It is, however, an important first step in preparing staff for further NDT qualifications. In addition to acquiring basic technical knowledge, participants gain practical experience with testing methods and equipment. This experience can be very valuable for further qualifications in accordance with DIN EN ISO 9712.

W.S. Werkstoff Service GmbH – expertise in materials testing

We will be happy to answer any further questions about test technician training, including entry requirements, funding options, evidence of qualification and course dates. The dates of our upcoming test technician courses are available online.

On request, we also offer company-specific in-house training, provided that there are sufficient participants.