Nondestructive Examination Technology
The Nondestructive Examination (NDE) Technology curriculum prepares students for careers in non-destructive testing of materials, equipment and/or components. NDE test methods assess an object’s integrity without affecting its function. NDE is used in many industries, including construction, petrochemical, pulp and paper, power generation and aerospace.
Coursework includes ultrasonics, radiography, liquid penetrant, visual, magnetic particle and eddy current examination. Students gain knowledge of these methods through applied theory and hands-on applications.
The NDE curriculum meets classroom and laboratory training requirements of Recommended Practice No. SNT-TC-1A of the American Society for Nondestructive Testing (ASNT), permitting graduates the opportunity to obtain method-specific NDE certification after a few months of on-the-job experience with their employers. Career opportunities exist in applied NDE, material sciences, technical sales and quality control in many industries.
Many of the courses are offered through a Fast Track program (any semester course offered in less than a 16 week semester). When creating a class schedule, pay particular attention to the start/end dates and times of the courses.
For specific information about potential positions and wages in NDE employment, visit the Central Piedmont Career Coach website.
Non-Destructive Examination Technology (A50350)
Degree Awarded
An Associate in Applied Science Degree in Non-Destructive Examination Technology is awarded by the college upon completion of this program.
Admissions
- Completion of a high school diploma or equivalent is required.
- Many courses have prerequisites; check the Courses section for details.
Contact Information
Non-Destructive Examination Technology is in the Skilled Trades Division. To receive a suggested sequence of courses, contact instructors through the NDE Technology program office at 704.330.4434. For more information, contact the Skilled Trades Division at 704.330.4413.
| General Education Requirements | ||
| ENG 111 | Writing and Inquiry | 3.0 |
| Select 3 credits of the following: | 3.0 | |
| Writing and Research in the Disciplines | ||
| Literature-Based Research | ||
| Professional Research & Reporting | ||
| Take 3 credits from the following: | 3.0 | |
| Algebra/Trigonometry I | ||
| Precalculus Algebra | ||
| Select 3 credits of the following: | 3.0 | |
| Introduction to Communication | ||
| Public Speaking | ||
| Select 3 credits of the following: | 3.0 | |
| Art Appreciation | ||
| Art History Survey I | ||
| Art History Survey II | ||
| Theatre Appreciation | ||
| Theatre Appreciation | ||
| Cultural Studies | ||
| Myth in Human Culture | ||
| Music Appreciation | ||
| Philosophical Issues | ||
| Introduction to Ethics | ||
| World Religions | ||
| Select 3 credits of the following: | 3.0 | |
| Principles of Microeconomics | ||
| Principles of Macroeconomics | ||
| World Civilizations I | ||
| World Civilizations II | ||
| American History I | ||
| American History II | ||
| American Government | ||
| General Psychology | ||
| Introduction to Sociology | ||
| Major Requirements | ||
| ACA 122 | College Transfer Success | 1.0 |
| WLD 141 | Symbols and Specifications | 3.0 |
| NDE 110 | Intro to Nondestructive Examination | 3.0 |
| NDE 111 | NDE Codes and Specifications | 2.0 |
| NDE 142 | Visual Testing-1,2 | 2.0 |
| NDE 143 | Liquid Penetrant Testing-1,2 | 2.0 |
| NDE 152 | Magnetic Particle Testing-1,2 | 2.0 |
| NDE 121 | Principles of Ultrasonic Examination-UT Level I | 4.0 |
| NDE 122 | Angle Beam Examination | 4.0 |
| NDE 131 | Radiation Safety and Principles of Radiographic Testing | 4.0 |
| NDE 132 | RT Industrial Applications | 3.0 |
| NDE 153 | Eddy Current Testing-1 | 3.0 |
| NDE 221 | UT Industrial Applications | 4.0 |
| NDE 231 | Advance Radiographic Testing Techniques | 3.0 |
| NDE 252 | Eddy Current Testing (ET) | 2.0 |
| CIS 110 | Introduction to Computers | 3.0 |
| Select one of the following: | 4.0 | |
| Conceptual Physics and Conceptual Physics Lab | ||
| Conceptual Physics Lab | ||
| Physics-Mechanics | ||
| College Physics I | ||
| Technical Electives | ||
| Select 2.0 credits from the following: | 2.0 | |
| CAD I | ||
| Engineering Graphics | ||
| Engineering and Design Graphics | ||
| Appl Software for Tech | ||
| Intro to Engineering | ||
| Introduction to Electricity | ||
| Motors and Controls | ||
| Workplace Safety | ||
| Industrial Safety | ||
| Quality Management | ||
| Metrology | ||
| Engineering Materials | ||
| UT Industrial Applications | ||
| Advanced Ultrasonic Testing Including Phased Array | ||
| Advance Radiographic Testing Techniques | ||
| Advanced Visual Testing (VT) | ||
| Performance Demonstration Initiative -1, Ultrasonic Testing, Carbon Steel Pipe Welds | ||
| Performance Demonstration Initiative -2, Ultrasonic Testing, Stainless Steel Pipe Welds | ||
| Perf Demonstration Initiative -3, Ultrasonic Testing, Thru Wall Sizing, Carbon Steel/Stainless Steel | ||
| Perf Demonstration Initiative -8, Ultrasonic Testing, Weld Overlay and Dissimilar Metal Thru Wall Sizing | ||
| Performance Demonstration Initiative -10 Ultrasonic Testing, Dissimilar Metal Detection and Length Sizing | ||
| Nuclear Reactor Systems | ||
| Cutting Processes | ||
| Oxy-Fuel Welding | ||
| Basic Welding Processes | ||
| SMAW (Stick) Plate | ||
| Welding Metallurgy | ||
| Work-Based Learning I | ||
| Work-Based Learning I | ||
| Total Credits | 69 | |
Nuclear Plant Inspection Diploma (D50350-D1)
The Nuclear Plant Inspection Diploma focuses on the Ultrasonic testing method, specifically as it relates to nuclear power plant piping welds examined during construction and in-service inspections. Applied math and physics are an integral part of NDE and this curriculum. Students gain knowledge of the nuclear industry’s Performance Demonstration (PD) examination for the detection and sizing of defects in welds, heat affected zones and base materials. This diploma prepares the student to be successful when taking a PD examination in accordance with ASME Section XI, Appendix VIII, Supplement 3. These PDs are not part of this curriculum course and are administered by the Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI) in Charlotte, N.C.
Diploma Awarded
A Diploma in Nuclear Plant Inspection is awarded by the college upon successful completion of this program.
Working in nuclear plants or with companies supplying equipment for these plants requires additional security and adherence to specific work requirements (criminal convictions and substance use criteria). These additional requirements or security clearances are not included in this program. Some of these requirements are located in the United States Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Title 10, Energy:
- 10 CFR Part 26, Fitness for Duty Programs
- 10 CFR 73.56, Personnel Access Authorization Requirements for Nuclear Power Plants
| General Education Requirements | ||
| ENG 111 | Writing and Inquiry | 3.0 |
| MAT 121 | Algebra/Trigonometry I | 3.0 |
| COM 110 | Introduction to Communication | 3.0 |
| Major Requirements | ||
| NDE 110 | Intro to Nondestructive Examination | 3.0 |
| NDE 121 | Principles of Ultrasonic Examination-UT Level I | 4.0 |
| NDE 122 | Angle Beam Examination | 4.0 |
| PHY 131 | Physics-Mechanics | 4.0 |
| NDE 221 | UT Industrial Applications | 4.0 |
| NDE 261 | Performance Demonstration Initiative -1, Ultrasonic Testing, Carbon Steel Pipe Welds | 7.0 |
| NDE 262 | Performance Demonstration Initiative -2, Ultrasonic Testing, Stainless Steel Pipe Welds | 7.0 |
| NDE 263 | Perf Demonstration Initiative -3, Ultrasonic Testing, Thru Wall Sizing, Carbon Steel/Stainless Steel | 3.0 |
| Total Credits | 45 | |
Non-Destructive Examination Technology Certificates (C50350)
- Non-Destructive Examination Technology Certificate with a Specialization in Ultrasonic Examination (C50350-C1)
- Non-Destructive Examination Technology Certificate with a Specialization in Visual and Penetrant Examination (C50350-C2)
- Non-Destructive Examination Technology Certificate with a Specialization in Radiographic Examination (C50350-C4)
- Non-Destructive Examination Technology Certificate With a Specialization in Advanced Nuclear Plant Inspection of Ferritic and Stainless Steel Piping Welds (C50350-C5)
- Non-Destructive Examination Technology Certificate With a Specialization in Advanced Nuclear Plant Inspection - UT Inspection and Sizing of Piping and Dissimilar Welds (C50350-C6)
- Non-Destructive Examination Technology Certificate with a Specialization in Level 1 and Level 2 Surface Examination (C50350-C8)
- Non-Destructive Examination Technology Certificate with a Specialization in Advanced Visual Testing (C50350-10)
- Non-Destructive Examination Technology Certificate with a Specialization in Eddy Current Examinations (C50350-11)
These are special, short-term certificates offered in the NDET program. The courses listed are taken from the NDET diploma and0 degree programs. These certificates are issued in accordance with Central Piedmont policy and certify that students have successfully completed the courses (GPA of 2.0 or higher) within the certificate program. These are not certificates to perform NDE. These certificates, along with the process of NDE qualification and testing, are performed by the employer, not Central Piedmont.
Students may earn certificates which build to earning a diploma or degree. Students may earn certificates in the same semester that they earn a degree or diploma.
Non-Destructive Examination Technology Certificate with a Specialization in Ultrasonic Examination (C50350-C1)
| Major Requirements | ||
| MAT 121 | Algebra/Trigonometry I | 3.0 |
| NDE 110 | Intro to Nondestructive Examination | 3.0 |
| NDE 121 | Principles of Ultrasonic Examination-UT Level I | 4.0 |
| NDE 122 | Angle Beam Examination | 4.0 |
| Total Credits | 14 | |
Non-Destructive Examination Technology Certificate with a Specialization in Visual and Penetrant Examination (C50350-C2)
| Major Requirements | ||
| NDE 110 | Intro to Nondestructive Examination | 3.0 |
| WLD 141 | Symbols and Specifications | 3.0 |
| NDE 142 | Visual Testing-1,2 | 2.0 |
| NDE 143 | Liquid Penetrant Testing-1,2 | 2.0 |
| CIS 110 | Introduction to Computers | 3.0 |
| Total Credits | 13 | |
Non-Destructive Examination Technology Certificate with a Specialization in Radiographic Examination (C50350-C4)
| Major Requirements | ||
| NDE 110 | Intro to Nondestructive Examination | 3.0 |
| NDE 131 | Radiation Safety and Principles of Radiographic Testing | 4.0 |
| NDE 132 | RT Industrial Applications | 3.0 |
| MAT 121 | Algebra/Trigonometry I | 3.0 |
| Total Credits | 13 | |
Non-Destructive Examination Technology Certificate With a Specialization in Advanced Nuclear Plant Inspection of Ferritic and Stainless Steel Piping Welds (C50350-C5)
The Non-Destructive Examination Technology Certificate Specialization in Ultrasonic Examination (C50350-C1) is a prerequisite for this certificate.
| Major Requirements | ||
| NDE 221 | UT Industrial Applications | 4.0 |
| NDE 261 | Performance Demonstration Initiative -1, Ultrasonic Testing, Carbon Steel Pipe Welds | 7.0 |
| NDE 262 | Performance Demonstration Initiative -2, Ultrasonic Testing, Stainless Steel Pipe Welds | 7.0 |
| Total Credits | 18 | |
With a Specialization in Advanced Nuclear Plant Inspection - UT Inspection and Sizing of Piping and Dissimilar Welds (C50350-C6)
| Major Requirements | ||
| NDE 263 | Perf Demonstration Initiative -3, Ultrasonic Testing, Thru Wall Sizing, Carbon Steel/Stainless Steel | 3.0 |
| NDE 264 | Perf Demonstration Initiative -8, Ultrasonic Testing, Weld Overlay and Dissimilar Metal Thru Wall Sizing | 3.0 |
| NDE 265 | Performance Demonstration Initiative -10 Ultrasonic Testing, Dissimilar Metal Detection and Length Sizing | 3.0 |
| NDE 221 | UT Industrial Applications | 4.0 |
| Total Credits | 13 | |
Non-Destructive Examination Technology Certificate with Specialization in Level 1 and Level 2 Surface Examination (C50350-C8)
| NDE 110 | Intro to Nondestructive Examination | 3.0 |
| NDE 112 | 3.0 | |
| NDE 142 | Visual Testing-1,2 | 2.0 |
| NDE 143 | Liquid Penetrant Testing-1,2 | 2.0 |
| NDE 152 | Magnetic Particle Testing-1,2 | 2.0 |
| Total Credits | 12 | |
Non-Destructive Examination Certificate in Advanced Visual Testing (C50350-C10)
| Major Requirements | ||
| NDE 110 | Intro to Nondestructive Examination | 3.0 |
| NDE 142 | Visual Testing-1,2 | 2.0 |
| NDE 242 | Advanced Visual Testing (VT) | 3.0 |
| WLD 141 | Symbols and Specifications | 3.0 |
| NUC 110 | Nuclear Reactor Systems | 3.0 |
| Total Credits | 14 | |
Non-Destructive Examination Technology Certificate Specialization in Eddy Current Examinations (C50350-11)
| NDE 110 | Intro to Nondestructive Examination | 3.0 |
| NDE 153 | Eddy Current Testing-1 | 3.0 |
| NDE 252 | Eddy Current Testing (ET) | 2.0 |
| WLD 141 | Symbols and Specifications | 3.0 |
| Select one course from the following options: | 1.0 | |
| Workplace Safety | ||
| Industrial Safety | ||
| Quality Management | ||
| Total Credits | 12 | |
The following is the suggested plan for when to take each course to complete the Associate in Applied Science degree, based on the program requirements of the 2022-2023 catalog. This is only a recommendation — you may take courses in another order upon consultation with your advisor. This plan is based on you starting with college-level math and English courses, starting your program in the fall, and attending full-time. You can also follow this sequence if you attend part-time. Speak with an advisor about the plan and any questions. This program might also offer diplomas or certificates; visit the catalog or contact the program for details.
Nondestructive Examination Technology suggested course sequence
Courses
NDE 110. Intro to Nondestructive Examination. 3.0 Credits. Class-3.0. Clinical-0.0. Lab-0.0. Work-0.0
This course introduces Nondestructive Examination (NDE) and its benefits, and provides a survey of the basic NDE methods and their limitations and advantages. Topics include terms and definitions associated with NDE, the basic approach to the nondestructive form of testing, and examples of industrial applications. Upon completion, students should be able to demonstrate a basic understanding of the major NDE methods and their applications.
NDE 111. NDE Codes and Specifications. 2.0 Credits. Class-1.0. Clinical-0.0. Lab-2.0. Work-0.0
This course is designed to instruct the student in the correct reading and interpretation of industrial codes and procedures that are common to the nondestructive examination industry. Topics include American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME), American Welding Society (AWS), Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR), American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) codes and various industry procedures to familiarize the student with wording, structure, and meaning of governing documents that must be followed. Upon completion, students should be able to find relevant sections of the code pertaining to the job, correctly interpret information given, differentiate between required and nonmandatory variables, and apply the information to their job assignment.
NDE 121. Principles of Ultrasonic Examination-UT Level I. 4.0 Credits. Class-3.0. Clinical-0.0. Lab-3.0. Work-0.0
This course introduces the student to basic principles associated with ultrasound and provides the initial elements of ASNT's SNT-TC-1A Level I, requirements for UT practitioners. Topics include sound wave modes and sound theory, and display modes are discussed and demonstrated through lab applications. Upon completion, students should be able to demonstrate a basic understanding of ultrasonics, select proper equipment, and set-up an instrument for straight beam examinations.
Corequisites: Take 1 group: Take PHY 110 PHY 110A; Take PHY 121 PHY 122 PHY 131 PHY 132 PHY 133 or PHY 151
NDE 122. Angle Beam Examination. 4.0 Credits. Class-3.0. Clinical-0.0. Lab-3.0. Work-0.0
This course introduces the student to the principles associated with transverse wave examination. Topics include shear wave discontinuity location, effects of shear waves in various materials, and inspection of components. Upon completion, students should be able to select and calibrate transverse wave equipment and the equipment for shear wave inspection, using inspection procedures.
NDE 131. Radiation Safety and Principles of Radiographic Testing. 4.0 Credits. Class-2.0. Clinical-0.0. Lab-4.0. Work-0.0
This course introduces basics principles of radiation safety, and the limitations and advantages of the radiographic testing (RT) method. Emphasis is placed on radiation safety, interaction of radiation with matter, radiation monitoring, radiographic physics, radiographic technique, and basic RT equipment. Upon completion, students should be able to demonstrate a basic understanding of radiation safety and the operating principles of RT.
Corequisites: Take PHY 131 or PHY 151 or PHY 110 and PHY 110A
NDE 132. RT Industrial Applications. 3.0 Credits. Class-2.0. Clinical-0.0. Lab-2.0. Work-0.0
This course covers advanced radiographic applications and the ASNT SNT-TC-1A Level II qualification program. Emphasis is placed on darkroom processing, image quality, geometric issues, and exposure calculations. Upon completion, the student should be able to select a proper radiographic technique and film to perform acceptable radiography to specific codes and standards.
NDE 142. Visual Testing-1,2. 2.0 Credits. Class-1.0. Clinical-0.0. Lab-2.0. Work-0.0
This course describes the principles, limitations, and advantages of non-destructive examination (NDE) visual testing as it's applied to industrial components such as pipes, pumps, valves, hangers and supports. Emphasis is placed on visual testing techniques including the use of visual aids and measuring gages. Upon completion, students should be able to demonstrate a basic understanding of NDE visual techniques and their applications.
NDE 143. Liquid Penetrant Testing-1,2. 2.0 Credits. Class-1.0. Clinical-0.0. Lab-2.0. Work-0.0
This course describes the principles, limitations, and advantages of non-destructive examination (NDE) liquid penetrant testing as it's applied to industrial components such as pipes, pumps, valves, hangers and supports. Emphasis is placed on liquid penetrant testing techniques including the use of color contrast solvent removable and water washable penetrant techniques. Upon completion, students should be able to demonstrate a basic understanding of various NDE liquid penetrant techniques and their applications.
NDE 152. Magnetic Particle Testing-1,2. 2.0 Credits. Class-1.0. Clinical-0.0. Lab-2.0. Work-0.0
This course describes the principles, limitations, and advantages of non-destructive examination (NDE) magnetic particle testing as it's applied to industrial components such as pipes, pumps, valves, hangers and supports. Emphasis is placed on magnetic particle testing techniques including dry and wet fluorescent particle techniques. Upon completion, students should be able to demonstrate a basic understanding of NDE magnetic particle techniques and their applications.
NDE 153. Eddy Current Testing-1. 3.0 Credits. Class-2.0. Clinical-0.0. Lab-2.0. Work-0.0
This course describes the principles, limitations, and advantages of non-destructive examination (NDE) eddy current testing as it's applied to industrial components such as pipes, pumps, valves, hangers and supports. Emphasis is placed on eddy current testing techniques including the use of different types of eddy current equipment. Upon completion, students should be able to demonstrate a basic understanding of NDE eddy current techniques and their applications.
NDE 210. NDE Procedure Development. 3.0 Credits. Class-2.0. Clinical-0.0. Lab-2.0. Work-0.0
This course provides an understanding of codes and procedure qualifications as they relate to various testing methods. Emphasis is placed on writing NDE procedures in accordance with various codes and standards. Upon completion, students should be able to demonstrate a basic understanding of code requirements for procedures and how to write field applicable NDE procedures.
NDE 221. UT Industrial Applications. 4.0 Credits. Class-3.0. Clinical-0.0. Lab-3.0. Work-0.0
This course exposes the student to practical application of straight and angle beam techniques on actual component mock-ups and introduces automated equipment. Lab applications provide comprehensive inspection challenges and "blind" samples. Upon completion, students should be able to follow procedures to fully inspect a variety of components to differing code requirements.
NDE 222. Advanced Ultrasonic Testing Including Phased Array. 3.0 Credits. Class-2.0. Clinical-0.0. Lab-3.0. Work-0.0
This course introduces the student to principles of flaw detection and sizing using advanced inspection techniques including phased array. Topics include advanced detection, sizing techniques, and inspection criteria using AWS, ASME API and FEMA codes. Upon completion, students should be able to select and apply the proper technique to detect and locate length, size, and depth flaws using manual and automated phased array equipment.
NDE 231. Advance Radiographic Testing Techniques. 3.0 Credits. Class-2.0. Clinical-0.0. Lab-2.0. Work-0.0
This course provides an expert-level understanding of radiographic methods. Emphasis is placed on factors affecting image quality, RT techniques for more complex geometric situations, and enhanced film developing techniques. Upon completion, the student should be able to select a radiographic technique and film for complex geometries and enhanced film developing.
NDE 242. Advanced Visual Testing (VT). 3.0 Credits. Class-2.0. Clinical-0.0. Lab-2.0. Work-0.0
This course prepares individuals for trainee positions in performing visual examinations of pressure retaining vessels, piping, pumps, and valves for nuclear power electric generating facilities. Topics include fundamentals of visual examination with emphasis on VT-1, VT-2 and VT-3 methods. Upon completion, students should be able to demonstrate a working knowledge of ASME Code visual inspection requirements during various phases of commercial nuclear power operations.
NDE 252. Eddy Current Testing (ET). 2.0 Credits. Class-1.0. Clinical-0.0. Lab-3.0. Work-0.0
This course provides practical applications of the eddy current testing (ET) method. Topics include generic and specialized applications of ET on industrial mock-ups. Upon completion, students should be able to demonstrate an understanding of ET in industrial applications.
NDE 261. Performance Demonstration Initiative -1, Ultrasonic Testing, Carbon Steel Pipe Welds. 7.0 Credits. Class-2.0. Clinical-0.0. Lab-15.0. Work-0.0
This course provides advanced ultrasonic instruction for nondestructive examination of carbon steel (CS) pipe welds. Topics include performance demonstration initiative (PDI), ultrasonic testing (UT), and longitudinal and shear wave examination techniques for carbon steel (CS) piping. Upon completion, students should be able to identify and describe the qualified detection and sizing techniques per PDI-UT-1 procedures.
NDE 262. Performance Demonstration Initiative -2, Ultrasonic Testing, Stainless Steel Pipe Welds. 7.0 Credits. Class-2.0. Clinical-0.0. Lab-15.0. Work-0.0
This course provides advanced ultrasonic instruction for nondestructive examination of stainless steel (SS) pipe welds. Topics include performance demonstration initiative (PDI), ultrasonic testing (UT), and longitudinal and shear wave examination techniques for stainless steel piping. Upon completion, students should be able to identify and describe the qualified detection and sizing techniques per PDI-UT-2 procedures.
NDE 263. Perf Demonstration Initiative -3, Ultrasonic Testing, Thru Wall Sizing, Carbon Steel/Stainless Steel. 3.0 Credits. Class-1.0. Clinical-0.0. Lab-6.0. Work-0.0
This course provides advanced ultrasonic instruction for NDE through wall sizing (TWS) in carbon steel (CS) and stainless steel (SS) pipe welds. Topics include performance demonstration initiative (PDI), ultrasonic testing (UT), and longitudinal and shear wave examination techniques for through wall sizing. Upon completion, students should be able to identify and describe the qualified TWS techniques per PDI-UT-3 procedures.
NDE 264. Perf Demonstration Initiative -8, Ultrasonic Testing, Weld Overlay and Dissimilar Metal Thru Wall Sizing. 3.0 Credits. Class-1.0. Clinical-0.0. Lab-6.0. Work-0.0
This course provides advanced ultrasonic instruction for NDE of weld overlay (WOL) and dissimilar metal (DM) welds. Topics include performance demonstration initiative (PDI), ultrasonic testing (UT), and longitudinal and shear wave examination techniques for through wall sizing (TWS) of welds. Upon completion, students should be able to identify and describe the qualified TWS techniques per PDI-UT-8 procedures.
NDE 265. Performance Demonstration Initiative -10 Ultrasonic Testing, Dissimilar Metal Detection and Length Sizing. 3.0 Credits. Class-1.0. Clinical-0.0. Lab-6.0. Work-0.0
This course provides advance ultrasonic instruction for NDE of dissimilar metal (DM) welds for detection and length sizing. Topics include performance demonstration initiative (PDI), ultrasonic testing (UT), and longitudinal and shear wave examination techniques for detection and length sizing (DLS) of DM welds. Upon completion, students should be able to identify and describe the qualified DLS techniques per PDI-UT-10 procedures.