8 - 2 - 1-043 - Penetrant Testing Examination Guide For Initial Certification

8.2.
1-043 - Penetrant Testing Examination

Guide for Initial Certification
Version number: 01
Date issued: 2018-11-15
National Non-Destructive Testing Certification Body Page: 1 of 28
Penetrant Testing
Examination Guide for

Initial Certification
Engineering, Materials and

Components Sector
© 2018 Natural Resources Canada National NDT Certification Body All Rights Reserved
NOTE: e-mailed/printed copies of this document are uncontrolled. The user/reader is responsible to ensure that they are utilizing the latest
version approved/distributed by NRCan NDTCB and/or other applicable policies, procedures, and requirements of the NDTCB.
Unauthorized changes or edits to this document may invalidate its usage and applicability.
8.2.1-043 - Penetrant Testing Examination
Version number: 01
Contact Information
National Non-Destructive Testing Certification Body
CanmetMATERIALS
Natural Resources Canada
183 Longwood Road South
Hamilton, Ontario
L8P 0A5
Email: [email protected]
Telephone: 1-866-858-0473
Web Site: http://ndt.nrcan.gc.ca
Ce guide est aussi disponible en français à l'adresse suivante :
Organisme de certification national en essais non destructifs

CanmetMATÉRIAUX
Ressources naturelles Canada
183 chemin Longwood Sud
Hamilton, Ontario
L8P 0A5
Courriel : [email protected]
Téléphone : 1-866-858-0473
Site Web : http://end.rncan.gc.ca
Version number: 01
Table of Contents
Contact Information .................................................................................................................... 2
Table of Contents ........................................................................................................................ 3
Overview of NRCan National Non-destructive Testing Certification Body Services ............. 4
IMPORTANT NOTICE .................................................................................................................. 4
Suggestions for Success: Written Examinations ..................................................................... 5
Penetrant Testing Level 2 ........................................................................................................... 6
Penetrant Testing Level 2 (PT2) - Engineering, Materials and Components (EMC) Sector Examination
Scheme in Accordance with CAN/CGSB-48.9712 .................................................................................. 6
Reference Material for PT2 EMC Written Examination Preparation........................................................ 7

Sample Questions: PT2 General Written Examination ........................................................................ 8
Sample Questions: PT2 EMC Written Examination .......................................................................... 11
General Information for the PT2 EMC Practical Examination ............................................................... 14
PT2 EMC Practical Examination Program ............................................................................................ 15
Suggestions for Success: PT2 EMC Practical Examination.................................................................. 16
Penetrant Testing Level 3 ......................................................................................................... 17
Penetrant Testing Level 3 (PT3) - Engineering, Materials and Components (EMC) Sector Examination
Scheme in Accordance with CAN/CGSB-48.9712 ................................................................................ 17
Reference Material for PT3 EMC Written Examination Preparation...................................................... 19

Sample Questions: PT3 General Written Examination ...................................................................... 20
Sample Questions: PT3 EMC Codes and Applications Written Examination .................................... 22
Sample Questions: Level 3 Basic Written Examination ..................................................................... 24
Version number: 01
Overview of NRCan National Non-destructive Testing Certification Body Services

The Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) National Non-Destructive Testing Certification Body (NDTCB)
manages Canada’s nation-wide program for the certification of individuals performing non-destructive testing
(NDT). The NRCan NDTCB certifies individuals according to CAN/CGSB-48.9712-2014 / (ISO 9712:2012, IDT)
standard.
In performing this function, the NRCan NDTCB carries out the following tasks:
a) Examines the information provided by the applicant to ensure that the applicant has the basic
education, recommended NDT training and experience required by the standard;
b) Prepares, administers and evaluates both written and practical examinations;
c) Maintains a network of examination centres across Canada for both written and practical examinations;
d) Renews and recertifies certificates as specified by the standard.
In certifying a candidate, the NRCan NDTCB only attests that the candidate has demonstrated sufficient
knowledge, skill, training and experience to meet the requirements of the CAN/CGSB 48.9712 standard. The
NRCan NDTCB cannot attest to the certificate holder’s competence in any specific situation at the time of
original certification, or at any time thereafter.
In undertaking the administration of the program, the NRCan NDTCB attempts to provide the unbiased
Canada-wide services required to implement a national program. A group of Scheme, Technical and Advisory
Committees composed of stakeholders and individuals knowledgeable about NDT in Canada advises the
NRCan NDTCB on the operation of this program.
IMPORTANT NOTICE
The candidate is responsible to ensure that the examination centre has proof of their examination registration
approval and/or examination admittance and registration form issued by the NRCan NDTCB prior to the
scheduled written or practical examination/re-examination. Failure to do this may delay the start time of the
certification examination and may increase cost to the candidate.
In accordance with CAN/CGSB-48.9712-2014 / (ISO 9712:2012, IDT), paragraph 8, the initial certification
examination for Levels 1 & 2 consists of the following examination parts: a general written examination, a
specific written examination, and a practical examination. A candidate who fails to achieve a grade of at least
70% on each individual examination part and each practical examination specimen/subpart may retake the
examination according to the following criteria and schedule:
A candidate who fails to obtain the pass grade for any examination part may be re-examined twice in
the failed part(s), provided that the re-examination takes place not sooner than 1 month, and shall not
exceed 2 years after the original examination.
The NDT Certification Body reserves the right of choice for written or practical examination components.
All practical examination times are shown in increments of ½ day or 1 day; ½ day shall be considered a
maximum of 4 hours and 1 day shall be considered a maximum of 8 hours. Requests for accommodation (such
as additional examination time) can only be granted with authorization from the NRCan NDTCB, following its
“8.5-009 - NRCan NDTCB Procedure for Consideration of Candidate Requests for Accommodation”. The
authorized accommodations shall be noted in the candidate’s examination registration approval and/or
examination admittance and registration form. It is the candidate’s responsibility to notify the examination
centre of these accommodations at least 10 working days in advance of the examination.
NOTE: Additional information/instruction may be provided to the candidate at the start of the examination. The
NRCan NDTCB may have implementation rules and policies that supersede the information provided within
this guide.
Version number: 01
Suggestions for Success: Written Examinations

1 The NRCan NDTCB recommends that all candidates for NDT written qualification examinations study
extensively on their own time using the suggested reference material, in addition to the material
learned during the method/level-specific training course, prior to attempting a written examination.
Simply using your knowledge obtained by completing the theoretical portion of the training course will
not adequately prepare you to succeed in your written examinations.
Note: You should not use the results of your end-of-course examination from your method/level-
specific training course to estimate your level of success on the NRCan NDTCB written qualification
examinations.
2 To assess your knowledge/abilities in preparation for a written examination, the NRCan NDTCB
recommends completing/reviewing the following sample question resources available for personal
purchase:
a) Ginzel Bros. NDT Testmaker Questions Data Base
b) Supplements to Recommended Practice SNT-TC-1A (Question and Answer Books)
3 When you begin your written examination, ensure that you carefully read the examination instructions
prior to reading and answering the questions.
4 Before you answer a multiple-choice question, ensure that you carefully read the stem (beginning
portion) of the question and each alternative answer in order to accurately understand the question.
5 Remember, that although more than one multiple-choice alternative answer may appear to be correct
or partially correct, only the best answer is correct.
6 If you have difficulty with choosing an answer to a multiple-choice question, proceed by first eliminating
the alternative answers that you believe are incorrect, and then choose between the remaining
alternative answers.
7 If you find that you cannot answer a question, proceed to the next question(s), and return to any
unanswered questions prior to the end of the examination. Do not spend too much time on difficult
questions at the expense of completing the remaining questions.
Reference Material
The material identified in this guide as reference study material may be purchased from the following sources:
Canadian Institute for NDE (CINDE) ASNT
135 Fennell Avenue W. 1711 Arlingate Lane P.O. Box 28518
Hamilton, Ontario Columbus, Ohio
L8N 3T2 43228 - 0518
Canada U.S.A.
Telephone: (905) 387-1655 or 1 800-964-9488 Telephone: (614) 274-6003 or 1-800-222-2768
Facsimile: (905) 574-6080 Facsimile: (614) 274-6899
Version number: 01
Penetrant Testing Level 2
Penetrant Testing Level 2 (PT2) - Engineering, Materials and Components (EMC) Sector
Examination Scheme in Accordance with CAN/CGSB-48.9712
Examination Part Pass Grade Examination Content Duration

General Written • 40 multiple choice questions on the
≥70% 1 hour
Examination theoretical principles of PT.
• 50 multiple choice questions (total)
 20 questions on materials &
EMC (Specific) processes and discontinuities.
≥70% 2 hours
Written Examination  10 questions on a code.
 20 questions on PT applications
and techniques.
• Performance/Calibration checks
• Four (4) specimen inspections,
including inspection reports for
each.
 One (1) specimen inspected
Practical ≥70% (on each using colour contrast, solvent
4 hours
Examination specimen/subpart) removable system.
 Three (3) specimens inspected
using the fluorescent method
WW & PE systems.
• Detailed written instruction for one
(1) of the inspected specimens.
Version number: 01
Reference Material for PT2 EMC Written Examination Preparation
General and EMC Examinations

1. Nondestructive Testing Handbook - Liquid Penetrant Testing, By ASNT – Latest Edition
2. Betz Handbook on Liquid Penetrant Testing
3. Penetrant Testing: A Practical Guide, By David Lovejoy
4. ASM Metals Handbook – Volume 17; by ASM International
5. Personnel Training Publications, Liquid Penetrant Testing; by ASNT
6. Handbook of Nondestructive Evaluation, 2nd edition; by Chuck Hellier
7. General Dynamics Classroom Training Handbook CT-2 by PH Diversified
Materials and processes

Although Materials & Processes (M&P) training is a prerequisite to all NDT training, method-specific M&P
content is still a component of the NDT certification examinations. The following reference material may
have been used to prepare examination questions:
1. Basic Metallurgy for Nondestructive Testing by BINDT
2. Materials and Processes for NDT Technology by ASNT
3. Nondestructive Testing Handbook , Introduction (PI-4-1) by General Dynamics
4. Metallurgy for the Non-Metallurgist. Second Edition by ASM International
Codes and Standards

The following six codes/specifications/techniques were utilized to draft the PT2 EMC examination
questions on codes (new codes/questions may be added periodically):
1. Article 6 Liquid Penetrant Examination, ASME
2. Standard Practice for Liquid Penetrant , Examination for General Industry, ASTM E 165
3. Standard Practice Liquid Penetrant Testing, ASTM E 1417
4. MIL-STD-6866
5. Standard Practice for Fluorescent Penetrant Examination Using the Water Washable Process,
ASTM E 1209
6. Standard Practice for Visible Penetrant Testing Using Solvent Removable Process, ASTM E 1220
Note: Most of the subjects covered by the General and EMC written examinations are found in the above
publications; however, additional studying from other reference material may be useful.
Version number: 01
Sample Questions: PT2 General Written Examination
1. Aside from increasing the integrity and safety of manufactured pieces, nondestructive testing cuts
costs by:
a) increasing production rates
b) reducing personnel
c) eliminating poor stock prior to processing
d) all of the above
2. The tendency of a liquid penetrant to enter a discontinuity is primarily related to:

a) the viscosity of the penetrant.
b) the capillary forces.
c) the chemical inertness of the penetrant.
d) the specific gravity of the penetrant.
3. The ability of a liquid to wet a surface is measured by the contact angle, i.e. the angle between the
liquid and the surface at the point of contact as the liquid advances. Good penetrants should have:
a) a very small contact angle.
b) a very large contact angle.
c) a contact angle of approximately 45.
d) a contact angle greater than 90.
4. Acids and chromates should not be left on the surface of parts that will be inspected with a
water-washable fluorescent penetrant because:
a) they may prevent the penetrant from entering any discontinuities.
b) they may reduce the bleed-out.
c) they may kill the fluorescence of the penetrant.
d) they may produce non-relevant indications.
5. Which of the following is the best reason why excessive drying of a part is not desired?
a) The extra time required is wasted.
b) The developer may lose its blotting ability.
c) A reduction in resolution may result.
d) The excess developer may be difficult to remove.
6. Both fluorescent and visible dye penetrants are identified by:

a) dwell times
b) viscosity
c) method of application
d) method of removal
Version number: 01
7. Black light used in penetrant testing has its peak at:

a) 5550 angstroms (555 nm)
b) 4850 angstroms (485 nm)
c) 4250 angstroms (425 nm)
d) 3650 angstroms (365 nm)
8. Blacklight is considered to be in the range of:

a) long wavelength ultraviolet
b) short wavelength ultraviolet
c) short wavelength infrared
d) 500 to 800 nm
9. The single most important factor determining the speed penetrant enters a flaw is:
a) surface finish
b) viscosity
c) method of application
d) depth of defect
10. A good penetrant must be:

a) inert with respect to the materials being tested.
b) highly viscous.
c) highly volatile.
d) an inorganic base liquid.
11. Nonaqueous suspensible developers are used primarily with:

a) fluorescent penetrants
b) oil and whiting
c) colour contrast penetrants
d) post emulsified penetrants
12. Which factor does not determine the liquid penetrant technique to be used?
a) Expected service of part
b) form and stage of manufacture of the part
c) expected defect orientation
d) cost of inspection
13. In order to evaluate a defect an inspector must have:

a) a knowledge of the test
b) a knowledge of the material tested
c) a knowledge of the applicable codes
d) all of the above
Version number: 01
14. Viscosity is used to determine drag out. Units used to measure viscosity are:
a) poundals
b) m/sec
c) centistokes
d) milligravs per cc
15. The preferred colour for liquid penetrants used in leak detection is:
a) yellow-green
b) green-blue
c) orange
d) red
Answer Key
1. c) 2. b) 3. a) 4. c) 5. c)
6. d) 7. d) 8. a) 9. b) 10. a)
11. c) 12. c) 13. d) 14. c) 15. d)
Version number: 01
Sample Questions: PT2 EMC Written Examination
1. It may be said that specialists in non-destructive testing must:

a) be aware of the capabilities of materials to sustain deformation without forming defects.
b) be knowledgeable about the materials they inspect and the defects which can form in
them.
c) have an exhaustive knowledge of metallurgy.
d) all the above answers are correct.
2. Which of the following statements is correct?

a) The heat affected zone of a weld is basically a homogeneous structure.
b) In some areas of the weld heat affected zone, grain size can be smaller than in the
unaffected base metal.
c) The temperature in the heat affected zone can sometimes exceed the temperature in the
fusion zone.
d) Transverse cracks do not occur in the heat affected zone.
3. Metal forming such as rolling results in:

a) plastic flow of the metal.
b) elongation of existing defects perpendicular to the rolling direction.
c) directional properties which are always beneficial for secondary forming operations.
d) the flattening out of defects which makes them more easily detectable by most NDT
methods.
4. What can cause stress raisers?

a) Punch marks
b) Corrosion grooves
c) Corrosion pits
d) All the above answers
5. When a metal (or alloy) cools from a liquid to a solid state, the lack of molten metal to feed the
shrinkage will lead to:
a) pipes, voids and cavities.
b) sponge like appearance and hot tears.
c) none of the above.
d) both a) and b).
6. Which of the following is not a cause of undercutting?

a) excessive amperage
b) excessive travel speed
c) excessive electrode diameter
d) excessive restraint during welding
Version number: 01
7. An extremely thin discontinuity that is the result of pipes, or inclusions flattened and made
directional by working is called:
a) a stringer.
b) a lamination.
c) a seam.
d) a cold shut
8. In general, where can you find heat treatment cracks?

a) at the centre of a weld
b) in areas of sudden change in thickness
c) on a cast plate
d) all the above answers
9. Which of the following statements concerning contaminating materials on the surface of a part to
be penetrant tested is not true?
a) The contaminant may be of a composition that attacks the penetrant and reduces the
fluorescence or color of the penetrant.
b) The contaminants may be of such a nature that they reduce or even prevent capillary
action by the penetrant.
c) The contaminant may retain the penetrant and thus increase the sensitivity of the
inspection.
d) The contaminant may completely fill the crack and thus prevent the entry of penetrant.
10. If inspection of parts is delayed:

a) indication from larger defects loose sharpness
b) small indications become prevalent
c) retesting is needed
d) wet developer can only be removed with vapour degreasing
11. Choosing the correct method of liquid penetrant inspection requires:

a) knowing the capabilities of the Liquid Penetrant Inspection methods available
b) history of the part
c) intended use of the part
d) all of the above
12. Black light intensity from a standard mercury vapour lamp may vary due to:
a) the isotope of mercury used
b) line voltage supplied by utilities
c) both a and b
d) none of the above
Version number: 01
13. Improper post cleaning of an Aluminum or Magnesium part tested with a penetrant containing an
emulsifier may result in:
a) pitting
b) cavitation
c) excessive bleed out
d) blotching
14. A somewhat linear intermittent penetrant indication would be formed by a:

a) crater crack
b) hot tear
c) forging lap
d) cold shut
15. Which one of the following statements is true?

a) If the dryer temperature is too high, the heat may degrade the effectiveness of the
penetrant.
b) It is not necessary to remove a film of oil from a part prior to penetrant testing because the
penetrant is basically oil.
c) Parts should be heated prior to the application of a penetrant.
d) Development time should be at least twice the penetration time.
16. All indications found by NDT methods are:

a) rejectable
b) direct
c) indirect
d) dimensionally correct
17. The term defect or flaw indicates:

a) a minimum or maximum size
b) suitability of the part for a given purpose
c) nature of the fault
18. Plastic film developers are used:

a) on plastics only
b) for maximum sensitivity
c) if permanent records are wanted
d) all of the above
Answer Key:
1. b) 2. b) 3. a) 4. d) 5. d) 6. d)
7. b) 8. b) 9. c) 10. a) 11. d) 12. b)
13. a) 14. c) 15. a) 16. c) 17. d) 18. c)
Version number: 01
General Information for the PT2 EMC Practical Examination
Prior to the attempting the practical examination, the candidate should be aware of the following:
1. The duration of the PT2 practical examination is a maximum of 4 hours (1/2 day).
2. The PT2 practical examination is a closed book examination. The following items are strictly
forbidden and must be left outside the laboratory/examination room:
• Books, notes and papers belonging to the candidate;
• Electronic devices (cell phones, tablets, cameras, etc.);
• Other items which could provide answers/information for examination questions/content or
are capable of recording examination material.
3. The candidate is not allowed to bring his/her own equipment and not allowed to take the
examination documents, equipment or specimens out of the laboratory/examination room. All
reporting must be completed within the laboratory/ examination room.
4. The candidate will be supplied with the necessary examination equipment and accessories as per
NRCan NDTCB examination centre requirements, as well as all reporting sheets, any additional
examination documents, and additional paper supplies (provided by the examination centre) as
needed to complete the examination.
5. The candidate will be shown the operation and placement of equipment and accessories required
to complete the examination, including a black light UV meter. Candidates are advised to review
the candidate instructions included with the examination documents.
6. Surface preparations are not permitted on the examination specimens. The candidate is
requested to not mark the specimens, equipment and reference samples.
7. The candidate must not clean the specimen after testing since the invigilator must also inspect
each specimen.
8. The candidate may ask questions concerning the examination. An invigilator may refuse to answer
any questions he or she considers to be part of the examination requirements.
9. The candidate has the opportunity to provide feedback concerning the practical examination. After
completing the examination, the candidate will complete the comment sheet and place it into the
return envelope with the examination paper(s) prior to sealing the envelope. The comment sheet
will then be sent to the NRCan NDTCB along with the examination in the sealed return envelope.
NOTE: If the candidate is operating unsafely or improperly while attempting their practical examination, it
is the prerogative of the invigilator to discuss this situation with the candidate and, if necessary, terminate
the practical examination. All such actions, as well as any special assistance given to the candidate, must
be reported to the examiner on the invigilator’s assessment sheet.
Version number: 01
PT2 EMC Practical Examination Program
PT2 EMC Practical Examination Candidates shall complete the following:
1. Performance/Calibration Check
Perform four (4) calibration/performance tests:
• Measure and record the blacklight intensity. Ensure that it meets the minimum required
before proceeding with the examination.
• Compare the relative sensitivity of two samples of water-washable fluorescent penetrants.
• Measure and record the dryer’s maximum temperature.
• Set and record the wash station’s water temperature and pressure.
2. Specimen Inspection
Inspect four (4) specimens:
• One (1) specimen shall be inspected using a colour contrast, solvent removable
penetrant.
• Three (3) specimens shall be inspected using fluorescent, water-washable and post
emulsifiable penetrants.
 Do not use the same penetrant type and method for all three specimens (i.e. use
one penetrant type for two specimens, and the other penetrant type for one
specimen).
• Complete the reporting sheets/illustrations provided with the specimen.
Note: Draw the appearance of the indications on the illustrations provided as accurately as
possible and make a preliminary interpretation and evaluation of your findings. Show the relative
size, shape, length and location of the indications and ensure the inspection techniques are clearly
shown. When necessary, draw a sketch of a missing view.
3. Written Instruction
Complete a written instruction for one of the specimens. The instruction must be written in a way
that will enable another PT inspector to easily follow the steps and duplicate the results. It should
include:
a) Scope of the inspection—method and field of application.
b) Personnel qualification requirements.
c) Description of the specimen.
d) List of equipment, reference standards and accessories used.
e) Description of the calibration procedures specific for the equipment.
f) Description of the inspection procedures specific for the specimen.
g) The equipment settings at the time of inspection.
h) Reporting of the results.
Note: A candidate may use the general information accompanying the exam specimen for writing
the instruction; however, the candidate must ensure that he/she writes a specific instruction to
inspect the specific specimen.
Version number: 01
Suggestions for Success: PT2 EMC Practical Examination
1. Ensure that you have sufficient experience and knowledge in PT inspection prior to booking your
practical examination.
2. When you begin your practical examination, ensure that you carefully read the examination
instructions prior to proceeding with the examination requirements.
3. Do not spend too much time on one section of the examination at the expense of the other
sections. We suggest that you devote:
• 30 minutes to read instructions and familiarize yourself with the requirements and to
conduct the performance/calibration test.
• 2½ hours to inspect the four (4) examination specimens.
• 1 hour to write an NDT instruction for one of the examination specimens.
4. Ensure that you fully inspect the specimen and report all defects.
5. Ensure that you use the proper dwell times for both the penetrant and the developer.
6. Accurately identify and interpret the defects for the specific processing/service/material; do not use
unclear terms such as “linear” or “rounded”
7. Fill in the reporting sheets clearly, completely and concisely, ensuring that you show the correct
length and location of indications.
8. Ensure that you write a complete written instruction as indicated in the candidate instruction
document.
9. Do not hesitate to ask the invigilator questions. The invigilator will not answer a question if he/she
considers it to be an examination requirement.
Version number: 01
Penetrant Testing Level 3
Penetrant Testing Level 3 (PT3) - Engineering, Materials and Components (EMC) Sector
Examination Scheme in Accordance with CAN/CGSB-48.9712
Examination Part Pass Grade Content Duration

140 multiple choice questions (total)
• Part A:
Basic Written  10 questions on
Examination: CAN/CGSB-48.9712 standard
Parts A, B and C • Part B:
 30 questions on materials &
≥70% (on each
(Unless successfully processes (M&P), general 3½ hours
part)
completed during  40 questions on M&P and
other Level 3 method discontinuities specific to welds,
certification) castings, wrought products, etc.
• Part C:
 60 questions (4x15) on NDT
methods
General Written • 30 multiple choice questions on the
≥70% ¾ hour
Examination theoretical principles of PT.
EMC – Codes and • 40 multiple choice questions (total)
Applications Written ≥70%  10 questions on codes (2x5) 2 hours
Examination  30 questions on PT applications
• Write one NDT procedure (required
Written Procedure1
for first Level 3 certification). 4 hours
or
≥70% • Option to instead review an NDT or
Written Procedure
procedure (for each additional Level 1½ hours
Review2
3 method certification)
EMC Practical
Examination ≥70% (on each
• Same as level 2 examination 4 hours
(If not successfully specimen/subpart)
completed at Level 2)3
1
Written Procedure:
This four hour examination must be completed by candidates seeking their first Level 3 method
certification.
• To complete this examination, the candidate will write a method-specific NDT procedure.
• Writing a comprehensive NDT procedure that meets industrial standards may typically take
several days to complete; the NDT Certification Body therefore provides Level 3 candidates (upon
application approval) with a pre-examination package that includes all the information and details
necessary to prepare for this examination.
Version number: 01
2
Written Procedure Review:
Candidates seeking a subsequent Level 3 method certification have the option of completing a 1½ hour
procedure review examination, instead of writing another procedure examination.
• To complete this examination, the candidate will review a sample procedure that he/she is to
assume comes from their staff for review and approval.
• The candidate (as the responsible Level 3 individual/superviser ) must review the procedure and
identify the mistakes and deficiencies; the candidate will record the mistakes and defiencies
directly in the procedure, adjacent to the problem area. (An example of this will be shown in the
procedure review examination document.)
• The candidate must identify and report as many problem areas or deficiencies as they can find
within the procedure document. Deficiencies may include, but are not limited to the following:
 no cover sheets; no provision for approval signatures, approval signatures by unauthorized
personnel, missing or incorrect information in headers, missing attachments/references,
missing sections, incorrect paragraph numbering, contradicting technical data, technical
data contrary to good practice, unclear statements, inconsistent formatting of the
document, information placed in wrong sequence, typographical errors, etc.
3
Practical Examination:
Candidates seeking direct access to Level 3 certification must successfully complete the Level 2 method-
specific practical examination with a grade of ≥70 %.
• A candidate who is Level 2 in the same NDT method and product sector or who has successfully
passed a Level 2 practical examination for the same NDT method and product sector is exempt
from the Level 2 practical examination.
• Please refer to the General Information for the PT2 EMC Practical Examination and the PT2 EMC
Practical Examination Program.
Version number: 01
Reference Material for PT3 EMC Written Examination Preparation
General and EMC Examinations

1. Nondestructive Testing Handbook - Liquid Penetrant Testing, By ASNT – Latest Edition
2. Betz Handbook on Liquid Penetrant Testing
3. Penetrant Testing: A Practical Guide, By David Lovejoy
4. ASM Metals Handbook – Volume 17; by ASM International
5. Personnel Training Publications, Liquid Penetrant Testing; by ASNT
6. Handbook of Nondestructive Evaluation, 2nd edition; by Chuck Hellier
7. General Dynamics Classroom Training Handbook CT-2 by PH Diversified
Materials and Processes

Although Materials & Processes (M&P) training is a prerequisite to all NDT training, method-specific M&P
content is still a component of the NDT certification examinations. The following reference material may
have been used to prepare examination questions:
1. Materials and Processes for NDT Technology - Latest Edition
2. Nondestructive Testing Handbook - Latest Edition
3. Basic Metallurgy for Nondestructive Testing - Latest Edition
4. General Dynamics Programmed Instruction Handbook (PI-4-1) by PH Diversified
5. Metallurgy for the Non-Metallurgist. Second Edition.by ASM International
EMC - Codes and Applications Examination

The following three (3) codes/specifications/techniques were utilized as inspiration in drafting the PT3
EMC Sector Codes paper. New codes and questions are added periodically:
1. Standard Practice for Liquid Penetrant Examination for General Industry, ASTM E-165
2. Military Specification, MIL-STD-6866B (ASG)
3. Mcdonnell Douglas Standard, DPS 4.7c7 Rev.”AA”
Basic Examination (Parts A, B & C)

1 Materials and Processes for NDT Technology, By ASNT
2 Basic Metallurgy for Nondestructive Testing, By British Institute of NDT
3 Why Metals Fail, chapter 2, By R.D. Barer and B.F. Peters
4 Qualification and Certification of Nondestructive Testing Personnel CAN/CGSB - 48.9712
Note: Candidates should familiarize themselves with the capabilities and limitations of other NDT
methods when preparing for the Basic Written Examination.
Written Procedure Examination

As indicated in the PT3 EMC examination scheme (above), the candidate will be provided with (at the
time of application) a pre-examination package that includes all the information and details necessary to
prepare for the examination.
Note: Most of the subjects covered by the Level 3 written examinations are found in the above
publications; however, additional studying from other reference material may be useful.
Version number: 01
Sample Questions: PT3 General Written Examination
1. Capillary force is inversely proportional to:

a) size of surface openings
b) surface tension
c) contact angle
d) all of the above
2. One of the two most important properties of a good penetrant is wetting ability. Wetting ability is:
a) measured by contact angle and is not related to surface tension.
b) a function of viscosity and increases as surface tension decreases.
c) measured by contact angle and decreases as surface tension increases.
d) measured by surface tension and increases as contact angle decreases.
3. Methylene chloride and dimethyl formamide are used:

a) in the distillation of penetrants
b) as traces dyes
c) to clean crack test samples
d) for medical LPI
4. Test experience comparing drain dwell and immersion dwell procedures has found drain dwell to
be:
a) inferior
b) superior
c) about the same
d) obsolete
5. The actual cost of colour contrast penetrants may be more than fluorescent penetrants because:
a) the market is larger and manufacturers can make higher profits
b) less demand merits higher pricing
c) more dye must be added to the penetrant
d) sufficient profit is made on black lights
6. In darkened surroundings, the eye dark adapts. This is called:

a) myopia
b) scoptic vision
c) hypermyopia
d) photopic vision
7. The width of cracks formed in the chromium plated penetrant test panels is primarily a function of:
a) chrome alloy
b) rate of bending to produce fracture
c) degree of polishing on the brass sub panel
Version number: 01
d) thickness of chromium plate
8. Persistence of penetrant indications implies:

a) microshrinkage
b) incomplete cleaning
c) large volume discontinuities
d) all of the above
9. Locating leaks by pressurized fluids can be accomplished by:

a) natural fluorescence in the hydraulic fluid
b) adding fluorescent dye to the hydraulic fluid
c) simple visual inspection
d) any of the above may locate leaks
Answer Key:
1. a) 2. c) 3. c) 4. b) 5. c)
6. b) 7. d) 8. c) 9. d)
Version number: 01
Sample Questions: PT3 EMC Codes and Applications Written Examination
1. The main risk of testing cold parts is:

a) chilling the penetrant bath
b) condensed moisture forming on the part blocking penetration
c) increased drain time
2. The most desirable objectives governing the cleaning operations when removing surface
penetrant are to:
a) remove little penetrant from defects and a minimum of residual penetrant remaining on the
surface.
b) remove little penetrant from a defect and no residual penetrant remaining on the surface.
c) remove no penetrant from defects and leave a minimum of residual on the part surface.
d) remove no penetrant from defects and leave no penetrant on the part surface.
3. The type of penetrant to be used on an investment casting should be:

a) water washable fluorescent for adequate sensitivity and water washability.
b) solvent removable because of size and shape.
c) post emulsifiable fluorescent for maximum sensitivity and water washability.
d) solvent removable for greater visibility.
4. Even absolute values of fluorescence measured by photometers are not reliable without a
reference standard because of:
a) variations in metals
b) variation in black light source intensity
c) non linear response of photosensors
d) meter saturation
5. When dipping parts in water suspendible developer, when the parts are slightly warmer than room
temperature:
a) extra safety precautions are needed
b) shock cooling is a risk
c) bath concentrations may increase
d) excessive bleed out is expected
6. Evaluation of liquid penetrant tests for different depth cracks can be determined by:
a) increasing pre quench temperature on the aluminum block
b) capillary activity in the glass wedge
c) varying coating thickness on chrome plated brass panels
Version number: 01
7. In a situation where several methods of testing are necessary for complete inspection of a part,
the preferred sequence would be:
a) to use penetrant inspection before ultrasonic inspection.
b) to use magnetic particle inspection before penetrant inspection.
c) to use ultrasonic inspection before penetrant inspection.
d) any of the above depending on the existing situation.
8. The inspection of a number of parts from a lot to determine the quality of the lot is called:
a) lot testing
b) periodic checks
c) spot examination
d) statistical inspection
9. For locating cracks in glass or glazed ceramics the preferred method is:
a) water washable penetrant
b) post emulsifiable penetrant
c) electrified particle
d) solvent removable
10. What is the method which uses a color contrast penetrant in conjunction with a developer
containing a low intensity fluoragent called?
a) Fluorescent developer method
b) Reversed fluorescent method
c) Contrast fluorescent method
d) Reversed contrast method
Answer Key:
1. b) 2. d) 3. c) 4. b) 5. c)
6. c) 7. a) 8. c) 9. c) 10. b)
Version number: 01
Sample Questions: Level 3 Basic Written Examination
1. The Canadian standard for the certification of non-destructive testing personnel is developed and
maintained by:
a) the Canadian General Standards Board (CGSB).
b) a standard committee composed of representatives from industry working under the
auspice of CGSB.
c) Natural Resources Canada under the auspice of the Canadian General Standards Board.
d) a cooperative effort between various Canadian regulatory bodies and Natural Resources
Canada.
2. The levels of certification covered by the CGSB standard on NDT personnel certification are:
a) trainee, Level 1, Level 2, Level 3.
b) apprentice, trainee, Level 1, Level 2, Level 3.
c) Level 1, Level 2, Level 3.
d) none of the above.
3. The pickling time will be least for:

a) low carbon steel.
b) high carbon steel.
c) alloy steels.
d) pickling time is the same for all three materials.
4. Which of the following may be considered an advantage of powder metallurgy as a manufacturing

method?
a) Production of parts of closer tolerances

b) Mass production of hard to shape parts
c) Produce parts with a high strength to weight ratio
d) All of the above
5. Which of the following heat treatments usually follows a hardening treatment in order to make the
steel more ductile?
a) Annealing
b) Tempering
c) Spheroidizing
d) Normalizing
Version number: 01
6. Which of the following statements is correct?

a) Alkaline solutions are never used to clean aluminum alloys.
b) Acid solutions are never used to clean aluminum alloys.
c) Acid solutions are usually used to clean aluminum alloys.
d) Alkaline solutions are usually used to clean aluminum alloys.
7. Suitable combinations of two different materials each with specific properties may result in a
composite that:
a) is better in terms of resistance to heat than either of the two components alone.
b) is stronger in tension per unit weight than either of the two components alone.
c) is stiffer per unit weight than either of the two components alone.
d) any of the above.
8. The practical length standards used by industry for gauging are:

a) angle slip gauges.
b) sine bars.
c) wavelengths of light emitted by different elements.
d) gauge blocks.
9. Thermal conductivity of a metal is an important factor to consider in making quality weldments

because:
a) some metals, such as aluminum, have a low conductivity which results in weld defects due
to localized heat build-up.
b) some metals, such as stainless steel, have a high conductivity which results in lack of
fusion defects as the heat is quickly removed from the weld zone.
c) in some metals, such as aluminum, very high temperature gradients are produced, causing
stresses during cooling.
10. Fracture is a type of material failure. Of the following, which is another type of material failure?
a) Fracture mechanics
b) Low frequency dynamic loading
c) Permanent deformation
d) Elongation within the elastic range
11. To remove iron from the ore in a blast furnace, the following materials are added to the furnace to
generate the desired chemical reactions:
a) coke, ore and oxygen.
b) bauxite, ore and air.
c) coke, ore, limestone and air.
d) coke, ore, limestone and bauxite.
Version number: 01
12. The reason for putting ingots in a soaking pit is:

a) to control the direction of crystallization.
b) to homogenize the structure and composition of the ingots.
c) to permit slow cooling of the ingots.
d) to bring them to the temperature required for rolling.
13. An advantage of using green sand molds over dry sand molds is:
a) green sand molds are stronger then dry sand molds and thus are less susceptible to
damage in handling.
b) surface finish of large castings are better when using green sand molds.
c) over all dimensional accuracy of the mold is better with green sand.
d) there is less danger of hot tearing of castings when using green sand molds.
14. Shielded metal arc welding is a process of joining metals which is:
a) fully automated.
b) semi-automated.
c) carried out manually.
d) all of the above.
15. In the resistance spot welding of low carbon steel the heat generated is:
a) concentrated between the positive electrode and the work.
b) concentrated at the interface of the two plates to be welded.
c) concentrated between the negative electrode and the work.
d) evenly distributed in the work between the electrodes.
16. Which of the following is not a brazing process?

a) Furnace brazing
b) Induction brazing
c) Infrared brazing
d) Electron beam brazing
17. Completely recrystallized hot rolled steel products have:

a) exactly the same mechanical properties in the longitudinal and transverse directions.
b) superior mechanical properties in the direction of rolling.
c) superior mechanical properties in the transverse direction.
d) inferior mechanical properties than the original cast structure.
18. Care must be taken not to splash steel on the walls of the mold when pouring to prevent formation
of surface defects like:
a) inclusions.
b) seams.
c) cold shots.
d) bursts.
Version number: 01
19. Bursts are caused by:

a) casting at too low a temperature.
b) forging metal which is either too hot or too cold.
c) insufficient reduction in size is attempted in one forging operation.
20. Slag inclusions in welds are caused by:

a) wide weaving.
b) incomplete deslagging of a previous pass.
c) moisture entrapped in the joint.
d) both a) and b).
21. Cobalt 60 is reported to have a half-life of 5.3 years. By how much should exposure time be
increased (over that used initially to produce excellent radiographs when the cobalt 60 source was
new) when the source is two years old?
a) no change in exposure time is needed.
b) exposure time should be about 11% longer.
c) exposure time should be about 37% longer.
d) exposure time should be from 62 to 100% longer.
22. In ultrasonics, increasing the length of the pulse to activate the search unit will:
a) decrease the resolving power of the instrument.
b) increase the resolving power of the instrument.
c) have no effect on the test.
d) will decrease the penetration of the sound wave.
23. Optimum magnetic particle inspection of a 50 mm inside diameter gear containing a keyway would
require:
a) circular method with magnetic field parallel to keyway.
b) circular method with magnetic field perpendicular to keyway.
c) using central conductor.
d) all of the above.
24. Which of the following physical properties, more than any other, determines what makes a
material a good penetrant?
a) viscosity.
b) surface tension.
c) wetting ability.
d) no one single property determines if a material will or will not be a good penetrant.
Version number: 01
25. Direct current saturation coils would most likely be used when testing _______________ by the
eddy current method.
a) steel
b) aluminum
c) copper
d) brass
Answer Key
1. b) 2. c) 3. c) 4. d) 5. b) 6. d) 7. d) 8. d)
9. d) 10. c) 11. c) 12. d) 13. d) 14. c) 15. b) 16. c)
17. b) 18. c) 19. b) 20. d) 21. c) 22. a) 23. d) 24. d)
25. a)

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8.2.

1-043 - Penetrant Testing Examination

Examination Guide for

Engineering, Materials and

Ce guide est aussi disponible en français à l'adresse suivante :

Organisme de certification national en essais non destructifs

Contact Information .................................................................................................................... 2

Table of Contents ........................................................................................................................ 3

Overview of NRCan National Non-destructive Testing Certification Body Services ............. 4

IMPORTANT NOTICE .................................................................................................................. 4

Suggestions for Success: Written Examinations ..................................................................... 5

Penetrant Testing Level 2 ........................................................................................................... 6

Reference Material for PT2 EMC Written Examination Preparation........................................................ 7

General Information for the PT2 EMC Practical Examination ............................................................... 14

PT2 EMC Practical Examination Program ............................................................................................ 15

Suggestions for Success: PT2 EMC Practical Examination.................................................................. 16

Penetrant Testing Level 3 ......................................................................................................... 17

Reference Material for PT3 EMC Written Examination Preparation...................................................... 19

Overview of NRCan National Non-destructive Testing Certification Body Services

Suggestions for Success: Written Examinations

Penetrant Testing Level 2

Examination Part Pass Grade Examination Content Duration

Reference Material for PT2 EMC Written Examination Preparation

General and EMC Examinations

Materials and processes

Codes and Standards

Sample Questions: PT2 General Written Examination

2. The tendency of a liquid penetrant to enter a discontinuity is primarily related to:

6. Both fluorescent and visible dye penetrants are identified by:

7. Black light used in penetrant testing has its peak at:

8. Blacklight is considered to be in the range of:

10. A good penetrant must be:

11. Nonaqueous suspensible developers are used primarily with:

13. In order to evaluate a defect an inspector must have:

Sample Questions: PT2 EMC Written Examination

1. It may be said that specialists in non-destructive testing must:

2. Which of the following statements is correct?

3. Metal forming such as rolling results in:

4. What can cause stress raisers?

6. Which of the following is not a cause of undercutting?

8. In general, where can you find heat treatment cracks?

10. If inspection of parts is delayed:

11. Choosing the correct method of liquid penetrant inspection requires:

14. A somewhat linear intermittent penetrant indication would be formed by a:

15. Which one of the following statements is true?

16. All indications found by NDT methods are:

17. The term defect or flaw indicates:

18. Plastic film developers are used:

General Information for the PT2 EMC Practical Examination

PT2 EMC Practical Examination Program

PT2 EMC Practical Examination Candidates shall complete the following:

Suggestions for Success: PT2 EMC Practical Examination

Penetrant Testing Level 3

Examination Part Pass Grade Content Duration

Reference Material for PT3 EMC Written Examination Preparation

General and EMC Examinations

Materials and Processes

EMC - Codes and Applications Examination

Basic Examination (Parts A, B & C)

Written Procedure Examination

Sample Questions: PT3 General Written Examination

1. Capillary force is inversely proportional to: