NS-1-40. Detection and Acceptance of Surface Imperfections

NS-1 Sub-Spec 40 – Rev 01
40. DETECTION AND ACCEPTANCE OF SURFACE IMPERFECTIONS
40.1 General requirements
This section covers general requirements for magnetic particle (MT) and liquid penetrant (PT) examination. It
shall be applied in conjunction with each specific surface NDE technique (group 40. Sub-spec.'s) applicable
to this NS-1 specification.
A. General
1. The NDE personnel shall be qualified and certified to at least Level II of the ASNT Recommended Practice
SNT-TC-1A for the particular NDE method being applied.
The employer's written practice (para 5 of SNT-TC-1A) and personnel qualification records and certifications
shall be made available to the purchaser on request.
The grading method (para 8.1 of SNT-TC-1A) used for the assessment of examination results shall be
included in the employer's written practice.
Alternative qualification standards may be applied providing they meet the above requirements. The
manufacturer's qualification procedures based on alternative standards shall be made available to the
purchaser on request.
2. Magnetisation by the use of prods is not permitted on wetted or sealing surfaces. All prod marks shall be
removed by grinding.
3. Following MT examination, parts shall be demagnetised in accordance with ASTM E709 paragraph 18 the
residual magnetism measured at the surface shall not exceed 25 gauss, as measured with a calibrated
gauss meter.
4. All defects shall be disposed of as indicated in the relevant group 60 Sub-spec.'s (ref. to matrix).
B. Timing of Examiniation
The following restrictions apply with respect to the timing of stipulated examination(s):
1. ON BASE MATERIALS (castings plate forgings etc.) examination shall be performed after any final heat
treatment or final machining, whichever is the latter operation. If these base materials are subject to
fabrication welding involving post weld heat treatment, examination shall be performed after PWHT except
for group P-1 materials as described in ASME Section IX.
2. FABRICATION WELDS: The stipulated examination shall be performed after any final PWHT except for
welds in group P-1 or similar material (as described in ASME Section IX), which may be examined before or
after any final PWHT. If the weld surface is inaccessible after final PWHT then it shall be examined
immediately before the operation which renders the weld inaccessible.
3. REPAIR WELDS: The stipulated examination shall be performed after any final PWHT except that for
repair welds on P-1 material with a nominal thickness of 50 mm and below it may be done before or after any
final PWHT.
4. CLADDING DEPOSITED BY WELDING: The stipulated examination shall be performed after any final
PWHT.
If printed, not controlled unless stamped by Fearnley Procter Group

C. Reporting
All surface NDE examinations required by this NS-1 shall be covered by an examination report. Parts which
are examined batchwise, may be covered by a single report provided that all recordable indications are
traceable to the relevant part(s):
NDE reports shall include the following information as a minimum:
• Date of examination
• Inspector's name, and signature or stamp and NDE qualification level
• Unique component identification
• NDE procedure number, title and revision level
• Results of examination including number and location of recordable indications.
Note: Where reference is made to metric dimensions with respect to defect sizes or material thickness,
conversion to the nearest common imperial values is acceptable.
e.g. 1,6 mm 1/16 inch

3,2 mm 1/8 inch
4,8 mm 3/16 inch
6,4 mm 1/4 inch
etc.

40.2 Magnetic Particle Examination (MT) of Castings
40.2.1 Technique
40.2.1.1 Wet or Dry Method
The applied technique shall be in accordance with ASME Section V, Sub-section A, Article 7, and Sub-
section B, Article 25.
The examination shall be performed in accordance with a written procedure, which shall be made available
to the Purchaser on request.

40.2.1 Technique
40.2.1.2 Wet Method
The applied technique shall be the Wet Method and be in accordance with ASME Section V, Sub-section A,
Article 7, and Sub-section B, Article 25.

40.2.1 Technique
40.2.1.3 Wet Fluorescent Method
The applied technique shall be the Wet Fluorescent Method and be in accordance with ASME Section V,
Sub-section A, Article 7, and Sub-section B, Article 25.

40.2.2 Required Extent
40.2.2.1 Ten Percent
All accessible surfaces of a 10% sample selected at random from the total quality of a *representative batch
shall be examined, with a minimum of 1.
In the event that a defect(s) is (are) discovered then an additional 10 percent of the total quantity shall be
randomly selected and examined.
If no defects are found in the additional sample, the defective item(s) shall be segregated for further
dispositioning while the remainder of the batch may be considered acceptable.
Should the additional sample reveal a defect(s) then either the entire batch is considered defective or all
items of that batch shall be individually examined. In either case the manufacturer's non-conformance
procedure shall be applied in conjunction with Sub-spec.'s 60.1, 160.1 and when applicable Sub-spec. 60.2.
Note: * Representative batch: as described in Mil Std-105D Sect. 5 & 7.

40.2.2.2 Fifty Percent
All accessible surfaces of 50 percent of the quantity of items involved shall be examined, with a minimum of
one.
In the event that a defect(s) is (are) discovered then a 100 percent examination shall be performed.

40.2.2.3 One Hundred Percent
All accessible surfaces of 100 percent of the quantity of items involved shall be examined

40.2.3 Acceptance Standard
40.2.3.1 Maximum Acceptable Linear/Rounded Indications
The maximum acceptable indications are:
a. Linear Indications
• 8 mm long for castings up to 13 mm thick

• 13 mm long for castings from 13 mm to 25 mm thick
• 18 mm long for castings over 25 mm thick
A linear indication is one with a length greater than three times the width. Linear indications shall be
separated by a distance greater than the length of an acceptable linear indication, otherwise their aggregate
length shall comply with the limitations stated above.
b. Rounded Indications
• 8 mm major dimension for castings up to 13 mm thick

• 13 mm major dimension for castings over 13 mm thick
A rounded indication is one with a length not greater than three (3) times the width.
Three (3) is the maximum permitted number of rounded indications separated by 3 mm or less, edge to
edge.
Note: The above acceptance standard is based on ANSI B 16.34, Annex C 2.1.

40.2.3.2 Maximum Permitted Imperfection Classification
With reference to ASTM-E 125 (reference photographs for Magnetic Particle Indications on ferrous castings)
the maximum permitted imperfection classification is :
Type Maximum permitted degree

I 5 mm
II degree 2
III degree 3
IV None
I degree 3
Note: The above acceptance standard is based on API 14D, Exhibit A3.2, para 13.

40.2.3.3 Maximum permitted Relevant Linear/Rounded/All Indications
Relevant indications are those which result from mechanical discontinuities and have a major dimension
greater than 1.6 mm. Linear indications are those with a length greater than three (3) times the width.
Rounded indications are roughly circular or elliptical with a length not greater than three (3) times the width.
The maximum permitted relevant indications are:
1.6 mm long for castings up to 16 mm thick

3.2 mm long for castings from 16 mm to 50 mm thick
4.8 mm long for castings over 50 mm thick
3.2 mm (major dimension) for castings up to 16 mm thick

4.8 mm (major dimension) for castings over 16 mm thick
c. All relevant indications
Three (3) relevant indications in a line separated by 1.6 mm or less, edge to edge.
Nine (9) relevant indications in any 36 cm2 area with the major dimensions of this area not to exceed 15 cm,
taken in the most unfavourable orientation relative to the indications under evaluation.
Note: The above acceptance standard is based on ASTM A 613, Section 19 RW.

40.2.3.4 Relevant Indications
Relevant indications are those that result from mechanical discontinuities and have a major dimension
greater than 1.6 mm.
All casting surfaces shall be free from tears or cracks. Each relevant indication shall therefore be cleaned
and visually examined at 5x magnification (or ground and re-examined by MT) to check that it is not a tear or
a crack.
The acceptance limits for other relevant indications are:
Major dimension 2 mm or T/4, whichever is the lesser for castings with thickness (T) up to 13 mm. Major
dimension 4 mm or T/4, whichever is the lesser, for castings with thickness (t) from 13mm to 25mm. Major
dimension 8 mm or T/4, whichever is the lesser, for castings with thickness (T) over 25 mm.
The maximum acceptable number of relevant indications shall be three (3) in any 100 cm2 with the major
dimension of this area not to exceed 40 cm, taken in the most unfavourable orientation relative to the
indications under evaluation.
The distance separating two longitudinally aligned relevant indications shall not be less than four (4) times L
(where L is the length of the longer indication) otherwise their aggregate lengths shall comply with the
limitations stated above.
For adjacent relevant indications which are not longitudinally aligned, the separation distance shall not be
less than L, where L is the lengths of the longer indication.
Note: The above acceptance standard is based on SIPM draft specification W-5.

40.2.3.5 Maximum Permitted Imperfection Classification
With reference to ASTM-E 125 (reference photographs for magnetic particle indications on ferrous castings)
and manufacturer "Critical Area Drawings" the maximum permitted imperfection classification is:
Discontinuity Maximum Permitted Degree

Type
Descriptions Critical Areas Non-Critical Areas
I Hot Tears Cracks None None
II Shrinkage Degree 1 Degree 2
III Inclusions Degree 1 Degree 2
IV Internal Chills Chaplets None Degree 1
V Porosity Degree 1 Degree 2
If critical areas are not indicated on drawings, then all areas shall be classified critical.
Note: The above acceptance standard is based on ASTM-E125 (Reference Photographs For Magnetic
Particle Indications on Ferrous Castings).

40.3 Magnetic Particle Examination (MT) of Plate Material
40.3.1 Technique

40.3.1 Technique
40.3.1.2 Wet Method

40.3.1 Technique

All accessible plate surfaces shall be examined of a 10% sample selected at random from the total quantity
of a *representative batch shall be examined, with a minimum of 1.
procedure shall be applied in conjunction with Sub-spec.'s. 60.1, 160.1 and when applicable Sub-spec. 60.2.
Note: *Representative batch: as described in Mil Std- 105D Sect. 5 & 7.

40.3.3.1 Maximum Acceptable Edges/Bevels and Surface Indications
a. Edges/Bevels
Indications resulting from laminar type discontinuities shall be considered defects when the length exceeds
50 mm. Adjacent indications in the same plane (i.e. within 5 percent of plate thickness) shall be considered
as one single indication when separated by a distance less than the length of the smaller indication. The
maximum permitted total length of discontinuity is 100 mm in any 1 meter of edge length.
b. Surface
Linear indications are those with a length greater than three (3) times the width.
All relevant linear indications shall be considered defects.
Other relevant indications are acceptable provided they are randomly distributed and their depth does not
encroach on the required plate thickness.
Note: The above acceptance standard for edges/bevels is based on BS 5996 and ASTM A20.

40.3.3.2 Maximum Permitted Relevant Linear/Rounded/All Indications
Linear Indications
1.6 mm long for parts up to 16 mm thick

3.2 mm long for parts from 16 mm to 50 mm thick
4.8 mm long for parts over 50 mm thick
Rounded Indications
3.2 mm (major dimension) for parts up to 16 mm thick

4.8 mm (major dimension) for parts over 16 mm thick
All Relevant Indications
Three (3) relevant indications in a line separated by 1.6 mm or less, edge to edge. Nine (9) relevant
indications in any 36 cm2 area with the major dimension of this area not to exceed 15 cm, taken in the most
unfavourable orientation relative to the indications under evaluation.
Note: The above acceptance standard is based on ASTM A 654, Section 18 RW & ASME Sec. VIII-D1
Appendix 6.

40.4 Magnetic Particle Examination (MT) of Forgings, Mechanical Tubing and Barstock
40.4.1 Technique

40.4.1 Technique
40.4.1.2 Wet Method

40.4.1 Technique

procedure shall be applied in conjunction with Sub-spec's. 60.1, 160.1 and when applicable Sub-spec. 60.2.
Note: * Representative batch: as described in Mil Std-105D Sect. 5 & 7.

one.

All accessible surfaces of 100 percent of the quantity of items involved shall be examined.

• 5 mm long for parts up to 13 mm thick

• 10 mm long for parts from 13 mm to 25 mm thick
• 15 mm long for parts over 25 mm thick
A linear indication is one with a length greater than three (3) times the width.
Linear indications shall be separated by a distance greater than the length of an acceptable indication,
otherwise their aggregate length shall comply with the limitations stated above.
• 5 mm (major dimension) for parts up to 13 mm thick

• 8 mm (major dimension) for parts over 13 mm thick
edge.
Note: The above acceptance standard is based on ANSI B 16.34, Annex C2.2.

40.4.3.2 Maximum Permitted Relevant Linear/All Indications
greater than 1.6 mm. A linear indication is one with a length greater than three (3) times the width.
5 mm long for all material thicknesses
b. All Relevant Indications
Ten (10) indications in any 36 cm2 area with the major dimension of this area not to exceed 15 cm, taken in
the most unfavourable orientation relative to the indications under evaluation.
Note: The above acceptance standard is based on API 14D,Exhibit A3.2, para 14.

40.4.3.3 Maximum Permitted Relevant Indications
• 5 mm dimension for all material thicknesses.

• Three (3) relevant indications in a line, separated by 1.6 mm or less, edge to edge.
• Nine (9) relevant indications in any 36 cm2 area with the major dimension of this area not to exceed
15 cm, taken in the most unfavourable orientation relative to the indications under evaluation.
Note: The above acceptance standard is based on ASTM A 508.

Linear Indications
• 1.6 mm long for parts up to 16 mm thick

• 3.2 mm long for parts from 16 mm to 50 mm thick
• 4.8 mm long for parts over 50 mm thick
Rounded Indications
• 3.2 mm (major dimension) for parts up to 16 mm thick

• 4.8 mm (major dimension) for parts over 16 mm thick

Pressure Contact Sealing Surfaces:
• No relevant indications.
Non Sealing surfaces:
• Linear indications - 4.8 mm

• Rounded indications - 4.8 mm
• Three relevant indications in a line separated by 1.6 mm or less, edge to edge.
• Ten (10) relevant indications in any continuous 39 cm2 (6 inch2) area with the major dimension of this
area not to exceed 15 cm, taken in the most unfavourable orientation relative to the indications under
evaluation.
Inherent indications not associated with a surface rupture (magnetic permeability variations, non-metallic
stringers, etc.) are considered non-relevant. If indications are believed to be non-relevant, they shall be
examined by liquid penetrant surface NDE methods, or removed and re-inspected to prove their non-
relevancy.
Note: The above acceptance standard is based on API 6A -15th edition.

40.5 Magnetic Particle Examination (MT) of Tubular Material
40.5.1 Technique

40.5.1 Technique
40.5.1.2 Wet Method

40.5.1 Technique

All accessible surfaces shall be examined, including the bevels/ends when left un-welded.
"Accessible" is defined as follows:
For tubulars with a nominal diameter of 24 inches or greater:
• all outside and inside surfaces;
For tubulars with a nominal diameter of less than 24 inches:
• inside surfaces within one diameter of the ends and all outside surfaces.

a. End/Bevels
Indications resulting from laminar type discontinuities shall be considered defects when the length exceeds 6
mm. Adjacent indications in the same plane (i.e. within 5 percent of the wall thickness) shall be considered
as one single indication when separated by a distance which is less than the length of the smaller indication.
b. Body Surface
greater than 1.6 mm. Linear indications are those with a length greater than three (3) times the width. All
relevant linear indications and all indications resulting from arc burns shall be considered defects.
Other relevant indications are acceptable provided they are randomly distributed and their depth is not more
than 12.5 percent of the nominal wall thickness or does not encroach on the required wall thickness.
c. Seam Weld
For the seam weld of seam-welded tubulars, refer to Sub-spec.'s, Section 40.7.3.
Note: The above acceptance standard for edges/bevels is based on API 5L, para 10.7, and ASTM A20.

40.6 Magnetic Particle and Visual Examination (MT + VE) of Threads
40.6.1 Technique

40.6.1 Technique
40.6.1.2 Wet Method

40.6.1 Technique

All accessible surfaces of a 10% sample selected at random from the total quantity of a *representative
batch shall be examined, with a minimum of 1.
If the additional sample reveals a defect(s) then either the entire batch is considered defective or all items of
that batch shall be individually examined. In either case the manufacturer's non-conformance procedure shall
be applied in conjunction with Sub-spec's. 60.1, 160.1 and when applicable Sub-spec. 60.2
Note: *Representative batch: as described in Mil-Std 105D Sect. 5 & 7.

All accessible threaded surfaces of 50 percent of the quantity of items involved shall be examined, with a
minimum of one.

All accessible threaded surfaces of 100 percent of the quantity of items involved shall be examined.

The following relevant indications are not acceptable:
• linear non-axial indications.

• linear axial indications having a length greater than 25 mm or the part diameter, whichever is the
lesser.
• any other indications resulting from discontinuities which would be detrimental to the intended
service of the component.

A. Relevant indications are those that result from mechanical discontinuities and have a major dimension
The following relevant indications shall be cause for reject:
1. Thread crest indications extending more than halfway down three consecutive thread flanks.
2. Longitudinal thread root indications that appear in more than one consecutive root and/or extend up
the adjacent flank(s).
3. Transverse thread root indications equal to or greater than 3/16 inch.
4. Any longitudinal relevant indications located in the pressure sealing area(s).
5. Transverse indications equal to or greater than 1/8 inch located in or within 1/16 inch of the metal-to-
metal sealing area.
Inherent indications not associated with a surface rupture (magnetic permeability variations, non-metallic
stringers, etc.) are considered non-relevant. If indications are believed to be non-relevant, they shall be
examined by liquid penetrant surface NDE methods, or removed and re-inspected to prove their non-
relevancy.
B. Evaluation of visually located thread imperfections shall be carried out using API RP 5A5 section 5.9 as a
reference standard, with the following additions:
• Cosmetic repair by hand filing is only permitted on non-engaging thread areas (ref. 5.9.b and
5.9.2.g).
• Extreme line threads and proprietary threads shall meet the requirements of the Lc area of
API threads (ref. 5.9.2.).
• The sealing area of extreme line threads and proprietary threads shall meet the
requirements of 5.9.4.
Due to the subjective nature of evaluating thread imperfections, the manufacturer may engage the services
of a thread licensor's representative to arbitrate in situations of disagreement between manufacturer and
purchaser's representative.

40. DETECTION AND ACCEPTANCE OF SURFACE IMPERFECTION
1. Visually detectable protrusions that are likely to cause galling or scoring of mating surfaces or
damage the protective coating shall be considered defects.
2. Any indications resulting from the following imperfections shall be considered defects provided they
penetrate through the root of the thread:
• pits, seams, laps, cuts, cracks, tears.
3. Arc burns are considered defects.

4. Minor repairs, using a suitable file, may be carried out on protrusions.

40.7 Magnetic Particle (MT) and Visual (VE) Examination of Welds
40.7.1 Technique
The applied MT technique shall be in accordance with ASME Section V, Sub-section A, Article 7, and Sub-
Visual Examination (VE) shall be in accordance with ASME Section V, Sub-section A, Article 9.

40.7.1 Technique
40.7.1.2 Wet Method
The applied MT technique shall be the Wet Method and be in accordance with ASME Section V, Sub-section
A, Article 7, and Sub-section B, Article 25.
Visual Examination (VE) shall be in accordance with ASME Section V, Sub-section A, Article 9.

40.7.1 Technique
The applied MT technique shall be the Wet Fluorescent Method and be in accordance with ASME Section V,
Visual examination (VE) shall be in accordance with ASME Section V, Sub-section A, Article 9.

40.7.2.1 Ten Percent MT and 100 Percent VE
All accessible weld surfaces of 10 percent of the quantity of items involved (with a minimum of one) shall be
examined by MT and all accessible weld surfaces of 100 percent of the items involved shall be examined by
VE.
In the event that a defect(s) is (are) discovered by MT, then MT shall be increased to 100 percent.
For seam-welded tubulars, "accessible" is defined as follows:
For tubulars with a nominal diameter of 24 inches and greater:
• all inside and outside weld surfaces;
• all inside weld surfaces within one diameter of the ends and all outside weld surfaces.

40.7.2.2 Fifty Percent MT and 100 Percent VE
examined by MT and all accessible weld surfaces of 100 percent of the items involved shall be examined by
VE.
In the event that a defect(s) is (are) discovered by MT, then MT shall be increased to 100 percent.

MT and VE shall examine all accessible weld surfaces (100 percent) of the quantity of items involved.

40.7.3.1 Acceptable Level Of Imperfections
The acceptable level of imperfections is shown below. For API welded tubulars, judgement against the
relevant API is an acceptable alternative.
Straight or Spiral Fillet, Socket & Welded Branch

Type of Girth & Mitre Joint
Longitudinal Butt Reinforcement Connections &
Imperfection Butt Welds
Welds Attachment Welds Fabricated Laps
Cracks/Lack of
None Permitted None Permitted None Permitted None Permitted
Fusion
Incomplete
Penetration None Permitted None Permitted Not Applicable None Permitted
(see note 2)
Undercut See Note 1 None Permitted See Note 1 See Note 1
Concave Root (Suck-
See Note 3 See Note 3 Not Applicable See Notes 3 and 5
up)
Surface Porosity &
Exposed Slag (for
nominal wall None Permitted None Permitted None Permitted None Permitted
thicknesses up to 4.5
mm)
Weld Reinforcement See Note 4 See Note 4 See Note 4 See Notes 4 and 5
Notes:
1. The lesser of 0.8 mm or T/4, where T is the nominal wall thickness of the thinner of the joined
components.
2. For welds having an approved design that precludes full penetration, incomplete penetration is not a
reason for rejection.
3. For single-sided welded joints, concavity of the root surface shall not reduce the total thickness of
the joint, including reinforcement, to less than the thickness of the thinner of the components being
joined.
4. External weld reinforcement and internal weld protrusion (when no backing rings are used) shall be
fused with and shall merge smoothly into the component surfaces. The height of the lesser
projection of external weld reinforcement or internal weld protrusion from the adjacent base material
surface shall not exceed the following limits:
Nominal Wall Thickness of the External Reinforcement or Internal

thinner of the Joined Components Weld Protrusion
Up to 6.4 mm 1.6 mm
From 6.4 mm to 12.7 mm 3.2 mm
Over 25.4 mm 4.8 mm
5. These requirements apply only to butt welds similar to those shown in ANSI B 31.3, Figs. 328.5.4E,
328.5.5d and 328.5.5e
Note: The above acceptance standard is based on ANSI B 31.3.

40.7.3.2 Friction/Inertia welds
Any relevant defect located in the weld zone shall be investigated to determine its position in relation to the
fusion line and heat affected zone (H.A.Z.).
The maximum permitted indications are:
in the H.A.Z. or fusion line:
• no relevant indications permitted.
in the base material:
• refer to Sub-spec. 40.4.3.5 (MT of forgings)

40.8 Liquid Penetrant Examination (PT) of Castings
40.8.1 Technique

be applied in conjunction with Sub-spec's. 60.1, 160.1, and when applicable Sub-spec. 60.2
Note: *Representative batch: as described in Mil Std-105D Sect. 5 & 7.

one.

40.8.2.3 One Hundred Per cent

Maximum acceptable indications are as follows:
• 8 mm long for castings up to 13 mm thick

• 13 mm long for castings from 13 mm to 25 mm thick
• 18 mm long for castings over 25 mm thick
A linear indication is one with a length greater than three times (3) the width. Linear indications shall be
separated by a distance greater than the length of an acceptable linear indication, otherwise their aggregate
length shall comply with the limitations stated above.
• 8 mm (major dimension) for castings up to 13 mm thick

• 13 mm (major dimension) for castings over 13 mm thick
edge.
Note: The above acceptance standard is based on ANSI B 16.34, Annex D2-1.

Rounded indications are roughly circular or elliptical with a length not greater than three times the width.
The maximum permitted relevant indications are as follows:
• 1.6 mm long for castings up to 16 mm thick

• 3.2 mm long for castings from 16 mm to 50 mm thick
• 4.8 mm long for castings over 50 mm thick
• 3.2 mm (major dimension) for castings up to 16 mm thick

• 4.8 mm (major dimension) for castings over 16 mm thick
c. All relevant indications
Note: The above acceptance standard is based on ASTM A 613, Section 20 RX.

All casting surfaces shall be free from tears or cracks. Each relevant indication shall therefore be cleaned
and visually examined at 5x magnification (or ground and re-examined by PT) to check that it is not a tear or
a crack.
The acceptance limits for other relevant indications are:
Major dimension 2 mm or T/4, whichever is the lesser for castings with thickness (T) up to 13 mm. Major
dimension 4 mm or T/4, whichever is the lesser, for castings with thickness (T) from 13 mm to 25 mm. Major
dimension 8 mm or T/4, whichever is the lesser, for castings with thickness (T) over 25 mm.
The maximum acceptable number of relevant indications shall be three (3) in any 100 cm2 with the major
dimension of this area not to exceed 40 cm, taken in the most unfavourable orientation relative to the
indications under evaluation.
The distance separating two longitudinally aligned relevant indications shall not be less than four (4) times L
(where L is the length of the longer indication) otherwise their aggregate lengths shall comply with the
limitations stated above.
For adjacent relevant indications that are not longitudinally aligned, the separation distance shall not be less
than L, where L is the length of the longer indication.
Note: The above acceptance standard is based on SIPM draft specification W-5.

• Linear Indications-None
• Rounded Indications-Three (3) indications in a line, separated by 1.6 mm or less edge tot edge
Note: The above acceptance standard is based on API Spec. 14 D, Exhibit A 3.2, para 16.

40.9 Liquid Penetrant Examination (PT) of Plate Material
40.9.1 Technique

All accessible plate surfaces shall be examined of a 10% sample selected at random from the total quantity
of a *representative batch shall be examined, with a minimum of 1.
procedure shall be applied in conjunction with Sub-spec's. 60.1, 160.1, and when applicable Sub-spec. 60.2.
Note: *Representative batch: as described in Mil Std- 105D Sect. 5 & 7.

40.9.3.1 Maximum Acceptable Edges/Bevels/Plate Surface Indications
Edges/Bevels
Indications resulting from laminar type discontinuities shall be considered defects when the length exceeds
50 mm. Adjacent indications in the same plane (i.e. within 5 percent of plate thickness) shall be considered
as one single indication if separated by a distance less than the length of the smaller indication. The
maximum permitted total length of discontinuity is 100 mm in any 1 metre of edge length.
Plate Surface
All relevant linear indications shall be considered defects. Other relevant indications are acceptable provided
they are randomly distributed and their depth does not encroach on the required plate thickness.
Note: The above acceptance standard for edges/bevels is based on BS 5996 and ASTM A20.

Linear Indications

Rounded Indications

Note: The above acceptance standard is based on ASTM A 654, Section 18 RW & ASME Sec VIII-D1
Appendix 6.

40.10 Liquid Penetrant Examination (PT) of Forgings, Mechanical Tubing and Barstock
40.10.1 Technique

be applied in conjunction with Sub-spec's. 60.1, 160.1 and when applicable Sub-spec. 60.2.

one.


Maximum acceptable indications are:

A linear indication is one with a length greater than three times the width.
otherwise their aggregate lengths shall comply with the limitations stated above.

A rounded indication is one with a length not greater than three times the width.
edge.
Note: The above acceptance standard is based on ANSI B 16.34, Annex D2.2.

Maximum acceptable indications are:

A linear indication is one with a length greater than three times the width.
otherwise their aggregate lengths shall comply with the limitations stated above.

A rounded indication is one with a length not greater than three times the width.
edge.
Note: The above acceptance standard is based on ANSI B 16.34, Annex D2.2.

The maximum permitted relevant indications are as follows:
Linear Indications

Rounded Indications


Relevant indications are those which result from mechanical discontinuities and have a major dimension
• Linear Indications-None
• Rounded Indications-Three (3) indications in a line, separated by 1.6 mm or less, edge to edge.
Note: The above acceptance standard is based on API 14D, exhibit A3.2, para 16.

Pressure Contact Sealing Surfaces
• No relevant indications.
Non Sealing Surfaces
• Linear indications - 4.8 mm

• Rounded indications - 4.8 mm
• Three relevant indications in a line separated by 1.6 mm or less, edge to edge.
• Ten (10) relevant indications in any 39 cm2 (6 inch2) area with the major dimension of this area not
to exceed 15 cm, taken in the most unfavourable orientation relative to the indications under
evaluation.
Note: The above acceptance standard is based on API 6A 15th edition.

40.11 Liquid Penetrant Examination (PT) of Tubular Material
40.11.1 Technique

All accessible surfaces shall be examined including the bevels/ends when left un-welded.
"Accessible" is defined as follows:
For tubulars with a nominal diameter of 24 inches or greater:
• all outside and inside surfaces;
• inside surfaces within one diameter of the ends and all outside surfaces.

a. End/Bevels
Indications resulting from laminar type discontinuities shall be considered defects when the length exceeds 6
mm. Adjacent indications in the same plane (i.e. within 5 percent of the wall thickness) shall be considered
as one single indication if separated by a distance less than the length of the smaller indication.
b. Body Surface
greater than 1.6 mm. Linear indications are those with a length greater than three (3) times the width. All
relevant linear indications and all indications resulting from arc burns shall be considered defects.
Other relevant indications are acceptable provided they are randomly distributed and their depth is not more
than 12.5 percent of the nominal wall thickness or does not encroach on the required wall thickness
c. Seam Welds
For the seam weld of seam welded tubulars, refer to Sub-spec.'s, Section 40.13.3.
Note: The above acceptance standard for edges/bevels is based on API 5L and ASTM A20.

40.12 Liquid Penetrant and Visual Examination (PT + VE) of Threads
40.12.1 Technique
The examination shall be performed to in accordance with a written procedure, which shall be made
available to the Purchaser on request.

All accessible surfaces of a 10% sample selected at random from the total quantity of a * representative
Note: * Representative batch: as described in Mil Std 105D Sect. 5 & 7.

All accessible threaded surfaces of 50 percent of the quantity of items involved shall be examined, with a
minimum of one.

All accessible threaded surfaces of 100 percent of the quantity of items involved shall be examined.

The following relevant indications are not acceptable:
• linear non-axial indications

• linear axial indications having a length greater than 25 mm or the part diameter, whichever is the
lesser
• any other indications resulting from discontinuities which would be detrimental to the intended
service of the component

A. Relevant indications are those that result from mechanical discontinuities and have a major dimension
The following relevant indications shall be cause for reject:
1. Thread crest indications extending more than halfway down three consecutive thread flanks.
2. Longitudinal thread root indications that appear in more than one consecutive root and/or extend up
the adjacent flank(s).
3. Transverse thread root indications equal to or greater than 3/16 inch.
4. Any longitudinal relevant indications located in the pressure sealing area(s).
5. Transverse indications equal to or greater than 1/8 inch located in or within 1/16 inch of the metal-to-
metal sealing area.
B. Evaluation of visually located thread imperfections shall be carried out using API RP 5A5 section 5.9 as a
reference standard, with the following additions:
1. Cosmetic repair by hand filing is only permitted on non-engaging thread areas (ref. 5.9.b and
5.9.2.g).
2. Extreme line threads and proprietary threads shall meet the requirements of the Lc area of API
threads (ref. 5.9.2).
3. The sealing area of extreme line threads and proprietary threads shall meet the requirements of
5.9.4.
Due to the subjective nature of evaluating thread imperfections, the manufacturer may engage the services
of a thread licensor's representative to arbitrate in situations of disagreement between manufacturer and
purchaser's representative.

1. Visually detectable protrusions that are likely to cause galling or scoring of mating surfaces or
damage the protective coating shall be considered defects.
2. Any indications resulting from the following imperfections shall be considered defects provided they
penetrate through the root of the thread:
• pits, seams, laps, cuts, cracks, tears.
3. Arc burns are considered defects.

4. Minor repairs, using a suitable file, may be carried out on protrusions.

40.13 Liquid Penetrant (PT) and Visual (VE) Examination of Welds
40.13.1 Technique
The applied PT technique shall be in accordance with ASME Section V, Sub-section A, Article 6, and Sub-
Visual examination (VE) shall be in accordance with ASME Section V, Sub-section A, Article 9.

40.13.2.1 Ten Percent PT and 100 Percent VE
examined by PT and all accessible weld surfaces of 100 percent of the items involved shall be examined by
VE.
In the event that a defect(s) is (are) discovered by PT, the PT shall be increased to 100 percent.
• all inside weld surfaces within one diameter of the ends and all outside weld surfaces

40.13.2.2 Fifty Percent PT and 100 Percent VE
All accessible weld surfaces of 50 percent of the quantity of items involved (with a maximum of one) shall be
examined by PT and all accessible weld surfaces of 100 percent of the items involved shall be examined by
VE.
In the event that a defect(s) is (are) discovered by PT, then PT shall be increased to 100 percent.
• all inside weld surfaces within one diameter of the ends and all outside weld surfaces

PT and VE shall be used to examine all accessible weld surfaces of 100 percent of the quantity of items
involved.

The acceptable level of imperfections is shown below. For API welded tubulars, judgement against the
relevant API is an acceptable alternative.
Straight or Spiral Fillet, Socket & Welded Branch

Type of Girth & Mitre Joint
Longitudinal Butt Reinforcement Connections &
Imperfection Butt Welds
Welds Attachment Welds Fabricated Laps
Cracks/Lack of
None Permitted None Permitted None Permitted None Permitted
Fusion
Incomplete
Penetration None Permitted None Permitted None Applicable None Permitted
(see note B)
Undercut See Note A None Permitted See Note A See Note A
Concave Root
See Note C See Note C Not Applicable See Notes C and E
(Suck-up)
Surface Porosity &
Exposed Slag (for
nominal wall None Permitted None Permitted None Permitted None Permitted
thicknesses up to
4.5 mm)
Weld Reinforcement See Note D See Note D See Note D See Notes D and E
Notes:
A. The lesser of 0.8 mm or T/4, where T is the nominal wall thickness of the thinner of the joined
components.
B. For welds having an approved design that precludes full penetration, incomplete penetration is not a
reason for rejection.
C. For single-sided welded joints, concavity of the root surface shall not reduce the total thickness of the
joint, including reinforcement, to less than the thickness of the thinner of the components being joined.
D. External weld reinforcement and internal weld protrusion (when no backing rings are used) shall be fused
with and shall merge smoothly into the component surfaces. The height of the lesser projection of external
weld reinforcement or internal weld protrusion from the adjacent base material surface shall not exceed the
following limits:
Nominal Wall Thickness of the External Reinforcement or Internal

thinner of the Joined Components Weld Protrusion
Up to 6.4 mm. 1.6 mm
Over 25.4 mm 4.8 mm
E. These requirements apply only to butt welds similar to those shown in ANSI B 31.3, Figs. 328.5.4E,
328.5.5d and 328.5.5e

Note: The above acceptance standard is based on ANSI B 31.3.

40.14 Liquid Penetrant Examination (PT) of Weld-deposited Cladding
40.14.1 Technique


All accessible clad surfaces of 50 percent of the quantity of items involved shall be examined, with a
minimum of one.


Linear Indications-None
Rounded Indications-Three (3) indications in a line, separated by 1.6 mm or less, edge to edge.
Note: The above acceptance standard has been based on ASME Section VIII, Div. I.

NS-1-40. Detection and Acceptance of Surface Imperfections

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NS-1-40. Detection and Acceptance of Surface Imperfections

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NS-1 Sub-Spec 40 – Rev 01

40. DETECTION AND ACCEPTANCE OF SURFACE IMPERFECTIONS

40.1 General requirements

If printed, not controlled unless stamped by Fearnley Procter Group

NDE reports shall include the following information as a minimum:

e.g. 1,6 mm 1/16 inch

If printed, not controlled unless stamped by Fearnley Procter Group

40. DETECTION AND ACCEPTANCE OF SURFACE IMPERFECTIONS

40.2 Magnetic Particle Examination (MT) of Castings

40.2.1.1 Wet or Dry Method

If printed, not controlled unless stamped by Fearnley Procter Group

40. DETECTION AND ACCEPTANCE OF SURFACE IMPERFECTIONS

40.2 Magnetic Particle Examination (MT) of Castings

40.2.1.2 Wet Method

If printed, not controlled unless stamped by Fearnley Procter Group

40. DETECTION AND ACCEPTANCE OF SURFACE IMPERFECTIONS

40.2 Magnetic Particle Examination (MT) of Castings

40.2.1.3 Wet Fluorescent Method

If printed, not controlled unless stamped by Fearnley Procter Group

40. DETECTION AND ACCEPTANCE OF SURFACE IMPERFECTIONS

40.2 Magnetic Particle Examination (MT) of Castings

40.2.2 Required Extent

40.2.2.1 Ten Percent

Note: * Representative batch: as described in Mil Std-105D Sect. 5 & 7.

If printed, not controlled unless stamped by Fearnley Procter Group

40. DETECTION AND ACCEPTANCE OF SURFACE IMPERFECTIONS

40.2 Magnetic Particle Examination (MT) of Castings

40.2.2 Required Extent

40.2.2.2 Fifty Percent

If printed, not controlled unless stamped by Fearnley Procter Group

40. DETECTION AND ACCEPTANCE OF SURFACE IMPERFECTIONS

40.2 Magnetic Particle Examination (MT) of Castings

40.2.2 Required Extent

40.2.2.3 One Hundred Percent

If printed, not controlled unless stamped by Fearnley Procter Group

40. DETECTION AND ACCEPTANCE OF SURFACE IMPERFECTIONS

40.2 Magnetic Particle Examination (MT) of Castings

40.2.3 Acceptance Standard

40.2.3.1 Maximum Acceptable Linear/Rounded Indications

The maximum acceptable indications are:

• 8 mm long for castings up to 13 mm thick

• 8 mm major dimension for castings up to 13 mm thick

If printed, not controlled unless stamped by Fearnley Procter Group

40. DETECTION AND ACCEPTANCE OF SURFACE IMPERFECTIONS

40.2 Magnetic Particle Examination (MT) of Castings

40.2.3 Acceptance Standard

40.2.3.2 Maximum Permitted Imperfection Classification

Type Maximum permitted degree

If printed, not controlled unless stamped by Fearnley Procter Group

40. DETECTION AND ACCEPTANCE OF SURFACE IMPERFECTIONS

40.2 Magnetic Particle Examination (MT) of Castings

40.2.3 Acceptance Standard

40.2.3.3 Maximum permitted Relevant Linear/Rounded/All Indications

The maximum permitted relevant indications are:

1.6 mm long for castings up to 16 mm thick

3.2 mm (major dimension) for castings up to 16 mm thick

c. All relevant indications

If printed, not controlled unless stamped by Fearnley Procter Group

40. DETECTION AND ACCEPTANCE OF SURFACE IMPERFECTIONS

40.2 Magnetic Particle Examination (MT) of Castings

40.2.3 Acceptance Standard

40.2.3.4 Relevant Indications

The acceptance limits for other relevant indications are: