GD SP NDT 2

Specification for
Non-Destructive Testing of Welded Joints In Steel

Pipelines and Pipework
GD/SP/NDT/2
Issue Date: December 2019
This document is a reference document within the company Safety Case, all changes to this
document shall be notified to the Head of SHES before any changes are initiated.
GD/SP/NDT/2
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Version Control
Implementation date
December 2019
Review date
February 2022
Document owner
Engineering
Management approval
Head of Engineering
Disclaimer
This safety and engineering document is provided for use by Cadent Gas Limited and such of its contractors as
are obliged by the terms and conditions of their contracts to comply with this document. Where this document is
used by any other party it is the responsibility of that party to ensure that this document is correctly applied.
Mandatory & Non-Mandatory requirements:

In this document:
Shall: Indicates a mandatory requirement.
Should: Indicates best practice and is the preferred option. If an alternative method is used then a suitable and
sufficient risk assessment must be completed to show that the alternative method delivers the same, or better,
level of protection
The Company: Any reference in this document to ‘The Company’ shall be taken to mean Cadent Gas Ltd.
Document History
Description Date Reference
First published within T/SP/P/2 February 2003 T/SP/P/2
Revised and published as T/SP/NDT/2 January 2004 T/SP/NDT/2
Second Update January 2006 T/SP/NDT/2
Third Update January 2010 T/SP/NDT/2
Fourth Update February 2011 T/SP/NDT/2
Fifth Update October 2014 T/SP/NDT/2
Sixth Update February 2017 T/SP/NDT/2
Updated to reflect business changes December 2019 GD/SP/NDT/2
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Comments and queries regarding the technical content of this document should be directed to:
Cadent
Ashbrook Court
Prologis Park
Central Boulevard
Coventry
CV7 8PE
Copyright © 2018 Cadent Gas Limited - All Rights Reserved
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Contents
1. Scope ................................................................................................................................5
2. References ........................................................................................................................5
3. Definitions ..........................................................................................................................5
4. Destructive Testing ............................................................................................................5
5. Non-Destructive testing method .........................................................................................5
6. Personnel Qualification ......................................................................................................6
7. Non-Destructive Testing of Procedure Test Welds .............................................................7
8. Non-Destructive Testing of Production Welds ....................................................................7
9. Radiographic Examination .................................................................................................9
10. Manual Ultrasonic Examination of Welded Joints .............................................................13
11. Automatic or Phased Array Ultrasonic Examination .........................................................15
12. Magnetic Particle flaw Detection ......................................................................................15
13. Dye penetrant Flaw Detection ..........................................................................................16
14. Non-Destructive Testing of repaired Production Welds ....................................................16
15. Records ...........................................................................................................................17
Appendix A - References .......................................................................................................18
Appendix B - Management of Site Radiography ....................................................................19
Appendix C - Site Radiation Safety Monitoring Checklist and Report Sheet ..........................28
Appendix D - Requirements for Automatic Ultrasonic Inspection ...........................................31
Appendix E - Requirements for Manual Phased Array Ultrasonic Inspection .........................41
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1. Scope
1.1. This specification details the requirements for non-destructive testing of welded joints
in carbon, carbon manganese and stainless steel materials specified for use on the
company network only.
1.2. Where National or International standards referenced in this document require
specific items to be agreed between the contracting parties the requirements of this
specification shall apply.
1.3. This specification is not intended for the revalidation of welded joints in pressure
containing components. In such cases reference to GD/PM/NDT/1 should be made.
Where non-destructive testing alone cannot confirm that a welded joint fully meets
the acceptance criteria of a qualified welding procedure. Additional destructive testing
may be needed to prove that the requirements of the appropriate welding standard or
specification have been met.
2. References
2.1. This Specification makes references to the documents listed in Appendix A. Unless
otherwise specified, the latest edition of the documents apply, including all
amendments.
3. Definitions
3.1. For the purpose of this specification the terms and definitions used in BS EN 1330
shall apply.
Dressing: Light grinding in the weld area where the parent pipe or fitting is not
reduced in wall thickness below the minimum allowed by the relevant
specification.
Employer: The Company

or its nominated representative.
4. Destructive Testing
4.1. The Employer reserves the right to require the complete removal of production welds
to confirm the results of Non-Destructive Testing and to prove that the mechanical
properties of the weld conform to specification criteria. Destructive testing shall
consist of the removal of complete welds for mechanical testing in accordance with
the appropriate welding standard or specification.
5. Non-Destructive testing method

5.1. The method of non-destructive testing used shall be capable of producing indications
of imperfections which can be accurately interpreted and evaluated in order to assess
whether the defect acceptance criteria specified in the relevant welding standard
have or have not been met. The results of the non-destructive testing shall be
recorded and shall include the location, size and nature of all flaws detected.
5.2. Standard radiographic methods produce a two-dimensional image only, therefore the
Employer reserves the right to reject a defect that appears to meet the acceptance
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criteria on length but could prove detrimental to the weld integrity due to the through
wall extent of that defect.
5.3. When the GD/SP/P/2 workmanship defect acceptance criteria is applied in
conjunction with automated ultrasonic testing (AUT) or semi-mechanised (MPA)
ultrasonic system, due cognisance shall be taken of the ability of the AUT system or
semi-mechanised ultrasonic system to estimate the through wall extent of a defect.
Even though a defect appears to meet the acceptance criteria on length the
Employer reserves the right to reject the defect due to excessive depth
5.4. Operators of all types of non-destructive testing equipment should be required to
demonstrate to the approval of the Employer the capability of the equipment and
examination procedure to detect flaw indications. The operator may be asked to
demonstrate their ability to make correct interpretation of defect indications given by
the equipment.
5.5. Welds shall be examined in the as-welded, or post weld heat treated condition
(PWHT), as applicable. If the weld has been subject to PWHT the non-destructive
testing shall follow this treatment.
5.6. Local dressing of the weld reinforcement may be required to confirm transverse
indications. Where local dressing is used to aid the interpretation of non-destructive
testing or to confirm defect indications, care shall be taken to maintain the material
minimum design thickness.
6. Personnel Qualification
6.1. Personnel performing non-destructive examination in accordance with this
specification shall be qualified. The qualification shall be to the appropriate grade(s)
in the TWI BGAS approval scheme. The Employer may consider personnel approved
though the CSWIP/PCN as an alternative.
6.2. Visual acuity

All NDT personnel responsible for the visual examination of components, the
application and interpretation of magnetic particle inspection (MPI) and dye penetrant
inspection (DPI) test methods and the interpretation of radiographs shall be capable
of meeting the following eyesight requirements:
a) Near vision acuity shall permit reading a minimum of Jaeger number 1 or times
roman N 4.5 or equivalent letters at not less than 30 cm with one or both eyes,
either corrected or uncorrected.
b) Colour vision shall be sufficient that the inspector can distinguish and
differentiate contrast between the colours used in the NDT method concerned.
6.3. All personnel engaged in activities associated with this specification shall comply with
all the relevant safety requirements of the particular work location, such as the
requirement for Personnel Protective Equipment (PPE), Safety passport, confined
space training where applicable and site induction. Where a method statement or risk
assessment for the inspection activity is available then this must be read and
understood and all requirements adhered to. However, if the documents are not
available then advice must be sought before work commences.
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7. Non-Destructive Testing of Procedure Test Welds

7.1. General
The quality of the test welds shall be determined by non-destructive testing after weld
specimens have been allowed to cool to ambient temperatures in production
conditions for a minimum of 24 hours.
Non-destructive testing procedure specifications shall be submitted to the Employer

and be approved prior to weld testing.
All test butt welds shall be examined visually and by X-radiography. Automatic
Ultrasonic testing (AUT) or Manual Phased array (MPA) may be substituted for X-
radiography when agreed between the contracting parties. If AUT is used then it shall
be carried out in accordance with Appendix D of this specification, when the
examination is carried out with MPA then this shall be in accordance with Appendix E
of this specification. Where access permits, the weld root region shall be examined
by MPI or DPI as appropriate.
All fillet test welds shall be examined visually and by MPI or DPI as appropriate. MPI
shall be the preferred method to be used for the examination of carbon steel welds.
The DPI method should be used for the examination of austenitic stainless-steel
welds. Complementary Non- destructive testing methods may be required to identify
flaw characteristics.
7.2. The results from visual examination and non-destructive testing shall be assessed
according to the appropriate acceptance criteria of the welding standard specified.
8. Non-Destructive Testing of Production Welds

8.1. General
All completed welds shall be examined visually in accordance with BS EN ISO17637.
To verify compliance with the approved welding procedure, where practicable,
individual weld passes, in particular the root bead, shall be examined during welding.
When a completed weld root or cap is still above the minimum inter-pass temperature
stated in the approved welding procedure, repairable welding defects revealed by
visual examination may be removed and re-welded. When a completed weld has
cooled to ambient temperature, remedial welding is not permitted until full non-
destructive testing of the weld has been completed.
8.1.1. The welding standard or specification being applied, shall determine the percentage
or number of production welds to be examined by non-destructive testing. This
should be appropriate to the class of welding specified.
8.1.2. All butt welds tested shall be completely examined (100% of the weld length) by X-
radiography, a fully automated ultrasonic system or manual phased array ultrasonic
inspection. All radiographs and/or ultrasonic scans shall be submitted to the
Employer or the Employer’s representative for approval prior to hydrotesting.
It is not the Company policy to use sealed sources i.e. Gamma isotopes for weld
examination. However, conditions may exist that prevent the practical use of X-ray or
ultrasonic methods, in such circumstances the Employer may consider the use of
alternative NDT methods. Any alternative procedures or methods of weld
examination proposed shall be approved by the Employer and be qualified, prior to
weld testing commencing.
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8.1.3. To assist interpretation the weld cap may be ground to a smooth contour prior to
examination.
8.1.4. When required by the Employer the primary method of weld examination shall be
supplemented by a complimentary method of non-destructive testing. The Employer
shall specify the supplementary non-destructive testing method to be used.
For pipeline construction, the number of welds to be examined using a
supplementary non-destructive testing method and the extent of the examination
shall be determined by the Employer. The pipe diameter, thickness, length, material
and welding process used to manufacture pipeline welds shall determine the
minimum examination level required.
Where supplementary examination is required for a specific number of welded joints,

to enable early identification of potential welding problems and to validate the primary
NDT method used, they shall be examined during the early stages of pipeline
construction.
8.1.5. For Class I welding of installation pipe work, all fittings attached by butt welds, shall
have the weld root examined from the bore by MPI or DPI as appropriate, where
access is possible. Local dressing of the root may be carried out if necessary to
assist interpretation.
8.1.6. For Class I welding of fillet welds (e.g. Set-on fittings and attachments) all welds shall
be examined by MPI or DPI, as appropriate. When required by the Employer
supplementary ultrasonic examination of fillet welds shall be carried out. For Class II
welding the number or percentage of fillet welds to be examined by MPI or DPI, as
appropriate, shall be agreed with the Employer prior to production welding
commencing.
8.1.7. All Non-destructive testing procedure specifications shall be submitted to the
Employer for approval prior to production welding commencing.
8.1.8. For welds which will not be pressure tested (Golden Welds) then the initial weld
examination shall be supplemented as follows:
Initial Examination Supplementary Inspection
Radiography Full Automatic Ultrasonics (AUT)
or
Manual Phased Array Ultrasonics
(MPA)
or
Manual Ultrasonics
Fully Automatic Radiography
Ultrasonics (AUT) or
Manual Phased Array Ultrasonics
(MPA)
or
Manual Ultrasonics (using
independent operator)
Manual Phased Array Radiography
Ultrasonics (MPA) or
Fully Automatic Ultrasonics (AUT)
or
Manual Ultrasonics (using
independent operator)
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Note,
(1) Independent operator means a different operator to the person
carrying out the initial review and sentencing of inspection data.
(2) In all cases the weld cap shall be examined using Magnetic
Particle inspection.
8.1.9. The single sided Ultrasonic inspection (Manual or Manual Phased Array*) of Golden
welds shall not be permitted. The scanning technique used shall examine the fusion
face and weld body from both sides of the weld joint.
*If the Golden weld is on a transition between pipes of different wall thicknesses then
the thicker pipe shall be counter bored to provide an equal wall thickness either side
of the joint.
9. Radiographic Examination
9.1. General
9.1.1. The main requirement of the Ionising Radiations Regulations is that NDT contractors
should adopt working practices capable of keeping radiation exposures of employees
as low as reasonable practicable.
If work involves routine radiography of readily moveable articles, an assessment shall
be made to establish whether site radiography is appropriate or if the articles may be
taken to a purpose-built enclosure for examination. Appendix B provides a flowchart
and guidance to facilitate the assessment.
Before any radiography is carried out a copy of the local rules as defined by the
Ionising Radiations Regulations shall be given to the employer. These will identify the
names and contact details for both the radiation protection adviser (RPA) and the
radiation protection supervisor (RPS). The local rules shall be displayed on the site
office notice board and at all locations where radiography is being carried out.
9.1.2. The Radiography shall be carried out in accordance with BS EN ISO 17636-1 when
using films or BS EN ISO 17636-2 for digital detectors and to the requirements of this
specification. The minimum standard of radiography produced shall be in accordance
with Class B (improved techniques). Class A shall not be permitted without the
written agreement of the Employer and only where Class B cannot be achieved for
sound technical reasons.
9.1.3. The use of fluoro-metallic screens or pre-packed films is dependent upon continuing
satisfactory field performance. Damaged screens shall not be used. The Employer
has the final decision whether screens or the use of pre-packed films are acceptable.
To provide acceptable film contrast the radiographic film shall be placed in close
contact with the intensifying screens and the object under examination. Lack of film
screen contact, even if local, may cause rejection of the radiograph
9.1.4. Fine grain high contrast direct type film or ultra-fine grain high contrast direct type film
meeting the requirements of BS EN 584-1 Class C4 should be used. Any variation to
this requirement shall be stated on the radiographic procedure sheet and shall be
approved for use by the Employer.
9.1.5. All radiographs shall be interpreted when dry
9.1.6. Permanent marking of the pipe as in BS EN ISO 17636-1or BS EN ISO 17636-2, as
appropriate Clause 6.5 shall be by waterproof marker only. No hard stamping shall
be permitted.
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9.1.7. Suitable padding shall be used on external X-ray sets to prevent damage to the pipe
coating
9.1.8. The minimum information to be displayed on the radiograph to ensure traceability will
be agreed between the Employer and the contractor prior to work commencing.
9.2. Radiographic Personnel

Radiography shall be carried out in accordance with national and company safety
standards. All personnel engaged in radiography shall be familiar with the current
legislation with respect to carrying out work with ionising radiation.
Each radiographic crew shall consist of at least two people. Each member of the
crew shall hold, as a minimum, a valid Radiographic Assistant qualification grade in
the BGAS approval scheme or CSWIP / PCN Radiographer qualification. Prior to
submitting radiographs to the Employer, the films shall be viewed by personnel
holding a valid Radiographer grade in the TWI BGAS scheme or CSWIP / PCN
Radiographer qualification. They shall confirm that the quality of the radiographs
meets the requirements of this specification before submission to the Employer.
9.3. Radiation Protection

The exposure of the human body to X-rays or Gamma-rays can be injurious,
therefore it is essential that when radiographic equipment is used, adequate
precautions are taken to protect all persons in the vicinity of the operation
Radiography shall not be undertaken unless the radiographers fully comply with the
requirements of The Ionising Radiation Regulations (IRR99) and the
recommendations given in the Approved Code of Practice and Guidance (Working
with ionising radiation). Attention is drawn to the need for audible and visual warning
arrangements. Regular monitoring of radiation levels by the radiographers is
required.
9.4. Radiation Safety Monitoring

The Company has an obligation to its employees, contractors and members of the
public to monitor the standard of radiological safety maintained by radiographic
contractors on our sites. The items listed in Appendix B shall be regularly monitored
by the Employer or their representative and the results recorded
9.5. Radiographic Procedures

9.5.1. Radiographic examination of fusion welded circumferential butt welds in steel pipes
shall be carried out as described in BS EN ISO 17636, using techniques 7.1.4, 7.1.3,
7.1.8 or 7.1.6 (i.e. the preferred order), as appropriate.
9.5.2. Where fittings are welded to other fittings or to short lengths of pipe, technique
number 7.1.3 of BS EN ISO 17636 may be used. When using technique 7.1.3 then
the number of exposures required shall be calculated using BS EN ISO 17636 figure
A.1
9.5.3. Where BS EN ISO 17636 technique No 7.1.6 is used for pipe to pipe weld exposures,
a minimum of three exposures 1200 or 600 apart in that order (i.e. the preferred
order), shall be made. Pipe to fitting and fitting-to-fitting butt welds shall require a
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greater number of exposures to achieve satisfactory coverage. Superimposed

images are not permitted.
9.5.4. When using technique 7.1.8 then the number of exposures required shall be
calculated using BS EN ISO 17636 figure A.2. Where technique 7.1.8 is used to
examine pipeline butt welds, the 6 o’clock weld location shall be positioned in the
centre of the diagnostic film length.
9.5.5. When a complete circumferential weld is radiographed in a single exposure with the
source inside the pipe (technique 7.1.4), at least one of the image quality indicators
(IQI) shall be placed outside the pipe at the 6 o’clock location. When a circumferential
weld is radiographed using multiple exposures, an IQI shall be located at each end of
the diagnostic film length with the thinnest wire outermost. In all cases the IQI wires
will be placed across the weld at 900 to the weld axis
9.5.6. For examining branches of the forged set-in type, panoramic type techniques, where
the complete weld is examined in one exposure, are not permitted. The weld shall be
examined in separate exposures with the X-ray focal point positioned at normal
incidence to the area being examined to within ±5% as Shown in Figure 1. Either the
Single-wall, single-image or the double-wall, single-image technique may be used.
When the single-wall, single-image technique is used (technique 7.1.3), the film shall
be placed against the inner pipe or fitting surface with the X-ray focal spot on the
outside. The focal-spot-to-film distance shall be not less than 690 mm. When access
and/or other fittings prevent correct alignment of the beam, the double-wall, single-
image technique (technique 7.1.8) shall be used. Branches not greater than 150 mm
nominal bore require a minimum of four exposures equidistant round the weld
circumference. Branches of 200 mm nominal bore require a minimum of six
exposures equidistant round the circumference. Exposures of larger branches, or
branches with proportions significantly different from those shown in Figure 1, shall
be subject to agreement with the Employer
A = FILM CENTRES (4 FILM EXPOSURES)

B = Focal spot
Figure 1 – X-ray focal spot positioning
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9.6. Radiographic Density

9.6.1. For pipe and fittings of the same nominal wall thickness, the radiographic density
measured immediately adjacent to the weld reinforcement shall be within the range
2.5 to 3.5.
9.6.2. For pipe to pipe joints between pipes of different nominal wall thicknesses, where the
thicker pipe has been transitioned to match the bore of the thinner pipe, the
radiographic density measured immediately adjacent to the weld reinforcement shall
be within the range 2.5 to 3.8.
9.6.3. Where the difference in wall thickness between the components being joined is
substantial, i.e. certain types of fitting to pipe and fitting to fitting, the radiographic
density measured in sound weld metal (typical of the average weld and reinforcement
through thickness) shall be within the range 2.3 to 3.3.
If a film density within this range cannot be achieved in one exposure, either a
sandwich technique using fine grain, high contrast film and ultra-fine grain, high
contrast film (technique 7.1.9), or two separate exposures of the weld shall be made.
9.7. Approved Radiographic Procedure

All radiographic procedures, details of the radiographic techniques and test
radiographs* for each procedure shall be submitted to the Employer for approval prior
to production radiography commencing.
The procedure details shall include the following:
a) Technique.
b) Type of equipment and kV rating.
c) Type of film.
d) Intensifying screens.
e) Shielding.
f) Geometric relationship defined by sketch.
g) Limit of film coverage.
h) Tube voltage and exposure.
i) Material thickness range.
j) Type of image quality indicator and positions.
k) Processing.
* To qualify a radiographic procedure three individual radiographs shall be made of

each weld configuration covered by that procedure (preferably using the procedure
test weld), this is used to establish consistency of the radiographic procedure. The x-
ray equipment shall be re-positioned for each exposure.
9.8. Film Processing and Storage

9.8.1. All unexposed film shall be stored in a clean, dry place where the surrounding
conditions should not detrimentally affect the emulsion. At the discretion of the
Employer, the radiographic contractor shall demonstrate to the Employers
satisfaction that the film can be processed, using the site facilities, to have a fog level
not greater than 0.3.
9.8.2. The film shall be processed such as to allow storage without deterioration for a
minimum of three years. Adequate washing of the processed film is required to
reduce residual fixer content. Where the Quantity of work allows a Thiosulphate, test
is required on 1 film in 45 and the results recorded in a register held at site. The
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procedure for this test shall be submitted to the Employer for approval prior any work
commencing.
9.8.3. If radiographic images are to be stored digitally, the proposed method of storage,
retrieval and the definition and sensitivity of the recorded image shall be approved by
the Employer prior to storage commencing.
Any software required to view the results shall be included on the data disc. Any
software licenses shall be agreed prior to production welds being examined. The
software version/number shall be clearly visible on all display presentations. The
software shall be capable of displaying the retrieved radiographic image in the
original format viewed by the interpreter at the time of sentencing.
10. Manual Ultrasonic Examination of Welded Joints

10.1. General
When required by the Employer, ultrasonic examination shall be applied to welds as
described in BS EN ISO 17640 and this specification.
10.1.1. Before ultrasonic examination is carried out, scanning surfaces shall be thoroughly
cleaned and weld spatter removed to permit examination, as required in BS EN ISO
17640, Clause 8. In order to prevent pipe wall thinning the pipe surface shall not be
prepared by dressing.
10.1.2. Ultrasonic examination of welded joints shall be undertaken as required by the
Employer. This shall include:
A. Welds between pipes with wall thicknesses 4.8mm1 and greater.
B. Welds not subject to hydrostatic pressure test (golden welds).
C. In support of radiographic interpretation or to confirm other indications.
1
When examining welds with a wall thick in the range 4.8 to 8mm the probe will be of
a size to allow emission point to be as close to the weld cap as practicable (minute
probes), and the frequency will be 10Mhz.
10.2. Ultrasonic Equipment

The flaw detector and probes shall have an A-scan presentation capable of working
at a test frequency of 4 MHz to 6 MHz (or 10Mhz if welds are to be inspected in
thinner pipes 4.8 to 8.0mm). All ultrasonic equipment to be used for manual
examinations shall be stated on the proposed ultrasonic procedure (see 10.7). All
equipment shall be approved by the employer prior to use.
10.3. Ultrasonic Equipment Performance

The combined performance of the ultrasonic equipment shall be checked in
accordance with BS EN 12668 and shall comply with the permitted tolerances for
each function.
10.4. Ultrasonic Flaw Detector Calibration

Calibration of the flaw detector, cable and probe combination shall be carried out
prior to each ultrasonic examination using the standard test block as described in BS
EN ISO 2400 or BS EN ISO 7963.
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10.4.1. Calibration of the probe beam angles shall be carried out at least daily using the BS
EN ISO 2400 test block. The flaw detector time base and amplification shall be
calibrated before examining each weld.
10.5. Ultrasonic Weld Examination

A probe of 600 to 700 refraction angle, 4 MHz to 6 MHz (or 10Mhz if welds are to be
inspected in thinner pipes 4.8 to 8.0mm) frequency with a crystal area of
approximately 802 mm shall be used. When examining for lack of side fusion or lack
of inter-run fusion, the weld shall be scanned in a zig-zag manner, the probe being
moved between the weld reinforcement and one skip distance. The beam shall be
directed at the weld length normally. The weld shall be scanned from both sides,
10.5.1. The reference level shall be set using Technique 1 described in BS EN ISO 17640.
All indications greater than 20% DAC shall be investigated and reported. Indications
greater than 50% DAC or 6db shall be reported and evaluated. The position, length
(depth within the weld if required) and amount that the DAC is exceeded shall be
recorded. It is recommended that reference blocks be representative of the material
under test, i.e. same grade, curvature, surface finish and wall thickness.
Notes: 1.Where an indication is investigated, it is sufficient to confirm that a flaw reflector is present and
does not exceed 50% DAC.
Where a flaw reflector exceeds 50% DAC the dynamic characteristics of the flaw shall be fully
evaluated.
10.5.2. The examination level for butt welds shall be to BS EN ISO 17640 Table A1 as
follows
Pipe Thickness Examination Level Notes
4.8mm<t<15mm A T-scan required
15mm<t<40mm B T-scan required
10.6. Qualification of Personnel

Operators shall be qualified, as a minimum, to BGAS Ultrasonic Operator grade. As
an alternative, Operators holding a valid CSWIP / PCN Level 3.2 Ultrasonic
Practitioner qualification may also be considered by the Employer, in this case proof
shall be provided of experience in pipeline weld examination.
10.7. Ultrasonic Equipment Procedure

Written ultrasonic examination procedures shall be submitted to the Employer for
approval prior to testing commencing. Each procedure shall satisfy the requirements
of BS EN ISO 17640 clause 5.3 and specify the relevant information required in
Clause 5.2.
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10.8. Examination of Pipe Material

All pipe which is to be cut back shall be examined visually prior to and after cutting.
The pipe material around planned cut-outs for nozzles, branches and cut pipe ends
for pipe wall thicknesses greater than 6.1 mm, shall be ultrasonically examined for
100 mm each side of the proposed cut line. Any laminations found in this zone will be
considered unacceptable. This shall be done as described in BS EN 10160 using
method 9.1a to calibrate the test equipment. In such cases the probe shall be moved
in a zig-zag manner in a zone 100 mm wide.
11. Automatic or Phased Array Ultrasonic Examination

11.1. Automatic ultrasonic examination shall be carried out in accordance with the
requirements of Appendix D.
11.2. Manual phased array ultrasonic examination shall be carried out in accordance with
the requirements of Appendix E.
12. Magnetic Particle flaw Detection

12.1. General
When required by the Employer, Magnetic Particle Inspection (MPI) as described in
BS EN ISO 17638 or BS EN ISO 9934-1 as appropriate, shall be used. Inspection
personnel shall be qualified to BGAS Magnetic Particle Inspectors grade. The
Employer may also consider the use of personnel approved to a CSWIP / PCN Level
2 grade.
The preferred method of magnetising components shall be by AC electromagnetic
yoke or the coil technique, the prods method shall not be used. Permanent magnets
shall not be used unless specifically agreed and approved by the Employer.
Permanent magnets may only be considered for use where access precludes the use
of an AC electromagnetic yoke. Only wet detection media methods shall be used.
Only battery powered yokes that include a convertor to change the 12v DC battery
power into a 12v AC current shall be used.
12.2. Equipment Performance

12.2.1. The overall performance of the Magnetic Particle Examination technique shall be
confirmed prior to use. AC electromagnetic yokes shall demonstrate a lifting power of
4.5kg and a pull off force equivalent to 2.25kg at a maximum pole spacing of 200mm
or demonstrated using representative test pieces containing real or artificial flaws.
Portable shim type flux indicators may be used a guide to the magnitude and
direction of the tangential field strength,
12.2.2. Portable flux indicators shall not be used with permanent magnets. A guide to the
adequacy of permanent magnets with a pole spacing greater than 75mm, is that the
magnet should demonstrate a lifting power of 18kg and a pull off force equivalent to
9kg.The maximum pole spacing permitted is 150mm and the pull off force shall be
demonstrated on a sample of the actual component thickness and material under
test.
12.2.3. The methods to be used to confirm overall performance of the technique and
frequency of test shall be stated on the approved Magnetic Particle Examination
procedure.
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12.3. Magnetic Particle Procedure

A specific examination procedure shall be submitted for the Employer’s approval prior
to commencement of any MPI.
12.3.1. When examining welds, the technique used shall ensure full coverage of both weld
and heat affected zones. Magnetising techniques as described in BS EN ISO 17638
or BS EN ISO 9934-1 8.3.2.2, 8.3.2.4 and 8.3.2.6 as appropriate shall be used.
12.3.2. Welds shall be examined in the as-welded condition, apart from set-in fittings (e.g.
sweepolet type). The internal (where possible) and external weld reinforcement of
sweepolet type fittings shall be dressed to avoid false or misleading indications.
When required by the Employer, local dressing of other weld types shall be made, to
permit accurate interpretation of indications
12.3.3. Demagnetisation of the weld or material surfaces following MPI is not generally
required. However, consideration should be given to component demagnetisation
should excessive magnetism affect subsequent operations (the GD/SP/P/2
specification gives guidance on demagnetisation techniques for pipeline
applications).
12.3.4. The results of all MPI examinations shall be recorded and be assessed in
accordance with the relevant welding standard or specification.
13. Dye penetrant Flaw Detection

13.1. General
When required by the Employer, Dye Penetrant Inspection (DPI) as described in BS
EN ISO 3452-1 shall be used. Inspection personnel shall be qualified to BGAS
Magnetic Particle Inspector grade. The Employer may also consider the use of
personnel approved to a CSWIP / PCN Level 2 grade for liquid penetrant testing.
13.2. Dye Penetrant Inspection Procedures

A specific examination procedure shall be submitted for the Employer’s approval prior
to commencement of any DPI.
13.2.1. Mechanical pre-cleaning shall not be carried out
13.2.2. The results of all DPI shall be recorded and assessed to the relevant specification
14. Non-Destructive Testing of repaired Production Welds

14.1. General
Defective welds that have been repaired shall be re-examined visually and by non-
destructive testing
14.1.1. Repair areas shall be examined using radiography, manual ultrasonic, phased array
ultrasonic or fully automatic ultrasonic techniques approved by the Employer in
accordance with this specification.
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15. Records
The results of all non-destructive testing examinations shall be recorded on an
appropriate record form. The examination report shall include, as a minimum, the
information required by the appropriate national standard and this specification.
For AUT and MPA records shall be as required in Appendix D and E as appropriate
Radiographs shall be stored in a secure and dry environment. The films shall be
retained for a minimum period of one year or for the life of the contract. After this
period, where it can be confirmed that records exist, the films may be disposed of.
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Appendix A - References
This Specification makes reference to the documents listed below
A.1 BRITISH STANDARDS
BS EN ISO 17636-1 - Non-destructive testing of welds – Radiographic testing -

Part 1: X- and gamma-ray techniques with film (ISO 17636-
1:2013)
BS EN ISO 17636-2 Non-destructive testing of welds – Radiographic testing -
Part 2: X- and gamma-ray techniques with digital detectors
(ISO 17636-2:2013)
BS EN ISO 9934-1 - Non-destructive testing — Magnetic particle testing
BS EN ISO 3452-1 - Non-destructive testing – Penetrant testing – Part 1
General principles
BS EN ISO 11699-1 - Non-destructive testing – Industrial Radiographic film
classification of film systems for Industrial Radiography
BS EN ISO 17637 - Non – destructive examination of fusion welds. Visual
Examination
BS EN ISO 17638 - Non-destructive testing of welds — Magnetic particle
testing of welds
BS EN ISO 17640 - Non-Destructive Testing of welds – Ultrasonic testing –
Techniques, testing Levels, and assessment
BS EN 12668 Part 1 - Characterisation and verification of ultrasonic examination
equipment – Part 1: Instruments
BS EN 12668 Part 2 - Characterisation and verification of ultrasonic equipment –
Part 2: Probes
BS EN 12668 Part 3 - Characterisation and verification of ultrasonic examination
equipment – Part 3: Combined equipment
BS EN 10160 - Ultrasonic testing of steel flat product of thickness equal or
greater than 6mm (reflection method)
BS EN ISO 2400 - Specification for calibration block No. 1 for ultrasonic
examination of welds.
BS EN 1330 - Non-destructive testing – Terminology – Part 1 List of
general terms
GD/PR/NDT/ 1 - Procedure for carrying out non-destructive testing of plant
and equipment
GD/SP/P/16 - The dimensions and applications of standard weld end
preparations for steel pipe, fittings and valves
GD/SP/P/2 - Specification for Welding of Land Pipelines Designed to
Operate at Pressures greater than 7 bar (Supplementary to
BS 4515-1 :2009)
IRR99 - Ionising Radiations Regulations 1999
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Appendix B - Management of Site Radiography
B1 SCOPE
This procedure identifies the controls necessary for the management of site
Radiography. Adherence to these requirements should be audited as per the
requirements of construction checklist Appendix C.
This procedure shall also be used to determine the most appropriate method of
conducting radiography. The procedure provides a decision tree, which shall be used
to determine whether items requiring radiography testing should be transported off-
site to a purpose-built enclosure for radiography.
Implementation of these requirements does not imply that sufficient data has been
included to demonstrate compliance with Ionising Radiation Regulations, it is the
responsibility of the Radiographic Subcontractor and the main works contractor to
ensure these regulations are complied with in full.
B.2 INTRODUCTION
The main requirement of the Ionising Radiations Regulations is that NDT contractors
should adopt working practices capable of keeping radiation exposures of employees
as low as reasonably practicable.
The HSE guidance on complying with Ionising Radiations Regulations clearly states
that if work involves routine radiography of readily moveable articles it is nearly
always reasonably practicable to carry it out in an adequately shielded enclosure or
cabinet. Where practicable, using a suitable shielded enclosure shall always be the
first choice for radiography work. This enclosure can either be constructed on site or
articles can be transported to a purpose-built enclosure off site.
The flowchart in figure B1.0 of this Appendix, provides a process which shall
demonstrate that the selected method for conducting radiography keeps radiation
exposures of employees as low as reasonably practicable.
Where site radiography is the only practicable option the objective of this document is
to provide best practice guidelines to enable radiographic subcontractors to
undertake site radiography in a safe, consistent and auditable manner across all
projects.
B.3 ROLES & RESPONSIBILIES
The main responsibility for the implementation of this procedure lies with the
specialist
Radiographic Sub-contractor and the main works Contractor.
Adequate information on radiation safety shall be included within the contractor’s site
induction talk and relevant toolbox talks shall be provided to personnel likely to be in
the vicinity of radiographic works.
A Radiographic Protection Supervisor (RPS) will be appointed by the Radiographic

Sub-contractor and their details shall be displayed on the site office notice board and
at all locations where radiography is being carried out.
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All personnel are responsible for ensuring that site radiography is undertaken in a
safe manner, any deviation to the planned safe system of work shall be reported
immediately to the project supervisor for rectification. A formal audit to ensure these
requirements are implemented as per the checklist Appendix C
B.4 RADIOGRAPHY OPTIONS
Where radiography is required during the construction or modification of a Pipeline,

AGI, Compressor Station or Terminal the following options are available to the NDT
contractor:
a) Radiography is carried out in-situ with suitable local shielding and boundary
monitoring.
b) Radiography is carried out on site in a controlled area with suitable local
shielding and boundary monitoring.
c) Radiography is carried out on site in a temporary enclosure.
d) Articles are transported off site where radiography is carried out in a purpose-
built enclosure.
B.5 RADIOGRAPHY DECISION TREE
The flowchart in figure B.1.0 shall be used to determine the most appropriate method
when carrying out radiography. The size and transportability of pipework fabrications
may vary throughout a project, therefore to take account of this the flowchart may
need to be run more than once.
The factors, which may influence the selection of the most appropriate radiography
method for each stage of a project, are:
a) The ability to pre-fabricate and radiograph pipework off site.

b) The transportability of pipework fabricated on site, which can be broken down
further as:
i) Fabrications which are transportable off site; and
ii) Fabrications which are only transportable around the site.
c) The locality of a purpose-built radiography enclosure to the construction site.
d) The availability of a controlled safe area for radiography on the construction site.
B.6 REQUIREMENTS
B.6.1 SUBMISSION OF DOCUMENTATION FOR CLIENT REVIEW
B.6.1.1 In accordance with the Ionising Radiation Regulations this shall include the
production of prior risk assessments and the methodology for dealing with the
risks, that shall as a minimum identify the following;
• Generic Risks - generally found on all projects:

o road crossings
o public footpaths
• Unique Risks - specific features that are unique to the project:
o Street works
o Working near high density housing or schools etc
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o Specific risks associated with working in AGI’s or compressor stations
B.6.1.2 TECHNIQUE SHEETS
Technique sheets are required for each technique to be used
B.6.1.3 METHOD STATEMENT/PROCEDURES

The Method Statement should identify the practical aspects of undertaking
site radiography including:
• Equipment used;
• Equipment ratings;
• Type of film;
• Storage of film;
• Film processing;
• Handling of chemicals; and
• Manual handling of radiography equipment.
B.6.1.4 HSE NOTIFICATION
Notification shall be sent to the HSE within the required notification period (28
and 7 days respectively) prior to site radiography being undertaken. This shall
include advising the location and timescales for the proposed radiography. A
copy of all notifications shall be available on site for audit purposes.
B.6.2 GENERAL ISSUES
B.6.2.1 STORAGE OF PROCESSED FILMS
Processed film shall be stored in a suitable dry location separate from the
processing dark room.
B.6.2.2 STORAGE OF SEALED SOURCES
When not in use, sealed sources shall be stored in a suitable approved

transport container, secured within a secondary non-flammable container
identified with appropriate radiation signs.
B.6.2.3 RADIATION SIGNS
Appropriate radiation signs shall be clearly displayed on the outside of the

storage area containing the sealed source.
B.6.2.4 CONTACT DETAILS
The Radiation Protection Supervisor’s name and contact number shall be

posted on the cabin where the sealed source is stored and on the project
notice board (s).
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B.6.2.5 TRANSPORTATION OF SEALED SOURCES
When sealed sources are in transport on the spread, relevant radiation signs
shall be posted on both sides and to the rear of the vehicle. When the source
is in the vehicle and is left unattended for any reason, the vehicle shall be left
in a secure state to prevent unauthorised access.
B.6.2.6 FIRE EXTINGUISHERS
Appropriate fire extinguishers shall be available within the darkroom, sealed

source storage area and site vehicles.
B.6.2.7 DISPOSAL OF PROCESSING CHEMICALS
No disposal of processing chemicals or wash water shall be to an agreed

procedure and shall not be dispersed to ground.
B.6.2.8 LIFTING EQUIPMENT
All lifting equipment (slings, belts, chains etc) shall be suitably controlled,
identified and have current test certification.
B.6.2.9 INSPECTION & TEST EQUIPMENT
All inspection and test equipment used to provide primary measurement shall
be uniquely identified, subject to formal control and calibrated to a known
national standard.
B.6.2.10 QMS
The Radiographic Subcontractor shall implement and maintain a quality

management system in accordance with a national standard such as BS EN
ISO 9001 (as per the principal contractor’s tender requirements).
B.6.2.11 DAILY CHECKS
All equipment shall be maintained in a serviceable condition and daily

equipment checks should be carried out on cables, crawlers and X-ray
equipment.
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B.6.3 TRAINING REQUIREMENTS
B.6.3.1 ROLE & RESPONSIBILITY OF RPS
The role and responsibilities of the RPS shall be clearly identified and
communicated in writing to the individual.
B.6.3.2 ADDITIONAL TRAINING OF RPS
In addition to other training, the RPS shall have received adequate instruction
in the following:
• Understanding / Interpretation of Ionising Radiation Regulations
• Requirements of the local site rules and contingency requirements
• Requirements for method statements and suitable risk assessments.
B.6.3.3 TRAINING OF PERSONNEL WHILST TRANSPORTING SEALED

SOURCES
Personnel involved in transporting mobile sealed sources shall have received

adequate training on emergency situations etc.
B.6.3.4 SUBCONTRACTORS QUALITY CONTROL SYSTEM
All personnel shall have received training in the radiographic subcontractor’s

quality control systems in order that records and checks are undertaken in a
controlled and auditable manner.
B.6.4 CONTROL OF SITE ACTIVITIES
B.6.4.1 PPE
All personnel shall wear the PPE identified by the project risk assessment.
B.6.4.2 TLDS/FILM BADGES
Named TLDs / film badges shall be worn at all times by classified workers
and shall be clearly visible at all times whilst on the spread, under no
circumstance are they to be left in overall pockets, in crew cabs etc.
Consideration should also be given to the use of electronic dosemeters /
alarms. Unnamed (i.e. spare numbered) TLD shall only be accepted during
the first month of a new workers contract period.
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B.6.4.3 PRECAUTIONS
Barriers shall prevent access to the controlled area. The following precautions
shall also be included, radiation signs, warning lights and RPS contact details.
On pipelines the spoil heap and right of way fencing may provide natural
barriers, however where there is a likelihood of public access, e.g. footpaths,
playing fields etc, all relevant points of access shall have barriers and relevant
signage. It is the responsibility of the radiographic subcontractor to ensuring
that the requirements of Ionising Radiation regulations are complied with.
B.6.4.4 MONITORING OF THE CONTROLLED AREA
No amount of precautions can replace the importance of vigilance and

proactive monitoring of the controlled area, to ensure that corrective action
can be taken in the event of persons not involved in the work approaching the
controlled area. The radiographic subcontractor shall ensure that monitoring
of the controlled area is undertaken on a routine basis and barriers are
continuously patrolled during radiographic exposure. These requirements
should be included in the Local Rules.
B.6.4.5 RECORDING BOUNDARY DOSE RATES
Boundary does rates shall be recorded in a formal manner identifying the

section number and weld numbers of the location worked for reference.
Formal measurement shall be undertaken for the first production exposure on
each day, details of person undertaking the test and equipment used shall be
recorded. Formal monitoring shall be carried out for each subsequent
controlled area and verification that it meets Ionising Radiation regulations
requirements shall be made. Any change to the size and type of the
controlled area shall require formal measurement to be undertaken e.g. work
in the AGI etc.
B.6.4.6 RECORD KEEPING
The responsible person shall undertake daily mobile sealed source

accounting and formal records shall be kept to verify this. As a minimum the
record shall identify source number, location, date and time of inspection,
details of person undertaking inspection.
B.6.4.7 MOVEMENT LOGS
Sealed source movement logs shall be kept to identify location of sealed

source, this shall be completed when the source is issued for use, as a
minimum the record should contain, source number, date and time issued,
recipient of source, date and time returned.
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B.6.4.8 SPARE ACCESSORIES
Spare bulbs and batteries shall be available with the crew(s) for all safety
critical equipment.
B.6.4.9 SUITABLE SHIELDING
Where risk assessment requires, suitable shielding shall be available with the
crew(s),
B.6.4.10 CALIBRATED RADIATION DETECTOR
A spare calibrated radiation detector shall be available with the crew(s). It is

not acceptable to rely on personnel monitors as the spare
B.6.4.11 MOBILE PHONES
All radiographic crew(s) shall have access to a mobile phone and/or two-way
radio for contact purposes.
B.6.4.12 PAT TESTED
All relevant portable electrical equipment shall be PAT tested.
B.6.4.13 AUDITS
In addition to routine monitoring the RPS shall undertake a formal

documented audit on all crews within 5 days of commencement of site
radiography to ensure safety controls are in operation and remain effective.
B.6.5 AUDIT RECORDS/DOCUMENTATION
The following records/documentation shall be available for reference during

on site audits. If any of the following are not present on site, work shall not be
allowed to commence / continue:
• Certificate of registration for radioactive source’s (Environment Agency)
• HSE notification of site radiography document
• Local rules and risk assessment (with crews)
• Technique sheets (with crews)
• Procedures / method statement (with crews)
• A copy of Ionising radiations regulations
• Passbooks for outside workers (if applicable)
• Calibration records for inspection and test equipment
• Sealed source wipe test results (2 yearly)
• Lifting equipment register and certification
• Daily source accounting records
• Source movement log
• Records of boundary dose rates
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• Records of RPS crew audits

• Relevant personnel training records (RPS training, Driver training, QMS
inductions, BGAS approvals or approved alternative, Safety passport
etc.)
B1.0 FLOWCHART EXPLANATION NOTES
1/7. Where it is feasible pipework should be pre-fabricated off site and radiographed
in a purpose-built enclosure.
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2. Some pipework can only be constructed in situ and therefore may not be
transportable from site. Other pipework fabricated on site may either by too large of
heavy to be reasonably practicable to transport off site.
3. Where pipework fabricated on site is transportable the cost of transporting to a

purpose-built enclosure for radiography should be compared against the cost of
constructing a temporary enclosure on site. Pipework fabricated on site should
always be transported off site to a purpose-built enclosure when this is demonstrated
as the least cost option unless it can be demonstrated that transportation off site
presents a greater risk to personnel from for example the lifting operations required.
4. An assessment should be carried out to determine whether it is reasonably

practical to construct a temporary enclosure on site. Consideration should need to
given to the duration/value of the project and the amount of radiography which may
actually be taking place on site. To avoid the construction of a temporary enclosure it
shall need to be demonstrated that the cost is grossly disproportionate to the
reduction in risk which may be gained.
5. Where the assessment in 4. above concludes that radiography is to be carried out

on site in a controlled area the appropriate HSE guidance should be followed to
ensure that the radiation exposures of employees is kept as low as reasonably
practicable.
6. Where the assessment in 4 above concludes that a temporary enclosure shall be

constructed on site the carry out radiography. The temporary enclosure should be
constructed to the appropriate HSE guidance giving consideration to the installation
of appropriate interlocks which prevent or terminate an exposure if the door of the
enclosure is opened.
8. Purpose built enclosures should be constructed to the appropriate HSE guidance

giving consideration to the installation of appropriate interlocks which prevent or
terminate an exposure if the door of the enclosure is opened.
9. Although it may not be practicable to transport some items off site because of the
size of the fabrication, these items should still be radiographed in a controlled area
on site if they can be moved around site.
10. Where pipework can fit within a temporary enclosure it should be transported to
such an enclosure for radiography if it is available on site, otherwise it should be
moved to a controlled area for radiography.
11. Where items fabricated on site cannot be moved because they are constructed in
situ the only reasonably practicable option may be to conduct the radiography in situ
providing the appropriate local shielding. Consideration may have to be given to
conducting the radiography out of hours to ensure that the radiation exposure of
employees is kept as low as reasonably practicable.
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Appendix C - Site Radiation Safety Monitoring Checklist and Report Sheet
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Appendix D - Requirements for Automatic Ultrasonic Inspection
D.1 SCOPE
D.1.1 This specification details the minimum the Company requirements for an AUT system
requirements, AUT procedure approval and AUT system operator/interpreter
competency.
D.1.2 Any AUT system and examination procedure proposed for use shall, as a minimum,
meet the requirements of this specification and be approved by the Company prior to
any production weld examination being carried out.
D.2 REFERENCES
As per Appendix A of this specification
D.3 QUALIFICATION
D3.1 Before any system is used for the inspection of production welds on the pipeline it
shall be qualified to the satisfaction of the Company. The procedure for qualification
may be to scan a weld which may be agreed by the Company and report any flaws
that are outside the acceptance criteria in accordance with the relevant standard. The
results from the qualification scan may be analysed by the Company to confirm
acceptance of the system and operators.
D3.1.1 The proposed AUT system shall be used to scan a pre-production weld
produced using the approved contract weld bevel design. The pre-production
weld shall be manufactured during the welding procedure qualification stage
and shall contain deliberately induced weld defects typical of the welding
process being employed. The test weld shall be radiographed to confirm the
type and orientation of defects produced.
The results of the AUT scan and radiography shall be reported to the
Employer and shall size all defects found for both length and depth. Following
review by the employer a number of the defects shall be sectioned and the
though wall depth of those defects established. This may confirm that the
defect error sizing tolerance to be applied is adequate.
D3.2 In addition to the qualification of the system a number of items shall be agreed by the
Company before the system is used to inspect any production welds these include
• The calibration block design

• The system sizing accuracy for defect heights
• The method used to determine the length of defects
• The proposed examination procedure
D3.3 Where there are any significant changes to a system, the equipment may require re-
qualification to an agreed procedure. Significant change shall include, but not be
limited to.
• Welding method and groove geometry

• Root and cap probe set-up
• System, data acquisition and data treatment
• Software version (except changes affecting viewing or display only)
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• System operator
D3.4 Before the ultrasonic system is used for examination of production welds the system
shall be tested. After calibration of the complete system, a weld shall be scanned
followed, by re-calibration with the probe transport system removed between each
scan. If any of the echo amplitudes from the reflectors of the calibration block deviate
more than 2dB from the initial calibration, the system shall not be used until
acceptable corrections have been made. For an acceptable test 3 satisfactory scans
and recalibrations are required.
D.4 AUT / TOFD SYSTEMS
D4.1 The ultrasonic system shall use phased array pulse echo technology and time of
flight diffraction (TOFD).
D4.2 The system shall include probe sets specifically designed to detect transverse defect
indications on both the internal and external weld near surface zones. The transverse
defect scanning unit does not require a complimentary TOFD scan.
D4.3 The weld scanning direction (clockwise or anti-clockwise relative to a fixed datum)
shall be agreed with the Company and shall be consistent for all production girth
weld examination.
D4.4 The system shall have sufficient examination channels, configured so that the
complete weld through thickness can be examined in a single circumferential scan.
D4.5 The volume of weld examined by each channel shall be divided into primary
examination zones of a height not exceeding 3 mm.
Each examination channel shall provide:
• A linear A-scan presentation

• Adjustable gain control with maximum 2db steps over a range of at least 60db
• One or more gates, each adjustable for start position and length
• Recording threshold between 5 and 100% of full screen height
• Signal outputs that record signal amplitude and time/ beam travel distance
D4.6 The system shall provide an overlap at the start and/or end of the scans of at least
100 mm.
D4.7 The recording or marking system shall clearly indicate the location of imperfections
relative to the 12 o’clock position of the weld, with +/- 10 mm accuracy. The system
resolution shall be such that each segment of recorded data from an individual
inspection channel does not represent more than 1mm of circumferential weld
distance.
The ultrasonic examination equipment performance characteristics shall meet the

requirements of BS EN 12668, as appropriate. Instrument amplitude linearity shall be
within 5% of the ideal amplitude and shall be assessed prior to qualification and
production AUT commencing. Calibration certificates shall be made available upon
request.
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D4.8 General Requirements Time-of-flight-diffraction systems:
Dedicated, higher frequency, TOFD probes shall be used in all AUT systems
employed to give the best sizing performance. The probe frequency shall be agreed
by the Employer prior to system qualification trials.
The instrument shall provide a record of the TOFD D-scan image; this shall
compliment the AUT system in confirming the presence and the sizing of weld
defects. TOFD shall not be used in place of Pulse Echo.
D4.9 The instrument shall meet the requirements for ultrasonic instruments detailed in BS
EN 12668-1.
D.5 EXAMINATION PROCEDURE
D5.1 Prior to the examination of any production pipeline welds the proposed examination
procedure shall be submitted to the Company for review and acceptance. The
procedure shall contain but not be limited to the following.
• Brief functional description of the system

• Any limitations of the system with regard to material or weld features including
sound velocity variations, geometry, size, surface finish, material composition
etc.
• Transducer configuration(s), characteristics, types, coverage
• Number of and height of examination zones, where relevant
• Gate settings
• Ultrasonic instrument, number of channels and data acquisition system
• Recording and processing of data
• Couplant monitoring method
• Temperature range for testing and limitations
• Maximum scanning speed and direction
• Reporting of indications and documentation of calibration and sensitivity settings
• Description of calibration block(s) including type, size and location of all
calibration reflectors
• Calibration intervals
• Calibration records
• Identification of inspection starting point, scanning direction
• Method for scanner alignment and maintenance of alignment
• Transducer and overall functional checks
• Height and length sizing methodology
• Instructions for reporting including example of recorder chart and forms to be
used.
• Diagram showing the weld scan zones for the weld prep to be tested.
• Table of indication size against signal amplitude that may be used for indication
sizing.
D.6 OPERATORS
D6.1 Details of the contractors proposed AUT operators/interpreters shall be submitted to

the Company for review and approval prior to the start of any pipeline weld
examination.
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D6.2 All operators/interpreters shall be trained and competent in the use of the particular
AUT/TOFD equipment that they may be expected to operate. Documentary evidence
of adequate training and ongoing practical ability shall be provided to the Company
for each proposed operator/interpreter.
D6.3 AUT/TOFD interpreters shall be qualified to CSWIP / PCN level 2 ultrasonic operator
or have provided evidence of training and competency to the satisfaction of the
employer. Operators /interpreters possessing an equivalent qualification in an
alternative scheme may be proposed by the contractor for consideration by the
Company.
D6.4 Operators/interpreters of all types of AUT/TOFD equipment may be required to

demonstrate under field conditions and to the approval of the Company, their
application of the approved contract AUT/TOFD procedures. This may include their
capability to calibrate the equipment properly, to interpret correctly the indications
given by the equipment, to clearly record and report the results of the examination,
including the location, size and nature of all flaws detected.
D6.5 Operators shall not be changed without the prior approval of the Company.
D.7 PREPARATION:
D7.1 The scanning band shall be positioned adjacent to the completed weld at the same
distance used for calibration of the unit. Prior to welding, a reference line shall be
scribed on the pipe surface at a distance specified by the AUT contractor from the
centre line of the weld. This may provide a datum to ensure band positioning within a
tolerance of ± 1 mm.
D7.2 The scanning area shall be free of spatter and other irregularities, which may
interfere with the movement of the transducers, or the transmission of acoustic
energy into the material. The longitudinal seam welds shall be ground flush and
smooth for a specified distance, normally in the range of 150mm from the factory
bevel face to ensure that no transducers are lifted from the pipe surface. The pipe
coating shall be cut back from the original factory bevel face for a distance, of
150mm. The internal Pipe seam shall be ground back 50mm from the weld bevel to
prevent interference with the ultrasonic beam during scanning
D7.3 The “0” starting point and the scanning direction shall be clearly marked on the
surface of the pipe by permanent marker or paint.
D7.4 The location of the pipe seam welds may be identified and recorded on the final
inspection report for each weld.
D7.5 The weld and adjacent pipe may be allowed to cool to a maximum temperature of
600 C before scanning can commence unless otherwise agreed with the Company.
The difference in temperature between the calibration block and weld being tested
shall be less then 100 C
D.8 SCANNING
D8.1 Acoustic coupling shall be achieved using a non-toxic liquid medium. When choosing
the medium, consideration shall be given to the Health, Safety and Environmental
impact of any materials used.
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D8.2 No residue from the liquid medium shall remain on the pipe surface after the liquid
has evaporated.
D8.3 Positive confirmation of acoustic coupling, during the weld examination scan is
required for each weld examination. The loss of signal amplitude associated with
inadequate coupling shall be specified by the contractor and agreed with the
Company (see section 18 a). Any loss of acoustic coupling during a weld
examination may require a complete re-examination of the weld (see Section 18).
D8.4 The operator shall keep a log book detailing the performance/characteristics data
and identification for instruments and transducers. The log book shall be updated as
changes are made, or, as additional information is gathered. The log book shall be
kept at the place of inspection and be made available for review upon request.
D8.5 Each weld shall be numbered in the sequence used in the pipe tracking system as
specified by the Company inspection team.
D8.6 Transition welds joining pipes of different wall thickness may only be examined by
AUT when the thicker material is counter-bored back at least 70mm from the weld
face.
D.9 CIRCUMFERENTIAL SCANNING VELOCITY
D9.1 The maximum allowable circumferential scanning velocity (Vc), shall be determined
according to
Vc ≤ W c * PRF/3
Where W c is the narrowest –6 dB beam width at the appropriate operating distance of

all transducers within the array, and PRF is the effective pulse repetition frequency
per transducer.
Or 100 mm per second whichever is the lower.
D.10 REFERENCE STANDARD
D10.1 A reference block(s) shall be used to establish sensitivity, qualify the examination
system and monitor the system performance on an ongoing basis. The block(s) shall
be manufactured from a section of (unflawed, project specific) line pipe material
provided by the Company or their main contractor.
D10.2 The AUT contractor shall supply the necessary reference blocks. The design of the
block(s) shall be specific to the weld bevel geometry and pipe thickness to be used
on the project. The Company reserves the right to retain any or all reference blocks
on completion of any pipeline inspection.
D10.3. The AUT contractor shall submit their design for a reference block(s), detailing the
number, orientation and location of FBH and transverse EDM slot reflectors or other
reflectors, to the Company for approval before manufacture.
December 2019
D10.4 Details of the specific weld geometries shall be provided in order to determine the
particulars and numbers of calibration blocks required, including the calibration
reflectors required and their relative positions.
D10.5 The preferred principal calibration reflectors are normally 2mm Diameter flat bottom
holes (FBH) and 1mm deep surface slots. Other reflector dimensions and types may,
however, be used, if it is demonstrated during the system qualification that the defect
detection and sizing capabilities of the system is acceptable.
D10.6 The Calibration block shall contain a reflector designed to represent a burn-through
this will typically be a 4mm Diameter Hemispherical hole to a depth of 2mm on the
inside centreline of the block.
D10.7 The calibration blocks shall be designed with sufficient surface area so that the
complete transducer array may traverse the target areas in a single pass.
D10.8 The calibration block shall be identified with a hard-stamped unique serial number
providing traceability to the examination work and the material source of supply for
which the standard was manufactured. Records of the serial number, wall thickness,
bevel design, diameter and ultrasound velocity shall be kept and be available.
D10.9 The machining tolerances for calibration reflectors are:
a) Hole diameters ± 0.2mm

b) Flatness of FBH ± 0.1mm
c) All pertinent angles ±I0
d) Notch depth ±0.1mm
e) Notch length ±0.5mm
f) Central position of reference reflectors ±0.2mm
g) Hole centre depth ±0.2mm
D10.10 The lateral position of all calibration reflectors shall be such that there may be
no interference from adjacent reflectors, or from the edges of the blocks.
D10.11 Dimensional verification of all calibration reflectors and their position shall be
performed and recorded by an independent party. The record of this
verification shall be presented to the Company before pipeline production
welds are examined.
D10.12 A calibration block register shall be established. The register shall include all
calibration blocks to be used identified with the unique serial number and
include the dimensional verification records, ultrasound velocity, name of the
plate/pipe manufacturer and the heat number. The register shall be available
for review.
D10.13 The surface condition of the reference blocks shall be made to be typical of
that of the pipe ends to be AUT scanned, including any roughness due to grit-
blasting, surface corrosion, painting or power brushing.
D.11 AUT/TOFD SYSTEM EQUIPMENT CALIBRATION
D11.1 Static calibration - The system shall be set-up and calibrated using the reference
standard block in accordance with the AUT contractors approved procedure.
December 2019
D11.2 For each pulse echo ultrasonic transducer in each examination channel the peak
signal response from the target reflector shall be maximised and then adjusted to
80% full screen height (FSH). This shall be the Primary Reference Level (PRE).
D11.3 The ultrasonic transducer stand-off distance, the gain level required to attain the
PRE, and the signal to noise ratio (S/N) shall be recorded.
D11.4 With each transducer positioned for the peak signal response from the calibration
reflector the detection gates are to be set. The gate shall start before the theoretical
weld preparation and a suitable allowance shall be included to allow for the width of
the heat affected zone, so that complete coverage of the heat affected zone is
achieved. The gate ends shall be after the theoretical weld centreline, including a
suitable allowance for offset of the weld centreline after welding.
D11.5 Gate settings shall be set in accordance with the AUT contractors approved
procedure. The settings for gate start and gate length for each examination channel
shall be recorded.
D11.6 Ideally for TOFD the time gate start should be at least 1 s prior to the time of arrival
of the lateral wave and should be past the first back wall echo.
D11.7 Dynamic calibration – With the system optimised the reference / calibration standard
shall be scanned at the same travel speed at which the examination may be
performed. The positional accuracy of the recorded target reflectors relative to each
other shall be within ± 2 mm and with respect to the zero datum be within ± 10 mm
over the circumference. Gate settings shall not deviate by more than 0.25 mm from
the reference positions.
D11.8 The output display chart / record produced during the dynamic calibration scan shall
confirm that all ultrasonic transducers produce an 80% FSH signal response from
each calibration reflector in its correctly assigned position.
D11.9 Subsequent system calibration charts produced during field inspection, shall be
comparable with the dynamic output display chart / record and shall meet the set-up
reference standards.
D11.10 All calibration signals shall be within the range 70 to 99% FSH, if during the
dynamic field calibration the signal falls outside this range then one of the
following may apply.
D11.11 When a signal is over 99%FSH then the results for all welds scanned since
the last successful calibration may be reviewed and where an indication has
been identified in the effected channel then these shall be re-scanned to
confirm the original diagnosis
D11.12 If when checking the calibration any signal falls below 70% FSH then all
welds inspected since the last successful calibration scan shall be re-tested
unless otherwise agreed by the Company
D.12 CALIBRATION FREQUENCY
D12.1 The system shall be calibrated by scanning the reference / calibration block(s) at the
start of each work period and before and after the examination of each weld:
December 2019
• For the first 20 welds

• At any change of reference / calibration block
• At any change in nominal wall thickness
• At any change of components
• At the completion of each work period
D12.2 Subject to satisfactory performance and at the discretion of the Company, the
frequency of calibration may be reduced to a minimum of 1 calibration scan for each
10 consecutive welds or every 1 hours whichever comes first.
D12.3 Hard copy recordings of all calibration scans, indicating any gain changes required to
maintain sensitivity, shall be included as part of the final report. The last weld number
examined before calibration and the time at which the calibration was performed shall
appear on each calibration chart.
D12.4 The peak signal responses from each calibration shall be recorded. Any gain
changes required to maintain proper sensitivity shall also be recorded.
D.13 TRANSVERSE CRACKING:
Scanning may be conducted to detect the incidence of cracking which may be

transverse to the weld line, the transverse defect detection channels’ sensitivity
should be demonstrated using calibration slots. These should be in both the inner
and outer surface of the calibration sample and of length equal to the width of the
girth weld cap or root plus a further 6 mm. Their through-wall heights should be such
as to guarantee detection of defect heights equivalent to 10% of the wall thickness
(e.g. an N10 slot).
This shall be done by
• Using three slots for the internal surface calibration and three slots for the
external surface calibration.
• One of the three slots to be at 10% of the wall thickness, one to be at 10% PLUS
a height margin and one to be at 10% MINUS a height margin
• The height margin to be calculated so as to be equivalent to a difference in the
ultrasonic beam path, between the send and receive transducers, of a quarter
wavelength, at the transducer nominal frequency.’
The system sensitivity shall be set at 9db above that required to give a signal of 80%
of full screen height from the largest signal of the three slots.
D.14 REPAIRS:
Defective welds that have been repaired shall be re-examined in accordance with
this specification, visually and by X-radiography or visually and to an ultrasonic
method approved by the Employer.
D.15 ACCEPTANCE/REJECTION CRITERIA:
D15.1 Before any inspection using this procedure is carried out, the criteria for weld defect
acceptance shall be agreed with the Company. For normal pipeline projects this may
December 2019
be obtained by using an Engineering Critical Assessment (ECA), but where this is not
available then the requirements of the Company welding specification GD/SP/P/2
shall be used.
D15.2 The defect length may normally be defined as being from the point at which the full
interacting defect first attains a signal of 30% of Full Screen Height (FSH) to that
point where it lasts falls below 30% of FSH
D15.3 Where two or more defects occur in close proximity to each other, they shall be
assessed for interaction to the requirements of BS 7910 clause 7.1.2.2 and figure 9
D15.4 The ECA requirements are unique to each project / pipe wall thickness and pipe
diameter. An ECA to allow specific defect acceptance criteria shall be produced for
each pipeline project prior to the commencement of inspection.
D15.5 To allow for combined AUT system and interpreter error, all recorded defect heights
shall be increased by an amount to be agreed by the Employer prior to
commencement of production weld examination. This value may vary according to
the AUT system used and operator competence. The AUT contractor shall provide
evidence and fully demonstrate to the satisfaction of Employer that the sizing error
value to be adopted is accurate. Where no evidence can be provided, all defect
heights recorded may be increased by 3.0mm before the length acceptance is
carried out.
To demonstrate sizing accuracy, when required by the Employer, a defective

production weld containing defects reported and sized by the AUT system shall be
removed from the pipeline and the weld defects to be sectioned to confirm sizing
accuracy shall be specified by the Employer.
D15.6 All transverse indications that exceed the threshold shall be evaluated as cracks.
D15.7 When any three out of ten welds consecutively tested fail to meet the ECA
acceptance criteria, then at the discretion of the Employer the accept / reject
requirements shall revert to the workmanship standard of the applicable welding
standard in use (e.g. the Company GD/SP/ P/2, clause 12). The application of the
ECA acceptance criteria cannot be reintroduced until the reason for the defective
welding has been identified and rectified.
D.16 SOFTWARE
D16.1 Any software required to view the results shall be included on the data disc which
may be provided as part of the final results. Any software licenses shall be agreed
before any of the production welds are examined.
D16.2 The version number of any software shall be clearly visible on all display and printout
presentations.
D.17 EVALUATION AND REPORTING
D17.1 Indications recorded from sources other than weld imperfections shall be evaluated.
Their nature shall be clearly identified on the examination report.
D17.2 The recording threshold for porosity detection channels shall be at least 14 dB more
sensitive than the reference reflector.
December 2019
D17.3 It is recommended that the recording threshold for TOFD remains at the calibration
threshold.
D17.4 Channel output signals shall be arranged on the recoding media in an agreed order.
The function of each channel shall be clearly identified. The hard copy recording shall
be corrected to account for any variation introduced due to different circumferential
positions of the transducers.
D17.5 The welding foreman responsible for weld production shall be immediately notified of
any defect recorded during the AUT scan. The exact position of the defect shall be
marked on the pipe surface using permanent markers.
D17.6 The AUT record shall be annotated with the size evaluation of each weld
imperfection selected for assessment. Comments shall be added, as necessary to
allow a later re-evaluation by another operator.
D17.7 Before any weld is accepted by AUT any complementary Inspection shall be take into
account, such as visual inspection of caps, so that all inspections are considered as
part of the total weld sentencing.
D.18 RE-EXAMINATION
Welds shall be re-examined whenever any of the following occur:
a) Scanning exhibiting a loss of coupling i.e. a drop-in echo amplitude of more than
10dB from the level though a clean weld, where the length is more than the allowable
defect length for the effected channel.
b) Any calibration scan that shows that the system is “out of calibration”, shall be
subject to the requirements of 11.10.
D.19 INSPECTION RECORDS
D19.1 The following Inspection records shall be provided.
• A hard copy record of each defective weld reported.

• An assessment of the weld quality according to the acceptance criteria
• Examination data in electronic form
D19.2 The electronic data shall display the results in the same manner that the operator
viewed at the time of inspection. A print option shall be provided as part of the
software.
D19.3 A Scan and TOFD data shall be saved as part of the original weld scan data and
included in the weld record.
D19.4 The electronic data for each weld scanned shall be saved and provided to the
employer at agreed intervals during the project, it shall be stored such that each weld
can be identified by the file name.
December 2019
Appendix E - Requirements for Manual Phased Array Ultrasonic Inspection
E.1 SCOPE
E.1.1 This specification details the minimum the Company requirement for a MPA system,
MPA procedure approval and MPA system operator/interpreter competency.
E.1.2 Any MPA system and examination procedure proposed for use shall, as a minimum,
meet the requirements of this specification and be approved by the Company prior to
qualification and use in production.
E.1.3 Only welds in pipes 50mm nominal diameter and above, and 4.8mm wall thickness
and above shall be examined with MPA
E.1.4 When required by the Employer, phased array examination shall be applied to welds
as described in BS EN ISO 13588 and this specification.
E.1.5 The examination level for butt welds shall be to BS EN ISO 13588 Table 1 Testing
level B.
E.2 REFERENCES
As per Appendix A of this specification
E.3 QUALIFICATION
E3.1 Before any system is used for the inspection of production welds it shall be qualified
to the satisfaction of the Company. When required by the Employer the procedure for
qualification may include the scanning of a weld or welds* and to report any flaws
that are outside the acceptance criteria in accordance with the relevant standard. The
results from the qualification scan shall be analysed by the Company to confirm
acceptance of the system and operators.
*When required by the Employer the proposed MPA system shall be used to scan a
pre-production weld produced using the approved contract weld bevel design. The
pre-production weld shall be manufactured during the welding procedure qualification
stage and shall contain deliberately induced weld defects typical of the welding
process being employed. The test weld shall be radiographed to confirm the type and
orientation of defects produced.
The results of the MPA scan and radiography shall be reported to the Employer and
shall size all defects found for length and width.
E3.2 In addition to the qualification of the system a number of items shall be agreed by the
Company before the system is used to inspect any production welds these include
• System calibration requirements

• Inspection procedure
• Operator experience
• Method of probe positioning
December 2019
E3.3 Where there are any significant changes to a qualified system, the equipment may
require re-qualification to an agreed procedure. Significant change shall include, but
not be limited to.
• Welding method and groove geometry

• Probe scanning plan
• Probe type
• System, data acquisition and data treatment
• Software version (except changes affecting viewing or display only)
• System operator
E.4 MPA SYSTEMS
E4.1 The inspection shall also include scans specifically designed to detect transverse
defect indications, with the approval of the employer, these scans may be by a
standard manual ultrasonic scan.
E4.2 The weld scanning direction (clockwise or anti-clockwise relative to a fixed datum)
shall be agreed with the Company and shall be consistent for all production weld
examination.
E4.3 Each examination system shall provide:
• A Frame for holding the passed array probe(s) in the correct location for scanning
• A-scan data storage
• Encoder to record position of probe accurately to within ± 2.0mm
• Adjustable gain control with maximum 2db steps over a range of at least 60db
• One or more gates, each adjustable for start position and length
• Recording threshold between 5 and 100% of full screen height
• Signal outputs that record signal amplitude and time/ beam travel distance
E4.4 The system shall provide an overlap at the start and/or end of the scans of at least 30
mm.
E4.5 The encoder shall clearly indicate the location of imperfections relative to the 12
o’clock position of the weld. The system resolution shall be such that each segment
of recorded data does not represent more than 1mm of circumferential weld distance.
The ultrasonic examination equipment performance characteristics shall meet the

requirements of BS EN 12668, as appropriate. Instrument amplitude linearity shall be
within 5% of the ideal amplitude and shall be assessed prior to qualification and
production examination. Calibration certificates shall be made available upon
request.
E4.6 The instrument shall meet the requirements for ultrasonic instruments detailed in BS
EN 12668-1.
E.5 EXAMINATION PROCEDURE
E5.1 Prior to the examination of any production welds the proposed examination
procedure shall be submitted to the Company for review and acceptance. The
procedure shall contain but not be limited to the following.
December 2019
• Brief functional description of the system

• Any limitations of the system with regard to material or weld features including
sound velocity variations, geometry, size, surface finish, material composition
etc.
• Transducer configuration(s), characteristics, types, coverage
• Gate settings
• Recording and processing of data
• Temperature range for testing and limitations
• Maximum scanning speed and direction
• Reporting of indications and documentation of calibration and sensitivity settings
• Description of calibration block(s) including type, size and location of all
calibration reflectors
• Calibration intervals
• Calibration records
• Identification of inspection starting point, scanning direction
• Method for scanner alignment and maintenance of alignment
• Transducer and overall functional checks
• Height, width and length sizing methodology
• Instructions for reporting including example of recorder chart and forms to be
used.
• Diagram showing the weld scan zones for the weld prep to be tested.
• Frequency of Calibration.
A technique sheet will be produced for each pipe wall thickness to be tested, detailed
the actual scan settings to be used including a diagram showing ultrasonic coverage
of the weld being tested.
E5.2 The Scanning sensitivity will be set using Side Drilled holes with a maximum
diameter of 2.5mm.
E5.3 The reference blocks used for calibration shall meet the requirements of BS EN ISO
13588 A.2, curved reference blocks shall be used having diameters from 0.9 to 1.5
times the pipe to be tested OD, For Pipe OD greater than 300mm a flat reference
block may be used.
E5.4 The weld will be inspected using a combination of sectorial and linear scans
designed to cover the HAZ, root, fusion face, cap and weld volume.
E5.5 Welds in pipe with a nominal wall thickness over 9.0mm shall be inspected using the
following 3 scans:
1. A scan of the weld root area with either a linear or sectorial set up but
concentrated on looking for weld root defects
2. Weld Fusion face scan using a linear scan with an angle set to impinge on the
fusion face at an angle as near as practicable to 90 degrees
3. Weld volume and Cap scan using a sectorial scan
All scans will be gated to cover the HAZ and weld volume. Where both sides of a
weld are being tested at the same time or the nominal pipe wall thickness is under
9.00mm, then the number of scans may be reduced to prevent the system being
overloaded with data, this must be agreed with the Company during qualification of
the system and before any inspections are carried out.
December 2019
E5.6 When an inspection of a pipe to fitting is carried out this should be carried out from
both sides of the weld whenever possible, where this is not possible then a single
sided scan is acceptable providing the scan consists of 2 sectorial scans with the
sound emission point at 2 different positions. The additional scans will be included in
the procedure submitted for approval. Where single sided ultrasonic inspection is
used this shall be supplemented by an inspection of the weld cap using
Magnetic Particle inspections to the requirements of Section 12 of this
specification.
E5.7 Transition welds joining pipes of different wall thickness may only be examined by
MPA when the thicker material is counter-bored back by machining to the
requirements of GD/SP/P/16 or where it can be demonstrated that the heat effected
zone (HAZ), both fusion faces and the weld volume can be inspected with the
proposed procedure.
E5.8 The minimum length of counter-bore required for MPA inspection shall be 25mm.
whenever counter-bore operations are carried out care must be taken not to reduce
the wall thickness below the minimum design thickness.
E5.9 All scan settings should allow for the probe standoff to move slightly during scanning.
E.6 OPERATORS
E6.1 Details of the contractors proposed MPA operators/interpreters shall be submitted to

the Company for review and approval prior to the start of any weld examination.
E6.2 All operators/interpreters shall be trained and competent in the use of the particular
equipment that they may be expected to operate. Documentary evidence of
adequate training and ongoing practical ability shall be provided to the Company for
each proposed operator/interpreter.
E6.3 Operators /interpreters shall be qualified to PCN / CSWIP level 2 phased array
ultrasonic operator. Operators /interpreters possessing an equivalent qualification in
an alternative scheme or having provided evidence of training and competency to the
satisfaction of the employer, may be proposed for consideration by the Company.
E6.4 Operators/interpreters of all types of MPA equipment may be required to

demonstrate under field conditions and to the approval of the Company, their
application / knowledge of the approved contract MPA procedures. This may include
their capability to calibrate the equipment properly, to interpret correctly the
indications given by the equipment, to clearly record and report the results of the
examination, including the location, size and nature of all flaws detected.
E6.5 Operators shall not be changed without the prior approval of the Company.
E.7 PREPARATION:
E7.1 The scanning area shall be free of spatter and other irregularities, which may
interfere with the movement of the transducers, or the transmission of acoustic
energy into the material. The longitudinal seam welds shall be ground flush and
smooth for a specified distance, normally in the range of 100mm from the factory
bevel face to ensure that no transducers are lifted from the pipe surface. The pipe
December 2019
coating shall be cut back from the original factory bevel face for a distance, of
100mm. The internal pipe seam shall be ground back 50mm from the weld bevel to
prevent interference with the ultrasonic beam during scanning
E7.2 The zero “0” starting point and the scanning direction shall be clearly marked on the
surface of the pipe by permanent marker or paint.
E7.3 The weld and adjacent pipe shall be allowed to cool to a maximum temperature of
600 C
before scanning can commence unless otherwise agreed with the Company. The
difference in temperature between the calibration block and weld being tested shall
be less then 100 C
E.8 SCANNING
E8.1 Acoustic coupling shall be achieved using a non-toxic liquid medium. When choosing
the medium, consideration shall be given to the Health, Safety and Environmental
impact of any materials used. The same couplant shall be used for calibration and
subsequent testing.
E8.2 No residue from the liquid medium shall remain on the pipe surface after the liquid
has evaporated.
E8.3 The operator shall keep a log book detailing the performance/characteristics data
and identification for instruments and transducers. The log book shall be updated as
changes are made, or, as additional information is gathered. The log book shall be
kept at the place of inspection and be made available for review upon request.
E8.4 Each weld shall be numbered in the sequence used in the pipe tracking system as
specified by the Company inspection team.
E.9 SENSITIVITY CHECKS
E.9.1 The system sensitivity shall be checked before each scan.
E.10 TRANSVERSE CRACKING:
Scanning shall be conducted to detect the incidence of cracking which may be

transverse to the weld line. This scan can be carried out in accordance with section
10 of this specification (Manual examination)
E.11 REPAIRS:
Defective welds that have been repaired shall be re-examined visually and in
accordance with the original examination method.
E.12 ACCEPTANCE/REJECTION CRITERIA:
E12.1 Acceptance/Rejection shall be to the requirements of the applicable the Company

specification or an alternative standard approved by the employer.
E12.2 Where two or more defects occur in close proximity to each other consideration shall
be given to the effects of their interaction
December 2019
E12.3 All transverse indications that exceed the threshold shall be evaluated as cracks.
E12.4 A defect will be rejected if the through wall extent exceeds 2.0mm in welds where the
materials nominal wall thickness is 12.7mm or below, on material above 12.7mm
then the maximum allowable defect height will be 3.0mm
E.13 SOFTWARE
E13.1 Any software required to view the results shall be included on the data disc which
may be provided as part of the final results. Any software licenses shall be agreed
before any of the production welds are examined.
E13.2 The version number of any software shall be clearly visible on all display and printout
presentations.
E.14 EVALUATION AND REPORTING
E14.1 Indications recorded from sources other than weld imperfections shall be evaluated.
Their nature shall be clearly identified on the examination report.
E14.2 The exact position of the defect shall be marked on the pipe surface using permanent
markers.
E14.3 Before any weld is accepted by MPA any complementary inspection shall be taken
into account, such as visual inspection, so that all examinations are considered as
part of the total weld sentencing.
E.15 RE-EXAMINATION
Welds shall be re-examined whenever any of the following occur:
a) Scanning exhibiting a loss of coupling i.e. a drop in echo amplitude of more than
10dB from the level through a clean weld for more than 3 lines of data per 20mm
scanned.
b) Any calibration scan that shows that the system is “out of calibration”,
E.16 INSPECTION RECORDS
E16.1 The following Inspection records shall be provided.
• An assessment of the weld quality according to the acceptance criteria

• Examination data in electronic form
E16.2 The electronic data shall display the results in the same manner that the operator
viewed at the time of inspection. A print option shall be provided as part of the
software.
E 16.3 The electronic data for each weld scanned shall be saved and provided to the
employer at agreed intervals during the project, it shall be stored such that each weld
can be identified by the file name
December 2019
Cadent
Ashbrook Court
Prologis Park
Central Boulevard
Coventry
CV7 8PE
Copyright Cadent Gas Limited.©, all rights reserved. No part of this publication may be
reproduced in any material form (including photocopying and restoring in any medium or
electronic means and whether or not transiently or incidentally) without the written
permission of Cadent Gas Limited. except in accordance with the provisions of the
Copyright, Designs and Patents Act 1988.
December 2019

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Specification for

Non-Destructive Testing of Welded Joints In Steel

Mandatory & Non-Mandatory requirements:

Description Date Reference

First published within T/SP/P/2 February 2003 T/SP/P/2

Revised and published as T/SP/NDT/2 January 2004 T/SP/NDT/2

Second Update January 2006 T/SP/NDT/2

Third Update January 2010 T/SP/NDT/2

Fourth Update February 2011 T/SP/NDT/2

Fifth Update October 2014 T/SP/NDT/2

Sixth Update February 2017 T/SP/NDT/2

Updated to reflect business changes December 2019 GD/SP/NDT/2

Copyright © 2018 Cadent Gas Limited - All Rights Reserved

Employer: The Company

5. Non-Destructive testing method

6.2. Visual acuity

7. Non-Destructive Testing of Procedure Test Welds

Non-destructive testing procedure specifications shall be submitted to the Employer

8. Non-Destructive Testing of Production Welds

Where supplementary examination is required for a specific number of welded joints,

9.2. Radiographic Personnel

9.3. Radiation Protection

9.4. Radiation Safety Monitoring

9.5. Radiographic Procedures

greater number of exposures to achieve satisfactory coverage. Superimposed

A = FILM CENTRES (4 FILM EXPOSURES)

9.6. Radiographic Density

9.7. Approved Radiographic Procedure

* To qualify a radiographic procedure three individual radiographs shall be made of

9.8. Film Processing and Storage

10. Manual Ultrasonic Examination of Welded Joints

10.2. Ultrasonic Equipment

10.3. Ultrasonic Equipment Performance

10.4. Ultrasonic Flaw Detector Calibration

10.5. Ultrasonic Weld Examination

10.6. Qualification of Personnel

10.7. Ultrasonic Equipment Procedure

10.8. Examination of Pipe Material

11. Automatic or Phased Array Ultrasonic Examination

12. Magnetic Particle flaw Detection

12.2. Equipment Performance

12.3. Magnetic Particle Procedure

13. Dye penetrant Flaw Detection

13.2. Dye Penetrant Inspection Procedures

14. Non-Destructive Testing of repaired Production Welds

A.1 BRITISH STANDARDS

BS EN ISO 17636-1 - Non-destructive testing of welds – Radiographic testing -

Appendix B - Management of Site Radiography

B.3 ROLES & RESPONSIBILIES

A Radiographic Protection Supervisor (RPS) will be appointed by the Radiographic

B.4 RADIOGRAPHY OPTIONS

Where radiography is required during the construction or modification of a Pipeline,

B.5 RADIOGRAPHY DECISION TREE

a) The ability to pre-fabricate and radiograph pipework off site.

• Generic Risks - generally found on all projects:

o Specific risks associated with working in AGI’s or compressor stations

B.6.1.2 TECHNIQUE SHEETS

Technique sheets are required for each technique to be used

B.6.1.3 METHOD STATEMENT/PROCEDURES

B.6.1.4 HSE NOTIFICATION

B.6.2 GENERAL ISSUES

B.6.2.1 STORAGE OF PROCESSED FILMS

B.6.2.2 STORAGE OF SEALED SOURCES

When not in use, sealed sources shall be stored in a suitable approved