Facilitating decision-making by choosing an NDT method based on information need

This paper discusses the choice of an NDT method (non-destructive testing) from an information need perspective. It bridges the gap between technical methods, monitoring procedures and the need for information in an industrial application. The simple pull approach described starts from the decision that needs to be taken rather than from a previous data push procedure. That makes it more likely to match the method with the actual need, which leads to more effective and efficient evaluations. The pull approach is described by using a case from the welding industry, evaluation of the weld toe radius. The toe radius, defining how smooth the transition between the plate and the weld is, has been found critical to fatigue strength. Depending on the internal customer’s need of information, various evaluation solutions are preferred. The methods range from manual gauges to fully automated camera solutions. An interview study performed shows that the current process for choosing evaluation method differs. The person needing the information is often not the starting point in the process. A change in starting point influences both the choice of NDT method and visualization and thereby how efficient and effective the decision-making support will be. The financial effect is significant.