Nondestructive Testing

Presented by Armen Amirkhanian, University of Alabama

This presentation presents an introduction into three common non-destructive testing techniques and effective methods to instruct students on the theory, application, advantages, and disadvantages. The document will outline teaching plans for resistivity measurements, ultrasonic pulse velocity measurements, and cover meter measurements. These three methods generally require inexpensive equipment and short preparation times for classroom demonstrations. Additionally, the first two methods have well established ASTM or AASHTO testing procedures that will aid the instructor in presenting the material even with little to no experience with the techniques. From an instructional standpoint, various experiential learning pedagogies will be discussed to enhance the student learning outcomes. The exercises and lessons presented in the document are the result of many NDT course offerings at various universities. As such, the lessons learned from each exercise will be presented to further guide new instructors to succeed in teaching the material effectively the first time their course is offered.