SHANGHAI, CHINA—The SGS NDT Training and Examination Center(Shanghai, China) acquired authorization from the British Institute of Non-Destructive Testing (BINDT) to provide PCN training and examinations for the ultrasonic testing (UT) of nodes, nozzles and "T" welds, which are generally referred to as "TKY weld joints." The PCN categories for these types of welds are indicated as (3.7/3.8/3.9) on PCN certificates. Thus, SGS has become the first NDT training and examination institute in China that conducts TKY weld joints training.

This new service provided by SGS bridges the existing gap created by the need for training and examinations of inspectors who will conduct high quality NDT inspections on such complex weld joints.

China continuously undergoes rapid development in industrial manufacturing and related products, including aviation, steel structure, shipping, marine, petrochemical, pressure vessels and special equipment. During the manufacturing process of these products, the highest priority is placed on the quality of the components, including the weld joints, of which many are of the node, nozzle and "T" configuration. Consequently, there is demand for NDT personnel to determine the quality and lifespan of the products containing TKY weld joints and thus save costs (and possibly lives) which could arise from catastrophic failure, unplanned downtime or extended maintenance periods.

With respect to the various qualifications of the applicants, SGS provides three TKY training modes. The first mode is aimed at professional NDT personnel who already hold a valid Personal Certification of NDT (PCN) on UT level 2 in the welds sector, either in butt plate and/or butt pipe. In accordance with the EN473/ISO9712 - PCN training and examination requirements, applicants undergo additional training for each of the three categories (3.7/3.8/3.9). Applicants can extend training hours according to their own needs and current skills, as well as choose which category or categories to undertake a practical examination in. If successful in the examination, applicants receive a Personal Certification of NDT(PCN) from BINDT, recognized worldwide.

Alternative options for training offers (without the PCN examination) are useful in order to support inspection personnel who are interested in improving their UT welds testing ability, but without the final PCN examination. The course is designed for all NDT personnel who already have UT inspection knowledge and may need to upgrade to TKY welds according to their own company or client's requirements. In addition, SGS offers the third mode for non-NDT professionals such as sales, marketing and management personnel to provide basic knowledge on both theory and practice, which can help them to better understand and develop NDT marketing, as well as improve their management and business skills.