Radiographic Testing (RT)
Trusted volumetric inspection using X-Ray and Gamma-Ray.
How Radiographic Testing Works
Radiographic Testing is a volumetric non-destructive testing method that uses X-ray or gamma-ray radiation to examine the internal structure of components. If you are inspecting pipeline girth welds, pressure vessel seams, or structural welds where a permanent record is required by code, RT is the method that provides the objective, archivable evidence you need.
RT provides permanent, objective evidence of internal weld quality — without it, code compliance cannot be demonstrated for critical welds in ASME pressure equipment, pipeline construction, or EN 13445 vessels. A radiographic record is not just an inspection output — it is a legal and contractual document that proves the weld was acceptable at the time of examination. Failing to produce it means the weld cannot be accepted.
A radiation source is placed on one side of the test piece and a film or digital detector on the other. As radiation passes through the material, variations in density caused by internal defects — porosity, slag, cracks, and voids — are captured on the resulting image. Clearscope coordinates radiographic testing as part of broader inspection programmes, ensuring that RT is applied where codes require it and that all radiographic records meet the acceptance criteria specified by the applicable standard.
Defects Detected
RT reliably detects volumetric discontinuities within welds, castings, and fabricated components.
Advantages & Limitations
Understanding both the strengths and constraints of RT helps determine when it is the right method for the job.
Advantages
- Produces a permanent radiographic record that can be reviewed, archived, and presented as evidence of weld quality.
- High sensitivity to volumetric defects — porosity, slag, and voids are reliably detected.
- Results are accepted by all major codes and standards, including ASME, ISO, and EN.
- Applicable to a wide range of materials and thicknesses across multiple industries.
Limitations
- Involves ionising radiation — requires controlled exclusion zones and licensed operators.
- Skilled, certified personnel needed for both exposure and film interpretation.
- Higher cost per inspection compared to surface methods like VT or DPT.
- Less effective at detecting planar defects oriented parallel to the radiation beam.
Applicable Standards
Radiographic testing is performed in accordance with internationally recognised codes and standards.
ASME Section V, Article 2
The American Society of Mechanical Engineers standard covering radiographic examination of welds, castings, and other components. Widely referenced in pressure vessel, piping, and power generation projects.
ISO 17636
The international standard for radiographic testing of fusion-welded joints in metallic materials. Covers both film-based (Part 1) and digital (Part 2) radiographic techniques.
Industries
RT is widely used in sectors where internal weld quality must be verified and permanent records are required.
Oil & gas
Weld inspection on process piping, pressure equipment, and offshore structures where radiographic records are a contractual requirement.
Pipelines
Girth weld inspection during pipeline construction — RT provides the permanent record required by pipeline codes and project specifications.
Pressure vessels
Full volumetric examination of circumferential and longitudinal welds in vessels manufactured to ASME, PED, and EN 13445 requirements.
How Clearscope Helps
What we deliver — specific, practical, and built to hold up under audit.
Film & Digital RT
Both conventional film-based and computed/digital radiography, selected based on your code requirements, site conditions, and project specification.
On-Site Radiography
Portable radiographic equipment deployed to your construction site, fabrication shop, or operating facility with full radiation safety management.
Image Interpretation
Expert interpretation of radiographic images by certified Level II/III personnel — identifying, sizing, and classifying indications against code acceptance criteria.
Reporting to ASME/ISO Codes
Complete radiographic reports with image quality indicators, exposure parameters, and acceptance determination documented to ASME Section V or ISO 17636.
Need radiographic testing?
Permanent radiographic records accepted by clients and codes worldwide. Talk to us about your volumetric inspection requirements.