All weld inspection answers one question—does this weld meet the acceptance criteria?—but different methods answer it to different depths. Trained visual inspection is the foundation of every sound welding program. Beyond it, nondestructive examination (NDT) methods look for what eyes cannot see. The right level is whatever your specification and the joint’s consequences demand—no more, no less.
What does visual inspection actually check?
Weld size against the callout, profile, undercut, surface porosity, cracks, and overall workmanship against the governing code’s criteria. Done by trained eyes at the right moments—fit-up, in process, and final—visual inspection catches the majority of weld problems for the least cost. It is the default on all quality fabrication.
What does dye penetrant testing add?
Penetrant testing draws brightly colored dye into surface-breaking cracks and pores too fine to see, then pulls it back out with developer so flaws appear as vivid marks. It is economical, works on carbon and stainless, and is a common step up for stainless work and fatigue-sensitive joints.
When do deeper NDT methods come in?
Methods that examine beneath the surface—ultrasonic and radiographic examination—belong to full-penetration structural welds and code-driven work where internal soundness must be proven. They involve certified inspection personnel and real cost, which is why the specification, not enthusiasm, should call for them.
Who decides the inspection level?
The buyer’s specification and the governing code. AWS D1.1 and D1.6 define acceptance criteria; the contract defines how much examination is applied. Our post on what D1.1 certification means covers how procedures, welders and inspection fit together.
What should you ask for on ordinary industrial work?
Competent visual inspection to the applicable code by default; penetrant on joints where surface cracking would matter; deeper NDT only where the specification or the consequence justifies it. State it in the RFQ so every bidder prices the same inspection—the cheap quote that skipped inspection is not the same product.
Frequently asked questions
Standard visual inspection is part of quality workmanship. Specified NDT levels are priced as line items—which is why they belong in the RFQ.
Visual and penetrant inspection happen before coating—another reason inspection points are planned into the build sequence, not bolted on.
Whatever the specification requires—from a simple statement of conformance to formal reports on documented jobs. Agree on deliverables at purchase order time.
Ask with your specification in hand—inspection scope and any third-party examination are arranged per job, priced in the quote, and stated plainly.
Specify inspection once, compare quotes fairly
A & P Fabricating Solutions, LLC welds to AWS D1.1 and D1.6 at our Appleton, Wisconsin shop, with inspection scoped to your specification. Put the inspection level in your RFQ package and send it to the quote request page.
