Visual inspection/testing is the first stage of non-destructive testing. This method is based on obtaining information about materials by means of visual observation with or without optical instruments. It allows us to detect surface discontinuities and deviations from the shape in a range of 0,1 mm – 0,01 mm depending on optical instruments (x20 magnification). Before performing visual inspection/testing, surface of materials should be cleaned of rust, dirt, paint, oil, metal spray and other impurities that prevent inspection.

Standards:

• TS EN 13018: Non-destructive testing – Visual testing – General principles
• TS EN 13927: Non-destructive testing – Visual testing – Equipment
• TS EN 1330-10: Non-destructive testing – Terminology – Part 10: Terms used in visual testing
• TS ISO 3057: Non-destructive testing – Metallographic replica techniques of surface examination
• TS ISO 3058: Non-destructive testing – Aids to visual inspection – Selection of low- power magnifiers
• TS EN 1370: Founding – Examination of surface condition. For the examination of surface condition (roughness and surface discontinuities) of castings. Applicable to all cast metals and all casting processes except die casting.
• TS EN ISO 17637: Non-destructive testing of welds – Visual testing of fusion-welded joints
• TS EN ISO 5817: Welding – Fusion-welded joints in steel, nickel, titanium and their alloys (beam welding excluded) – Quality levels for imperfections.