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Time of Flight Diffraction (TOFD) — Level 2
Knowledge TransferAdvanced NDT & Inspection Technologies
Advanced NDT & Inspection Technologies·Certification Pathway

Time of Flight Diffraction (TOFD) — Level 2

TOFD Level 2 certification program aligned with ISO 9712 (PCN) and SNT-TC-1A (ASNT), covering diffraction physics, equipment setup, scanning procedures, and data interpretation through online theory and on-site practical assessment.

Duration~40 hours
DeliveryOnline / Virtual · Hybrid · Onsite (Client)
LocationOnline theory modules · On-site practical and examination
LevelLevel 2
Certifying BodyPCN / ASNT

Course Overview

This blended TOFD Level 2 programme prepares candidates for PCN and ASNT qualification in time of flight diffraction. Theory modules are delivered online, covering diffraction physics, equipment configuration, probe pair selection, calibration, and data interpretation. Practical training and examination are conducted on-site by CSWIP Level 3 certified instructors with offshore and pipeline inspection experience. The programme is suited to NDT professionals in pressure vessel, pipeline, structural, and power plant inspection where TOFD is used for volumetric examination and defect sizing.

Who Should Attend

NDT technicians holding UT Level 1 or Level 2 qualification seeking TOFD Level 2 certification
Inspection engineers requiring TOFD competency for weld inspection and sizing
Pipeline and pressure vessel inspectors working under PCN or ASNT TOFD qualification
QA/QC personnel involved in TOFD procedure qualification and review
Prerequisites

UT Level 1 or Level 2 qualification under ISO 9712, PCN, or ASNT SNT-TC-1A. Minimum documented UT industrial experience as required by the applicable qualification scheme.

Learning Outcomes

  • Explain the physics of acoustic diffraction and the TOFD measurement principle
  • Identify and interpret lateral wave, backwall echo, and diffracted tip signals
  • Select probe pairs, PCS, frequency, and wedge angle for specific applications
  • Set up TOFD equipment and perform calibration to recognised reference blocks
  • Develop scanning procedures with appropriate coverage and dead zone management
  • Acquire, display, and interpret TOFD D-scan data for flaw detection and sizing
  • Apply TOFD defect sizing methods and quantify sizing uncertainty
  • Produce compliant inspection reports documenting TOFD examination results

Course Outline

Module 01

Physics of TOFD and Diffraction

Acoustic diffraction — Huygens principle and tip signals
Lateral wave, backwall echo, and diffracted signals
Beam coverage and dead zones in TOFD
Time-of-flight measurement and depth calculation
Resolution limits and sizing accuracy
Module 02

Equipment, Probes, and System Setup

TOFD instrument requirements and specifications
Probe pair selection — frequency, angle, crystal size
Probe centre separation (PCS) determination
Water path, coupling, and encoder setup
Equipment verification and system checks
Module 03

Calibration and Reference Standards

SDH and FBH calibration targets for TOFD
Amplitude normalisation and timing calibration
Lateral wave and backwall verification
Dead zone assessment and documentation
Code-specific reference block requirements
Module 04

Scanning Procedures and Coverage

Weld scanning procedures — standard and multi-zone
Zone coverage strategies for thick-wall components
Integration of TOFD with pulse echo for complete coverage
Encoded scan requirements and documentation
Scan plan development for complex geometries
Module 05

Data Analysis and Defect Sizing

TOFD D-scan interpretation — lateral wave, geometrical, and flaw signals
Signal characterisation — tip diffraction vs geometrical reflectors
Flaw depth positioning and height sizing
Sizing uncertainty analysis and error quantification
False calls, geometrical signals, and discrimination techniques
Module 06

Codes, Standards, and Qualification

ISO 9712 and PCN TOFD qualification structure
ASNT qualification pathway for TOFD
ASME Code Case 2235 and 2600 requirements
Written Practice requirements for employer qualification
Examination format — General, Specific, and Practical components

Topics Covered

TOFDTime of Flight DiffractionAdvanced NDTISO 9712PCNASNTLevel 2Blended LearningWeld InspectionDefect Sizing
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