Valves are crucial components in every industrial system—from oil & gas pipelines to chemical plants and power generation. A single failure can lead to costly downtime or safety hazards. That’s why non destructive testing for valves (NDT) is an essential step in manufacturing and maintenance.
This guide explains what non destructive testing for valves means, the methods used, international standards, and how to build a cost-effective inspection plan.
Non destructive testing for valves involves inspecting and evaluating valve components without damaging them. It identifies hidden flaws like cracks, porosity, and inclusions that cannot be detected by the naked eye.
The goal is simple: ensure valve integrity while keeping parts reusable. NDT has been a trusted quality control practice since the 1930s and is now required by major industry standards such as ASME B16.34, API 6D, and MSS SP-55.
· Early defect detection: Finds cracks, voids, or inclusions before failures occur.
· Cost-efficient: Eliminates waste by testing parts without destroying them.
· Compliance: Meets safety codes in oil, gas, and power applications.
· Re-certification: Supports valve re-rating for higher pressure or temperature service.
· Material verification: Confirms correct alloys and heat treatment conditions.
Without non destructive testing for valves, hidden flaws can compromise performance and lead to severe operational risks.
By combining surface and volumetric techniques, engineers achieve a complete integrity profile of each valve component.
To guarantee accuracy and acceptance, non destructive testing for valves should comply with recognized standards:
· ASME B16.34: Defines NDT requirements for valve components and critical zones.
· API 6D / 6A: Specifies valve inspection procedures for oil and gas applications.
· MSS SP-55 & SP-93: Provide reference acceptance levels for visual and NDT inspection.
· ISO 9712 / SNT-TC-1A: Ensure inspectors are certified and competent.
Following these standards improves traceability, safety, and customer confidence.
1. Identify critical areas – Focus on valve body, bonnet, and weld zones.
2. Select proper NDT methods – Use RT and UT for internal flaws, MT or PT for surface cracks.
3. Prepare surfaces – Clean thoroughly for accurate results.
4. Perform inspection – Apply the method per standard procedure.
5. Interpret results and record data – Document defect type, location, and severity.
6. Repair or re-test if necessary – Recheck repaired areas to confirm compliance.
An organized inspection plan ensures that non destructive testing for valves is consistent and reliable across all production stages.
✅ Improves valve safety and performance
✅ Extends service life and reduces maintenance costs
✅ Ensures compliance with global industry codes
✅ Builds trust with clients and certification bodies
✅ Enables continuous quality improvement
Whether during manufacturing or periodic maintenance, non destructive testing for valves ensures every component meets the highest quality standards.
If you are looking for high-quality industrial valves that have undergone certified non destructive testing, our team is ready to help.
Contact us anytime to learn more about our tested valve solutions and how we can support your projects with proven reliability and compliance.
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