Applications of Statistical Methods to Nondestructive Evaluation

Nondestructive evaluation (NDE) techniques are used widely in many manufacturing and operational areas of industry. NDE is a highly statistical science that has developed rapidly over the past decade with relatively little input from individuals with forma1 training in statistics. This review article describes some of the many methods and applications of NDE, including eddy-current methods for detecting fatigue in jet-engine turbine disks, ultrasonic methods for detecting flaws in forged titanium, and radiographic methods for detecting out-of-control conditions in a casting process. We will also outline the important potential for increased use of modern methods of statistics to improve the practice of nondestructive evaluation. Areas of statistics important in NDE include data analysis and signal processing, decision theory, screening and calibration, the assessment of measurement capability, and the use of designed experiments for improvement of measurement/detection processes.