Selecting a Test or Inspection Method

What this topic covers

Match the physical characteristic, material, geometry, defect type and decision to the method.

Core testing ideas

No single inspection method detects every defect or property.

Method sensitivity can depend on material, geometry, surface condition and access.

Combining complementary methods can reduce blind spots.

Measurement and method limits

A result is only meaningful when the characteristic, units, method and acceptance requirement are clear.

Evidence and traceability

Traceability and documentation let later reviewers understand what was tested and with which equipment and method.

Using the result

Inspection plans should focus effort on meaningful characteristics instead of collecting data without a decision path.