FAA Aviation Mechanic Airframe (AMA)Airframe InspectionHard
A technician suspects hidden corrosion and voids inside a bonded honeycomb wing panel but cannot access the interior without destructive disassembly. Which NDT method uses penetrating radiation to image the internal structure without cutting the part open?
- AMagnetic particle inspection
- BRadiographic (X-ray) inspection
- CDye penetrant inspection
- DCoin tap test
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. Radiographic (X-ray) inspection
Radiographic inspection uses X-ray or gamma radiation passed through the part onto film or a digital sensor, revealing internal voids, corrosion, disbonds, or foreign material inside honeycomb or bonded structures without disassembly.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Magnetic particle inspection only works on ferromagnetic materials and detects surface cracks, not internal composite defects.
- C. Dye penetrant only detects surface-breaking defects and cannot see inside a sealed structure.
- D. Coin tap testing detects near-surface delamination by sound but does not provide detailed internal imaging.
Radiographic (X-ray) Inspection
An NDT method that passes penetrating radiation through a part to produce an image revealing internal flaws, voids, or corrosion without disassembly.
- Uses X-ray or gamma radiation and film or digital detector
- Effective for internal defects in honeycomb, bonded, and thick structures
- Requires strict radiation safety controls and trained/certified personnel
Memory trick: 'X-ray sees through the skin like looking through a wall.'