Advanced Diploma in Non-Destructive Testing

Purpose

The purpose of the Advanced Diploma in Non-Destructive Testing is to develop the necessary knowledge, understanding, skills and competence of learners' to be able to further their learning towards becoming capable technologists in the Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) discipline at a supervisory level. A successful learner will demonstrate competence in using NDT methods and related fields that are included in the curriculum. Upon completion, a qualifying learner should be competent in solving complex problems related to NDT.

Modules such as Fracture Mechanics, Numerical Analysis with Mat lab applications and NDT Projects IV are some of the modules that will be presented in the qualification, and these will be invaluable as tools of investigation and analysis. This qualification thus forms the baseline in Non-Destructive Testing failure investigation and the range of methods that can be applied to avert component failure. In particular, the methods to be studied have more in-depth key concepts and mathematical analysis, which is needed in specialised investigations and/or innovative advancement in component inspection.

The envisaged occupations or areas of activity for qualifying learners will be to tackle problems that have emanated from Non-Destructive Testing reports and/or seek for innovative scientific methods to improve the inspections, thereby contributing to revision of the applicable standards. This will be within a plant environment; the output of which will improve inspection instructions and/or guidelines for the Non-Destructive Testing technicians. This will further position them to progress to Research and Development, if they so wish, and to Postgraduate Diploma in Non-Destructive Testing (NQF Level 8). They will therefore be best suited for employment in end-user companies of Non-Destructive Testing as opposed to the services companies. They will also contribute to the development and management of Non-Destructive Testing related business ventures, at community and industrial levels.

The qualification is designed and aligned with the development of skills and competence in Non-Destructive Testing. The development of critical skills in the specialised techniques in the Advanced Diploma in Non-Destructive Testing is designed to focus on a range of different technical and material science application. The learners will also gain team-leading skills and be able to develop applicable critical and innovative thinking skills.

The qualification is firmly within the Materials Testing/Evaluation classification of subject matter. It focusses on the major, often applied methods of non-invasive inspection and concomitant techniques for evaluating material integrity. This includes most importantly, understanding the cause and effect in material failure using computational simulation modelling.

Rationale

With the lack of knowledgeable Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) technicians in South Africa, this qualification will pave the way for learners to acquaint themselves with the necessary foundation aspects in order to solve complex problems in NDT nationally and internationally.

Due to a lack of suitably qualified technologists in the discipline of Non-Destructive Testing this qualification has been identified to enable learners to register for a technologist status provided learners complete an Advanced Diploma at NQF Level 7 in Non-Destructive Testing. Non-Destructive testing is a niche area and a 'gap' in the industry has been identified, thus the Advanced Diploma in Non-Destructive Testing has been developed to widen articulation progression to Postgraduate studies.

Relevant industry stakeholders have been consulted in the curriculum development (Doc D) of the qualification. The qualification was mooted and discussed in the Non-Destructive Testing advisory board meeting, which includes members from the role players in the industry. Some of the advisory board members are also active members or hold office in the South African Institute for Non-destructive Testing (SAINT) and with the recognised SAINT Professional Body for Non-Destructive Testing (SPBNDT).

The qualification will be useful for end-user industries, since it will start to address, Remaining Useful Life (RUL) of components and by extension, plant machinery. This has huge cost implications in relation to maintenance and confidence in the continued operation of the plant. For example, graduates will thus 'plug' the missing input when engineering teams are deliberating at a technical level on plant maintenance schedules. The typical learners who will be enrolling for this qualification would have a 360-Credit Diploma.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

The details of the Faculty RPL policy are as follows, presuming prior accredited learning has taken place

• Candidate applies for RPL against module, or part/full qualification at the relevant department (Head of Department-HOD). An exemption form is completed for the RPL of modules or part/full qualification.
• Credits are awarded for relevant, approved prior learning (RPL).
• Only then may the prospective candidate continue with full registration.

The details of the Faculty RPL policy are as follows, presuming no prior accredited learning has taken place

• RPL officer is appointed from within subject heads (Subject experts) within the institution.
• The subject expert meets with the candidate to conduct pre-screening (evaluation) to ascertain viability of application based on qualification requirements (Exit Level Outcomes and Assessment Criteria).
• Candidate prepares evidence of work (portfolio of evidence) and/or any other relevant proof of evidence (practical work, assignments and or assessments). The evidence needs to be submitted to the RPL officer for RPL evaluation process.
• Evidence submitted by the candidate is assessed by the assessor. However, additional evidence may be requested.

A moderator from the department's advisory board and from within the candidate's industry is appointed

• The moderator moderates the candidate's evidence.
• The moderator reports on the assessor's judgment.
• RPL outcome is presented to faculty board by RPL officer.
• If the credit is not awarded, an appeals application to independently appointed moderator or institution's registrar can be done. The process of moderation will then resume.

Entry Requirements

The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is

• A 360-Credit Diploma in Non-Destructive, NQF Level 6.

Or

• An appropriate Bachelor's Degree in a relevant field, NQF Level 7.

This qualification consists of the following compulsory modules at National Qualifications Framework Level 7 totalling 128 Credits.

Compulsory Modules

• Ultrasonic Techniques, 15 Credits.
• Fracture Mechanics, 12 Credits.
• Numerical Analysis with Mat lab applications, 12 Credits.
• Research Methodology, 15 Credits.
• Radiographic Techniques, 12 Credits.
• Electromagnetic Techniques, 12 Credits.
• Corrosion Inspection and Monitoring Techniques, 12 Credits.
• Thermographic Testing Techniques, 12 Credits.
• Non-Destructive Testing (NDT)-Project IV, 16 Credits.

Elective Modules (Choose one module)

• Optical Testing Methods, 10 Credits.
• Penetrant Testing Methods, 10 Credits.
• Acoustic Emission Testing Methods, 10 Credits.

1. Critically analyse and evaluate results in the Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) field and thereafter make informed recommendations (contributions) on how to address certain tasks.
2. Use Mat lab and other computing packages in evaluating the output as a possible prognosis tool.
3. Conduct independent inquiries in the field of NDT and then reporting findings in a scientific/professional manner.
4. Demonstrate competency in using team leading skills, strategic and operational planning skills towards accomplishing a successful project.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1

• Apply specialist knowledge on the behaviour of materials in certain environmental conditions, for example, mechanisms of severe corrosion using numeric analyses, methods and technologies within the Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) realm to seek solutions.
• Discuss with an understanding the applicability of ultrasonic testing, radiographic testing, electromagnetic techniques, liquid penetrant testing and thermal techniques.
• Monitor and interpret a system using acoustic emissions.
• Explain how to plan formulate, organise and conduct NDT investigations.
• Professionally and ethically conduct scientific research by applying theories, methods, techniques to collect, analyse, interpret data and formulate findings which are presented orally and in written format (e.g. project report).
• Apply critical analyses and evaluation of theory, practice and technologies within the NDT field of specialisation.
• Demonstrate knowledge of multi-disciplinary industrial projects within the NDT field of specialisation which can be integrated and applied to make informed decisions (as contributions) to address and resolve complex problems.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2

• Identify, select and use appropriate methods, techniques, technologies and application software as prognosis tools for NDT investigations of multi-disciplinary industrial projects.
• Evaluate outputs/results/findings emanating from scientific research conducted.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3

• Explore and apply sound research theories, principles and methods to identify, analyse, experiment, evaluate and critically reflect on NDT problems, approaches and processes.
• Produce and present scientific research and written arguments and solutions to assess and address complex NDT problems by providing relevant research informed solutions.
• Conduct research in an ethical professional manner.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4

• Integrate and use leadership skills with in-depth specific knowledge, managerial, strategic and operational planning skills to identify, investigate, experiment, analyses, interpret and provide findings/results.
• Professionally and ethically present the accomplishments of a successful project in the field of NDT via a presentation and a written comprehensive report.

Integrated Assessment

The Assessment of this qualification will be in accordance with the assessment policy of the institution. The learning guides for the modules contain the module outcomes and assessment criteria which must be satisfied in order to pass.

Summative, formal and informal assessment will be used as strategies to develop the learners' competence in this qualification. Informal assessments typically include discussions, quizzes, feedback sessions, and peer assessments, among others.

Formal Assessments include class tests, presentations, assignments, and laboratory reports. Summative assessments will typically include semester tests (usually three per semester), and a final examination at the end of the semester (three hours, 180 marks). In accordance with the institution's assessment policy, learners are allowed a second examination opportunity, regardless of their results in the main examination.