This Technical Information Paper (TIP) is intended to be a guideline for obtaining images of acceptable qualitywhen doing ?x-ray? or radiographic testing (RT) on butt-welds in boiler tubing. Such testing usually is a millrequirement only. RT of butt welds in boiler tubes is not required by the ASME code. The content of this guideline would also apply to RT of small diameter piping.
The tube metal can be carbon steel, stainless steel or any combination thereof, including composite (layered) tubes. These guidelines apply equally well to RT of tube butt welds by ?elliptical? and ?contact? techniques, which are both described in Appendix A. Guidance is given on how personnel who obtain RT images and who interpret radiographic images should be qualified. Image quality requirements are described. No acceptance criteria for weld quality are given.
This document can serve as a technique guideline for the RT technician and help the purchaser of the RT service establish requirements for RT contractors. Codes that are commonly cross-referenced or may help with specification of weld quality criteria are summarized in Appendix B.