As I was searching through back issues of ASNT's Material Evaluation magazine, I experienced a very surreal moment. On the cover of the August 2023 Issue, there was an article listed "Only the Dead Know NDT". I thought, that sounds interesting, it's probably an article about the experience being lost as many of the NDT pioneers are retiring or moving on to the afterlife. Then I saw one of the co-authors was Jim Treat, who also happened to be my first boss in NDT. The surrealness set in when I realized that Jim died less than a month after the article was published. Jim will always be known as one of the NDT Legends, and is surely missed by everyone who knew him or had the pleasure of working with him. Following are some highlights from "Only the Dead Know NDT: A Legacy of Dedication and Innovation". ASNT members can download the full August 2023 issue from ASNT's website by clicking the ASNT banner at eddycurrent.com/asntarchives
Only the Dead Know NDT: A Legacy of Dedication and Innovation
The world of Nondestructive Testing (NDT) is vast, intricate, and critical to industries worldwide. In their insightful article Only the Dead Know NDT, Jim Treat and Bruce Pellegrino share over a century of combined experience to shed light on the critical aspects of NDT, exploring its history, growth, and enduring challenges. Through their work, they aim to pass on legacy knowledge that captures the essence of an industry built on integrity, innovation, and resilience.
NDT: A Dynamic and Expansive Field
The authors liken NDT to a dynamic and evolving city—impossible to fully know or master due to its sheer breadth and complexity. With an annual market of over $15 billion growing at twice the global GDP rate, NDT comprises three interdependent elements: products, services, and training/certification. Together, these form the backbone of an industry that thrives on providing solutions to safety-critical problems across the globe.
Human Factors: The Heart of NDT
At its core, NDT is about trust. Treat and Pellegrino emphasize that honesty, integrity, and competence are the foundational values that sustain the industry. Regional fragmentation—such as the unique NDT landscapes in the U.S. Gulf Coast, Southern Germany, and Japan—creates interconnected communities where reputation and credibility are paramount. These relationships drive repeat business and long-term growth, making human factors as important as technical expertise.
Technological Evolution: Pioneering the Future
The authors delve deeply into the transformative role of technology in NDT. Over the decades, the field has evolved from analog to digital systems, offering reproducibility, efficiency, and better outcomes. Key advancements include:
Digital Innovations: Portable instruments with cloud connectivity and GPS have revolutionized inspections.
Borrowing from Medicine: Techniques like phased array ultrasonic testing (UT) and digital X-ray panels have roots in medical imaging, adapted to meet industrial needs.
Robots and Drones: These tools improve safety and efficiency, expanding NDT capabilities into previously inaccessible areas.
AI and Industry 5.0: Artificial intelligence and the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) are reshaping how data is collected, analyzed, and interpreted, paving the way for more informed decision-making.
Failures Driving Progress
In the authors’ words, “Failures are the mother of invention.” They recount how catastrophic failures, such as steam boiler explosions in the 19th century and a 2010 refinery heat exchanger incident, spurred technological advancements. These failures prompted the development of new inspection methods and training programs that have saved lives and improved industry practices.
A Career of Limitless Possibilities
Treat and Pellegrino emphasize the diversity of career paths in NDT, from technicians and engineers to entrepreneurs and managers. Whether entering the field with a high school diploma or pursuing advanced degrees, NDT professionals find a limitless runway for growth and opportunity. The authors’ own careers exemplify this diversity: Treat’s journey from mail boy to industry leader and Pellegrino’s success as a product innovator highlight the transformative potential of dedication and hard work.
Acknowledging the Legacy of Jim Treat and Bruce Pellegrino
Both authors have left a profound impact on the NDT industry. Jim Treat’s illustrious career began in 1961, and his leadership in founding Longview Inspection and NDT Classroom with Chuck Hellier reflects his commitment to advancing both the technical and educational aspects of the field. Bruce Pellegrino, a 45-year veteran, brought innovation to NDT products and services through his entrepreneurial ventures and leadership roles. Together, they offer invaluable insights that inspire the next generation of professionals.
A Bright Future for NDT
The article concludes with optimism for the future of NDT. Advancements in microcontrollers, battery technology, eco-friendly practices, and AI promise to further enhance the industry’s capabilities. However, Treat and Pellegrino remind us that the foundation of NDT remains rooted in high-quality, unbiased data and the values of its professionals.
Conclusion
Only the Dead Know NDT is more than just an article—it’s a testament to the enduring legacy of pioneers like Jim Treat and Bruce Pellegrino. Their combined expertise offers a roadmap for navigating the complexities of NDT while honoring its core values. As we look to the future, their insights remind us that the field’s true strength lies in its ability to adapt, innovate, and uphold the trust that underpins every inspection.
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