CHALLENGES FACED BY SMEs : A COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW OF NON-DESTRUCTIVE TESTING METHODS AND SOLUT

Abstract

Non-Destructive testing is an effective analysis technique that manufacturing firms use to assess the structure and properties of materials. In simple words, NDTs can help inspectors detect irregularities, external and internal defects without causing damage to the original material. The sole purpose of the study is to propose the most convenient method of NDT for small and medium manufacturing businesses. For this reason, we have critically investigated the economic prospects and effectiveness of different NDT methods that can minimize the investment of SMEs in the long run. The proposed method of inspection is cost-effective and efficient enough to detect surface and subsurface cracks in materials. The recommended automated visual inspection in this study requires a small database and low-cost equipment such as cameras and scanners to identify surface and subsurface irregularities. However, it does not require huge initial setup and maintenance costs as compared to Ultrasonic and Eddy Current testing. The automated setup in visual inspection is the best NDT method that SMEs can adopt to reduce manufacturing defects. In addition, this can save a substantial amount of time and effort for inspectors. Therefore, in contemporary manufacturing operations, Dye penetration and AVI are essential to meet the quality standards of products while minimizing overall cost and timeframe.