NDT is carried out on components and materials used in infrastructure around the world, including bridges
As the name suggests, NDT involves the application of various techniques to evaluate materials and structures without damaging them. Sometimes referred to as the science of safety, NDT is carried out on components used in countless products and infrastructure – from railways and aeroplanes, through to oil rigs, roller coasters and bridges.
Some of the most frequently used NDT methods include eddy-current, radiographic, ultrasonic, and visual testing, all of which will feature in modules on the new course. According to the university, the degree is primarily aimed at those looking to embark on a Higher Apprenticeship scheme, and will be delivered via blended learning over a four-year period to give students the flexibility to continue working alongside their study. The course was developed in collaboration with the British Institute for Non-Destructive Testing (BINDT), which has its headquarters in Northampton.
“There is clearly a growing need for highly skilled graduates to work within the non-destructive testing, condition monitoring and allied industries,” said programme leader, Dr Abdeldjalil Bennecer.
“Graduates completing the course may be able to progress within their current organisation or pursue a wide variety of roles in the United Kingdom and across the world.”
In an industry report released in December 2017, it was claimed that the worth of the global NDT market was forecast to jump from $6.51bn in 2016 up to $10.48bn by the end of 2022. Much of this growth is owed to infrastructure projects across the world, especially in the Asia Pacific region, along with the increasing demand to improve the quality and life cycle of machines.
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