NDI prevents death from cracks

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Ethan Morgan
  • 100th Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs
RAF Mildenhall, England --  When it comes to a multi-million dollar asset, one small crack or defect could lead to disaster. The 100th Maintenance Squadron Non-Destructive Inspection lab is responsible for identifying such issues, and is on call 24/7. Their constant vigilance means any defects are detected before they lead to tragedy.

"Structural integrity is our biggest concern," said Staff Sgt. David Mazurowski, 100th MXS NDI craftsman. "Every part on an aircraft is important. If a single part loses its integrity, it's up to us to catch it before it can lead to a catastrophic event."

NDI uses a collection of specialized analysis techniques such as ultrasonic, radiography and applied magnetics that enable a properly trained technician to evaluate the physical properties of an item or component without damaging it.

According to Mazurowski, the most sensitive and one of the simpler inspections they use is the penetrant inspection. For this inspection, parts suspect to damage are soaked in a fluorescent liquid penetrant, and then left to sit allowing the penetrant to soak into any cracks that may be present. After the part has had time to soak the part is removed, rinsed off, dipped in a hydraulic remover to remove excess penetrant, dried in a dryer and finally viewed in an inspection booth where any possible cracks can be spotted under a blacklight.

With the primary purpose of NDI being safety, customers can expect the diligence NDI puts into their work to exceed expectations. Identifying structural weaknesses and defects in items before they break and fail on the job is the daily norm for the NDI lab.

"The reason the defects and hair line cracks can be so dangerous, is imagine applied stress constantly attacking a crack that already exists or forms, after so long the crack will grow and grow, and eventually it will lead to a break," said Mazurowski.

NDI also saves the Air Force time and money by confirming whether aircraft parts can be reused or need replacing.

"Without NDI, the Air Force would have to develop a system that would prevent disasters due to defective parts," said Staff Sgt Corey Hayes, 100th MXS NDI craftsman. "The problem with that is that it would involve a lot of trial-and-error resulting in the loss of aircraft along with the people on board."

While NDI here primarily supports RAF Mildenhall, they also lend a helping hand to RAF Fairford and RAF Menwith Hill, as well as to transient aircraft from around the world.

"My job is great," said Senior Airman Sarah Hayes, 100th MXS NDI journeyman. "Day-to-day I get to deal with X-rays, blacklights and other amazing equipment. But what really makes me love my job is that we get to save lives and prevent catastrophes by finding any possible defect in equipment parts before they have the chance to fail."