Leaders in Nondestructive Evaluation to Meet at ISU This Summer

AMES, Iowa -- Nearly 500 scientists and engineers from around the world will gather at the Iowa State Center July 16-21 for the 27^th Annual Review of Progress in Quantitative Nondestructive Evaluation. Hosted by Iowa State University's Center for Nondestructive Evaluation, the review will enable scientists to discuss research results and the steps needed to transfer technology from the lab bench to industry.

Nondestructive evaluation is an important tool in assuring the reliable service of engineering materials and components, extending the lives of the structures they comprise and avoiding catastrophic performance failures, such as the 1989 DC-10 crash in Sioux City, Iowa. Industries use noninvasive measurements, including X-ray, ultrasonic and electromagnetic techniques, to inspect materials and components. Quantitative nondestructive evaluation evolved from this technology in the 1970s, when it became necessary to measure flaw size to determine whether and how long a part, though not perfect, could still fulfill its function. The principles of QNDE are now used as tools to improve manufacturing processes.

Attendees at the review will interact with QNDE researchers to learn about cutting-edge technologies. This interaction will be beneficial to companies facing new inspection challenges and seeking to develop efficient ways to characterize materials and flaws. "In today's highly competitive marketplace, the safety benefits of inspection must be realized in the quickest and least expensive fashion with no compromise in quality. Globalization of business will cause companies to seek to develop uniform practices for use throughout the world. All of these factors will drive an increased emphasis on standards, enhanced educational offerings and simulations that can be easily communicated electronically," said Bruce Thompson, director of ISU's Center for NDE.

The Center for Nondestructive Evaluation, a leader in QNDE, has ongoing relationships with the aerospace, automotive and power industries. The center receives strong support from ISU's College of Engineering, both on research projects and in providing opportunities for engineering students to seek real-world experiences in coursework and internships.

Review attendees will present technical papers on nondestructive evaluation, which will be published in hard-bound conference proceedings. The review is organized by CNDE in cooperation with the American Society for Nondestructive Testing, the U.S. Department of Energy, the Federal Aviation Administration, the NASA-Langley Research Center and the National Science Foundation. Additional information on the review can be obtained from CNDE's Web site at http://www.cnde.iastate.edu/qnde/qnde.html. The program, including a list of speakers, will be posted on the Web site in May.

CNDE is a member of the Institute for Physical Research and Technology, a network of research and technology-transfer centers and industrial-outreach programs at Iowa State University.

Last updated September 6, 2006 rbm