This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles

for the
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

Designation: E1742/E1742M − 18

Standard Practice for

Radiographic Examination1
This standard is issued under the fixed designation E1742/E1742M; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year
of original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval.
A superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
This standard has been approved for use by agencies of the U.S. Department of Defense.

1. Scope* 1.3.20 Acceptable parts, 6.28.1.

2
1.1 This practice establishes the minimum requirements for 1.4 Units—The values stated in either SI units or inch-
radiographic examination for metallic and nonmetallic materi- pound units are to be regarded separately as standard. The
als. values stated in each system may not be exact equivalents;
1.2 Applicability—The criteria for the radiographic exami- therefore, each system shall be used independently of the other.
nation in this practice are applicable to all types of metallic and Combining values from the two systems may result in non-
nonmetallic materials. The requirements expressed in this conformance with the standard.
practice are intended to control the quality of the radiographic 1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the
images and are not intended to establish acceptance criteria for safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
parts and materials. responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
1.3 Basis of Application—There are areas in this practice priate safety, health, and environmental practices and deter-
that may require agreement between the cognizant engineering mine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
organization and the supplier, or specific direction from the 1.6 This international standard was developed in accor-
cognizant engineering organization. These items should be dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
addressed in the purchase order or the contract. ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
1.3.1 DoD contracts. Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
1.3.2 Personnel qualification, 5.1.1. mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
1.3.3 Agency qualification, 5.1.2. Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
1.3.4 Digitizing techniques, 5.4.5. 2. Referenced Documents
1.3.5 Alternate image quality indicator (IQI) types, 5.5.3.
1.3.6 Examination sequence, 6.6. 2.1 The following documents form a part of this practice to
1.3.7 Non-film techniques, 6.7. the extent specified herein:
1.3.8 Radiographic quality levels, 6.9. 2.2 ASTM Standards:3
1.3.9 Optical density, 6.10. E94 Guide for Radiographic Examination Using Industrial
1.3.10 IQI qualification exposure, 6.13.3. Radiographic Film
1.3.11 Non-requirement for IQI, 6.18. E543 Specification for Agencies Performing Nondestructive
1.3.12 Examination coverage for welds, A2.2.2. Testing
1.3.13 Electron beam welds, A2.3. E747 Practice for Design, Manufacture and Material Group-
1.3.14 Geometric unsharpness, 6.23. ing Classification of Wire Image Quality Indicators (IQI)
1.3.15 Responsibility for examination, 6.27.1. Used for Radiology
1.3.16 Examination report, 6.27.2. E801 Practice for Controlling Quality of Radiographic Ex-
1.3.17 Retention of radiographs, 6.27.8. amination of Electronic Devices
1.3.18 Storage of radiographs, 6.27.9. E999 Guide for Controlling the Quality of Industrial Radio-
1.3.19 Reproduction of radiographs, 6.27.10 and 6.27.10.1. graphic Film Processing
E1025 Practice for Design, Manufacture, and Material
Grouping Classification of Hole-Type Image Quality In-
1
This practice is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee E07 on Nonde- dicators (IQI) Used for Radiography
structive Testing and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee E07.01 on
Radiology (X and Gamma) Method.
3
Current edition approved March 1, 2018. Published March 2018. Originally For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
approved in 1995. Last previous edition approved in 2012 as E1742/E1742M – 12. contact ASTM Customer Service at service@astm.org. For Annual Book of ASTM
DOI: 10.1520/E1742_E1742M-18. Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
2
This practice replaced MIL-STD-453. the ASTM website.

*A Summary of Changes section appears at the end of this standard

Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States

1
 E1742/E1742M − 18
E1030 Practice for Radiographic Examination of Metallic ISO 5579 Non-Destructive Testing-Radiographic Examina-
Castings tion of Metallic Materials by X-and Gamma-Rays-Basic
E1032 Test Method for Radiographic Examination of Weld- Rules
ments ISO 9712 NDT—Qualification and Certification of NDT
E1079 Practice for Calibration of Transmission Densitom- Personnel
eters NOTE 1—DoD Contracts: Unless otherwise specified, the issues of the
E1165 Test Method for Measurement of Focal Spots of documents that are DoD adopted are those listed in the issue of the
Industrial X-Ray Tubes by Pinhole Imaging DoDISS (Department of Defense Index of Specifications and Standards)
E1254 Guide for Storage of Radiographs and Unexposed cited in the solicitation.
Industrial Radiographic Films NOTE 2—Order of Precedence: In the event of conflict between the text
of this practice and the references cited herein, the text of this practice
E1255 Practice for Radioscopy takes precedence. Nothing in this practice, however, supersedes applicable
E1316 Terminology for Nondestructive Examinations laws and regulations unless a specific exemption has been obtained.
E1390 Specification for Illuminators Used for Viewing In-
dustrial Radiographs 3. Terminology
E1411 Practice for Qualification of Radioscopic Systems 3.1 Definitions—Definitions relating to radiographic
E1416 Practice for Radioscopic Examination of Weldments examination, which appear in Terminology E1316, shall apply
E1815 Test Method for Classification of Film Systems for to the terms used in this practice.
Industrial Radiography 3.1.1 Optical density is the correct term for assessing the
E2033 Practice for Radiographic Examination Using Com- developed film obtained from a penetrating radiation film
puted Radiography (Photostimulable Luminescence inspection. Historically, the terms film or radiographic density,
Method) or both, have been used to describe the measurements taken
E2698 Practice for Radiological Examination Using Digital from viewing the images, but the current definition of film
Detector Arrays density, in Terminology E1316, is “the quantitative measure of
2.3 AWS Document: diffuse optical light transmission (optical density, blackening)
AWS A2.4 Standard Symbols for Welding, Brazing, and through a developed film.” In addition, with the advent of
Nondestructive Examination4 digital radiography, these historical terms may cause confusion
2.4 Aerospace Industries Association Document: to those utilizing more than the film technique. For standards
NAS 410 Certification & Qualification of Nondestructive purposes, the correct term is optical density and has been
Test Personnel5 (Replacement for MIL-STD-410 Nonde- replaced throughout this standard.
structive Testing Personnel Qualification and Certifica- 3.2 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
tion) 3.2.1 cognizant engineering organization—the company,
2.5 ASNT Documents:6 government agency, or other authority responsible for the
SNT-TC-1A Recommended Practice for Personnel Qualifi- design, or end use, of the system or component for which
cation and Certification in Nondestructive Testing radiographic examination is required. This, in addition to
ANSI/ASNT-CP-189 ASNT Standard for Qualification and design personnel, may include personnel from engineering,
Certification of Nondestructive Testing Personnel material and process engineering, stress analysis, NDT, or
2.6 NCRP Documents:7 quality groups and others, as appropriate.
NCRP 116 Limitation of Exposure to Ionizing Radiation 3.2.2 component—the part(s) or element of a system, as-
NCRP 144 Radiation Protection for Particle Accelerator sembled or processed to the extent specified by the drawing,
Facilities purchase order, or contract.
NCRP 147 Structural Shielding Design for Medical X-ray
3.2.3 energy—a property of radiation that determines its
Imaging Facilities
penetrating ability. In X-ray radiography, energy machine
2.7 ANSI/ISO Standards:8 rating is determined by kilovolts (keV), million electronvolts
ANSI/NCSL Z540-3 Requirements for the Calibration of (MeV). In gamma ray radiography, energy is a characteristic of
Measuring and Test Equipment the source used.
ISO 10012 Measurement Management Systems—
Requirements for Measurement Processes and Measuring 3.2.4 like section—a separate section of material that is
Equipment similar in shape and cross section to the component or part
being radiographed, and is made of the same or radiographi-
cally similar material.
4
Available from American Welding Society (AWS), 550 NW LeJeune Rd., 3.2.5 material group—materials that have the same pre-
Miami, FL 33126, http://www.aws.org.
5
Available from Aerospace Industries Association of America, Inc. (AIA), 1000 dominant alloying elements and which can be examined using
Wilson Blvd., Suite 1700, Arlington, VA 22209-3928, http://www.aia-aerospace.org. the same IQI. A listing of common material groups is given in
6
Practice E1025.
Available from American Society for Nondestructive Testing (ASNT), P.O. Box
28518, 1711 Arlingate Ln., Columbus, OH 43228-0518, http://www.asnt.org. 3.2.6 NDT facility—the NDT facility performing the radio-
7
Available from National Council on Radiation Protection and Measurements, graphic examination.
NCRP Publications, 7910 Woodmount Ave., Suite 800, Bethesda, MD 20814.
8
Available from American National Standards Institute (ANSI), 25 W. 43rd St., 3.2.7 radiographic quality level—The ability of a radio-
4th Floor, New York, NY 10036, http://www.ansi.org. graphic procedure to demonstrate a certain IQI sensitivity.

2
 E1742/E1742M − 18
4. Significance and Use 5.4.1 Radiation Sources:
4.1 This practice establishes the basic parameters for the 5.4.1.1 X-Radiation Sources—Selection of appropriate
application and control of the radiographic method. This X-ray voltage and current levels is dependent upon variables
practice is written so it can be specified on the engineering regarding the specimen being examined (material type and
drawing, specification, or contract. It is not a detailed how-to thickness) and exposure time. The suitability of these exposure
procedure to be used by the NDT facility and, therefore, must parameters shall be demonstrated by attainment of the required
be supplemented by a detailed procedure (see 6.1). Test radiographic quality level and compliance with all other
Methods E1030, E1032, and E1416 contain information to help requirements stipulated herein.
develop detailed technique/procedure requirements. 5.4.1.2 Gamma Radiation Sources—Isotope sources that are
used shall be capable of demonstrating the required radio-
5. General Practice graphic quality level.
5.4.2 Film Holders and Cassettes—Film holders and cas-
5.1 Qualification: settes shall be light tight, constructed of materials that do not
5.1.1 Personnel Qualification—Personnel performing ex- interfere with the quality or sensitivity of radiographs, and
aminations in accordance with this practice shall be qualified in shall be handled properly to reduce damage. In the event that
accordance with NAS 410, ANSI/ASNT-CP-189, SNT-TC-1A, light leaks into the film holder and produces images on the
or ISO 9712 and certified by the employer or certifying agency radiograph, the radiograph need not be rejected unless the
as applicable. Other equivalent qualification documents may be images obscure, or interfere with, the area of interest. If the
used when specified in the contract or purchase order. film holder exhibits light leaks it shall be further repaired
5.1.2 Agency Evaluation—If specified in the contractual before use, or discarded. Film holders and cassettes should be
agreement, NDT agencies shall be qualified and evaluated in routinely examined for cracks or other defects to minimize the
accordance with Specification E543. The applicable revision of likelihood of light leaks.
Specification E543 shall be specified in the contractual agree- 5.4.3 Intensifying Screens:
ment. 5.4.3.1 Lead Foil Screens—When using a source greater
5.2 Laboratory Installations: than 150 keV, intensifying screens of the lead foil type are
5.2.1 Safety—The premises and equipment shall present no recommended. Screens shall have the same area dimensions as
hazards to the safety of personnel or property. NCRP 147, the film being used and shall be in intimate contact with the
NCRP 116, and NCRP 144 may be used as guides to ensure film during exposure. Recommended screen thicknesses are
that radiographic procedures are performed so that personnel listed in Table 1 for the applicable voltage range being used.
shall not receive a radiation dosage exceeding the maximum Screens shall be free from any cracks, creases, scratches, or
permitted by city, state, or national codes. foreign material that could render undesirable nonrelevant
5.2.2 Radiographic Exposure Areas—Radiographic expo- images on the film.
sure areas shall be clean and equipped so that acceptable
radiographs may be produced in accordance with the require- TABLE 1 Lead Screen ThicknessA
ments of this practice. Energy Range/ Front Screen Back Screen Front and
5.2.3 Darkroom—Darkroom facilities, including equipment Isotopes Minimum Back ScreensB
and materials, shall be capable of producing uniform radio- in. in. mm
0 – 150 keVC 0.000 to 0.001 0.005D 0–0.15
graphs free of blemishes or artifacts, which might interfere 151 – 200 keV 0.000 to 0.005 0.005D 0.02–0.15
with interpretation in the area of interest. 201 – 320 keV 0.001 to 0.010 0.005 0.02–0.2
5.2.4 Film Viewing Area—The film viewing room or enclo- Se-75 0.001 to 0.010 0.005 0.1–0.2
321 – 450 keV 0.005 to 0.015 0.01 0.1–0.2
sure shall be an area with subdued lighting to preclude Ir-192 0.005 to 0.015 0.01 0.02–0.2
objectionable reflective glare from the surface of the film under 451 keV – 2 MeV 0.005 to 0.020 0.01 0.1–0.5
examination (see 6.27.6). Co-60 0.005 to 0.020 0.01 0.1–0.5
2 – 4 MeV 0.010 to 0.020 0.01 0.1–0.5
5.3 Materials: 4 – 10 MeV 0.010 to 0.030 0.01 0.5–1.0
5.3.1 Film—Film selection for production radiographs 10 – 25 MeV 0.010 to 0.050 0.01 1.0–2.0
A
should be based on radiation source energy level, part The lead screen thickness listed for the various energy ranges are recom-
mended thicknesses and not required thicknesses. Other thicknesses and mate-
thickness/configuration, and image quality. Only film systems rials may be used provided the required radiographic quality level, contrast, and
having cognizant engineering organization approval or meeting optical density are achieved.
B
the class requirements of Test Method E1815 shall be used. Lead screen thicknesses in accordance with EN 444 and ISO 5579 in SI units.
For energy ranges of Co-60 and 451 keV to 4 MeV, steel or copper screens of 0.1
5.3.1.1 Nonfilm Recording Media—Other recording media, to 0.5 mm may be used. For energy ranges above 4 MeV to 10 MeV, 0.5-1.0 mm
such as paper and analog tape, may be used when approved by steel or copper or up to 0.5 mm tantalum screens are recommended. Additional
the cognizant engineering organization. back scatter shielding may be achieved by additional lead screens behind the
cassettes.
5.3.2 Film Processing Solutions—Production radiographs C
Prepackaged film with lead screens may be used from 80 to 150 keV. No lead
shall be processed in solutions capable of consistently produc- screens are recommended below 80 keV. Prepackaged film may be used at higher
energy levels provided the contrast, optical density, radiographic quality level, and
ing radiographs that meet the requirements of this practice. backscatter requirements are achieved. Additional intermediate lead screens may
Solution control shall be in accordance with Annex A4. Guide be used for reduction of scattered radiation at higher energies.
D
E999 should be consulted for guidance on film processing. No back screen is required provided the backscatter requirements of 6.22 are
met.
5.4 Equipment:

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 E1742/E1742M − 18
5.4.3.2 Fluorescent, Fluorometallic, or Other Metallic TABLE 2 Process Control Checks
Screens—Fluorescent, fluorometallic, or other metallic screens Check Frequency Paragraph
A,B
may be used. However, they must be capable of demonstrating Discontinuity Image Measuring 5.4.7
Device
the required penetrameter (IQI) sensitivity. Fluorescent or Image Quality Indicators:
fluorometallic screens may cause limitations in image quality Certified When procured 5.5.4
(see Guide E94, Appendix X1). Check (Condition) prior to useC 5.5.4
Automatic Processing:
5.4.4 Film Viewers—Viewers used for final interpretation Processor Performance DailyD A4.2.1
shall meet the following requirements: Base Fog DailyD A4.2.5
Developer Temperature Prior to useC A4.2.3
5.4.4.1 The viewer shall contain a variable control to allow Replenishment Rate E
A4.2.2
the selection of optimum intensities for film with varying Transport Speed F
A4.2.4
optical densities. Manual Processing:
Processing Performance Daily A4.3.1
5.4.4.2 The light source shall have sufficient intensity to Base plus Fog Monthly A4.2.5
enable viewing of optical densities in the area of interest (see Developer Temperature Prior to useG A4.3.2
Densitometer:
6.27.4). Verification Check Each shiftH 6.27.5
5.4.4.3 The light enclosure shall be designed to provide a Calibration Check 3 monthsI 6.27.5
uniform brightness level over the entire viewing screen. Light Meters Annual 6.27.4/6.27.6
Viewer Light Intensity 6.27.4
5.4.4.4 The viewer shall be equipped with a suitable fan,
blower, or other means to provide stable temperature at the Thermometer Calibration 6 monthsB A4.2.3
Ambient Visible Light 6 monthsJ 6.27.6
viewing port to avoid damaging the radiographic film while Stepwedge Calibration Annual 6.27.5
viewing.
5.4.4.5 The viewer shall be equipped with a translucent A
Optical Devices—When procured; mechanical devices (see Footnote B).
B
material front in each viewing port, except for localized Calibrated and recorded in accordance with ANSI Z540-3, or ISO 10012, as
applicable.
high-intensity viewing of high-optical-density film areas C
Documentation of this check not required.
through separate viewing ports, apertures, or other suitable D
May be extended to weekly when substantiated by actual technical/reliability
openings. data and approved by the cognizant engineering organization.
E
Measured and recorded when solutions are changed during preventative
5.4.4.6 A set of opaque masks, an iris-type aperture, or any maintenance or repair.
other method to reduce the viewing area to suit the size of the F
Measured and recorded during preventative maintenance or repair.
G
Temperatures shall be checked prior to each use. Daily documentation of this
area of interest shall be provided. check is required.
5.4.4.7 Illuminators procured to, or meeting the require- H
Each shift or when maintenance is performed (bulb or aperture changed).
I
ments of, Specification E1390 are acceptable for use. Every three months or whenever the densitometer verification check is not within
tolerance.
5.4.5 Digitizing Techniques—The use of film digitizing J
Fixed viewing locations with acceptable and controlled ambient lighting condi-
techniques is acceptable when approved by the cognizant tions need not be re-verified as long as those conditions are maintained.
engineering organization.
5.4.6 Densitometers—The densitometer shall be capable of
measuring the light transmitted through a radiograph with an 5.5.2 Radiographically Similar IQI Material—Materials
optical density up to 4.0 with a unit resolution of 0.02. When shall be considered radiographically similar if the following
optical densities greater than 4.0 are permitted, a densitometer requirements are satisfied. Two blocks of equal thickness, one
capable of measuring optical densities up to the maximum of the material to be radiographed and one of the material of
optical density permitted is required. which the IQIs are made, shall be exposed together on the same
5.4.7 Film Viewing Aids—Magnifiers shall be available to film at the lowest energy level to be used for production
provide magnification between 3× and 10× to aid in interpre- radiographs. If the optical density of the material to be
tation and determine indication size, as applicable. The specific radiographed is within the range from 0 to +15 % of the IQI
magnifier used should be determined by the interpretation material (that is, the IQI is slightly more attenuating), the IQI
requirements. Devices used for determining defect size shall be material shall be considered radiographically similar and may
calibrated as scheduled in Table 2. be used to fabricate IQIs for examination of the production
5.4.8 Luminance/illuminance light meters are procured and material. The optical density readings shall be between 2.0 and
calibrated in accordance with Table 2. 4.0 for both materials. An IQI with a lower radiation attenua-
tion may be used.
5.5 Image Quality Indicators (IQIs): 5.5.3 Alternate IQI Types—The use of other types of IQIs,
5.5.1 Image Quality Indicators (IQIs)—The IQIs shall be in or modifications to types specified in 5.5.1, is permitted upon
accordance with contract requirements. Hole-type IQIs in approval of the cognizant engineering organization. Details of
accordance with this practice, Practice E1025, or the alternate the design, materials designation, and thickness identification
design of Annex A1, or wire-type IQIs in accordance with of the IQIs shall be in the written procedure, or documented on
Practice E747, shall be used when IQIs are required. If wire a drawing that shall be referenced in the written procedure (see
IQIs are used, they shall be correlated to hole-type radio- 6.1).
graphic quality levels in accordance with Practice E747. For 5.5.4 IQI Control—The IQIs shall be procured or fabricated
the radiography of electronic devices, Practice E801 shall be to the requirements of Practice of E1025, or the alternate
used. design of Annex A1, as applicable, with a manufacturer’s

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 E1742/E1742M − 18
certification of compliance with respect to alloy and dimen- the Annual Book of ASTM Standards, Vol 03.03 or from ASTM Head-
sions. Users shall visually inspect IQIs for damage, quarters.
chamfering, and cleanliness in accordance with Table 2. 6.3 Surface Preparation—Components may be examined
without surface preparation or conditioning except as required
6. Detail Requirements to remove surface conditions that may interfere with proper
6.1 Written Procedure—It shall be the responsibility of the interpretation of radiographs.
NDT facility to develop a workable examination technique 6.3.1 Castings, forgings, and weldments may be radio-
recorded as a written procedure that is capable of consistently graphed in the as-cast, as-forged, or as-welded conditions
producing the desired results and radiographic quality level. provided the following requirements are met.
When required by contract or purchase order, the procedure 6.3.1.1 For castings and forgings, the surface condition shall
shall be submitted to the cognizant engineering organization not interfere with evaluation.
for approval. The written procedure shall contain, as a 6.3.1.2 Accessible surfaces of welds shall be prepared in
minimum, the following information: accordance with A2.1.
6.1.1 A drawing, sketch, or photograph of the component 6.4 Radiographic Identification—Each radiograph shall
showing the location of the film and IQI with respect to the carry the identification or serial number of the component and
radiation source for each exposure. view number, when multiple views are taken. Each radiograph
6.1.2 The angle of the radiation beam in relation to the shall also carry the identification of the NDT facility examining
component, the source-to-film distance, and any blocking or the component and the date of the examination. Radiographs of
masking, if used. a repair area shall be identified with R1, R2, R3, and so forth,
6.1.3 Part zones, if applicable, should be included (see 6.2). indicating the number of times that repairs were attempted.
This may be accomplished through drawings and tables or by Alternative schemes may be used for identification of repair
reference to documents where such information is found. radiographs so long as each film is clearly identified to relate to
6.1.4 The nominal exposure for X-ray machines, the a particular repair area. For explosives and propellants, the
voltage, milliamps, time (or rads as applicable), and effective conditioning temperature shall be identified on each X-ray film
focal spot size. For radioisotope sources, the isotope type, if the ordnance has been conditioned to a temperature other
source strength (curies), exposure time, and source size. than facility ambient for purposes of examination.
6.1.5 Film designation (for example, brand, type, and pro-
cessing parameters), intensifying screens (for example, type 6.5 Examination and Coverage—The number of parts
and thickness of screens), or filters (for example, filter material, examined, and the radiographic coverage of each part shall be
thickness, and location) if used, film loading instructions (for as specified by drawings, radiographic techniques, radio-
example, when using multiple film exposure techniques), and graphic manuals, handbooks for aircraft technical orders, or
the desired optical density range. other specifications, as applicable. Areas to be examined shall
6.1.6 Thickness and type of material. be identified on the drawing by using the symbols in accor-
6.1.7 The IQI size and type, and the required radiographic dance with AWS A2.4 or other systems of designations that are
quality level. If alternate IQIs are used (see 5.5.3), include easily identified on the drawing. If the number of parts to be
details of the design or reference to documents where such examined and the amount of coverage of each part is not
information is found. specified, all parts shall be examined and shall receive 100 %
6.1.8 Thickness and type of material for shims or blocks, or radiographic coverage.
both, if used. 6.6 Examination Sequence—The sequence for radiographic
6.1.9 Name and address of the NDT facility and the date, or examination in the production operation should be specified in
revision, of the procedure. the manufacturing or assembly process specification, contract,
6.1.10 Radiographic identification scheme used to correlate or purchase order. If not specified, radiographic examination
part-to-film. If the examination procedures are similar for shall be performed at a stage in the process of manufacturing
many components, a master written procedure may be used or assembly at which discontinuities can be detected. Radio-
that covers the details common to a variety of components. All graphic examination may be performed before heat treatment,
written procedures shall be approved by an individual qualified provided liquid penetrant or magnetic particle examinations are
and certified as a Level III for radiography in accordance with performed after heat treatment.
5.1.1. 6.7 Nonfilm Techniques—When permitted by purchase
6.2 Acceptance Requirements—When examination is per- order, contract, or specification, radioscopic/radiological ex-
formed in accordance with this practice, engineering drawings, aminations using nonfilm techniques shall be in accordance
specifications, or other applicable documents shall indicate the with Practices E1255, E2033 or E2698 or a nonfilm specifica-
criteria by which the components are judged acceptable. tion approved by the Cognizant Engineering Organization
Complex components may be divided into zones and separate (CEO) as required. Prior approval shall be obtained from the
criteria assigned to each zone in accordance with its design Level III radiographer of the cognizant engineering organiza-
requirements. When used, direct references to ASTM reference tion (see 5.1.1).
radiographic standards shall include the grade level for each 6.8 Multi-Film Techniques—Film techniques with two or
type of discontinuity permitted for each part or zone. more films of the same or different speeds in the same film
NOTE 3—Information on reference radiographs can be obtained from holder, to be used in either single or superimposed film

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 E1742/E1742M − 18
viewing, shall be permitted provided that the applicable radio- 6.13 Placement of IQIs—An IQI shall be placed on each
graphic quality level, and optical density requirements (see 6.9 part radiographed for the duration of exposure, unless a
and 6.10), are achieved for the area of interest. number of identical parts are simultaneously exposed on a
6.9 Radiographic Quality Levels—The five quality levels single film. In such a case, a single IQI shall be placed upon the
listed in Table 3 may be assigned on the basis of IQI thickness source side of a part at the outer edge of the cone of radiation
and the perceptibility of one, two, or three holes in the or farthest extremity of the exposure setup (that is, farthest
hole-type IQI image on the radiograph. If the quality level is from the radiation beam centerline). For examination of
not specified on the drawing or other applicable documents, it irregular objects, the IQI shall be placed on the area of the part
shall be Level 2-2T. Unless otherwise specified by the cogni- farthest from the film. The IQIs shall be placed adjacent to the
zant engineering organization, hole-type IQIs used for exami- area of interest, since accept/reject decisions cannot be made in
nation of material 0.25 in. (6.35 mm) or less in thickness shall the area directly beneath the IQI. Where it is not practicable to
be 0.005-in. (0.127-mm) minimum thickness. place the IQI on the part, the separate block technique in
6.10 Optical Density—For single-film viewing, the optical 6.13.1, or the film-side technique in 6.13.2, may be used as
density shall be ≥1.5 in the area of interest. Where superim- applicable.
posed film viewing is used, the optical density of the superim- 6.13.1 Shim, Separate Block, or Like-Section IQI
posed films shall be from 2.0 in the area of interest, and each Technique—Where it is impractical to place the IQI upon the
individual film shall not have an optical density below 1.0 in part radiographed, the IQI may be placed on the source side of
the area of interest. Optical densities above 4.0 are permitted a separate shim, block, or like section, from the same material
when agreed upon between the cognizant engineering organi- group (or material that is radiographically similar or of a lower
zation and the NDT facility (see Note 1 of Fig. 1). In no case radiographic attenuation, see 5.5.2) as either the IQI or the part.
shall the maximum optical density exceed 4.5. For single-film The shim, block, or like section and IQI shall be placed on the
viewing, optical densities less than 1.5 are permitted only when outer edge of the cone of radiation. The shim, block, or like
items not requiring an IQI (see 6.18) are examined. The section shall exceed the IQI dimensions so that at least three
maximum readable optical density depends on the film viewer sides of the IQI shall be visible on the radiograph. If required
used and its maximum luminance (see 6.27.4). The maximum by the CEO, the shim shall be placed on a low-absorptive
readable optical density shall always be posted on the viewer. material (such as polystyrene plastic or its equivalent) to ensure
6.11 Processing Radiographs—Radiographs shall be free that the IQI shall not be any closer to the film than the source
from blemishes which may interfere with film interpretation. side of the part, or area of interest being evaluated.
6.12 IQI Selection—The IQI thickness shall be based on a 6.13.2 Film-Side IQI Placement—When examining double-
thickness not greater than the nominal thickness to be radio- walled parts such as tubing or hollow castings, and it is not
graphed. For double-wall exposures and double-wall viewing practical to place an IQI on the source side of the part, IQIs
techniques, the IQI shall be based on the double-wall thickness may be placed on the film side of the part as specified in
of the component. The IQI thicknesses that are in between, or 6.13.2.1 and 6.13.2.2. A letter “F” shall be placed adjacent to
smaller than, the thickness increments in Fig. A1.1 (for the IQI.
example, a hole-type IQI that is 0.0025 or 0.006 in. thick) may 6.13.2.1 Film-Side IQIs (Double Wall-Double Image)—
be used but are not mandatory. For double-wall exposures and When performing double-wall radiography in which both walls
single-wall viewing techniques, the IQI shall be based on the are viewed for acceptance, the film-side radiographic technique
single-wall thickness of the component. In no case shall the IQI shall be demonstrated on an exposure of a like section in which
thickness be based on a thickness greater than the thickness to the required IQI shall be placed on the source side, and sets of
be radiographed. For fabrication welds the IQI shall be selected wire IQIs, (or a series of hole-type IQIs) ranging in thickness
in accordance with Annex A2. For explosive/propellants, from that of the required IQI to one fourth that thickness shall
rocket motors, and their components, IQI selection shall be as be placed on the film side. If the required IQI on the source side
specified in accordance with Annex A3. indicates the specified radiographic quality level, then the
image of either the smallest IQI hole in the thinnest IQI, or the
image of the smallest wire, visible on the film side, shall be
used to determine the proper film-side IQI to be used for
TABLE 3 Quality Levels of Examination production radiographs.
Radiographic Maximum IQI Minimum Hole Equivalent IQI
IQI Designation
Quality Level Thickness, %A DiameterB Sensitivity, %C
6.13.2.2 Film-Side IQIs (Double Wall-Single Image)—
00 1–1T 1 1T 0.7
When performing double-wall radiography in which only the
0 1–2T 1 2T 1.0 wall portion next to the film is viewed for acceptance, the
1 2–1T 2 1T 1.4 film-side radiographic technique shall be demonstrated on an
2 2–2T 2 2T 2.0
3 2–4T 2 4T 2.8 exposure of a like section in which the required IQI is placed
A
Expressed as a percentage of material thickness.
on the inside of the part and a set of IQIs, as specified in
B
Expressed as multiple thickness of IQI. 6.13.2.1, are placed on the film side. If the IQI on the inside
C
Equivalent IQI sensitivity is that thickness of the IQI expressed as a percentage indicates the required radiographic quality level, then the
of the specimen thickness in which a 2T hole would be clearly visible under the
same radiographic conditions. image of either the smallest IQI hole in the thinnest IQI, or the
image of the smallest wire, visible on the film side, shall be

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 E1742/E1742M − 18

NOTE 1—This figure is a depiction of the abscissa axis: Maximum Allowable Optical Density versus ordinate axis: Candela/m2 and footlamberts in
graphical format from tabular data derived from Specification E1390 and ISO 5580 (also known as EN 25580). Conversion from tabular data to a graph
accounts for the step in the line. For Film Viewer Output of 10 000 Candela/m2 (2919 Footlamberts), the Maximum Allowable Optical Density shall be
3.0. Regarding the ordinate axis: Candela/m2, the minimum luminance level required for the average human eye to achieve photopic eye response (that
is where maximum resolution and contrast discrimination occurs) is at 10 candela/m2. At levels below this value the eye responds scotopically which
means lower contrast discrimination and resolution. While photopic vision typically occurs at a threshold of 10 candela/m2 for the average human eye,
this curve takes advantage of the fact that at lower optical densities most viewers can achieve an amount of light that guarantees that virtually all operators
will be viewing film in the photopic vision mode, that is 30 candela/m2 for optical densities <2.5. A theoretical advantage of this curve is that it
compensates for the reduced contrast sensitivity of radiographic film at lower optical densities.
NOTE 2—NDT film systems, classified corresponding to E1815 system classes “Special, I and II,” with or without lead screens, are suitable for the
extended viewing range above an optical density of 4, due to their high gradient (GD-D0 = 4 >6) at D = 4 above fog and base. These double sided NDT
film systems have a high silver content and do not saturate as early as medical and classes III, W-A, W-B and W-C film systems. The basic advantage
of increasing the optical density is the increase of contrast with optical density. Since the contrast/noise ratio also increases (with the square root of optical
density), the perception of indications of small flaws improves significantly with higher optical density. The operator should mask all film areas of lower
optical density to avoid blinding (dazzling). Blinding reduces the eye perception and requires longer eye adaptation time. High brightness viewing stations
also heat up films depending on the optical density and viewing time. The operator shall prevent overheating to protect the film integrity.

FIG. 1 Maximum Allowable Optical Density with Film Viewer Output

used to determine the proper film-side IQI to be used for (1) Energy level (kilovolts or Megavolts),
production radiographs. (2) Exposure (milliampere × time),
6.13.3 IQI Qualification Exposure—When included in the (3) Source-to-film distance,
written procedure and approved by the Level III radiographer (4) Screens, collimation, masking, or filters,
of the cognizant engineering organization, a single exposure (5) Film type, or
with the applicable IQI may be made to qualify the examina- (6) Film processing parameters.
tion process.
6.13.3.2 Subsequent Exposures—Subsequent exposures
6.13.3.1 Qualification Exposure—When it is impractical to
shall be positively tied to the qualification exposure by
continually place IQIs on a part requiring more than one
exposure, a single exposure of the IQI may be made to qualify serialization or other methods. A copy of the qualification shall
the examination process. As long as the radiographic technique be provided to all parties with review authority.
is not changed, subsequent exposures may be performed 6.13.4 Re-Radiography—Whenever there is a reasonable
without an IQI. A new qualification exposure with an IQI shall doubt as to the interpretation or clarity of the radiograph
be made daily, or whenever any of the following parameters because of film artifacts or improper technique, re-radiography
are changed: is required.

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6.14 Masking—Shot, masking solutions, sheet lead and 6.18.1 Examining assemblies for debris,
foils, polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), plastic, or other low- 6.18.2 Conducting radiography for defect removal provided
optical-density, nonmetallic absorbers may be used as masking final examination of the area includes an IQI,
to minimize the effects of scattered radiation or undercutting. 6.18.3 Examining to show material details or contrast be-
The shot may be a mixture of many diameters to provide a tween two or more dissimilar materials in component parts or
uniform optical density. Heavy chemical solutions used for assemblies including honeycomb areas for the detection of
masking may be toxic; the proper health and safety precautions fabrication irregularities or the presence or absence of material,
and markings shall be used. or
6.15 Filters—Filters may be used whenever the contrast 6.18.4 When surfaces are inaccessible an alternate method
reductions caused by low-energy scattered radiation occurring of qualification shall be used subject to the approval of the
on production radiographs are of significant magnitude to cognizant engineering organization.
cause difficulty in meeting the radiographic quality level or 6.19 Fabrication Welds—Fabrication welds shall be pro-
radiographic coverage requirements as specified in the cessed in accordance with Annex A2.
contract, purchase order, or drawing.
6.20 IQI Selection for Explosives/Propellants, Rocket
6.16 Multiple-Film-Cassette Exposure—Where more than Motors, and Their Components—These devices shall be radio-
one film cassette is used to cover the area of interest in a single graphed in accordance with Annex A3.
exposure, an IQI image shall appear on at least one radiograph 6.20.1 Single-Wire IQIs—Single-wire IQIs of a (metallic)
at the edge of the film most distant from the center of the material with higher material density may be used, provided
radiation beam. When the source is placed on the axis of the the thickness of metal upon which the IQI is based has been
object, and the complete circumference is radiographed with a equated to the equivalent explosive/propellant thickness. Wire
single exposure, at least three equally spaced IQIs are to be thickness shall be equated to hole-type radiographic quality
used if possible. levels (as specified in Table 3) by the following method:
6.17 Applicable IQI Area of Interest—(a) One IQI shall Wire IQI diameter 5 TPY/XF (1)
represent an area within which optical densities do not vary
where:
more than +30 to −15 % from the optical density measured
through the body of the IQI. (b) When shims are used with T = total equivalent thickness, or thickness of explosive/
hole-type IQIs, the +30% optical density restriction of letter (a) propellant material,
above may be exceeded, as long as the required IQI sensitivity P = required sensitivity as a percentage of material thickness
and optical density requirements of the CEO are met (see Note (that is, equivalent IQI sensitivity),
Y = material density of explosive/propellant,
4). (c) At least one IQI per radiograph shall be used, except as
X = material density of IQI material, and
specified in 6.16, 6.17.1, and 6.18. Accept/reject decisions shall F = form factor for round wire (0.7854).
not be made directly beneath the IQI shim combination.
6.21 Contrast—The contrast of the radiograph shall be
NOTE 4—Letter (b) applies to welds where the IQI is placed on the part; determined by measuring the difference in optical density of
(b) does not apply to welds when blocks are used.
the film through the IQI and the adjacent material. The
6.17.1 Radiograph Qualification Using Two IQIs—When minimum optical density difference shown in Fig. 2 shall be
the optical density varies by more than is specified in 6.17, two achieved between the IQI and the base metals for Radiographic
IQIs used in the following manner are acceptable. If one IQI Quality Levels 1 and 2.
shows an acceptable sensitivity in the most optically dense
6.22 Back Scatter Radiation—During each exposure the
portion of the radiograph, and the second IQI shows an
film shall be monitored for back scatter. Each film holder shall
acceptable sensitivity in the least optically dense portion of the
have a lead letter “B” a minimum of 0.5 in. (12.7 mm) high and
radiograph, the two IQIs shall serve to qualify the radiograph
a minimum of 0.0625 in. (1.6 mm) thick positioned behind the
within these optical density limits plus the +30 % ⁄–15 % of
film and within the general area of the film to be viewed.
6.17. Additional IQIs may be used, as necessary in subsequent
Should the image of the lead letter “B” appear on the film as a
exposures, to cover the entire thickness range of the object. For
light image, the film should be considered unacceptable and
components such as castings and forgings, where there are
screens, lead backing, or other appropriate measures shall be
changes in wall thickness and wall alignment and the use of
implemented on subsequent exposures to reduce back scatter.
two IQIs is not possible, the use of one IQI is acceptable. The
The appearance of a dark image (higher optical density “B”
IQI thickness shall be based on the thinnest wall being
image) should be disregarded unless the dark image could be
radiographed and shall be placed on the thickest wall section.
confused with, or interfere with, interpretation in the area of
The required +30 to −15 % optical density tolerance (see 6.17),
interest. When identical parts, or segments of parts, are to be
need not be met; however, the optical density in the areas of
examined by the same technique, the letter “B” may be used to
interest shall be between 1.5 and 4.0 (and up to 4.5 by
qualify the initial exposure only and may be omitted for
agreement of CEO; see Note 1 of Fig. 1) and the required
subsequent exposures as long as the proximity and nature of
radiographic quality level shall be obtained.
backscattering objects and similar conditions are maintained
6.18 Non-Requirement of IQIs—The IQIs are not required constant. A new qualification exposure shall be made whenever
when: any of the following parameters are changed:

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 E1742/E1742M − 18

FIG. 2 Minimum Optical Density Difference Between IQI and Ad-

jacent Base Metal Material Images

6.22.1 X-ray machine energy (kilovolts, Megavolts, or 6.25 Location Markers—The images of location markers for
gamma source type), coordination of the part with the film(s) shall appear on the film
6.22.2 Exposure time (milliampere-time), without interfering with interpretation and with such an ar-
6.22.3 Source-to-film distance, rangement that it is evident that complete coverage was
6.22.4 Screens, collimation, masking, or filters, obtained. The location marker positions shall be established on
6.22.5 Film type, the part, and the position of the markers shall be maintained on
6.22.6 Film processing parameters, the part during radiography. If the entire part can be radio-
6.22.7 Type or amount of backing material, or graphed with one film for each view, and the orientation of the
6.22.8 Radiation source change or relocation. part with respect to the film is obvious, then location markers
6.23 Source-to-Film Distance—The minimum allowable are not required.
source-to-film distance shall be calculated by the following 6.25.1 As an alternative to markers, view numbers (see 6.4),
equation, using the material thicknesses and geometric un- may be used provided orientation of the radiographs to the part
sharpness values in Table 4, unless otherwise specified by the can demonstrate the required radiographic coverage and the
cognizant engineering organization. location of defects can be accomplished.
SFD 5 ~ Ft/Ug! 1t (2) 6.26 Crack Detection—When parts are radiographed to
where: detect in-service cracks in aircraft assemblies and the parts
being examined are covered by aircraft skin, only the area of
SFD = source-to-film distance,
Ug = geometric unsharpness, the film that falls within a 10° cone of radiation (10° total solid
F = size of radiation source, using the manufacturer’s angle, apex at the radiation source, central axis of cone equal
nominal size or the effective focal spot size in to central axis of radiation beam) shall be considered valid for
accordance with Test Method E1165, and interpretation.
t = distance from the source side of the object to the film 6.27 Quality Assurance Provisions:
(regardless of whether or not the object is in contact
6.27.1 Responsibility for Examination—The NDT facility is
with the film).
responsible for furnishing all supplies in conformance to
NOTE 5—Unit of measurement for SFD, Ug, F, and t may be in either contract or purchase order requirements and, unless otherwise
English or SI units as long as they are consistent (not mixed). specified in the contract or purchase order, the performance of
6.24 Identification—Marking of the radiographic film and all examination requirements contained herein. The examina-
component shall be provided so that the radiograph may be tion provisions contained herein shall become a part of the
traced to the component being examined (see 6.28.6). NDT facility overall examination system or quality program.
6.27.2 Examination Report—The results of all radiographic
examinations shall be recorded and kept on file in accordance
TABLE 4 Geometric Unsharpness (Ug) (Maximum) with the contract or purchase order. The examination reports
Material Ug, in. Ug, mm shall reference this practice, or the applicable specification and
Thickness, in. (mm) provide for traceability to the specific part or lot examined and
Under 2 (50.8) 0.020 0.5 shall include the examiner’s identification, the date of the
2 (50.8) through 4 (101.6) 0.030 0.75
Over 4 (101.6) 0.040 1.0 examination, the disposition of the component (accept or
reject), and the reason for rejection of any items.

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 E1742/E1742M − 18
6.27.3 Film Processing Control—Film processing shall be 6.27.10 Reproduction of Radiographs—When radiographs
controlled and monitored in accordance with Annex A4. are reproduced for the cognizant engineering organization, the
6.27.4 Viewers—Maximum readable optical density shall be quality assurance program shall include a procedure for con-
determined as follows and measurements shall be in accor- trolling and monitoring the accuracy of the process, so that the
dance with Specification E1390: radiograph, when reproduced to its original size, will provide
6.27.4.1 The maximum light intensity for each viewing port the IQI image and required holes as on the original radiograph.
shall be determined using a light meter that measures lumi- 6.27.10.1 The reproduction process shall be subject to the
nance in candelas/m2 or footlamberts and controlled in accor- approval of the cognizant engineering organization.
dance with Fig. 1. Divide candela/m2 by 3.426 for conversion 6.27.10.2 Procedures for microfilming shall contain appli-
to footlamberts. cable requirements pertaining to exposure, scanning, focusing,
contrast, resolution, and distinguishing film artifacts that might
6.27.4.2 Readings shall be taken at the center of spot
appear as material discontinuities in the reproduced image.
viewers, and at the visually dimmest area of the viewing
6.27.10.3 The reproduction process for radiographs may use
surface for all other types of viewers. Light levels shall be
an image projection system when the process provides the IQI
recorded in accordance with Table 2.
image and required holes as in the original radiograph when the
6.27.4.3 The maximum readable optical density shall be image is projected to its original size.
determined in accordance with Fig. 1 and posted on each 6.27.10.4 When the reproduction process consists of an
viewer for each viewer port. Image Projection System the projected image shall be pro-
6.27.4.4 Maximum readable optical density values shall be jected to the radiograph’s original size; the IQI image and
established when the viewer is procured, and shall be re- required hole(s) shall be the same as the original radiograph.
established when the viewer is repaired, altered, or a bulb is
6.28 Marking:
changed.
6.28.1 Acceptable Parts—Parts that conform satisfactorily
6.27.5 Densitometer Calibration and Verification Check— to applicable radiographic examination requirements shall be
The densitometer shall be calibrated and verified in accordance marked in accordance with the applicable drawing, purchase
with Practice E1079 and Table 2 requirements. Calibration of order, contract, or as specified herein. Markings shall be
the stepwedge film shall be verified by comparison to a applied in such a manner and location as to be harmless to the
NIST-serialized step tablet (SRM 1001, or SRM 38100C, or part. Identification shall not be smeared or obliterated by
both). Stepwedge calibration frequency shall be in accordance subsequent handling. When subsequent processing would re-
with Table 2. move identification, the applicable marking shall be affixed to
6.27.6 Ambient Light—Subdued lighting in the viewing the records accompanying the parts or assembly.
room is preferred rather than total darkness. Background 6.28.2 Impression Stamping, Laser Marking, or Vibro
illumination lighting shall be arranged such that light reflec- Engraving—Impression stamping, laser marking, or vibro
tions do not interfere with review of radiographs. Background engraving shall be used only where permitted by the applicable
ambient light levels shall not exceed 30 lux (3fc); light levels specifications or drawings. Unless otherwise specified, mark-
shall be measured at the viewer surface, with the viewer off, ing shall be located in areas adjacent to the part number.
and recorded in accordance with Table 2. 6.28.3 Etching—When impression stamping, laser marking,
6.27.7 Dark Adaptation—The interpreter should wait suffi- or vibro engraving is prohibited, parts may be marked by
cient time, after entering the viewing area, before interpreting etching. Suitable etchants and application methods shall be
radiographs that the features of the IQI are visible (hole and employed. Etching methods other than fluid etching may be
IQI outline). If the eyes are momentarily subjected to the full used.
brightness of the illuminator, at least 30-s readaptation should 6.28.4 Dyeing—Where etching, impression stamping, laser
be allowed. marking, or vibro engraving are not appropriate, identification
6.27.8 Retention of Radiographs—Retention and delivery of may be accomplished by dyeing or ink stamping.
radiographs and other records (see 6.1, written procedure; and 6.28.5 Other Identification—Other means of identification,
6.27.2, examination report) shall be in accordance with the such as tagging, may be applied to parts for which
provisions specified in the contract. For DoD contracts they construction, finish, or functional requirement preclude the use
shall be in accordance with the contract data requirements list of etching, impression stamping, vibro engraving, laser
(see 7.1). If no specific requirements are specified for retention marking, dyeing, or ink stamping.
or delivery of radiographs, they shall become the property of 6.28.6 Symbols—Each part that has successfully passed
the purchaser of the component. radiographic examination shall be marked as follows:
6.27.9 Storage of Radiographs—When storage of radio- 6.28.6.1 When impression stamping, laser marking, vibro
graphs is required by contract or purchase order, the radio- engraving, etching, or ink stamping is applicable, symbols
graphs shall be stored in an area with sufficient environmental shall be used. The symbol shall contain an identification
control to preclude image deterioration or other damage for the symbol of the facility.
required storage duration. The radiographs storage duration (1) Except for specialized applications, use the symbol “X”
requirements and location shall be as agreed upon between enclosed in a circle to denote 100 % radiographic examination.
purchaser and supplier. (See Guide E1254 for storage informa- (2) When Sampling is Used—Parts actually radiographed
tion.) shall be marked as specified in (1). All items in the lot accepted

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 E1742/E1742M − 18
on a sampling basis (part of the lot but not actually radio- applied on a contract, in order to obtain the data, except where
graphed) shall be marked using the symbol “X” enclosed in an DoD FAR Supplement 27.475-1 exempts the requirement for a
ellipse. DD Form 1423.
6.28.6.2 When dyeing is applicable, blue dye shall be used 7.1.2 The current issue of DoD 5010.12-L, Acquisition
to indicate 100 % radiographic examination. When sampling is Management Systems and Data Requirements Control List
used, orange dye shall be used to indicate parts accepted on a (AMSDL), must be researched to ensure that only current,
sampling basis (part of the lot not actually examined), while
cleared DIDs are cited on the DD Form 1423. Reference DID
the parts of the lot actually examined shall receive blue dye.
number DI-MISC-80653, Test Reports.
7. Notes
8. Keywords
7.1 Government Contracts:
7.1.1 Data Requirements—The following Data Item De- 8.1 image quality indicator; nondestructive testing; pen-
scriptions (DIDs) must be listed, as applicable on the Contract etrating radiation; radiographic; radiographic examination; ra-
Data Requirement List (DD Form 1423) when this practice is diography; radioscopy; X-ray

ANNEXES

(Mandatory Information)

A1. ALTERNATE TYPE IQI DESIGN (MIL-STD-453)

A1.1 Alternate Hole-Type IQIs—The IQI design shall be as A1.1.4 Material identification shall be the chemical symbol
follows: of the predominant element. For example, if iron is the
A1.1.1 Image quality indicator dimensions shall be in ac- predominant element, “FE” shall be used. Identification of
cordance with Fig. A1.1. some common materials are listed in Fig. A1.1. When the
material is a composite or does not have a predominant
A1.1.2 The IQIs shall be fabricated from the same material
element, a controlled system for IQI identification shall be
group (see 3.2.5) or radiographically similar materials (see
5.5.2) as the object to be radiographed. established and referenced in the written procedure (see 6.1).

A1.1.3 The IQIs shall be identified as to material group (see A1.1.5 The IQI thickness identification shall consist of a
Fig. A1.1) and thickness relative to the thickness of the two-digit number that expresses the material thickness in one
component to be radiographed. Identification shall consist of hundredths of an inch, .XX. For example, a specimen thickness
lead letters and numbers, or a material of similar radiographic of 0.75 in. requires an IQI identified by the two-digit number
opacity. .75.

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 E1742/E1742M − 18

T, in. Increments, in. A, in. B, in. C, in. D, in. E, in. F, in.

0.005 – 0.020, incl 0.0025 2.000 0.500 0.520 0.800 1.150 0.250
0.025 – 0.050, incl 0.005 2.000 0.500 0.520 0.800 1.150 0.250
0.060 – 0.160, incl 0.010 2.8 1.000 0.800 1.250 1.900 0.375

NOTE 1—
Minimum IQI thickness = 0.005 in. 6 10 %.
Minimum diameter for 1T hole = 0.010 in. 6 10 %. (Hole is not 1T for thicknesses less than 0.010 in.)
Minimum diameter for 2T hole = 0.020 in. 6 10 %. (Hole is not 2T for thicknesses less than 0.010 in.)
Minimum diameter for 4T hole = 0.040 in. 6 10 %. (Hole is not 4T for thicknesses less than 0.010 in.)
Design for IQI thicknesses up to and including 0.160 in.

Design for IQI thickness of 0.180 in. and over made in 0.020-in. increments

Symbol Material
SS Stainless steel
AL Aluminum
FE Steel
MG Magnesium
CU Copper
TI Titanium

NOTE 2—All dimensions in inches.

NOTE 3—Holes shall be true and normal to the surface of the IQI. Do not chamfer.
NOTE 4—Tolerances on IQI thickness and hole diameter shall be 610 % or half of the thickness increment between IQI sizes, whichever is smaller.
NOTE 5—Steel IQIs (FE) and stainless steel IQIs (SS) shall be considered to be from the same material group.
FIG. A1.1 Alternate Hole-Type IQI

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A2. FABRICATION WELDS

A2.1 Fabrication Welds—Accessible surfaces of welds to The long axis of the IQI shall be parallel with and at least 0.125
be radiographed shall be prepared as necessary in accordance in. (3.2 mm), but not more than 1.25 in. (32 mm) from the weld
with the welding process specification if applicable, and the edge.
valleys between beads, weld ripples, or other surface irregu-
larities are blended to a degree such that the resulting radio- A2.2.5 Circumferential Welds—Except as provided in
graphic contrast due to surface condition cannot mask or be A2.2.5.1 and A2.2.5.2, radiography shall be performed in
confused with that of any defect. which the radiation passes through only one wall. When
double-wall techniques are used, either superimposed or ellip-
A2.2 IQI Selection for Welds—For butt joints on simple tical (offset) projections may be used.
structures such as pipe or plate, the thickness on which the IQI A2.2.5.1 Double-Wall Exposure, Double-Wall Image—
is based shall be the single-wall thickness plus any reinforce- Welds in pipe and tubes 3.5 in. (88.9 mm) and less in nominal
ment allowed. For T-joints, lap joints, corner joints, fillet size (diameter) may be radiographed using the double-wall
welds, weld surfacing, or for joints in complex assemblies method where the radiation passes through both walls and both
where both sides of the joint are not accessible, the IQI shall be walls are viewed together for acceptance. An IQI, based on the
based on the total thickness through which the X-ray beam will double-wall thickness plus twice the weld reinforcement, as
pass. If different size sections are joined, the IQI shall be based
applicable, shall be placed on the source side, on top of a shim
on the thinner wall section. Backing strips or rings are not
approximately equal to twice the weld reinforcement. As an
considered as a part of the weld, base material, or reinforce-
alternate, the same IQI and shim may be placed on the source
ment (bead) thickness upon which the IQI is based. If subse-
side of a like section that is placed adjacent to the weld being
quent machining or mechanical preparation reduces the weld
radiographed. When impractical to do the preceding, the IQI
thickness, IQI shall be based on final product thickness. If the
required sensitivity cannot be obtained, radiographic examina- may be placed on top of a block that is approximately equal to
tion shall be required after final machining or mechanical twice the wall thickness plus twice the weld reinforcement, as
preparation. applicable. The IQI and block shall be placed on a low-
material-density material (such as polystyrene plastic or its
A2.2.1 IQI Placement for Welds—The IQIs shall be placed equivalent), adjacent to the weld being examined, so that the
on the source side parallel with, and at least 0.125 in. (3.2 mm), top of the block is level with the upper surface of the tube or
and not more than 1.25 in. (32 mm) from the weld being pipe. The minimum source-to-film distance shall be calculated
radiographed. When the weld is not radiographically similar or
using the outside diameter of the pipe or section as the material
where part geometry precludes placement, the IQI wire or hole
thickness “t” (see 6.23).
of the required sensitivity, as applicable, may be placed over
the weld but outside of the area of interest. When weld- A2.2.5.2 Double-Wall Exposure, Single-Wall Image—For
reinforcement (weld bead), backing rings or strips are not welds in pipe and tubes greater than 3.5 in. (88.9 mm) in
removed, a shim of the same material group or radiographi- nominal size (diameter), only the weld closest to the film shall
cally similar material (see 5.5.2) shall be placed between the be viewed for acceptance. An IQI, corresponding to the
IQI and base material to provide approximately the same single-wall thickness plus any single-wall weld reinforcement,
thickness of material under the IQI as the average thickness of shall be placed adjacent to the weld on the inner wall on top of
the weld reinforcement plus the wall thickness and backing a shim equal to the weld reinforcement. When this is not
strip or ring. possible, the same IQI and shim may be placed on the inner
A2.2.2 Examination Coverage for Welds—Unless otherwise wall of a like section of a tube or pipe placed adjacent to the
specified on the engineering drawing or other contractual weld being radiographed. When a like section of the tube or
documents, welded parts requiring radiography shall be radio- pipe is unavailable, the IQI may be placed on a block adjacent
graphed for 100 % of the length of the weld zone, including the to the weld being radiographed. The block thickness shall be
weld heat affected zone. equivalent to twice the wall thickness plus any single-wall
weld reinforcement. The top of the block shall not be any lower
A2.2.3 Longitudinal Circumferential Weld Junctures— than the inner surface of the inner wall of the tube or pipe. The
Where portions of longitudinal welds adjoining a circumferen-
minimum source-to-film distance shall be calculated using the
tial weld are being examined simultaneously with the circum-
single-wall material thickness as “t” (see 6.23).
ferential weld, additional IQIs shall be placed on the
longitudinal weld at the outer edge of the cone of radiation A2.3 Electron Beam (EB) Welds—The central beam of
used to radiograph the circumferential weld. radiation shall be in line with and parallel to the fusion
A2.2.4 Longitudinal Welds—For longitudinal welds, an IQI interface. Cognizant Engineering Organization approval is
shall be placed at the extreme end of the area to be interpreted. required when the beam to weld angle exceeds 2°.

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A3. PROPELLANTS/EXPLOSIVES

A3.1 Installed Explosives/Propellants—For the radiogra- ET = equivalent thickness of propellant/explosive for each
phy of explosives/propellants contained within a vessel, the vessel wall material traversed by the center of the
IQI shall be based on a chord length thickness of the explosive/ X-ray beam,
propellant that is traversed by the X-ray beam. When it is not Ma = mass attenuation coefficient of the predominant ele-
possible to obtain the required radiographic quality level using ment of the vessel section, and
an IQI that is based only on the explosive/propellant thickness, Mb = mass attenuation coefficient of the predominant chemi-
the chord lengths through the vessel wall material layers may cal element of the propellant/explosive.
be used in determining the total equivalent thickness of NOTE A3.1—These relationships were derived experimentally and have
explosive/propellant upon which the IQI thickness is to be been determined adequate for the evaluation of vessels containing
explosives/propellants.
determined. The equivalencies shall be determined in the The IQIs may be fabricated from inert materials that have approxi-
following manner: mately the same physical material density as the propellant/explosive to be
radiographed. As an alternate, the IQI may be fabricated from, and based
ET 5 AC/B (A3.1) on, a material with higher material density with a thickness that has been
For energy levels of 320 keV and less, the following equated to the total equivalent propellant/explosive thickness as deter-
equation shall be used: mined by the method previously shown.

ET 5 M a AC/M b B (A3.2) A3.2 Single-Wire IQIs—Single-wire IQIs of a (metallic)

material with higher material density may be used provided the
where:
thickness of metal upon which the IQI is based has been
A = physical material density of the vessel section, equated to the equivalent explosive/propellant thickness by the
B = physical material density of propellant/explosive, method shown in A3.1. Wire thickness shall be equated to
C = thickness of vessel section traversed by the center of
hole-type radiographic quality levels (as specified in Table 3)
the X-ray beam,
according to Practice E747.

A4. FILM PROCESSING SOLUTION CONTROL

A4.1 Processing Equipment and Solutions—For both auto- NOTE A4.1—The test piece shall be a block of uniform thickness, or a
mated and manual processing, solutions and equipment shall stepwedge. Both the block and stepwedge shall be large enough to ensure
that no radiation due to undercutting has affected the area of interest.
be maintained per manufacturer’s recommendations to ensure a
consistent and acceptable level of performance. Guide E999 A4.2.1.2 Monitor Film—To monitor processor performance,
should be consulted for guidance on film processing. The a Monitor Film shall be processed to the standardized tech-
following shall be performed and recorded: nique or a sensitometric film strip shall be used. The Monitor
Optical density shall be measured in the same areas as the
A4.2 Automated Processing: Control Film and compared to the Control Optical densities.
A4.2.1 Processor Performance—Processor performance The Monitor Optical densities shall be within 610 % of the
shall be determined by comparing a Monitor Film to a Control current Control Film. If the Monitor Optical density is out of
Film, as scheduled in A4.2.1.1 and Table 2 in freshly mixed tolerance, necessary steps shall be taken to correct the problem,
seasoned developer. and another Monitor Film shall be processed to verify that the
problem has been corrected. Monitor Film for the past four
A4.2.1.1 Control Film, shall be a sensitometric film strip, or
weeks shall be maintained for auditing purposes. Any produc-
pre-exposed film of a standard test piece (see Note A4.1).
tion film processed from the last successful check need not be
When using the standard Test Piece Method to produce the
discarded provided the radiographic quality level and optical
Control Film, establish a standardized technique and dedicate
density requirements of 6.9 and 6.10 are achieved. Optical
one batch of film to reduce variables. The Control Film shall
density measurements shall be recorded as scheduled in Table
have at least one area with an optical density of 2.0 to 2.5 H&D
2.
inclusive, and can include an unexposed area of the film for
monitoring base fog. (Sufficient blocking should be used to A4.2.2 Replenishment Rates—The rate at which developer
ensure that the area for monitoring base fog receives no and fixer are replenished shall be maintained within the
radiation exposure.) Control Optical densities shall be mea- manufacturer’s recommended range and checked when solu-
sured and recorded, establishing nominal control values. tions are changed, during preventative maintenance, or main-
(Newly changed solutions should be seasoned in accordance tenance associated with the replenishment system. Replenish-
with Guide E999 prior to processing the Control Film.) ment rates shall be checked in accordance with the

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 E1742/E1742M − 18
manufacturer’s instructions (preventative maintenance does subsequent damage (staining) and deterioration of the radio-
not include the daily cleaning of the cross-overs, and so forth). graphic image. The effectiveness of washing may be checked
Flow rates shall be recorded as scheduled in Table 2. by using the method prescribed in Guide E999.
A4.2.3 Developer Temperature—The temperature of the A4.3 Manual Processing:
developer shall be maintained within the manufacturer’s limits
A4.3.1 Processing Performance—Film processing shall be
and checked on the processor prior to use. A calibrated
monitored by processing a sensitometric or a pre-exposed film
thermometer shall be used to verify temperature during pre-
of a standard test piece as prescribed in A4.2.1.2. The test shall
ventative maintenance.
be run daily or before use.
A4.2.4 Transport Speed—The transport speed shall be set as A4.3.2 Developer Temperature—A time-temperature sys-
prescribed by the manufacturer. It shall be measured and tem shall be maintained within the manufacturer’s recommen-
recorded as scheduled in Table 2. dations. The developer solution shall be stirred and the
A4.2.5 Base Fog—The base fog level shall be monitored temperature checked prior to development.
and can be included with the test film as an unexposed portion A4.3.3 Film Processing Log—A log shall be maintained to
of the film. The maximum base fog shall be 0.30 for Class I, II, show the number, size, and date of film processed.
or special film systems. It shall be measured and recorded as
A4.3.4 Replenishment Rates—Replenishment shall be in
scheduled in Table 2.
accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations. The
A4.2.6 Wash—Maintain water flow to ensure proper wash- replenishing dates and the mixing dates of new solution shall
ing to remove residual fixer from film which could cause be recorded.

APPENDIX

(Nonmandatory Information)

X1. HOLE-TYPE IQI (SI UNITS)—NOT TO BE USED FOR MANUFACTURE

X1.1 The conversion to SI units for thicknesses and hole element, “FE” is used. Identification of some common mate-
diameters is for reference use only. rials is listed in Fig. X1.1.
X1.1.1 The IQI is identified as to material group (see Fig. X1.1.3 The IQI thickness identification consists of a two-
X1.1) and thickness relative to the thickness of the component digit number. For example, a specimen thickness of 0.75 in.
to be radiographed. Identification consists of lead letters and (19.05 mm) requires an IQI identified by the two-digit number
numbers, or a material of similar radiographic opacity. .75 (19.05 mm).
X1.1.2 Material identification is the chemical symbol of the X1.1.4 Notes 1-5 represent direct conversion to SI units for
predominant element. For example, if iron is the predominant reference use only.

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T, (mm) Increments, (mm) A, (mm) B, (mm). C, (mm) D, (mm) E, (mm) F, (mm)

0.127 - 0.508 0.064 50.8 12.7 13.2 20.3 29.2 6.35
0.635 - 1.27 0.127 50.8 12.7 13.2 20.3 29.2 6.35
1.52 - 4.06 0.254 71.1 25.4 20.3 31.8 48.3 9.53

NOTE 1—Minimum IQI thickness = 0.127 mm 6 10 %.

Minimum diameter for 1T hole = 0.254 mm 6 10 %. (Hole is not 1T for thicknesses less than 0.254 mm).
Minimum diameter for 2T hole = 0.508 mm 6 10 %. (Hole is not 2T for thicknesses less than 0.254 mm).
Minimum diameter for 4T hole = 1.016 mm 6 10 %. (Hole is not 4T for thicknesses less than 0.254 mm).
IQI thicknesses up to and including 4.06 mm

IQI thickness of 4.57 mm and over made in 0.0508-mm increments

Symbol Material
SS Stainless steel
AL Aluminum
FE Steel
MG Magnesium
CU Copper
TI Titanium

NOTE 2—All dimensions in mm.

NOTE 3—Holes shall be true and normal to the surface of the IQI. Do not chamfer.
NOTE 4—Tolerances on IQI thickness and hole diameter shall be 610 % or half of the thickness increment between IQI sizes, whichever is smaller.
NOTE 5—Steel IQIs (FE) and stainless steel IQIs (SS) shall be considered to be from the same material group.
FIG. X1.1 Hole-Type IQI (SI Units)—For Reference Use Only

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SUMMARY OF CHANGES

Committee E07 has identified the location of selected changes to this standard since the last issue
(E1742/E1742M – 12) that may impact the use of this standard. (Approved Mar. 1, 2018.)

(1) “Film density” and “radiographic density” changed to (3) List of documents updated in Section 2.
“optical density” throughout. (4) Added new paragraph 3.1.1.
(2) “Material” added to “density” where appropriate.

ASTM International takes no position respecting the validity of any patent rights asserted in connection with any item mentioned
in this standard. Users of this standard are expressly advised that determination of the validity of any such patent rights, and the risk
of infringement of such rights, are entirely their own responsibility.

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