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 − 23

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* 1.3.18 Storage of radiographs, 6.27.9.

2
1.1 This practice covers the minimum requirements for 1.3.19 Reproduction of radiographs, 6.27.10 and 6.27.10.1.
radiographic examination for metallic and nonmetallic materi- 1.3.20 Acceptable parts, 6.28.1.
als. 1.4 Units—The values stated in either SI units or inch-
1.2 Applicability—The criteria for the radiographic exami- pound units are to be regarded separately as standard. The
nation in this practice are applicable to all types of metallic and values stated in each system may not be exact equivalents;
nonmetallic materials. When specified, it may be used for therefore, each system shall be used independently of the other.
radiographic inspection of metallic or non-metallic materials, Combining values from the two systems may result in non-
weldments, castings, and brazed materials. The requirements conformance with the standard.
expressed in this practice are intended to control the quality of 1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the
the radiographic images and are not intended to establish safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
acceptance criteria for parts and materials. responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
priate safety, health, and environmental practices and deter-
1.3 Basis of Application—There are areas in this practice
mine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
that may require agreement between the cognizant engineering
1.6 This international standard was developed in accor-
organization and the supplier, or specific direction from the
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
cognizant engineering organization. These items should be
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
addressed in the purchase order or the contract.
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
1.3.1 DoD contracts.
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
1.3.2 Personnel qualification, 5.1.1.
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
1.3.3 Agency qualification, 5.1.2.
1.3.4 Digitizing techniques, 5.4.5.
1.3.5 Alternate image quality indicator (IQI) types, 5.5.3. 2. Referenced Documents
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/E94M Guide for Radiographic Examination Using In-
1.3.10 IQI qualification exposure, 6.13.3. dustrial 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
E999 Guide for Controlling the Quality of Industrial Radio-
graphic Film Processing
1
This practice is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee E07 on Nonde-
structive Testing and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee E07.01 on
Radiology (X and Gamma) Method.
3
Current edition approved Dec. 15, 2023. Published January 2024. Originally For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
approved in 1995. Last previous edition approved in 2018 as E1742/E1742M – 18. contact ASTM Customer Service at service@astm.org. For Annual Book of ASTM
DOI: 10.1520/E1742_E1742M-23. 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

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E1025 Practice for Design, Manufacture, and Material 3. Terminology
Grouping Classification of Hole-Type Image Quality In- 3.1 Definitions—Definitions relating to radiographic
dicators (IQI) Used for Radiography examination, which appear in Terminology E1316, shall apply
E1030/E1030M Practice for Radiographic Examination of to the terms used in this practice.
Metallic Castings
3.1.1 Optical density is the correct term for assessing the
E1032 Practice for Radiographic Examination of Weldments
developed film obtained from a penetrating radiation film
Using Industrial X-Ray Film
inspection. Historically, the terms film or radiographic density,
E1079 Practice for Calibration of Transmission Densitom-
or both, have been used to describe the measurements taken
eters
from viewing the images, but the current definition of film
E1165 Test Method for Measurement of Focal Spots of
density, in Terminology E1316, is “the quantitative measure of
Industrial X-Ray Tubes by Pinhole Imaging
diffuse optical light transmission (optical density, blackening)
E1254 Guide for Storage of Radiographs and Unexposed
through a developed film.” In addition, with the advent of
Industrial Radiographic Films
digital radiography, these historical terms may cause confusion
E1255 Practice for Radioscopy
to those utilizing more than the film technique. For standards
E1316 Terminology for Nondestructive Examinations
purposes, the correct term is optical density and has been
E1390 Specification for Illuminators Used for Viewing In-
replaced throughout this standard.
dustrial Radiographs
3.2 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
E1416 Practice for Radioscopic Examination of Weldments
E1815 Test Method for Classification of Film Systems for 3.2.1 component, n—the part(s) or element of a system,
Industrial Radiography assembled or processed to the extent specified by the drawing,
E2033 Practice for Radiographic Examination Using Com- purchase order, or contract.
puted Radiography (Photostimulable Luminescence 3.2.2 energy, n—a property of radiation that determines its
Method) penetrating ability. In X-ray radiography, energy machine
E2698 Practice for Radiographic Examination Using Digital rating is determined by kilovolts (keV), million electronvolts
Detector Arrays (MeV). In gamma ray radiography, energy is a characteristic of
2.3 AWS Document: the source used.
AWS A2.4 Standard Symbols for Welding, Brazing, and 3.2.3 like section, n—a separate section of material that is
Nondestructive Examination4 similar in shape and cross section to the component or part
2.4 NCRP Documents:5 being radiographed, and is made of the same or radiographi-
NCRP 116 Limitation of Exposure to Ionizing Radiation cally similar material.
NCRP 144 Radiation Protection for Particle Accelerator 3.2.4 material group, n—materials that have the same pre-
Facilities dominant alloying elements and which can be examined using
NCRP 147 Structural Shielding Design for Medical X-ray the same IQI. A listing of common material groups is given in
Imaging Facilities Practice E1025.
2.5 ANSI/ISO Standards:6 3.2.5 NDT facility, n—the NDT facility performing the
ANSI/NCSL Z540-3 Requirements for the Calibration of radiographic examination.
Measuring and Test Equipment
ISO 10012 Measurement Management Systems— 3.2.6 radiographic quality level, n—the ability of a radio-
Requirements for Measurement Processes and Measuring graphic procedure to demonstrate a certain IQI sensitivity.
Equipment
ISO 5579 Non-Destructive Testing-Radiographic Examina- 4. Significance and Use
tion of Metallic Materials by X-and Gamma-Rays-Basic 4.1 This practice establishes the basic parameters for the
Rules application and control of the radiographic method. This
practice is written so it can be specified on the engineering
NOTE 1—DoD Contracts: Unless otherwise specified, the issues of the
documents that are DoD adopted are those listed in the issue of the drawing, specification, or contract. It is not a detailed how-to
DoDISS (Department of Defense Index of Specifications and Standards) procedure to be used by the NDT facility and, therefore, must
cited in the solicitation. be supplemented by a detailed procedure (see 6.1). Practices
NOTE 2—Order of Precedence: In the event of conflict between the text E1030/E1030M, E1032, and E1416 contain information to
of this practice and the references cited herein, the text of this practice help develop detailed technique/procedure requirements.
takes precedence. Nothing in this practice, however, supersedes applicable
laws and regulations unless a specific exemption has been obtained.
5. General Practice
5.1 Qualification:
4
Available from American Welding Society (AWS), 550 NW LeJeune Rd., 5.1.1 Personnel Qualification—If specified in the contrac-
Miami, FL 33126, http://www.aws.org.
5
tual agreement, personnel performing examinations to this
Available from National Council on Radiation Protection and Measurements,
practice shall be qualified in accordance with a nationally or
NCRP Publications, 7910 Woodmount Ave., Suite 800, Bethesda, MD 20814.
6
Available from American National Standards Institute (ANSI), 25 W. 43rd St., internationally recognized NDT personnel qualification prac-
4th Floor, New York, NY 10036, http://www.ansi.org. tice or standard and certified by the employer or certifying

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 E1742/E1742M − 23
agency, as applicable. The practice or standard used shall be light leaks into the film holder and produces images on the
identified in the contractual agreement between the using radiograph, the radiograph need not be rejected unless the
parties. images obscure, or interfere with, the area of interest. If the
5.1.2 Agency Evaluation—If specified in the contractual film holder exhibits light leaks it shall be further repaired
agreement, NDT agencies shall be qualified and evaluated in before use, or discarded. Film holders and cassettes should be
accordance with Specification E543. The applicable revision of routinely examined for cracks or other defects to minimize the
Specification E543 shall be specified in the contractual agree- likelihood of light leaks.
ment. 5.4.3 Intensifying Screens:
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 radiograph.
sure areas shall be clean and equipped so that acceptable
5.4.3.2 Fluorescent, Fluorometallic, or Other Metallic
radiographs may be produced in accordance with the require-
Screens—Fluorescent, fluorometallic, or other metallic screens
ments of this practice.
may be used. However, they must be capable of demonstrating
5.2.3 Darkroom—Darkroom facilities, including equipment the required penetrameter (IQI) sensitivity. Fluorescent or
and materials, shall be capable of producing uniform radio- fluorometallic screens may cause limitations in image quality
graphs free of blemishes or artifacts, which might interfere (see Guide E94/E94M, Appendix X1).
with interpretation in the area of interest. 5.4.4 Film Viewers—Viewers used for final interpretation
5.2.4 Film Viewing Area—The film viewing room or enclo- shall meet the following requirements:
sure shall be an area with subdued lighting to preclude 5.4.4.1 The viewer shall contain a variable control to allow
objectionable reflective glare from the surface of the radio- the selection of optimum intensities for radiographs with
graph under examination (see 6.27.6). varying optical densities.
5.3 Materials: 5.4.4.2 The light source shall have sufficient intensity to
5.3.1 Film—Film selection for production radiographs enable viewing of optical densities in the area of interest (see
should be based on radiation source energy level, part 6.27.4).
thickness/configuration, and image quality. Only film systems
having cognizant engineering organization approval or meeting
the class requirements of Test Method E1815 shall be used. TABLE 1 Lead Screen ThicknessA
5.3.1.1 Nonfilm Recording Media—Other recording media Energy Range/ Front Screen Back Screen Front and
may be used when approved by the cognizant engineering Isotopes Minimum Back ScreensB
organization. in. in. mm
0 keV – 150 keVC 0.000 to 0.001 0.005D 0–0.15
5.3.2 Film Processing Solutions—Production radiographs 151 keV – 200 keV 0.000 to 0.005 0.005D 0.02–0.15
shall be processed in solutions capable of consistently produc- 201 keV – 320 keV 0.001 to 0.010 0.005 0.02–0.2
ing radiographs that meet the requirements of this practice. Se-75 0.001 to 0.010 0.005 0.1–0.2
321 keV – 450 keV 0.005 to 0.015 0.01 0.1–0.2
Solution control shall be in accordance with Annex A4. Guide Ir-192 0.005 to 0.015 0.01 0.02–0.2
E999 should be consulted for guidance on film processing. 451 keV – 2 MeV 0.005 to 0.020 0.01 0.1–0.5
Co-60 0.005 to 0.020 0.01 0.1–0.5
5.4 Equipment: 2 MeV – 4 MeV 0.010 to 0.020 0.01 0.1–0.5
5.4.1 Radiation Sources: 4 MeV – 10 MeV 0.010 to 0.030 0.01 0.5–1.0
10 MeV – 25 MeV 0.010 to 0.050 0.01 1.0–2.0
5.4.1.1 X-Radiation Sources—Selection of appropriate A
The lead screen thickness listed for the various energy ranges are recom-
X-ray voltage and current levels is dependent upon variables mended thicknesses and not required thicknesses. Other thicknesses and mate-
regarding the specimen being examined (material type and rials may be used provided the required radiographic quality level, contrast, and
thickness) and exposure time. The suitability of these exposure optical density are achieved.
B
Lead screen thicknesses in accordance with EN 444 and ISO 5579 in SI units.
parameters shall be demonstrated by attainment of the required For energy ranges of Co-60 and 451 keV to 4 MeV, steel or copper screens of
radiographic quality level and compliance with all other 0.1 mm to 0.5 mm may be used. For energy ranges above 4 MeV to 10 MeV,
requirements stipulated herein. 0.5 mm to 1.0 mm steel or copper or up to 0.5 mm tantalum screens are
recommended. Additional back scatter shielding may be achieved by additional
5.4.1.2 Gamma Radiation Sources—Isotope sources that are lead screens behind the cassettes.
C
used shall be capable of demonstrating the required radio- Prepackaged film with lead screens may be used from 80 keV to 150 keV. No
lead screens are recommended below 80 keV. Prepackaged film may be used at
graphic quality level. higher energy levels provided the contrast, optical density, radiographic quality
5.4.2 Film Holders and Cassettes—Film holders and cas- level, and backscatter requirements are achieved. Additional intermediate lead
settes shall be light tight, constructed of materials that do not screens may be used for reduction of scattered radiation at higher energies.
D
No back screen is required provided the backscatter requirements of 6.22 are
interfere with the quality or sensitivity of radiographs, and met.
shall be handled properly to reduce damage. In the event that

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 E1742/E1742M − 23
5.4.4.3 The light enclosure shall be designed to provide a TABLE 2 Process Control Checks
uniform brightness level over the entire viewing screen. Check Frequency Paragraph
A,B
Discontinuity Image Measuring 5.4.7
5.4.4.4 The viewer shall be equipped with a suitable fan, Device
blower, or other means to provide stable temperature at the Image Quality Indicators:
viewing port to avoid damaging the radiographic film while Certified When procured 5.5.4
Check (Condition) prior to useC 5.5.4
viewing. Automatic Processing:
5.4.4.5 The viewer shall be equipped with a translucent Processor Performance DailyD A4.2.1
material front in each viewing port, except for localized Base Fog DailyD A4.2.5
Developer Temperature Prior to useC A4.2.3
high-intensity viewing of high-optical-density radiographs ar- Replenishment Rate E
A4.2.2
eas through separate viewing ports, apertures, or other suitable Transport Speed F
A4.2.4
Manual Processing:
openings. Processing Performance Daily A4.3.1
5.4.4.6 A set of opaque masks, an iris-type aperture, or any Base plus Fog Monthly A4.2.5
other method to reduce the viewing area to suit the size of the Developer Temperature Prior to useG A4.3.2
Densitometer:
area of interest shall be provided. Verification Check Each shiftH 6.27.5
5.4.4.7 Illuminators procured to, or meeting the require- Calibration Check 3 monthsI 6.27.5
Light Meters Annual 6.27.4/6.27.6
ments of, Specification E1390 are acceptable for use. Viewer Light Intensity 6.27.4
5.4.5 Digitizing Techniques—The use of film digitizing
techniques is acceptable when approved by the cognizant Thermometer Calibration 6 monthsB A4.2.3
Ambient Visible Light 6 monthsJ 6.27.6
engineering organization. Stepwedge Calibration Annual 6.27.5
5.4.6 Densitometers—The densitometer shall be capable of
measuring the light transmitted through a radiograph with an A
Optical Devices—When procured; mechanical devices (see Footnote B).
B
Calibrated and recorded in accordance with ANSI Z540-3, or ISO 10012, as
optical density up to 4.0 with a unit resolution of 0.02. When applicable.
optical densities greater than 4.0 are permitted, a densitometer C
Documentation of this check not required.
D
capable of measuring optical densities up to the maximum May be extended to weekly when substantiated by actual technical/reliability
data and approved by the cognizant engineering organization.
optical density permitted is required. E
Measured and recorded when solutions are changed during preventative
5.4.7 Film Viewing Aids—Magnifiers shall be available to maintenance or repair.
F
provide magnification between 3× and 10× to aid in interpre- Measured and recorded during preventative maintenance or repair.
G
Temperatures shall be checked prior to each use. Daily documentation of this
tation and determine indication size, as applicable. The specific check is required.
magnifier used should be determined by the interpretation H
Each shift or when maintenance is performed (bulb or aperture changed).
I
Every three months or whenever the densitometer verification check is not within
requirements. Devices used for determining defect size shall be tolerance.
calibrated as scheduled in Table 2. J
Fixed viewing locations with acceptable and controlled ambient lighting condi-
5.4.8 Luminance/illuminance light meters are procured and tions need not be re-verified as long as those conditions are maintained.

calibrated in accordance with Table 2.

5.5 Image Quality Indicators (IQIs):
5.5.1 Image Quality Indicators (IQIs)—The IQIs shall be in 5.5.3 Alternate IQI Types—The use of other types of IQIs,
accordance with contract requirements. Hole-type IQIs in or modifications to types specified in 5.5.1, is permitted upon
accordance with this practice, Practice E1025, or the alternate approval of the cognizant engineering organization. Details of
design of Annex A1, or wire-type IQIs in accordance with the design, materials designation, and thickness identification
Practice E747, shall be used when IQIs are required. If wire of the IQIs shall be in the written procedure, or documented on
IQIs are used, they shall be correlated to hole-type radio- a drawing that shall be referenced in the written procedure (see
graphic quality levels in accordance with Practice E747. For 6.1).
the radiography of electronic devices, Practice E801 shall be 5.5.4 IQI Control—The IQIs shall be procured or fabricated
used. to the requirements of Practice E1025, or the alternate design
5.5.2 Radiographically Similar IQI Material—Materials of Annex A1, as applicable, with a manufacturer’s certification
shall be considered radiographically similar if the following of compliance with respect to alloy and dimensions. Users
requirements are satisfied. Two blocks of equal thickness, one shall visually inspect IQIs for damage, chamfering, and clean-
of the material to be radiographed and one of the material of liness in accordance with Table 2.
which the IQIs are made, shall be exposed together on the same
film at the lowest energy level to be used for production 6. Detail Requirements
radiographs. If the optical density of the material to be 6.1 Written Procedure—It shall be the responsibility of the
radiographed is within the range from 0 to +15 % of the IQI NDT facility to develop a workable examination technique
material (that is, the IQI is slightly more attenuating), the IQI recorded as a written procedure that is capable of consistently
material shall be considered radiographically similar and may producing the desired results and radiographic quality level.
be used to fabricate IQIs for examination of the production When required by contract or purchase order, the procedure
material. The optical density readings shall be between 2.0 and shall be submitted to the cognizant engineering organization
4.0 for both materials. An IQI with a lower radiation attenua- for approval. The written procedure shall contain, as a
tion may be used. minimum, the following information:

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 E1742/E1742M − 23
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 as
Complex components may be divided into zones and separate required. Prior approval shall be obtained from the Level III
criteria assigned to each zone in accordance with its design radiographer of the cognizant engineering organization (see
requirements. When used, direct references to ASTM reference 5.1.1).
radiographic standards shall include the grade level for each
type of discontinuity permitted for each part or zone. 6.8 Multi-Film Techniques—Film techniques with two or
more films of the same or different speeds in the same film
NOTE 3—Information on reference radiographs can be obtained from
the Annual Book of ASTM Standards, Vol 03.03 or from ASTM Head-
holder, to be used in either single or superimposed film
quarters. viewing, shall be permitted provided that the applicable radio-
graphic quality level, and optical density requirements (see 6.9
6.3 Surface Preparation—Components may be examined
and 6.10), are achieved for the area of interest.
without surface preparation or conditioning except as required
to remove surface conditions that may interfere with proper 6.9 Radiographic Quality Levels—The five quality levels
interpretation of radiographs. listed in Table 3 may be assigned on the basis of IQI thickness
6.3.1 Castings, forgings, and weldments may be radio- and the perceptibility of one, two, or three holes in the
graphed in the as-cast, as-forged, or as-welded conditions hole-type IQI image on the radiograph. If the quality level is
provided the following requirements are met. not specified on the drawing or other applicable documents, it
6.3.1.1 For castings and forgings, the surface condition shall shall be Level 2-2T. Unless otherwise specified by the cogni-
not interfere with evaluation. zant engineering organization, hole-type IQIs used for exami-
6.3.1.2 Accessible surfaces of welds shall be prepared in nation of material 0.25 in. [6.35 mm] or less in thickness shall
accordance with A2.1. be 0.005 in. [0.127 mm] minimum thickness.

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 E1742/E1742M − 23
TABLE 3 Quality Levels of Examination 6.10 Optical Density—For single-film viewing, the optical
IQI Designation
Radiographic Maximum IQI Minimum Hole Equivalent IQI density shall be ≥1.5 in the area of interest. Where superim-
Quality Level Thickness, %A DiameterB Sensitivity, %C posed radiograph viewing is used, the optical density of the
00 1–1T 1 1T 0.7 superimposed radiographs shall be from 2.0 in the area of
0 1–2T 1 2T 1.0
1 2–1T 2 1T 1.4 interest, and each individual radiograph shall not have an
2 2–2T 2 2T 2.0 optical density below 1.0 in the area of interest. Optical
3 2–4T 2 4T 2.8 densities above 4.0 are permitted when agreed upon between
A
Expressed as a percentage of material thickness. the cognizant engineering organization and the NDT facility
B
Expressed as multiple thickness of IQI.
C
Equivalent IQI sensitivity is that thickness of the IQI expressed as a percentage
(see Note 1 of Fig. 1). In no case shall the maximum optical
of the specimen thickness in which a 2T hole would be clearly visible under the density exceed 4.5. For single-film viewing, optical densities
same radiographic conditions. less than 1.5 are permitted only when items not requiring an
IQI (see 6.18) are examined. The maximum readable optical
density depends on the film viewer used and its maximum

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 Test Method 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

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luminance (see 6.27.4). The maximum readable optical density shall be demonstrated on an exposure of a like section in which
shall always be posted on the viewer. the required IQI shall be placed on the source side, and sets of
wire IQIs, (or a series of hole-type IQIs) ranging in thickness
6.11 Processing Radiographs—Radiographs shall be free
from that of the required IQI to one fourth that thickness shall
from blemishes which may interfere with radiographic inter-
be placed on the film side. If the required IQI on the source side
pretation.
indicates the specified radiographic quality level, then the
6.12 IQI Selection—The IQI thickness shall be based on a image of either the smallest IQI hole in the thinnest IQI, or the
thickness not greater than the nominal thickness to be radio- image of the smallest wire, visible on the film side, shall be
graphed. For double-wall exposures and double-wall viewing used to determine the proper film-side IQI to be used for
techniques, the IQI shall be based on the double-wall thickness production radiographs.
of the component. The IQI thicknesses that are in between, or 6.13.2.2 Film-Side IQIs (Double Wall-Single Image)—
smaller than, the thickness increments in Fig. A1.1 (for When performing double-wall radiography in which only the
example, a hole-type IQI that is 0.0025 in. or 0.006 in. thick) wall portion next to the film is viewed for acceptance, the
may be used but are not mandatory. For double-wall exposures film-side radiographic technique shall be demonstrated on an
and single-wall viewing techniques, the IQI shall be based on exposure of a like section in which the required IQI is placed
the single-wall thickness of the component. In no case shall the on the inside of the part and a set of IQIs, as specified in
IQI thickness be based on a thickness greater than the thickness 6.13.2.1, are placed on the film side. If the IQI on the inside
to be radiographed. For fabrication welds the IQI shall be indicates the required radiographic quality level, then the
selected in accordance with Annex A2. For explosive/ image of either the smallest IQI hole in the thinnest IQI, or the
propellants, rocket motors, and their components, IQI selection image of the smallest wire, visible on the film side, shall be
shall be as specified in accordance with Annex A3. used to determine the proper film-side IQI to be used for
6.13 Placement of IQIs—An IQI shall be placed on each production radiographs.
part radiographed for the duration of exposure, unless a 6.13.3 IQI Qualification Exposure—When included in the
number of identical parts are simultaneously exposed on a written procedure and approved by the Level III radiographer
single film. In such a case, a single IQI shall be placed upon the of the cognizant engineering organization, a single exposure
source side of a part at the outer edge of the cone of radiation with the applicable IQI may be made to qualify the examina-
or farthest extremity of the exposure setup (that is, farthest tion process.
from the radiation beam centerline). For examination of 6.13.3.1 Qualification Exposure—When it is impractical to
irregular objects, the IQI shall be placed on the area of the part continually place IQIs on a part requiring more than one
farthest from the film. The IQIs shall be placed adjacent to the exposure, a single exposure of the IQI may be made to qualify
area of interest, since accept/reject decisions cannot be made in the examination process. As long as the radiographic technique
the area directly beneath the IQI. Where it is not practicable to is not changed, subsequent exposures may be performed
place the IQI on the part, the separate block technique in without an IQI. A new qualification exposure with an IQI shall
6.13.1, or the film-side technique in 6.13.2, may be used as be made daily, or whenever any of the following parameters
applicable. are changed:
6.13.1 Shim, Separate Block, or Like-Section IQI (1) Energy level (kilovolts or Megavolts),
Technique—Where it is impractical to place the IQI upon the (2) Exposure (milliampere × time),
part radiographed, the IQI may be placed on the source side of (3) Source-to-film distance,
a separate shim, block, or like section, from the same material (4) Screens, collimation, masking, or filters,
group (or material that is radiographically similar or of a lower (5) Film type, or
radiographic attenuation, see 5.5.2) as either the IQI or the part. (6) Film processing parameters.
The shim, block, or like section and IQI shall be placed on the
6.13.3.2 Subsequent Exposures—Subsequent exposures
outer edge of the cone of radiation. The shim, block, or like
shall be positively tied to the qualification exposure by
section shall exceed the IQI dimensions so that at least three
serialization or other methods. A copy of the qualification shall
sides of the IQI shall be visible on the radiograph. If required
be provided to all parties with review authority.
by the CEO, the shim shall be placed on a low-absorptive
material (such as polystyrene plastic or its equivalent) to ensure 6.13.4 Re-Radiography—Whenever there is a reasonable
that the IQI shall not be any closer to the film than the source doubt as to the interpretation or clarity of the radiograph
side of the part, or area of interest being evaluated. because of film artifacts or improper technique, re-radiography
6.13.2 Film-Side IQI Placement—When examining double- is required.
walled parts such as tubing or hollow castings, and it is not 6.14 Masking—Shot, masking solutions, sheet lead and
practical to place an IQI on the source side of the part, IQIs foils, polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), plastic, or other nonme-
may be placed on the film side of the part as specified in tallic absorbers may be used as masking to minimize the effects
6.13.2.1 and 6.13.2.2. A letter “F” shall be placed adjacent to of scattered radiation or undercutting. The shot may be a
the IQI. mixture of many diameters to provide a uniform optical
6.13.2.1 Film-Side IQIs (Double Wall-Double Image)— density. Heavy chemical solutions used for masking may be
When performing double-wall radiography in which both walls toxic; the proper health and safety precautions and markings
are viewed for acceptance, the film-side radiographic technique shall be used.

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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 mass attenuation coefficient may be used,
radiation beam. When the source is placed on the axis of the
provided the thickness of metal upon which the IQI is based
object, and the complete circumference is radiographed with a
has been equated to the equivalent explosive/propellant thick-
single exposure, at least three equally spaced IQIs are to be
ness. Wire thickness shall be equated to hole-type radiographic
used if possible.
quality levels (as specified in Table 3) by the following
6.17 Applicable IQI Area of Interest—(a) One IQI shall method:
represent an area within which optical densities do not vary
Wire IQI diameter 5 TPY/XF (1)
more than +30 % to −15 % from the optical density measured
through the body of the IQI. (b) When shims are used with where:
hole-type IQIs, the +30 % optical density restriction of letter T = total equivalent thickness, or thickness of explosive/
(a) above may be exceeded, as long as the required IQI propellant material,
sensitivity and optical density requirements of the CEO are met P = required sensitivity as a percentage of material thickness
(see Note 4). (c) At least one IQI per radiograph shall be used, (that is, equivalent IQI sensitivity),
except as specified in 6.16, 6.17.1, and 6.18. Accept/reject Y = material density of explosive/propellant,
decisions shall not be made directly beneath the IQI shim X = material density of IQI material, and
combination. F = form factor for round wire (0.7854).
NOTE 4—Letter (b) applies to welds where the IQI is placed on the part; 6.21 Contrast—The contrast of the radiograph shall be
(b) does not apply to welds when blocks are used. determined by measuring the difference in optical density of
6.17.1 Radiograph Qualification Using Two IQIs—When the film through the IQI and the adjacent material. The
the optical density varies by more than is specified in 6.17, two minimum optical density difference shown in Fig. 2 shall be
IQIs used in the following manner are acceptable. If one IQI achieved between the IQI and the base metals for Radiographic
shows an acceptable sensitivity in the most optically dense Quality Levels 1 and 2.
portion of the radiograph, and the second IQI shows an 6.22 Back Scatter Radiation—During each exposure the
acceptable sensitivity in the least optically dense portion of the film shall be monitored for back scatter. Each film holder shall
radiograph, the two IQIs shall serve to qualify the radiograph have a lead letter “B” a minimum of 0.5 in. (12.7 mm) high and
within these optical density limits plus the +30 % ⁄–15 % of a minimum of 0.0625 in. (1.6 mm) thick positioned behind the
6.17. Additional IQIs may be used, as necessary in subsequent film and within the general area of the film to be viewed.
exposures, to cover the entire thickness range of the object. For Should the image of the lead letter “B” appear on the
components such as castings and forgings, where there are radiograph as a light image, the radiograph shall be considered
changes in wall thickness and wall alignment and the use of unacceptable and screens, lead backing, or other appropriate
two IQIs is not possible, the use of one IQI is acceptable. The measures shall be implemented on subsequent exposures to
IQI thickness shall be based on the thinnest wall being reduce back scatter. The appearance of a dark image (higher
radiographed and shall be placed on the thickest wall section. optical density “B” image) should be disregarded unless the
The required +30 % to −15 % optical density tolerance (see dark image could be confused with, or interfere with, interpre-
6.17), need not be met; however, the optical density in the areas tation in the area of interest. When identical parts, or segments
of interest shall be between 1.5 and 4.0 (and up to 4.5 by of parts, are to be examined by the same technique, the letter
agreement of CEO; see Note 1 of Fig. 1) and the required “B” may be used to qualify the initial exposure only and may
radiographic quality level shall be obtained. be omitted for subsequent exposures as long as the proximity
6.18 Non-Requirement of IQIs—The IQIs are not required and nature of backscattering objects and similar conditions are
when: maintained constant. A new qualification exposure shall be
6.18.1 Examining assemblies for debris, made whenever any of the following parameters are changed:
6.18.2 Conducting radiography for defect removal provided 6.22.1 X-ray machine voltage (kilovolts, Megavolts, or
final examination of the area includes an IQI, gamma source type),
6.18.3 Examining to show material details or contrast be- 6.22.2 Exposure time (milliampere-time),
tween two or more dissimilar materials in component parts or 6.22.3 Source-to-film distance,
assemblies including honeycomb areas for the detection of 6.22.4 Screens, collimation, masking, or filters,
fabrication irregularities or the presence or absence of material, 6.22.5 Film type,
or 6.22.6 Film processing parameters,

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

jacent Base Metal Material Images

6.22.7 Type or amount of backing material, or NOTE 5—The unsharpness values specified in Practice E1030/E1030M
6.22.8 Radiation source change or relocation. (Casting) or Practice E1032 (Welding) shall be imposed if Practices
E1030/E1030M or E1032 are specified in the contractual agreement.
6.23 Source-to-Film Distance—The minimum allowable NOTE 6—Unit of measurement for SFD, Ug, F, and t may be in either
source-to-film distance shall be calculated by the following English or SI units as long as they are consistent (not mixed).
equation, using the material thicknesses and geometric un-
sharpness values in Table 4, unless otherwise specified by the 6.25.1 As an alternative to markers, view numbers (see 6.4),
cognizant engineering organization. may be used provided orientation of the radiographs to the part
can demonstrate the required radiographic coverage and the
SFD 5 ~ Ft/Ug! 1t (2) location of defects can be accomplished.
where: 6.26 Crack Detection—When parts are radiographed to
SFD = source-to-film distance, detect in-service cracks in aircraft assemblies and the parts
Ug = geometric unsharpness, being examined are covered by aircraft skin, only the area of
F = size of radiation source, using the manufacturer’s
the film that falls within a 10° cone of radiation (10° total solid
nominal size or the effective focal spot size in
angle, apex at the radiation source, central axis of cone equal
accordance with Test Method E1165, and
t = distance from the source side of the object to the film to central axis of radiation beam) shall be considered valid for
(regardless of whether or not the object is in contact interpretation.
with the film). 6.27 Quality Assurance Provisions:
6.24 Identification—Marking of the radiographic film and 6.27.1 Responsibility for Examination—The NDT facility is
component shall be provided so that the radiograph may be responsible for furnishing all supplies in conformance to
traced to the component being examined (see 6.28.6). contract or purchase order requirements and, unless otherwise
6.25 Location Markers—The images of location markers for specified in the contract or purchase order, the performance of
coordination of the part with the film(s) shall appear on the film all examination requirements contained herein. The examina-
without interfering with interpretation and with such an ar- tion provisions contained herein shall become a part of the
rangement that it is evident that complete coverage was NDT facility overall examination system or quality program.
obtained. The location marker positions shall be established on 6.27.2 Examination Report—The results of all radiographic
the part, and the position of the markers shall be maintained on examinations shall be recorded and kept on file in accordance
the part during radiography. If the entire part can be radio- with the contract or purchase order. The examination reports
graphed with one film for each view, and the orientation of the shall reference this practice, or the applicable specification and
part with respect to the film is obvious, then location markers provide for traceability to the specific part or lot examined and
are not required. shall include the examiner’s identification, the date of the
examination, the disposition of the component (accept or
reject), and the reason for rejection of any items.
TABLE 4 Geometric Unsharpness (Ug) (Maximum)
6.27.3 Film Processing Control—Film processing shall be
Material Ug, in. Ug, mm
Thickness, in. [mm] controlled and monitored in accordance with Annex A4.
Under 2 [50.8] 0.020 0.5 6.27.4 Viewers—Maximum readable optical density shall be
2 [50.8] through 4 [101.6] 0.030 0.75
Over 4 [101.6] 0.040 1.0 determined as follows and measurements shall be in accor-
dance with Specification E1390:

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6.27.4.1 The maximum light intensity for each viewing port 6.27.10.1 The reproduction process shall be subject to the
shall be determined using a light meter that measures lumi- approval of the cognizant engineering organization.
nance in candelas/m2 or footlamberts and controlled in accor- 6.27.10.2 Procedures for microfilming shall contain appli-
dance with Fig. 1. Divide candela/m2 by 3.426 for conversion cable requirements pertaining to exposure, scanning, focusing,
to footlamberts. 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
6.27.10 Reproduction of Radiographs—When radiographs on a sampling basis (part of the lot but not actually radio-
are reproduced for the cognizant engineering organization, the graphed) shall be marked using the symbol “X” enclosed in an
quality assurance program shall include a procedure for con- ellipse.
trolling and monitoring the accuracy of the process, so that the 6.28.6.2 When dyeing is applicable, blue dye shall be used
radiograph, when reproduced to its original size, will provide to indicate 100 % radiographic examination. When sampling is
the IQI image and required holes as on the original radiograph. used, orange dye shall be used to indicate parts accepted on a

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sampling basis (part of the lot not actually examined), while 7.1.2 The current issue of DoD 5010.12-L, Acquisition
the parts of the lot actually examined shall receive blue dye. Management Systems and Data Requirements Control List
7. Notes (AMSDL), must be researched to ensure that only current,
cleared DIDs are cited on the DD Form 1423. Reference DID
7.1 Government Contracts: number DI-MISC-80653, Test Reports.
7.1.1 Data Requirements—The following Data Item De-
scriptions (DIDs) must be listed, as applicable on the Contract
8. Keywords
Data Requirement List (DD Form 1423) when this practice is
applied on a contract, in order to obtain the data, except where 8.1 image quality indicator; nondestructive testing; pen-
DoD FAR Supplement 27.475-1 exempts the requirement for a etrating radiation; radiographic; radiographic examination; ra-
DD Form 1423. 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 3.2.4) 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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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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 E1742/E1742M − 23

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 re-
shall be placed at the extreme end of the area to be interpreted. quired when the beam to weld angle exceeds 2°.

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 E1742/E1742M − 23

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 in accordance with manufacturer’s recommen-
dations to ensure a consistent and acceptable level of perfor- A4.2.1.2 Monitor Film—To monitor processor performance,
mance. Guide E999 should be consulted for guidance on film a Monitor Film shall be processed to the standardized tech-
processing. The 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 − 23
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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 E1742/E1742M − 23

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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 E1742/E1742M − 23
SUMMARY OF CHANGES

Committee E07 has identified the location of selected changes to this standard since the last issue
(E1742/E1742M – 18) that may impact the use of this standard. (Approved Dec. 15, 2023.)

(1) Made various editorial changes. (6) Deleted previous 3.2.1 as this is defined in Terminology
(2) Added sentence addressing weldments and brazing to 1.2. E1316. Renumbered remaining subsections.
(3) Corrected titles of Guide E94/E94M and Practice E1030/ (7) Revised 5.1.1.
E1030M. (8) Changed “film” to “radiograph” in 5.2.4, 5.4.3.1, 5.4.4.1,
(4) Deleted previous 2.4 and 2.5 and renumbered subsequent 5.4.4.5, 6.11, and 6.22.
subsections. (9) Revised Sections 5 and 6.
(5) Deleted ISO 9712 from 2.5. (10) Added Note 5.

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