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A POSITION PAPER ON THE INCLUSION OF NON-DESTRUCTIVE TESTING

(NDT) APPRENTICE COURSE IN PHILIPPINE AIR FORCE TECHNICAL AND

SPECIALIZATION SCHOOL

INTRODUCTION

Equipment that are used for long durations will eventually

deteriorate; over time this causes equipment to fail (Christiansen, 2023). With

this, maintenance of the equipment is crucial as this not only delays that point of

failure, as it can also alleviate any damages that can be severe if left unattended.

Testing of equipment is an important part in maintaining the structural integrity

and quality of material and components. One method commonly used by

different industries is Non-destructive Testing (NDT).

Non-destructive Testing, also known as Non-destructive Evaluation

(NDE) or Non-destructive Inspection (NDI) is one method of inspection which

does not compromise the structural integrity and quality of the part that is being

inspected, according to Sankar (2023), NDT allows thorough inspection without

interfering with the product’s “final use,” without sacrificing the materials’ integrity

it provides balance between quality control and cost effectiveness. It is also

important to note that NDT helps in flaw detection, leak detection, location

determination, and dimensional measurement. Aside from this NDT’s techniques

do not cause damage to the component being inspected hence its term non-

destructive. Under Non-destructive, there are seven (7) methods used, these are:
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visual inspection, liquid penetrant inspection, magnetic particle inspection, Eddy

current inspection, Ultrasonic inspection, radiographic inspection, and coin tap

test. The most common being visual inspection, liquid penetrant inspection,

magnetic particle inspection.

Among the programs offered in Philippine Air Force Technical and

Specialization School, the Non-destructive Testing course is still unavailable.

Non-destructive Testing assures that the structural components and system are

maintained and inspected without inflicting any damages on the component or

system which makes this method more convenient and cost efficient. With this,

the researchers aim to create a program that will train enlisted personnel and

aircraft maintenance personnel on non-destructive testing that will be helpful in

aircraft maintenance and inspection of materials and components.

The objectives of this position paper are, first, to include a program

on Non-destructive Testing in Philippine Air Force Technical and Specialization

School (PAFTSS), second, to establish a program in Philippine Air Force

Technical and Specialization School that will train enlisted personnels and

aircraft maintenance personnel on Non-destructive Testing methods, and lastly,

to properly conduct the different methods of Non-destructive Testing on aircraft

materials and components.

This position paper will cover the methods of non-destructive

testing, namely, magnetic particle testing (MPT), radiographic testing (RT), liquid

penetrant testing (LPT), ultrasonic testing (UT), coin tap testing, visual testing

(VT), and eddy current testing (ECT). The program of instruction will only focus
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on materials used for aviation related activities, especially in aircraft

maintenance.
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BODY

Philippine Air Force Technical and Specialization School is an

organization that offers technical and specialized courses which aims to prepare

military personnel for their careers in the Philippine Air Force. Some of the

courses Philippine Air Force Technical and Specialization School offers are Allied

Courses which includes Personnel Officer Course (POC), Manpower

Management Officer Course (MMOC), etc. Aside from that, Philippine Air Force

Technical and Specialization School also offers Communication Electronics and

Information Courses, as well as Aircraft Maintenance Training Related Courses

such as Aircraft Maintenance Officer Course (AMOC), Aircraft Pneudraulics

System Apprentice Course (APSAC), Aircraft Quality Control Apprentice Course

(AQCIC), etc. Among the available courses in PAFTSS, Non-destructive Testing

is still unavailable. The goal of the researchers is to create a three (3) month

Program of Instruction that will cater to teach enlisted personnel and aircraft

maintenance personnel about non-destructive testing; its methods and

procedures, in order to create a pool of personnel that have knowledge in

conducting non-destructive testing. This will help the Philippine Air Force in a

sense that every flying unit can have their own personnel and will not need to

outsource from other units or from non-military personnel.

The phrase "non-destructive testing" (NDT) refers to a variety of

procedures and approaches for examining and assessing electrical systems

without causing harm or alteration. The performance, safety, and dependability of

electrical equipment and components may be impacted by faults, flaws,

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corrosion, wear, and other problems that can be identified using NDT. The

advantages and disadvantages of employing NDT for electrical systems, as well

as some of the popular NDT techniques, are discussed in this article. One of the

key advantages of NDT is that it may conserve time, money, and resources by

preventing needless electrical system repairs, replacements, or downtime. By

identifying possible risks before they result in failures or malfunctions, NDT can

also aid in the prevention of accidents, injuries, and environmental harm. By

giving precise and trustworthy information about an electrical system's condition,

performance, and longevity, NDT may help improve the quality and efficiency of

electrical systems. By confirming the caliber and integrity of electrical systems,

NDT may also promote compliance with standards, rules, and specifications.

Non-destructive testing (NDT) is a critical aspect of ensuring the

safety and airworthiness of aircraft structures. This review of related literature

provides an overview of key studies and advancements in NDT techniques

applied to aircraft structures as of September 2021.

Ultrasonic testing is widely used in the aviation industry for

inspecting aircraft structures. It involves sending high-frequency sound waves

through a material to detect defects. Researchers have focused on improving

the accuracy and resolution of UT systems. A study by F. Han et al. (2019)

explored the use of phased-array ultrasonic testing for composite aircraft

structures, highlighting its effectiveness in detecting flaws in these materials.

Eddy current testing is employed to identify surface and near-

surface defects, particularly in conductive materials. Several studies have

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examined its applications in the aviation sector. In a paper by T. Weiland et al.

(2018), the authors investigated the use of advanced eddy current techniques to

inspect aircraft components made of aluminum alloys.

Radiographic testing, which uses X-rays or gamma rays to examine

the internal structure of materials, remains an essential NDT method for aircraft

inspection. Research by M. Johnson (2017) discussed the use of digital

radiography for inspecting welds and components in aircraft structures,

emphasizing the advantages of digital over traditional film radiography.

Non-destructive testing plays a vital role in ensuring the safety and

airworthiness of aircraft structures. Ongoing research and advancements in NDT

techniques, especially in the context of advanced materials and automation

through AI and ML, continue to improve the reliability and efficiency of aircraft

inspections. Stay updated with the latest research and regulatory developments

to ensure the continued safety of aviation.

The researchers conducted an interview with the enlisted personnel

in 440th Aircraft Maintenance Wing. Although there is a Non-Destructive

Inspection section in 440th AMG which conducts testing and inspection to

different aircraft components and materials, there is no such training on NDI/NDT

offered in 440th AMG. The training for NDI for military grade aircrafts is located in

410th Maintenance Wing which is in Pampanga. Hence, to further expand the

training center for NDI specifically designed for the Philippine Air Force, the

researchers are proposing to include another program in Philippine Air Force

Technical and Specialization School for NDI/NDT. Another interview was also
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conducted in 440th AMG wherein the researchers asked the personnel who

trained in 410th Maintenance Wing in Clark. The researchers asked the personnel

to verify the similarity of the POI of the 410 th Maintenance Wing with the one that

is proposed by the researchers. According to the personnel, the POIs are similar

in terms of the subject matters discussed.

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CONCLUSION

Equipment testing is crucial for preserving the quality and structural

integrity of the materials and components. Non-destructive Testing, also known

as Non-destructive Evaluation or Non-destructive Inspection, is a type of

inspection that does not affect the part's quality or structural integrity. NDT

enables thorough inspection without affecting the product's "final use," and

without compromising the integrity of the materials, it strikes a balance between

cost effectiveness and quality control. The Philippine Air Force Technical and

Specialization School does not yet provide a non-destructive testing course. This

approach is more practical and economical since non-destructive testing ensures

that structural components and systems are maintained and examined without

causing any harm to the component or system. With this, the researchers want to

develop a course on non-destructive testing that will aid with material and

component inspection and maintenance for aircraft for enlisted people and

aviation maintenance employees. Establishing a program at Philippine Air Force

Technical and Specialization School to teach enlisted personnel and aircraft

maintenance personnel in non-destructive testing techniques, conducting various

non-destructive testing techniques on aircraft materials and components in an

appropriate manner. In order to develop a pool of personnel with experience

conducting non-destructive testing, the researchers aim to develop a three-month

(3) Program of Instruction that will educate enlisted personnel and aircraft

maintenance staff about non-destructive testing, its methods, and procedures.

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With this, here are the recommendations for incorporating a Non-

Destructive Testing (NDT) apprentice course into the Philippine Air Force (PAF)

can be a valuable initiative to enhance maintenance and safety practices. Here

are some recommendations to consider for the successful implementation of an

NDT apprentice course within the PAF:

1. Needs Assessment. Begin with a comprehensive needs

assessment to identify the specific areas where NDT skills are needed

within the PAF. This assessment should involve consultation with

maintenance personnel, engineers, and other relevant stakeholders.

2. Curriculum Development. Develop a well-structured curriculum

that covers the fundamental principles of NDT techniques such as

ultrasonic testing, radiographic testing, magnetic particle testing, and dye

penetrant testing.

Include practical hands-on training sessions and simulations to

ensure apprentices gain practical experience in using NDT equipment.

3. Qualified Instructors. Recruit or train experienced NDT

professionals to serve as instructors. They should hold relevant

certifications and have practical experience in the field. Provide ongoing

training and professional development for instructors to keep them

updated on the latest NDT technologies and practices.

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4. Facility and Equipment. Ensure that the training facility is well-

equipped with the necessary tools and equipment required for NDT

training. Invest in state-of-the-art NDT equipment to provide apprentices

with a realistic learning environment.

5. Safety Protocols. Emphasize safety protocols and procedures

throughout the course. NDT techniques often involve the use of hazardous

materials and radiation, so safety is paramount.

6. Certification. Offer recognized NDT certification exams at the

end of the apprentice course. This will enable graduates to obtain

industry-recognized qualifications, enhancing their employability both

within the PAF and in civilian sectors.

7. Integration with Maintenance Operations. Ensure that the

skills learned in the NDT apprentice course are integrated into the PAF's

maintenance and inspection processes. This will help in improving the

overall quality of maintenance and safety.

8. Continuous Improvement. Establish mechanisms for feedback

from apprentices and instructors to continuously improve the course

content and delivery. Stay updated with industry trends and technologies

to ensure that the NDT curriculum remains relevant.

9. Collaboration with Industry. Foster collaboration with industry

partners and NDT organizations to exchange knowledge, share best

practices, and facilitate internship opportunities for apprentices.

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10. Evaluation and Assessment. Implement regular assessments

and evaluations to track the progress of apprentices and the effectiveness

of the course. Make necessary adjustments based on feedback and

assessment results.

11. Promotion and Recruitment. Promote the NDT apprentice

program within the PAF and during recruitment efforts to attract individuals

interested in pursuing careers in aviation maintenance and NDT.

12. Long-Term Planning. Develop a long-term plan for the NDT

apprentice program to ensure its sustainability and continued relevance

within the PAF.

Additionally, to minimize the cost of procurement for equipment for

NDI/NDT, the On-the-Job Training for this program will be proposed to be

conducted in 410th Maintenance Wing in Pampanga.

By following these recommendations, the Philippine Air Force can

establish a robust NDT apprentice program that enhances its maintenance

capabilities, promotes safety, and prepares personnel for careers in NDT within

the aviation industry.

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APPENDICES

APPENDIX A

PROGRAM OF INSTRUCTION
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APPENDIX B

INTERVIEW WITH CPT HILARIE AQUINO PAF

1. What is Philippine Air Force Technical Specialization School?

“Itong office ay nagce- cater ng technical specialization course except sa

flying, staff ng buong Air Force, tayo ang nagce-cater niyan. Meron din
nag-isschooling from PNP, mga PNP aviation or minsan meron ding taga-
ARMY.

So as of now ito ‘yung mga courses na’tin. Nahahati tayo sa allied, CE, at
Aircraft Maintenance. So sa mga aircraft maintenance na mga related
courses, ito ‘yung mga available: AMOC, Aircraft neudralics, Aircraft
Quality Control para sa mga nagQ-QC, tapos Aircraft Maintenance
Apprentice pang EP at Aircraft Electrical System.

“‘Yong course na pino-propose ninyo na NDI ay okay na okay. Kung i-ce-

create naman siya ‘di naman problema ‘yung mga gamit kasi ire-request
naman.”

2. Do you think that the inclusion of NDT will be useful in the

development of service of the Philippine Air Force?

“Ako, for me, ‘di ako familiar diyan kasi ‘di ako taga maintenance. But
lahat-lahat ng makakatulong sa’tin sa Air Force, beneficial ‘yan. Basta ang
suggestion ko, kung ano ang nakikita mong may benefit sa General
Aviation na pwede i-apply sa Philippine Air Force, pwede ‘yan.”

3. Do you have any recommendations or suggestions with regards to

our position paper on nondestructive testing?

“Sa paper ninyo, ang dapat makikita is ‘yong reason. Ano ‘yong reason
bakit magce-create kayo ng course. Dapat mabigat ‘yon. Pinakamaganda,
mag-set kayo ng example.”

“Basta ang suggestion ko, kung ano ang nakikita mong may benefit sa
General Aviation na pwede i-apply sa Philippine Air Force, pwede ‘yan”
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