Industry Sector Qualification

Ultrasonic Phased Array Examinations

 

Notice

We are launching a new online certification management system on November 6. Over the next few weeks, ISQ UTPA applicants can expect a temporary blackout period. We resume application processing as soon as possible.

Exam Specifications for Ultrasonic Testing: Phased Array Pressure Equipment Weld Examination (UTPA)

A candidate's ability to perform ultrasonic testing (UT) is assessed through a hands-on, practical examination. They will inspect, locate, interpret, and evaluate discontinuities, and properly document test results for a minimum number of specimens containing actual or artificially induced discontinuities that represent those found in the product type and industry sector for which qualification is sought. Candidates must pass the UTPA weld examination using manual and semi-automated scanning techniques. Additional details may be found in the UTPA Protocol document O&G-UTPA-4 and the exam instructions O&G-UTPA-5.

Qualifications for Examination

Candidates must:

  • have at least certification equal to a Level II ultrasonics certification per the guidelines in Recommended Practice No. SNT-TC-1A: Personnel Qualification and Certification in Nondestructive Testing (latest edition);
  • have successfully passed the ASNT O&G UTT and O&G UTSW qualifications (one-time requirement);
  • provide their own equipment, and understand the protocol, instructions, and report form; and
  • agree to the Code of Ethics and ASNT terms and conditions.

Required Equipment

  • Ultrasonic Phased Array Instrument(s) (No laptop computers allowed)*
  • Reference Standard(s) (some reference standards may be available from the AEC — contact before the exam)
  • Transducer(s)
  • Semiautomated encoded scanner
  • Safety toe shoes

*All phased array (PAUT) instruments shall be cleared of all setup files, data files, screen shot images, and reports prior to examination. The proctor will verify that the instrument has been cleared of these files prior to and after the examination. 

Identification

Candidates must present two forms of original (no photo copies), valid (unexpired) IDs; one form as a primary ID (government issued with name, recent recognizable photo, and signature) and one form as a secondary ID (with at least a name and signature, or name and recent recognizable photo).

For the ISQ Phased Array exam session, candidates cannot leave for lunch, but are encouraged to bring a sack lunch to eat in the exam room. This is an eight-hour exam session.

Protocol, Instructions, and Report

Re-examination Policy

Candidates who fail the exam shall meet the following conditions to apply and retake the examination.

First Failure

  • Immediate application and retake are permitted.

Second Failure

  • 30-day waiting period required before additional application and examination are permitted. 
  • Additional method training is encouraged.

Third Failure

  • 90-day waiting period required before additional application and examination are permitted. 
  • Additional method training is encouraged.

Fourth Failure and All Subsequent Failures

  • 180-day waiting period required before additional application and examination are permitted. 
  • Additional method training is encouraged.

Apply Now