1. According to SNT-TC-1A, what is the employer’s responsibility regarding the written practice?
A. To adopt ASNT’s written practice without modification
B. To develop and maintain a written practice for NDT personnel qualification
C. To delegate certification to an outside agency
D. To submit the written practice to ASNT for approval
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: SNT-TC-1A requires the employer to develop and maintain a written practice tailored to their needs for the qualification and certification of NDT personnel, not adopt ASNT’s directly or submit it for approval.
2. In CP-189, what is the minimum requirement for a Level II general examination?
A. 20 multiple-choice questions
B. 30 multiple-choice questions
C. 40 multiple-choice questions
D. 50 multiple-choice questions
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: CP-189 specifies that the general examination for Level II consists of at least 30 multiple-choice questions to assess knowledge of the NDT method.
3. What is the purpose of ANSI/ASNT CP-105 in the context of NDT certification?
A. To provide mandatory training hours
B. To outline topical content for NDT training and examinations
C. To certify NDT equipment
D. To replace SNT-TC-1A
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: CP-105 provides standardized topical outlines for NDT training and examinations, ensuring consistency across methods and levels.
4. Under SNT-TC-1A, who may administer the Level I practical examination?
A. A Trainee
B. A Level II or III in the applicable method
C. A non-certified supervisor
D. An external auditor only
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: SNT-TC-1A requires practical examinations to be administered by a Level II or III certified in the applicable method to ensure proper evaluation.
5. Which NDT method is most suitable for detecting surface-breaking defects in non-ferromagnetic materials?
A. Magnetic Particle Testing
B. Liquid Penetrant Testing
C. Eddy Current Testing
D. Radiographic Testing
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: Liquid Penetrant Testing is ideal for detecting surface-breaking defects in non-ferromagnetic materials, as it does not rely on magnetic properties.
6. In CP-189, what is the minimum passing score for each individual examination section?
A. 60%
B. 70%
C. 80%
D. 90%
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: CP-189 requires a minimum score of 70% on each examination section (general, specific, practical), with an overall composite score of at least 80%.
7. According to SNT-TC-1A, what is a recommended action if an NDT Level II’s vision deteriorates?
A. Immediate termination of certification
B. Annual vision re-examination
C. Re-examination within 30 days
D. Exemption from vision requirements
Correct Answer: C
Explanation: SNT-TC-1A recommends re-examination of vision within 30 days if deterioration is suspected, ensuring the individual meets acuity requirements.
8. What is a primary difference between SNT-TC-1A and CP-189?
A. SNT-TC-1A is a standard; CP-189 is a guideline
B. CP-189 requires annual recertification; SNT-TC-1A does not
C. SNT-TC-1A allows employer flexibility; CP-189 is mandatory
D. CP-189 applies only to aerospace industries
Correct Answer: C
Explanation: SNT-TC-1A is a guideline allowing employer customization, while CP-189 is a mandatory standard with stricter requirements.
9. Which NDT method uses electromagnetic fields to detect surface and subsurface flaws in conductive materials?
A. Ultrasonic Testing
B. Eddy Current Testing
C. Radiographic Testing
D. Thermal/Infrared Testing
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: Eddy Current Testing induces electromagnetic fields to detect flaws in conductive materials, effective for both surface and subsurface discontinuities.
10. In SNT-TC-1A, what is the minimum recommended experience for a Level II in Ultrasonic Testing with a high school diploma?
A. 3 months
B. 6 months
C. 12 months
D. 24 months
Correct Answer: C
Explanation: SNT-TC-1A recommends 12 months of experience for Level II in UT for individuals with a high school diploma, adjusted based on education.
11. What is the primary purpose of maintaining NDT personnel records under CP-189?
A. To track equipment usage
B. To document compliance with qualification and certification
C. To monitor employee attendance
D. To submit to ASNT annually
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: CP-189 requires records to document training, examinations, and certifications, ensuring compliance with qualification standards.
12. Which material property is critical for Radiographic Testing effectiveness?
A. Magnetic permeability
B. Density and thickness
C. Electrical conductivity
D. Thermal conductivity
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: RT effectiveness depends on the material’s density and thickness, which affect radiation penetration and image contrast.
13. In CP-189, what is required for a Level III to maintain certification?
A. Annual practical examinations
B. Evidence of continued satisfactory performance every 5 years
C. Recertification every 2 years
D. A new Basic exam every 10 years
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: CP-189 requires Level IIIs to demonstrate continued performance or re-examination every 5 years for recertification.
14. What is a key limitation of Magnetic Particle Testing?
A. Limited to surface defects only
B. Applicable only to ferromagnetic materials
C. Requires complex equipment
D. Ineffective for weld inspections
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: MT is limited to ferromagnetic materials, as it relies on magnetic fields to detect discontinuities.
15. According to SNT-TC-1A, what is true about the Level III specific examination?
A. It covers only equipment calibration
B. It includes application of the NDT method to specific products
C. It is optional for certification
D. It is identical to the Level II exam
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: The Level III specific exam tests knowledge of the NDT method’s application to specific products, processes, or standards.
16. Which NDT method is best suited for detecting internal voids in castings?
A. Liquid Penetrant Testing
B. Magnetic Particle Testing
C. Radiographic Testing
D. Visual Testing
Correct Answer: C
Explanation: RT uses radiation to detect internal voids and inclusions in castings, unlike surface-limited methods like PT or MT.
17. In SNT-TC-1A, what is true about a Trainee’s role?
A. They may interpret test results
B. They work under direct supervision
C. They can certify Level I personnel
D. They develop NDT procedures
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: Trainees are not certified and must work under the direct supervision of certified personnel, performing only assigned tasks.
18. What is a common application of Thermal/Infrared Testing?
A. Detecting surface cracks in welds
B. Identifying heat leaks in insulation
C. Measuring material thickness
D. Inspecting ferromagnetic pipes
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: Thermal/Infrared Testing detects variations in heat flow, commonly used to identify heat leaks or electrical faults.
19. In CP-189, what is the minimum training hours for Level I in Magnetic Particle Testing?
A. 8 hours
B. 12 hours
C. 16 hours
D. 20 hours
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: CP-189 requires a minimum of 12 hours of training for Level I in MT, ensuring adequate knowledge of the method.
20. Which manufacturing process involves melting and pouring metal into a mold?
A. Forging
B. Casting
C. Extrusion
D. Rolling
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: Casting involves melting metal and pouring it into a mold to solidify, unlike forging, extrusion, or rolling, which shape solid metal.
21. According to SNT-TC-1A, what is true about recertification?
A. It requires a new Basic exam
B. It can be based on continued performance or re-examination
C. It is mandatory every year
D. It is conducted by ASNT only
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: SNT-TC-1A allows recertification based on evidence of satisfactory performance or re-examination, per the employer’s written practice.
22. Which NDT method is most effective for monitoring crack growth in real-time?
A. Acoustic Emission Testing
B. Ultrasonic Testing
C. Magnetic Particle Testing
D. Liquid Penetrant Testing
Correct Answer: A
Explanation: AE detects stress-induced emissions, making it ideal for real-time monitoring of crack growth or structural integrity.
23. In CP-189, who is authorized to certify NDT personnel?
A. A Level II
B. A Level III designated by the employer
C. An ASNT representative
D. A non-certified manager
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: CP-189 requires a designated Level III to certify personnel, ensuring technical oversight and compliance.
24. What is a key advantage of Ultrasonic Testing?
A. Detects only surface flaws
B. Requires minimal training
C. Applicable to a wide range of materials
D. Inexpensive equipment
Correct Answer: C
Explanation: UT is versatile, detecting internal flaws in metals, composites, and other materials, but requires significant training and equipment.
25. In SNT-TC-1A, what is true about the Level I’s responsibilities?
A. They may establish acceptance criteria
B. They perform tests under written instructions
C. They certify Level II personnel
D. They develop new NDT techniques
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: Level I personnel perform specific tests and calibrations under written instructions, supervised by Level II or III.
26. Which heat treatment process increases surface hardness while maintaining a ductile core?
A. Annealing
B. Tempering
C. Case hardening
D. Normalizing
Correct Answer: C
Explanation: Case hardening, such as carburizing, increases surface hardness while preserving a ductile core, unlike other processes.
27. In CP-189, what is required for Level II practical examinations?
A. A written report only
B. Demonstration of one or more techniques
C. Supervision by a Trainee
D. A minimum of 20 test samples
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: Level II practical exams require demonstrating competency in one or more techniques using test samples.
28. Which NDT method is limited to detecting surface discontinuities in non-porous materials?
A. Radiographic Testing
B. Liquid Penetrant Testing
C. Eddy Current Testing
D. Ultrasonic Testing
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: PT detects surface discontinuities in non-porous materials but cannot inspect internal or porous structures.
29. According to SNT-TC-1A, what is true about the Level III Basic examination?
A. It tests knowledge of one NDT method only
B. It includes SNT-TC-1A, CP-189, and materials/processes
C. It is optional for certification
D. It is conducted by the employer
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: The Level III Basic exam covers SNT-TC-1A, CP-189, materials, processes, and other NDT methods, mandatory for certification.
30. Which welding discontinuity is best detected by Ultrasonic Testing?
A. Surface porosity
B. Lack of sidewall fusion
C. Undercut
D. Overlap
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: UT is effective for detecting internal weld imperfections like lack of sidewall fusion, unlike surface discontinuities.
31. In CP-189, what is the minimum composite score for Level III examinations?
A. 70%
B. 80%
C. 85%
D. 90%
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: CP-189 requires a minimum composite score of 80% for Level III examinations, ensuring a high level of competency.
32. What is a common application of Eddy Current Testing?
A. Detecting internal voids in castings
B. Inspecting aircraft skins for cracks
C. Monitoring pressure vessel leaks
D. Measuring weld penetration
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: Eddy Current Testing is widely used in aerospace to detect surface and subsurface cracks in conductive materials like aircraft skins.
33. In SNT-TC-1A, what is true about vision examinations?
A. They are optional for Level III
B. They must include near-distance and color differentiation
C. They are conducted by a Level II
D. They are valid for 5 years
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: SNT-TC-1A requires vision exams to include near-distance acuity and color differentiation, mandatory for all levels.
34. Which NDT method uses pressure changes to detect defects?
A. Leak Testing
B. Acoustic Emission Testing
C. Thermal/Infrared Testing
D. Magnetic Particle Testing
Correct Answer: A
Explanation: Leak Testing uses pressure changes (e.g., vacuum or helium) to detect leaks or defects in systems.
35. In CP-189, what is true about Level I experience requirements?
A. They are waived for high school graduates
B. They vary by NDT method and education
C. They require 2 years minimum
D. They are identical for all methods
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: CP-189 specifies experience requirements that vary by method and education level, such as 3 months for MT with a high school diploma.
36. Which manufacturing process removes material to achieve desired dimensions?
A. Casting
B. Forging
C. Machining
D. Welding
Correct Answer: C
Explanation: Machining removes material through cutting, grinding, or drilling to achieve precise dimensions, unlike other processes.
37. In SNT-TC-1A, what is true about the Level II specific examination?
A. It covers general NDT principles only
B. It includes codes and standards relevant to the employer
C. It is optional for recertification
D. It is administered by ASNT
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: The Level II specific exam tests knowledge of codes, standards, and procedures specific to the employer’s applications.
38. What is a key limitation of Radiographic Testing?
A. Limited to surface inspections
B. Requires access to both sides of the component
C. Ineffective for metallic materials
D. High equipment cost and safety concerns
Correct Answer: D
Explanation: RT requires expensive equipment and strict safety measures due to radiation, but it is not limited to surface inspections or material type.
39. In CP-189, what is true about practical examination checkpoints?
A. They are optional for Level III
B. They must include at least 10 checkpoints
C. They are identical for all levels
D. They are conducted by a Trainee
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: CP-189 requires practical exams to include at least 10 checkpoints to thoroughly evaluate skills.
40. Which NDT method is used to detect corrosion under insulation?
A. Visual Testing
B. Ultrasonic Testing
C. Magnetic Particle Testing
D. Liquid Penetrant Testing
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: UT can measure wall thickness and detect corrosion under insulation, unlike surface-limited methods.
41. In SNT-TC-1A, what is true about certification termination?
A. It occurs automatically after 5 years
B. It happens when employment ends
C. It requires ASNT approval
D. It is permanent
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: SNT-TC-1A recommends certification termination when employment with the certifying employer ends, unless re-certified.
42. Which heat treatment process refines grain structure to improve mechanical properties?
A. Quenching
B. Normalizing
C. Tempering
D. Annealing
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: Normalizing heats and air-cools metal to refine grain structure, improving strength and toughness.
43. In CP-189, what is true about Level III specific examinations?
A. They are identical to Level II exams
B. They test application to specific products or processes
C. They are optional for recertification
D. They are conducted by a Level I
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: Level III specific exams focus on applying the NDT method to specific products, processes, or standards.
44. Which NDT method is most effective for detecting fatigue cracks in rotating machinery?
A. Visual Testing
B. Magnetic Particle Testing
C. Acoustic Emission Testing
D. Thermal/Infrared Testing
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: MT is highly effective for detecting surface fatigue cracks in ferromagnetic components, common in rotating machinery.
45. In SNT-TC-1A, what is true about the Level III’s role in training?
A. They may develop training programs
B. They perform only equipment calibration
C. They supervise Trainees only
D. They conduct practical exams only
Correct Answer: A
Explanation: Level IIIs are responsible for developing and overseeing training programs, among other duties.
46. Which material property affects Liquid Penetrant Testing effectiveness?
A. Surface porosity
B. Magnetic permeability
C. Acoustic impedance
D. Electrical conductivity
Correct Answer: A
Explanation: PT effectiveness depends on surface porosity, as penetrant must enter surface-breaking defects.
47. In CP-189, what is the minimum training hours for Level II in Ultrasonic Testing?
A. 40 hours
B. 80 hours
C. 120 hours
D. 160 hours
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: CP-189 requires 80 hours of training for Level II in UT, reflecting the method’s complexity.
48. Which NDT method is used to assess material properties without causing damage?
A. Destructive Testing
B. Ultrasonic Testing
C. Mechanical Testing
D. Chemical Analysis
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: UT is a nondestructive method that assesses material properties and detects flaws without damaging the component.
49. In SNT-TC-1A, what is true about the employer’s role in certification?
A. They delegate all responsibilities to ASNT
B. They are responsible for final certification
C. They conduct only vision examinations
D. They submit certifications to CP-189
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: The employer is responsible for final certification, ensuring compliance with their written practice.
50. Which welding discontinuity is most likely detected by Magnetic Particle Testing?
A. Lack of penetration
B. Surface cracks
C. Slag inclusions
D. Porosity
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: MT is highly effective for detecting surface cracks in ferromagnetic welds, but internal discontinuities require other methods like RT or UT.
Study Tips
- Master Key Standards: Focus on SNT-TC-1A, CP-189, and CP-105, as they are central to the Basic exam. Understand their differences and applications.
- Learn NDT Methods: Study the principles, limitations, and applications of all NDT methods in CP-105, including UT, RT, MT, PT, ET, VT, LT, AE, and TIR.
- Review Materials and Processes: Be familiar with metallurgy, welding, casting, forging, and heat treatments, as these are frequently tested.
- Practice with Variety: Use these questions alongside other resources, such as the ASNT Level III Study Guide: Basic (4th ed.) or online platforms like materialwelding.com.
- Understand Explanations: Review why answers are correct or incorrect to build a deeper understanding of concepts.
