Asme Section V Article 9 Jun 2026

Direct visual examination may usually be made when access is sufficient to place the eye within of the examination surface. This 24-inch maximum distance ensures that the inspector can achieve adequate resolution and sensitivity.

A mandatory clause requiring surfaces to be clean, dry, and free of contaminants like grease, scale, or weld spatter that could mask flaws. 2. Personnel Qualifications

, providing the essential methods and requirements for inspections that use human senses—aided or unaided—to detect surface defects 1. Scope and Applicability asme section v article 9

According to Table T-921 of Article 9, the typical variables include: Essential Variables

Inadequate lighting is the most common cause of missed flaws. Article 9 specifies that the light intensity at the surface of the component must be a minimum of . This applies to both natural and artificial light sources. The light intensity must be verified using a calibrated light meter prior to the inspection or proved through procedure demonstration. Surface Preparation Direct visual examination may usually be made when

This is the most critical variable. A minimum light intensity of 100 foot-candles (1000 lux) is typically required at the examination surface to ensure defects are visible.

: Shining light through materials like fiberglass-reinforced plastics to find internal flaws. Article 9 specifies that the light intensity at

A critical concept within ASME Section V is the distinction between essential and nonessential variables. When a manufacturer or inspection agency develops a Written Procedure for visual examination, it must address these variables.

Personnel performing VT must demonstrate their ability to conduct the examination, typically requiring: