TM 1-1520-265-23
1-18 Change 2
This manual summarizes the steps necessary to perform satisfactory inspections. It includes the
preparation of the helicopter, the inspection area for NDI, safety rules to be observed, highlights of
each inspection method, and specific safety precautions for each of these methods. For a detailed
description of each method and its application, refer to the Technical Manual, Nondestructive
Inspection Methods, TM 1-1500-335-23. Specific instructions peculiar to each part being inspected
will be included in the discussion of that inspection item as it is covered in this manual.
1.4.2
Selecting the NDI Method. Factors governing the selection of an inspection method are:
accessibility, portability of equipment, type of suspected damage, material composition of part to be
inspected, surface condition, and degree of sensitivity required for the inspection. In many cases
the method selected will depend primarily on accessibility and practicality. For example, a threaded
item that may qualify for eddy current inspection may instead require the substitution of an ultrasonic
inspection due to accessibility constraints. However, the ultrasonic inspection must be capable of
providing equivalent sensitivity. Also, the type of inspection desired may adversely affect adjacent
parts. Inspection methods in this manual were selected in order to provide maximum detection
sensitivity while requiring a minimum of removal or disassembly; and at the same time, protect
adjacent areas from damage. Radiographic inspection is used only to examine areas partly or totally
hidden, or where the suspected damage is internal to the part. Where one method of inspection
(primary) reveals an indication of a crack, another method (backup) should be used to verify if a
crack is actually present. Quite often backup procedures are limited to disassembly and a good
visual inspection. Certain cases may arise when another NDI method could be used to prevent
needless or complicated disassembly. For example, a crack in a spar cap may not appear clearly
on radiographic film due to cloudiness caused by sealant or substructure clutter. A backup eddy
current or ultrasonic method could be used for verification and if no indications were observed,
disassembly would not be necessary. Whenever a backup method is used, it shall be specified in
every case where the initial damage indication may not be positive proof that a reject condition
exists.
1.4.3
Preparation of Helicopter for NDI. Prior to NDI, the helicopter shall be prepared for safe
ground maintenance in accordance with applicable technical manuals listed in Table 1-1.
1.4.4
Preparation of Part or Area for NDI.
WARNING
Prolonged breathing of vapor from organic solvents, degreasers, or paint thinners is
dangerous. Use respirators in confined areas per Occupational and Environmental
Health Respiratory Protection Program (TB MED 502 (DLAM 1000.2)). Have
adequate ventilation. Avoid prolonged skin contact. Wear rubber gloves and goggles.
All NDI methods require proper cleanliness of the part or area being inspected. Refer to Table 1-1 for
the applicable cleaning and corrosion control manual. The cleaning technique to be used will be
determined by the type of foreign matter present, NDI method to be performed, and if the part is
plated, painted, or has a protective coating. Scale and corrosion shall be removed completely before
inspection. If removal of protective coatings, such as paint, phosphate coatings, black oxide, etc., is
required, do not use removal methods that mechanically abrade the surface of the part to be
inspected since this may cause damage or mask over potential surface cracks on the part. Some
inspection methods, by their particular nature, will require that small openings and/or oil holes
leading to obscure passages or cavities be plugged, such as the case of engine parts. A suitable
nonabrasive material (i.e., Vaseline, grease, paraffin) should be used that is soluble in oil and can be
