SECTION III REPORTING NEW OR IMPROVED NDI TECHNIQUES

T.O. 33B-1-1 1-7 SECTION III REPORTING NEW OR IMPROVED NDI TECHNIQUES. 1.3 REPORTING NEW / IMPROVED NONDESTRUCTIVE INSPECTION TECHNIQUES. 1.3.1 Summary. a. Developing new NDI techniques is expensive and time consuming. In addition, techniques and procedures can be applied to all aircraft where similar problems exist. Interchanging information on newly developed NDI techniques between operating commands will reduce maintenance costs and enhance safety. b. This section prescribes the procedures for reporting the development of new or improved nondestructive inspection techniques. It also provides for the reporting of a NDI method application to a part or item not previously inspected by NDI methods. c. Nondestructive Inspection Data, AFTO Form 242, permits detailed feedback and interchange of new or improved NDI techniques, procedures and applications from base level NDI laboratories to other NDI operational facilities, system/item managers and NDI program managers. d. The Army equivalent of AFTO Form 242 is DA Form 2028 (see paragraph 1.3.4.5). e. Navy / Marine Corps personnel use AFTO Form 242 and forward via Aircraft Controlling Custodian/Type Commander (ACC/TYCOM) to the Cognizant Field Activity (CFA). 1.3.2 Authority. The authority for reporting new or improved NDI techniques or new applications of NDI methods is contained in AFI 21-105, Air Force Fabrication Programs. 1.3.3 Scope. a. The procedures prescribed herein apply to all major air commands, Air National Guard and Air Force Reserve units operating NDI shops per AFI 21-105. b. An AFTO Form 242 SHALL be submitted whenever an NDI technique is developed improved or is considered desirable and is not sufficiently described or contained in existing manuals. c. An AFTO Form 242 SHALL NOT be used in the following cases: (1) Reporting minor technical inaccuracies in NDI involving the use of the same technique. (2) Techniques requiring the use of nonstandard equipment not listed in TA 455. However, this does not include locally manufactured shoes, holders, or wedges for use with TA 455 equipment. Reporting requirements for equipment evaluation will be provided by the AF NDI Program Manager and directed by the command NDI Program Manager. (3) Reporting changes or deficiencies in inspection requirements, such as contained in Dash 6 Technical Orders.