Non-destructive testing of welds - Ultrasonic testing - Use of time-of-flight diffraction technique (TOFD) (ISO 10863:2020)

This document specifies the application of the time-of-flight diffraction (TOFD) technique to the
semi- or fully automated ultrasonic testing of fusion-welded joints in metallic materials of minimum
thickness 6 mm.
It applies to full penetration welded joints of simple geometry in plates, pipes, and vessels, where both
the weld and the parent material are low-alloyed carbon steel. Where specified and appropriate, TOFD
can also be used on other types of materials that exhibit low ultrasonic attenuation (especially that due
to scatter).
Where material-dependent ultrasonic parameters are specified in this document, they are based on
steels having a sound velocity of (5 920 ± 50) m/s for longitudinal waves and (3 255 ± 30) m/s for
transverse waves. It is necessary to take this fact into account when testing materials with a different
velocity.
This document makes reference to ISO 16828 and provides guidance on the specific capabilities and
limitations of TOFD for the detection, location, sizing and characterization of discontinuities in fusionwelded
joints. TOFD can be used as a stand-alone method or in combination with other non-destructive
testing (NDT) methods or techniques, for manufacturing inspection, and for in-service inspection.
This document specifies four testing levels (A, B, C, D) in accordance with ISO 17635 and corresponding
to an increasing level of testing reliability. Guidance on the selection of testing levels is provided.
This document permits assessment of TOFD indications for acceptance purposes. This assessment is
based on the evaluation of transmitted, reflected and diffracted ultrasonic signals within a generated
TOFD image.
This document does not include acceptance levels for discontinuities.

Zerstörungsfreie Prüfung von Schweißverbindungen - Ultraschallprüfung - Anwendung der Beugungslaufzeittechnik (TOFD) (ISO 10863:2020)

Dieses Dokument legt die Anwendung der Beugungslaufzeit Technik (TOFD, en: time-of-flight diffraction) bei der halb- oder vollauto¬matisierten Ultraschallprüfung von Schmelzschweißverbindungen in metallischen Werkstoffen mit einer Dicke von mindestens 6 mm fest.
Es gilt für durchgeschweißte Verbindungen mit einfacher Geometrie in Platten, Rohren und Behältern, bei denen sowohl der Werkstoff der Schweißnaht als auch der Grundwerkstoff niedrig legierter Kohlenstoffstahl ist. Sofern festgelegt und angemessen, kann die TOFD-Technik auch auf andere Werkstoffarten angewendet werden, die eine geringe Schallschwächung aufweisen (dies gilt insbesondere für die durch Streuung verursachte Schallschwächung).
Sofern in diesem Dokument werkstoffabhängige Ultraschallparameter festgelegt sind, beruhen diese auf Stählen mit einer Schallgeschwindigkeit von (5 920 ± 50) m/s für Longitudinalwellen und (3 255 ± 30) m/s für Transversalwellen. Dies ist bei der Prüfung von Werkstoffen mit anderer Schallgeschwindigkeit zu berücksichtigen.
Dieses Dokument nimmt Bezug auf ISO 16828 und liefert einen Leitfaden hinsichtlich der besonderen Fähigkeiten und Einschränkungen der TOFD-Technik beim Auffinden, der Ortung, dem Ausmessen und der Charakterisierung von Inhomogenitäten in Schmelzschweißverbindungen. Die TOFD-Technik kann selbständig oder in Verbindung mit weiteren Verfahren oder Techniken der zerstörungsfreien Prüfung (ZfP) sowohl für die Prüfung während der Herstellung als auch für die Prüfung während des Betriebs angewendet werden.
Dieses Dokument legt vier Prüfklassen (A, B, C, D) nach ISO 17635 fest, die einem zunehmenden Grad der Zuverlässigkeit der Prüfung entsprechen. Ein Leitfaden für die Auswahl der Prüfklassen wird bereitgestellt.
Dieses Dokument erlaubt die Beurteilung von TOFD-Anzeigen zur Bestimmung der Zulässigkeit. Diese Beurteilung beruht auf der Bewertung durchgelassener, reflektierter und gebeugter Ultraschallsignale in einem erzeugten TOFD-Bild.
Dieses Dokument enthält keine Zulässigkeitsgrenzen für Inhomogenitäten.

Essais non destructifs des assemblages soudés - Contrôle par ultrasons - Utilisation de la technique de diffraction des temps de vol (TOFD) (ISO 10863:2020)

Le présent document spécifie l'application de la technique de diffraction des temps de vol (méthode TOFD, time-of-flight diffraction) pour le contrôle par ultrasons semi-automatique ou entièrement automatique des assemblages soudés par fusion de matériaux métalliques d'épaisseur minimale de 6 mm.
Cette technique s'applique aux joints soudés à pleine pénétration de géométrie simple sur plaques, aux tubes et aux récipients, dans lesquels le métal de base et le métal fondu sont tous les deux constitués d'acier au carbone faiblement allié. Dans le cas où son utilisation est spécifiée et qu'elle s'avère appropriée, la méthode TOFD peut également être utilisée sur d'autres types de matériaux qui présentent une atténuation ultrasonore faible (spécialement celle due à la dispersion).
Lorsque les paramètres ultrasonores dépendant du matériau sont spécifiés dans le présent document, ils sont basés sur les aciers qui présentent une vitesse de propagation sonore de (5 920 ± 50) m/s pour les ondes longitudinales et de (3 255 ± 30) m/s pour les ondes transversales. Il est nécessaire de prendre cela en compte lors du contrôle de matériaux ayant des vitesses de propagation différentes.
Le présent document fait référence à l'ISO 16828 et fournit des lignes directrices sur les possibilités et les limitations spécifiques de la méthode TOFD pour la détection, la localisation, le dimensionnement et la caractérisation des discontinuités dans les joints soudés par fusion. La méthode TOFD peut être utilisée de manière autonome ou en combinaison avec d'autres méthodes ou techniques d'essais non destructifs (END), pour le contrôle de fabrication et pour le contrôle en cours de service.
Le présent document spécifie quatre niveaux d'examen (A, B, C, D) conformément à l'ISO 17635, correspondant à des niveaux croissants de fiabilité de contrôle. Des lignes directrices relatives au choix des niveaux d'examen sont données.
Le présent document permet l'évaluation des indications TOFD à des fins d'acceptation. Cette évaluation est basée sur l'appréciation des signaux ultrasonores transmis, réfléchis ou diffractés dans une image produite par la méthode TOFD.
Le présent document ne comporte pas de niveaux d'acceptation pour les discontinuités.

Neporušitveno preskušanje zvarov - Ultrazvočno preskušanje - Uporaba tehnike uklona valov v odvisnosti od časa (TOFD) (ISO 10863:2020)

General Information

Status
Published
Public Enquiry End Date
03-Feb-2019
Publication Date
10-Aug-2020
Technical Committee
Current Stage
6060 - National Implementation/Publication (Adopted Project)
Start Date
18-Jun-2020
Due Date
23-Aug-2020
Completion Date
11-Aug-2020

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SLOVENSKI STANDARD
SIST EN ISO 10863:2020
01-september-2020
Nadomešča:
SIST EN ISO 10863:2011
Neporušitveno preskušanje zvarov - Ultrazvočno preskušanje - Uporaba tehnike
uklona valov v odvisnosti od časa (TOFD) (ISO 10863:2020)
Non-destructive testing of welds - Ultrasonic testing - Use of time-of-flight diffraction
technique (TOFD) (ISO 10863:2020)
Zerstörungsfreie Prüfung von Schweißverbindungen - Ultraschallprüfung - Anwendung
der Beugungslaufzeittechnik (TOFD) (ISO 10863:2020)
Essais non destructifs des assemblages soudés - Contrôle par ultrasons - Utilisation de
la technique de diffraction des temps de vol (TOFD) (ISO 10863:2020)
Ta slovenski standard je istoveten z: EN ISO 10863:2020
ICS:
25.160.40 Varjeni spoji in vari Welded joints and welds
SIST EN ISO 10863:2020 en,fr,de
2003-01.Slovenski inštitut za standardizacijo. Razmnoževanje celote ali delov tega standarda ni dovoljeno.

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SIST EN ISO 10863:2020

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SIST EN ISO 10863:2020


EN ISO 10863
EUROPEAN STANDARD

NORME EUROPÉENNE

June 2020
EUROPÄISCHE NORM
ICS 25.160.40 Supersedes EN ISO 10863:2011
English Version

Non-destructive testing of welds - Ultrasonic testing - Use
of time-of-flight diffraction technique (TOFD) (ISO
10863:2020)
Essais non destructifs des assemblages soudés - Zerstörungsfreie Prüfung von Schweißverbindungen -
Contrôle par ultrasons - Utilisation de la technique de Ultraschallprüfung - Anwendung der
diffraction des temps de vol (TOFD) (ISO 10863:2020) Beugungslaufzeittechnik (TOFD) (ISO 10863:2020)
This European Standard was approved by CEN on 19 May 2020.

CEN members are bound to comply with the CEN/CENELEC Internal Regulations which stipulate the conditions for giving this
European Standard the status of a national standard without any alteration. Up-to-date lists and bibliographical references
concerning such national standards may be obtained on application to the CEN-CENELEC Management Centre or to any CEN
member.

This European Standard exists in three official versions (English, French, German). A version in any other language made by
translation under the responsibility of a CEN member into its own language and notified to the CEN-CENELEC Management
Centre has the same status as the official versions.

CEN members are the national standards bodies of Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia,
Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway,
Poland, Portugal, Republic of North Macedonia, Romania, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey and
United Kingdom.





EUROPEAN COMMITTEE FOR STANDARDIZATION
COMITÉ EUROPÉEN DE NORMALISATION

EUROPÄISCHES KOMITEE FÜR NORMUNG

CEN-CENELEC Management Centre: Rue de la Science 23, B-1040 Brussels
© 2020 CEN All rights of exploitation in any form and by any means reserved Ref. No. EN ISO 10863:2020 E
worldwide for CEN national Members.

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SIST EN ISO 10863:2020
EN ISO 10863:2020 (E)
Contents Page
European foreword . 3

2

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SIST EN ISO 10863:2020
EN ISO 10863:2020 (E)
European foreword
This document (EN ISO 10863:2020) has been prepared by Technical Committee ISO/TC 44 "Welding
and allied processes" in collaboration with Technical Committee CEN/TC 121 “Welding and allied
processes” the secretariat of which is held by DIN.
This European Standard shall be given the status of a national standard, either by publication of an
identical text or by endorsement, at the latest by December 2020, and conflicting national standards
shall be withdrawn at the latest by December 2020.
Attention is drawn to the possibility that some of the elements of this document may be the subject of
patent rights. CEN shall not be held responsible for identifying any or all such patent rights.
This document supersedes EN ISO 10863:2011.
According to the CEN-CENELEC Internal Regulations, the national standards organizations of the
following countries are bound to implement this European Standard: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria,
Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland,
Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Republic of
North Macedonia, Romania, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey and the
United Kingdom.
Endorsement notice
The text of ISO 10863:2020 has been approved by CEN as EN ISO 10863:2020 without any modification.

3

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SIST EN ISO 10863:2020

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SIST EN ISO 10863:2020
INTERNATIONAL ISO
STANDARD 10863
Second edition
2020-05
Non-destructive testing of welds —
Ultrasonic testing — Use of time-of-
flight diffraction technique (TOFD)
Essais non destructifs des assemblages soudés — Contrôle par ultrasons
— Utilisation de la technique de diffraction des temps de vol (TOFD)
Reference number
ISO 10863:2020(E)
©
ISO 2020

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SIST EN ISO 10863:2020
ISO 10863:2020(E)

COPYRIGHT PROTECTED DOCUMENT
© ISO 2020
All rights reserved. Unless otherwise specified, or required in the context of its implementation, no part of this publication may
be reproduced or utilized otherwise in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, or posting
on the internet or an intranet, without prior written permission. Permission can be requested from either ISO at the address
below or ISO’s member body in the country of the requester.
ISO copyright office
CP 401 • Ch. de Blandonnet 8
CH-1214 Vernier, Geneva
Phone: +41 22 749 01 11
Fax: +41 22 749 09 47
Email: copyright@iso.org
Website: www.iso.org
Published in Switzerland
ii © ISO 2020 – All rights reserved

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SIST EN ISO 10863:2020
ISO 10863:2020(E)

Contents Page
Foreword .v
1 Scope . 1
2 Normative references . 1
3 Terms and definitions . 2
4 General remarks on the capabilities of the technique . 2
5 Testing levels . 3
6 Information required prior to testing . 4
6.1 Items to be defined by specification . 4
6.2 Specific information required by the operator before testing . 4
6.3 Written test instruction or procedure . 4
7 Requirements for test personnel and test equipment . 5
7.1 Personnel qualifications . 5
7.2 Test equipment . 5
7.2.1 Ultrasonic instrument . 5
7.2.2 Ultrasonic probes . 5
7.2.3 Scanning mechanisms . 5
8 Preparation for testing . 5
8.1 Volume to be tested . 5
8.2 Setup of probes . 6
8.3 Scan increment setting . 7
8.4 Geometry considerations . 7
8.5 Preparation of scanning surfaces . 7
8.6 Temperature . 8
8.7 Couplant . 8
8.8 Provision of datum points . 8
9 Testing of base material . 8
10 Range and sensitivity settings . 8
10.1 Settings . 8
10.1.1 General. 8
10.1.2 Time window . 8
10.1.3 Time-to-depth conversion . 8
10.1.4 Sensitivity settings . 9
10.2 Checking of the settings . 9
10.3 Reference blocks . 9
10.3.1 General. 9
10.3.2 Material . 9
10.3.3 Dimensions and shape .10
10.3.4 Reference reflectors .10
11 Weld testing .10
12 Interpretation and analysis of TOFD images .11
12.1 General .11
12.2 Assessing the quality of the TOFD image .11
12.3 Identification of relevant TOFD indications .11
12.4 Classification of relevant TOFD indications .11
12.4.1 General.11
12.4.2 TOFD indications from surface-breaking discontinuities .12
12.4.3 TOFD indications from embedded discontinuities .12
12.4.4 Unclassified TOFD indications .13
12.5 Determination of location .13
12.6 Definition and determination of length and height .13
© ISO 2020 – All rights reserved iii

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SIST EN ISO 10863:2020
ISO 10863:2020(E)

12.6.1 General.13
12.6.2 Determination of length .14
12.6.3 Determination of height .16
12.7 Evaluation against acceptance criteria .17
13 Test report .17
Annex A (informative) Reference blocks .19
Annex B (informative) Examples of TOFD scans .24
Bibliography .37
iv © ISO 2020 – All rights reserved

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SIST EN ISO 10863:2020
ISO 10863:2020(E)

Foreword
ISO (the International Organization for Standardization) is a worldwide federation of national standards
bodies (ISO member bodies). The work of preparing International Standards is normally carried out
through ISO technical committees. Each member body interested in a subject for which a technical
committee has been established has the right to be represented on that committee. International
organizations, governmental and non-governmental, in liaison with ISO, also take part in the work.
ISO collaborates closely with the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) on all matters of
electrotechnical standardization.
The procedures used to develop this document and those intended for its further maintenance are
described in the ISO/IEC Directives, Part 1. In particular, the different approval criteria needed for the
different types of ISO documents should be noted. This document was drafted in accordance with the
editorial rules of the ISO/IEC Directives, Part 2 (see www .iso .org/ directives).
Attention is drawn to the possibility that some of the elements of this document may be the subject of
patent rights. ISO shall not be held responsible for identifying any or all such patent rights. Details of
any patent rights identified during the development of the document will be in the Introduction and/or
on the ISO list of patent declarations received (see www .iso .org/ patents).
Any trade name used in this document is information given for the convenience of users and does not
constitute an endorsement.
For an explanation of the voluntary nature of standards, the meaning of ISO specific terms and
expressions related to conformity assessment, as well as information about ISO's adherence to the
World Trade Organization (WTO) principles in the Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) see www .iso .org/
iso/ foreword .html.
This document was prepared by Technical Committee ISO/TC 44, Welding and allied processes,
Subcommittee SC 5, Testing and inspection of welds.
This second edition cancels and replaces the first edition (ISO 10863:2011), which has been technically
revised.
The main changes compared to the previous edition are as follows:
— the whole document has been updated to the state of the art; ISO 22232 series has been taken into
account;
— Clause 3 has been updated;
— Figure 1 to Figure 6 have been added;
— Figure B.1 to Figure B.18 have been updated.
Any feedback or questions on this document should be directed to the user’s national standards body. A
complete listing of these bodies can be found at www .iso .org/ members .html.
Official interpretations of ISO/TC 44 documents, where they exist, are available from this page: https://
committee .iso .org/ sites/ tc44/ home/ interpretation .html.
© ISO 2020 – All rights reserved v

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SIST EN ISO 10863:2020

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SIST EN ISO 10863:2020
INTERNATIONAL STANDARD ISO 10863:2020(E)
Non-destructive testing of welds — Ultrasonic testing —
Use of time-of-flight diffraction technique (TOFD)
1 Scope
This document specifies the application of the time-of-flight diffraction (TOFD) technique to the
semi- or fully automated ultrasonic testing of fusion-welded joints in metallic materials of minimum
thickness 6 mm.
It applies to full penetration welded joints of simple geometry in plates, pipes, and vessels, where both
the weld and the parent material are low-alloyed carbon steel. Where specified and appropriate, TOFD
can also be used on other types of materials that exhibit low ultrasonic attenuation (especially that due
to scatter).
Where material-dependent ultrasonic parameters are specified in this document, they are based on
steels having a sound velocity of (5 920 ± 50) m/s for longitudinal waves and (3 255 ± 30) m/s for
transverse waves. It is necessary to take this fact into account when testing materials with a different
velocity.
This document makes reference to ISO 16828 and provides guidance on the specific capabilities and
limitations of TOFD for the detection, location, sizing and characterization of discontinuities in fusion-
welded joints. TOFD can be used as a stand-alone method or in combination with other non-destructive
testing (NDT) methods or techniques, for manufacturing inspection, and for in-service inspection.
This document specifies four testing levels (A, B, C, D) in accordance with ISO 17635 and corresponding
to an increasing level of testing reliability. Guidance on the selection of testing levels is provided.
This document permits assessment of TOFD indications for acceptance purposes. This assessment is
based on the evaluation of transmitted, reflected and diffracted ultrasonic signals within a generated
TOFD image.
This document does not include acceptance levels for discontinuities.
2 Normative references
The following documents are referred to in the text in such a way that some or all of their content
constitutes requirements of this document. For dated references, only the edition cited applies. For
undated references, the latest edition of the referenced document (including any amendments) applies.
ISO 5577, Non-destructive testing — Ultrasonic testing — Vocabulary
ISO 9712, Non-destructive testing — Qualification and certification of NDT personnel
ISO 16828, Non-destructive testing — Ultrasonic testing — Time-of-flight diffraction technique as a
method for detection and sizing of discontinuities
ISO 17640, Non-destructive testing of welds — Ultrasonic testing — Techniques, testing levels, and
assessment
1)
ISO 22232-1 , Non-destructive testing — Characterization and verification of ultrasonic test equipment —
Part 1: Instruments
1) Under preparation. (Preparation at the time of publication: ISO/FDIS 22232-1.)
© ISO 2020 – All rights reserved 1

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SIST EN ISO 10863:2020
ISO 10863:2020(E)

2)
ISO 22232-2 , Non-destructive testing — Characterization and verification of ultrasonic test equipment —
Part 2: Probes
3 Terms and definitions
For the purposes of this document, the terms and definitions given in ISO 5577 and the following apply.
ISO and IEC maintain terminological databases for use in standardization at the following addresses:
— ISO Online browsing platform: available at https:// www .iso .org/ obp
— IEC Electropedia: available at http:// www .electropedia .org/
3.1
time-of-flight diffraction image
TOFD image
two-dimensional image, constructed by collecting adjacent A-scans while moving the time-of-flight
diffraction setup (3.3)
Note 1 to entry: The signal amplitude of the A-scans is typically represented by grey-scale values.
3.2
time-of-flight diffraction indication
TOFD indication
pattern or disturbance in the time-of-flight diffraction image (3.1) which can need further evaluation
3.3
time-of-flight diffraction setup
TOFD setup
probe arrangement defined by probe characteristics (e.g. frequency, probe element size, beam angle,
wave mode) and probe centre separation (3.6)
3.4
beam intersection point
point of intersection of the two main beam axes
3.5
lateral wave
longitudinal wave traveling the shortest path from transmitter probe to receiver probe
3.6
probe centre separation
PCS
distance between the index points of the two probes
Note 1 to entry: The PCS for two probes located on a curved surface is the straight-line, geometric separation
between the two probe index points and not the distance measured along the surface.
3.7
offset scan
scan parallel to the weld axis, where the beam intersection point (3.4) is not on the centreline of the weld
4 General remarks on the capabilities of the technique
General principles of the TOFD technique are described in ISO 16828. For the testing of fusion-welded
joints, some specific capabilities and limitations of the technique shall be considered.
2) Under preparation. (Preparation at the time of publication: ISO/DIS 22232-2.)
2 © ISO 2020 – All rights reserved

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SIST EN ISO 10863:2020
ISO 10863:2020(E)

The TOFD technique is an ultrasonic image-generating technique, which offers the capability of
detection, location, and sizing. To a certain extent, characterization of discontinuities in the weld
material as well as in the adjacent parent material is also possible.
Compared with purely reflection-based techniques, the TOFD technique, which is based on diffraction
as well as reflection, is less sensitive to the orientation of the discontinuity. Discontinuities oriented
perpendicular to the surface, and at intermediate angles of tilt, are detectable as well as discontinuities
in the weld fusion faces.
In certain circumstances (e.g. thickness, weld preparation, scope of testing) more than one single TOFD
setup is required.
A typical TOFD image is linear in time (vertical axis) and probe movement (horizontal axis). Because of
the V-configuration of the ultrasound paths, the location of a possible discontinuity is then non-linear.
TOFD testing shall be carried out in a correct and consistent way, such that valid images are generated
which can be evaluated correctly, e.g. coupling losses and data acquisition errors shall be avoided,
see 12.2.
The interpretation of TOFD images requires skilled and experienced operators. Some typical TOFD
images of discontinuities in fusion-welded joints are provided in Annex B.
There is a reduced capability for the detection of discontinuities close to or connected with the scanning
surface or with the opposite surface. This shall be considered especially for crack-sensitive steels or
at in-service inspections. In cases where full coverage of these zones is required, additional measures
shall be taken, e.g. TOFD can be accompanied by other NDT methods or techniques.
Diffracted signals from weld discontinuities can have small amplitude responses. The grain scatter
effect from coarse-grained material can hinder the detection and evaluation of such responses. This
shall be taken into account whenever testing such material.
5 Testing levels
This document specifies four testing levels (A, B, C and D, see Table 1). From testing level A to testing
level C an increasing reliability is achieved.
Table 1 — Testing levels
Reference block for Reference block for
Written
Testing level TOFD setup setup verification sensitivity settings Offset scan
test procedure
(see 8.2) (see 10.1.4)
A As in Table 2 No No No This document
B As in Table 2 No Yes No This document
C As in Table 2 Yes Yes a Yes
As defined by
D Yes Yes a Yes
specification
a
The necessity, number and position of offset scans shall be determined.
If the specified acceptance level requires detection of a certain discontinuity size at both surfaces or
one surface of the weld (see Clause 4), this can necessitate the use of techniques or methods outside the
scope of this document.
For manufacturing inspections (see also ISO 17635), all testing levels are applicable. Level A is only
applicable for wall thicknesses up to 50 mm. For in-service inspections, only testing level D shall be
applied.
© ISO 2020 – All rights reserved 3

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SIST EN ISO 10863:2020
ISO 10863:2020(E)

6 Information required prior to testing
6.1 Items to be defined by specification
Information on the following items is required:
a) purpose and extent of TOFD testing (see Clause 5 and Clause 8);
b) testing levels (see Clause 5), e.g.:
1) whether a written test procedure is required,
2) whether reference blocks are required;
c) specification of reference blocks, if required (see 10.3);
d) manufacturing or operation stage at which the testing is to be carried out;
e) requirements for: temperature, access and surface conditions (see Clause 8);
f) reporting requirements (see Clause 13);
g) acceptance criteria;
h) personnel qualifications (see 7.1).
6.2 Specific information required by the operator before testing
Before any testing of a welded joint can begin, the operator shall have access to all the information as
specified in 6.1 together with the following additional information:
a) written test instruction or procedure (see 6.3), if required;
b) type(s) of parent material and product form (i.e. cast, forged, rolled);
c) joint preparation and dimensions;
d) weldin
...

SLOVENSKI STANDARD
SIST EN ISO 10863:2020
01-september-2020
Nadomešča:
SIST EN ISO 10863:2011
Neporušitveno preskušanje zvarov - Ultrazvočno preskušanje - Uporaba tehnike
TOFD (ISO 10863:2020)
Non-destructive testing of welds - Ultrasonic testing - Use of time-of-flight diffraction
technique (TOFD) (ISO 10863:2020)
Zerstörungsfreie Prüfung von Schweißverbindungen - Ultraschallprüfung - Anwendung
der Beugungslaufzeittechnik (TOFD) (ISO 10863:2020)
Essais non destructifs des assemblages soudés - Contrôle par ultrasons - Utilisation de
la technique de diffraction des temps de vol (TOFD) (ISO 10863:2020)
Ta slovenski standard je istoveten z: EN ISO 10863:2020
ICS:
25.160.40 Varjeni spoji in vari Welded joints and welds
SIST EN ISO 10863:2020 en,fr,de
2003-01.Slovenski inštitut za standardizacijo. Razmnoževanje celote ali delov tega standarda ni dovoljeno.

---------------------- Page: 1 ----------------------
SIST EN ISO 10863:2020

---------------------- Page: 2 ----------------------
SIST EN ISO 10863:2020


EN ISO 10863
EUROPEAN STANDARD

NORME EUROPÉENNE

June 2020
EUROPÄISCHE NORM
ICS 25.160.40 Supersedes EN ISO 10863:2011
English Version

Non-destructive testing of welds - Ultrasonic testing - Use
of time-of-flight diffraction technique (TOFD) (ISO
10863:2020)
Essais non destructifs des assemblages soudés - Zerstörungsfreie Prüfung von Schweißverbindungen -
Contrôle par ultrasons - Utilisation de la technique de Ultraschallprüfung - Anwendung der
diffraction des temps de vol (TOFD) (ISO 10863:2020) Beugungslaufzeittechnik (TOFD) (ISO 10863:2020)
This European Standard was approved by CEN on 19 May 2020.

CEN members are bound to comply with the CEN/CENELEC Internal Regulations which stipulate the conditions for giving this
European Standard the status of a national standard without any alteration. Up-to-date lists and bibliographical references
concerning such national standards may be obtained on application to the CEN-CENELEC Management Centre or to any CEN
member.

This European Standard exists in three official versions (English, French, German). A version in any other language made by
translation under the responsibility of a CEN member into its own language and notified to the CEN-CENELEC Management
Centre has the same status as the official versions.

CEN members are the national standards bodies of Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia,
Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway,
Poland, Portugal, Republic of North Macedonia, Romania, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey and
United Kingdom.





EUROPEAN COMMITTEE FOR STANDARDIZATION
COMITÉ EUROPÉEN DE NORMALISATION

EUROPÄISCHES KOMITEE FÜR NORMUNG

CEN-CENELEC Management Centre: Rue de la Science 23, B-1040 Brussels
© 2020 CEN All rights of exploitation in any form and by any means reserved Ref. No. EN ISO 10863:2020 E
worldwide for CEN national Members.

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SIST EN ISO 10863:2020
EN ISO 10863:2020 (E)
Contents Page
European foreword . 3

2

---------------------- Page: 4 ----------------------
SIST EN ISO 10863:2020
EN ISO 10863:2020 (E)
European foreword
This document (EN ISO 10863:2020) has been prepared by Technical Committee ISO/TC 44 "Welding
and allied processes" in collaboration with Technical Committee CEN/TC 121 “Welding and allied
processes” the secretariat of which is held by DIN.
This European Standard shall be given the status of a national standard, either by publication of an
identical text or by endorsement, at the latest by December 2020, and conflicting national standards
shall be withdrawn at the latest by December 2020.
Attention is drawn to the possibility that some of the elements of this document may be the subject of
patent rights. CEN shall not be held responsible for identifying any or all such patent rights.
This document supersedes EN ISO 10863:2011.
According to the CEN-CENELEC Internal Regulations, the national standards organizations of the
following countries are bound to implement this European Standard: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria,
Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland,
Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Republic of
North Macedonia, Romania, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey and the
United Kingdom.
Endorsement notice
The text of ISO 10863:2020 has been approved by CEN as EN ISO 10863:2020 without any modification.

3

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SIST EN ISO 10863:2020

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SIST EN ISO 10863:2020
INTERNATIONAL ISO
STANDARD 10863
Second edition
2020-05
Non-destructive testing of welds —
Ultrasonic testing — Use of time-of-
flight diffraction technique (TOFD)
Essais non destructifs des assemblages soudés — Contrôle par ultrasons
— Utilisation de la technique de diffraction des temps de vol (TOFD)
Reference number
ISO 10863:2020(E)
©
ISO 2020

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SIST EN ISO 10863:2020
ISO 10863:2020(E)

COPYRIGHT PROTECTED DOCUMENT
© ISO 2020
All rights reserved. Unless otherwise specified, or required in the context of its implementation, no part of this publication may
be reproduced or utilized otherwise in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, or posting
on the internet or an intranet, without prior written permission. Permission can be requested from either ISO at the address
below or ISO’s member body in the country of the requester.
ISO copyright office
CP 401 • Ch. de Blandonnet 8
CH-1214 Vernier, Geneva
Phone: +41 22 749 01 11
Fax: +41 22 749 09 47
Email: copyright@iso.org
Website: www.iso.org
Published in Switzerland
ii © ISO 2020 – All rights reserved

---------------------- Page: 8 ----------------------
SIST EN ISO 10863:2020
ISO 10863:2020(E)

Contents Page
Foreword .v
1 Scope . 1
2 Normative references . 1
3 Terms and definitions . 2
4 General remarks on the capabilities of the technique . 2
5 Testing levels . 3
6 Information required prior to testing . 4
6.1 Items to be defined by specification . 4
6.2 Specific information required by the operator before testing . 4
6.3 Written test instruction or procedure . 4
7 Requirements for test personnel and test equipment . 5
7.1 Personnel qualifications . 5
7.2 Test equipment . 5
7.2.1 Ultrasonic instrument . 5
7.2.2 Ultrasonic probes . 5
7.2.3 Scanning mechanisms . 5
8 Preparation for testing . 5
8.1 Volume to be tested . 5
8.2 Setup of probes . 6
8.3 Scan increment setting . 7
8.4 Geometry considerations . 7
8.5 Preparation of scanning surfaces . 7
8.6 Temperature . 8
8.7 Couplant . 8
8.8 Provision of datum points . 8
9 Testing of base material . 8
10 Range and sensitivity settings . 8
10.1 Settings . 8
10.1.1 General. 8
10.1.2 Time window . 8
10.1.3 Time-to-depth conversion . 8
10.1.4 Sensitivity settings . 9
10.2 Checking of the settings . 9
10.3 Reference blocks . 9
10.3.1 General. 9
10.3.2 Material . 9
10.3.3 Dimensions and shape .10
10.3.4 Reference reflectors .10
11 Weld testing .10
12 Interpretation and analysis of TOFD images .11
12.1 General .11
12.2 Assessing the quality of the TOFD image .11
12.3 Identification of relevant TOFD indications .11
12.4 Classification of relevant TOFD indications .11
12.4.1 General.11
12.4.2 TOFD indications from surface-breaking discontinuities .12
12.4.3 TOFD indications from embedded discontinuities .12
12.4.4 Unclassified TOFD indications .13
12.5 Determination of location .13
12.6 Definition and determination of length and height .13
© ISO 2020 – All rights reserved iii

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SIST EN ISO 10863:2020
ISO 10863:2020(E)

12.6.1 General.13
12.6.2 Determination of length .14
12.6.3 Determination of height .16
12.7 Evaluation against acceptance criteria .17
13 Test report .17
Annex A (informative) Reference blocks .19
Annex B (informative) Examples of TOFD scans .24
Bibliography .37
iv © ISO 2020 – All rights reserved

---------------------- Page: 10 ----------------------
SIST EN ISO 10863:2020
ISO 10863:2020(E)

Foreword
ISO (the International Organization for Standardization) is a worldwide federation of national standards
bodies (ISO member bodies). The work of preparing International Standards is normally carried out
through ISO technical committees. Each member body interested in a subject for which a technical
committee has been established has the right to be represented on that committee. International
organizations, governmental and non-governmental, in liaison with ISO, also take part in the work.
ISO collaborates closely with the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) on all matters of
electrotechnical standardization.
The procedures used to develop this document and those intended for its further maintenance are
described in the ISO/IEC Directives, Part 1. In particular, the different approval criteria needed for the
different types of ISO documents should be noted. This document was drafted in accordance with the
editorial rules of the ISO/IEC Directives, Part 2 (see www .iso .org/ directives).
Attention is drawn to the possibility that some of the elements of this document may be the subject of
patent rights. ISO shall not be held responsible for identifying any or all such patent rights. Details of
any patent rights identified during the development of the document will be in the Introduction and/or
on the ISO list of patent declarations received (see www .iso .org/ patents).
Any trade name used in this document is information given for the convenience of users and does not
constitute an endorsement.
For an explanation of the voluntary nature of standards, the meaning of ISO specific terms and
expressions related to conformity assessment, as well as information about ISO's adherence to the
World Trade Organization (WTO) principles in the Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) see www .iso .org/
iso/ foreword .html.
This document was prepared by Technical Committee ISO/TC 44, Welding and allied processes,
Subcommittee SC 5, Testing and inspection of welds.
This second edition cancels and replaces the first edition (ISO 10863:2011), which has been technically
revised.
The main changes compared to the previous edition are as follows:
— the whole document has been updated to the state of the art; ISO 22232 series has been taken into
account;
— Clause 3 has been updated;
— Figure 1 to Figure 6 have been added;
— Figure B.1 to Figure B.18 have been updated.
Any feedback or questions on this document should be directed to the user’s national standards body. A
complete listing of these bodies can be found at www .iso .org/ members .html.
Official interpretations of ISO/TC 44 documents, where they exist, are available from this page: https://
committee .iso .org/ sites/ tc44/ home/ interpretation .html.
© ISO 2020 – All rights reserved v

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SIST EN ISO 10863:2020

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SIST EN ISO 10863:2020
INTERNATIONAL STANDARD ISO 10863:2020(E)
Non-destructive testing of welds — Ultrasonic testing —
Use of time-of-flight diffraction technique (TOFD)
1 Scope
This document specifies the application of the time-of-flight diffraction (TOFD) technique to the
semi- or fully automated ultrasonic testing of fusion-welded joints in metallic materials of minimum
thickness 6 mm.
It applies to full penetration welded joints of simple geometry in plates, pipes, and vessels, where both
the weld and the parent material are low-alloyed carbon steel. Where specified and appropriate, TOFD
can also be used on other types of materials that exhibit low ultrasonic attenuation (especially that due
to scatter).
Where material-dependent ultrasonic parameters are specified in this document, they are based on
steels having a sound velocity of (5 920 ± 50) m/s for longitudinal waves and (3 255 ± 30) m/s for
transverse waves. It is necessary to take this fact into account when testing materials with a different
velocity.
This document makes reference to ISO 16828 and provides guidance on the specific capabilities and
limitations of TOFD for the detection, location, sizing and characterization of discontinuities in fusion-
welded joints. TOFD can be used as a stand-alone method or in combination with other non-destructive
testing (NDT) methods or techniques, for manufacturing inspection, and for in-service inspection.
This document specifies four testing levels (A, B, C, D) in accordance with ISO 17635 and corresponding
to an increasing level of testing reliability. Guidance on the selection of testing levels is provided.
This document permits assessment of TOFD indications for acceptance purposes. This assessment is
based on the evaluation of transmitted, reflected and diffracted ultrasonic signals within a generated
TOFD image.
This document does not include acceptance levels for discontinuities.
2 Normative references
The following documents are referred to in the text in such a way that some or all of their content
constitutes requirements of this document. For dated references, only the edition cited applies. For
undated references, the latest edition of the referenced document (including any amendments) applies.
ISO 5577, Non-destructive testing — Ultrasonic testing — Vocabulary
ISO 9712, Non-destructive testing — Qualification and certification of NDT personnel
ISO 16828, Non-destructive testing — Ultrasonic testing — Time-of-flight diffraction technique as a
method for detection and sizing of discontinuities
ISO 17640, Non-destructive testing of welds — Ultrasonic testing — Techniques, testing levels, and
assessment
1)
ISO 22232-1 , Non-destructive testing — Characterization and verification of ultrasonic test equipment —
Part 1: Instruments
1) Under preparation. (Preparation at the time of publication: ISO/FDIS 22232-1.)
© ISO 2020 – All rights reserved 1

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SIST EN ISO 10863:2020
ISO 10863:2020(E)

2)
ISO 22232-2 , Non-destructive testing — Characterization and verification of ultrasonic test equipment —
Part 2: Probes
3 Terms and definitions
For the purposes of this document, the terms and definitions given in ISO 5577 and the following apply.
ISO and IEC maintain terminological databases for use in standardization at the following addresses:
— ISO Online browsing platform: available at https:// www .iso .org/ obp
— IEC Electropedia: available at http:// www .electropedia .org/
3.1
time-of-flight diffraction image
TOFD image
two-dimensional image, constructed by collecting adjacent A-scans while moving the time-of-flight
diffraction setup (3.3)
Note 1 to entry: The signal amplitude of the A-scans is typically represented by grey-scale values.
3.2
time-of-flight diffraction indication
TOFD indication
pattern or disturbance in the time-of-flight diffraction image (3.1) which can need further evaluation
3.3
time-of-flight diffraction setup
TOFD setup
probe arrangement defined by probe characteristics (e.g. frequency, probe element size, beam angle,
wave mode) and probe centre separation (3.6)
3.4
beam intersection point
point of intersection of the two main beam axes
3.5
lateral wave
longitudinal wave traveling the shortest path from transmitter probe to receiver probe
3.6
probe centre separation
PCS
distance between the index points of the two probes
Note 1 to entry: The PCS for two probes located on a curved surface is the straight-line, geometric separation
between the two probe index points and not the distance measured along the surface.
3.7
offset scan
scan parallel to the weld axis, where the beam intersection point (3.4) is not on the centreline of the weld
4 General remarks on the capabilities of the technique
General principles of the TOFD technique are described in ISO 16828. For the testing of fusion-welded
joints, some specific capabilities and limitations of the technique shall be considered.
2) Under preparation. (Preparation at the time of publication: ISO/DIS 22232-2.)
2 © ISO 2020 – All rights reserved

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SIST EN ISO 10863:2020
ISO 10863:2020(E)

The TOFD technique is an ultrasonic image-generating technique, which offers the capability of
detection, location, and sizing. To a certain extent, characterization of discontinuities in the weld
material as well as in the adjacent parent material is also possible.
Compared with purely reflection-based techniques, the TOFD technique, which is based on diffraction
as well as reflection, is less sensitive to the orientation of the discontinuity. Discontinuities oriented
perpendicular to the surface, and at intermediate angles of tilt, are detectable as well as discontinuities
in the weld fusion faces.
In certain circumstances (e.g. thickness, weld preparation, scope of testing) more than one single TOFD
setup is required.
A typical TOFD image is linear in time (vertical axis) and probe movement (horizontal axis). Because of
the V-configuration of the ultrasound paths, the location of a possible discontinuity is then non-linear.
TOFD testing shall be carried out in a correct and consistent way, such that valid images are generated
which can be evaluated correctly, e.g. coupling losses and data acquisition errors shall be avoided,
see 12.2.
The interpretation of TOFD images requires skilled and experienced operators. Some typical TOFD
images of discontinuities in fusion-welded joints are provided in Annex B.
There is a reduced capability for the detection of discontinuities close to or connected with the scanning
surface or with the opposite surface. This shall be considered especially for crack-sensitive steels or
at in-service inspections. In cases where full coverage of these zones is required, additional measures
shall be taken, e.g. TOFD can be accompanied by other NDT methods or techniques.
Diffracted signals from weld discontinuities can have small amplitude responses. The grain scatter
effect from coarse-grained material can hinder the detection and evaluation of such responses. This
shall be taken into account whenever testing such material.
5 Testing levels
This document specifies four testing levels (A, B, C and D, see Table 1). From testing level A to testing
level C an increasing reliability is achieved.
Table 1 — Testing levels
Reference block for Reference block for
Written
Testing level TOFD setup setup verification sensitivity settings Offset scan
test procedure
(see 8.2) (see 10.1.4)
A As in Table 2 No No No This document
B As in Table 2 No Yes No This document
C As in Table 2 Yes Yes a Yes
As defined by
D Yes Yes a Yes
specification
a
The necessity, number and position of offset scans shall be determined.
If the specified acceptance level requires detection of a certain discontinuity size at both surfaces or
one surface of the weld (see Clause 4), this can necessitate the use of techniques or methods outside the
scope of this document.
For manufacturing inspections (see also ISO 17635), all testing levels are applicable. Level A is only
applicable for wall thicknesses up to 50 mm. For in-service inspections, only testing level D shall be
applied.
© ISO 2020 – All rights reserved 3

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SIST EN ISO 10863:2020
ISO 10863:2020(E)

6 Information required prior to testing
6.1 Items to be defined by specification
Information on the following items is required:
a) purpose and extent of TOFD testing (see Clause 5 and Clause 8);
b) testing levels (see Clause 5), e.g.:
1) whether a written test procedure is required,
2) whether reference blocks are required;
c) specification of reference blocks, if required (see 10.3);
d) manufacturing or operation stage at which the testing is to be carried out;
e) requirements for: temperature, access and surface conditions (see Clause 8);
f) reporting requirements (see Clause 13);
g) acceptance criteria;
h) personnel qualifications (see 7.1).
6.2 Specific information required by the operator before testing
Before any testing of a welded joint can begin, the operator shall have access to all the information as
specified in 6.1 together with the following additional information:
a) written test instruction or procedure (see 6.3), if required;
b) type(s) of parent material and product form (i.e. cast, forged, rolled);
c) joint preparation and dimensions;
d) welding procedure or relevant information
...

SLOVENSKI STANDARD
oSIST prEN ISO 10863:2019
01-januar-2019
1HSRUXãLWYHQRSUHVNXãDQMH]YDURY8OWUD]YRþQDSUHLVNDYD8SRUDEDWHKQLNH
72)' ,62',6
Non-destructive testing of welds - Ultrasonic testing - Use of time-of-flight diffraction
technique (TOFD) (ISO/DIS 10863:2018)
Zerstörungsfreie Prüfung von Schweißverbindungen - Ultraschallprüfung - Anwendung
der Beugungslaufzeittechnik (TOFD) (ISO/DIS 10863:2018)
Contrôle non destructif des assemblages soudés - Contrôle par ultrasons - Utilisation
de la technique de diffraction des temps de vol (méthode TOFD) (ISO/DIS 10863:2018)
Ta slovenski standard je istoveten z: prEN ISO 10863
ICS:
25.160.40 Varjeni spoji in vari Welded joints and welds
oSIST prEN ISO 10863:2019 en,fr,de
2003-01.Slovenski inštitut za standardizacijo. Razmnoževanje celote ali delov tega standarda ni dovoljeno.

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oSIST prEN ISO 10863:2019

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oSIST prEN ISO 10863:2019
DRAFT INTERNATIONAL STANDARD
ISO/DIS 10863
ISO/TC 44/SC 5 Secretariat: AFNOR
Voting begins on: Voting terminates on:
2018-11-21 2019-02-13
Non-destructive testing of welds — Ultrasonic testing —
Use of time-of-flight diffraction technique (TOFD)
Contrôle non destructif des assemblages soudés — Contrôle par ultrasons — Utilisation de la technique de
diffraction des temps de vol (méthode TOFD)
ICS: 25.160.40
THIS DOCUMENT IS A DRAFT CIRCULATED
This document is circulated as received from the committee secretariat.
FOR COMMENT AND APPROVAL. IT IS
THEREFORE SUBJECT TO CHANGE AND MAY
NOT BE REFERRED TO AS AN INTERNATIONAL
STANDARD UNTIL PUBLISHED AS SUCH.
IN ADDITION TO THEIR EVALUATION AS
ISO/CEN PARALLEL PROCESSING
BEING ACCEPTABLE FOR INDUSTRIAL,
TECHNOLOGICAL, COMMERCIAL AND
USER PURPOSES, DRAFT INTERNATIONAL
STANDARDS MAY ON OCCASION HAVE TO
BE CONSIDERED IN THE LIGHT OF THEIR
POTENTIAL TO BECOME STANDARDS TO
WHICH REFERENCE MAY BE MADE IN
Reference number
NATIONAL REGULATIONS.
ISO/DIS 10863:2018(E)
RECIPIENTS OF THIS DRAFT ARE INVITED
TO SUBMIT, WITH THEIR COMMENTS,
NOTIFICATION OF ANY RELEVANT PATENT
RIGHTS OF WHICH THEY ARE AWARE AND TO
©
PROVIDE SUPPORTING DOCUMENTATION. ISO 2018

---------------------- Page: 3 ----------------------
oSIST prEN ISO 10863:2019
ISO/DIS 10863:2018(E)

COPYRIGHT PROTECTED DOCUMENT
© ISO 2018
All rights reserved. Unless otherwise specified, or required in the context of its implementation, no part of this publication may
be reproduced or utilized otherwise in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, or posting
on the internet or an intranet, without prior written permission. Permission can be requested from either ISO at the address
below or ISO’s member body in the country of the requester.
ISO copyright office
CP 401 • Ch. de Blandonnet 8
CH-1214 Vernier, Geneva
Phone: +41 22 749 01 11
Fax: +41 22 749 09 47
Email: copyright@iso.org
Website: www.iso.org
Published in Switzerland
ii © ISO 2018 – All rights reserved

---------------------- Page: 4 ----------------------
oSIST prEN ISO 10863:2019
ISO/DIS 10863:2018(E)

Contents Page
Foreword .v
1 Scope . 1
2 Normative references . 1
3 Terms and definitions . 2
4 General remarks on the capabilities of the technique . 2
5 Testing levels . 3
6 Information required prior to testing . 3
6.1 Items to be defined by specification . 3
6.2 Specific information required by the operator before testing . 4
6.3 Written test instruction or procedure . 4
7 Requirements for test personnel and equipment . 4
7.1 Personnel qualifications . 4
7.2 Test equipment . 5
8 Preparation for testing . 5
8.1 Volume to be tested . 5
8.2 Setup of probes . 5
8.3 Scan increment setting . 6
8.4 Geometry considerations . 6
8.5 Preparation of scanning surfaces . 7
8.6 Temperature . 7
8.7 Couplant . 7
8.8 Provision of datum points . 7
9 Testing of base material . 7
10 Range and sensitivity settings . 7
10.1 Settings . 7
10.1.1 General. 7
10.1.2 Time window . 7
10.1.3 Time-to-depth conversion . 8
10.1.4 Sensitivity settings . 8
10.2 Checking of the settings . 8
10.3 Reference blocks . 9
10.3.1 General. 9
10.3.2 Material . 9
10.3.3 Dimensions and shape . 9
10.3.4 Reference reflectors . 9
11 Weld testing . 9
12 Interpretation and analysis of TOFD images .10
12.1 General .10
12.2 Assessing the quality of the TOFD image .10
12.3 Identification of relevant TOFD indications .10
12.4 Classification of relevant TOFD indications .11
12.4.1 General.11
12.4.2 TOFD indications from surface-breaking discontinuities .11
12.4.3 TOFD indications from embedded discontinuities .11
12.4.4 Unclassified TOFD indications .12
12.5 Determination of location .12
12.6 Definition and determination of length and height .12
12.6.1 General.12
12.6.2 Determination of length .14
12.6.3 Determination of height .15
© ISO 2018 – All rights reserved iii

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oSIST prEN ISO 10863:2019
ISO/DIS 10863:2018(E)

12.7 Evaluation against acceptance criteria .16
13 Test report .16
Annex A (informative) Reference blocks .18
Annex B (informative) Examples of TOFD scans .23
Bibliography .37
iv © ISO 2018 – All rights reserved

---------------------- Page: 6 ----------------------
oSIST prEN ISO 10863:2019
ISO/DIS 10863:2018(E)

Foreword
ISO (the International Organization for Standardization) is a worldwide federation of national standards
bodies (ISO member bodies). The work of preparing International Standards is normally carried out
through ISO technical committees. Each member body interested in a subject for which a technical
committee has been established has the right to be represented on that committee. International
organizations, governmental and non-governmental, in liaison with ISO, also take part in the work.
ISO collaborates closely with the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) on all matters of
electrotechnical standardization.
The procedures used to develop this document and those intended for its further maintenance are
described in the ISO/IEC Directives, Part 1. In particular, the different approval criteria needed for the
different types of ISO documents should be noted. This document was drafted in accordance with the
editorial rules of the ISO/IEC Directives, Part 2 (see www .iso .org/directives).
Attention is drawn to the possibility that some of the elements of this document may be the subject of
patent rights. ISO shall not be held responsible for identifying any or all such patent rights. Details of
any patent rights identified during the development of the document will be in the Introduction and/or
on the ISO list of patent declarations received (see www .iso .org/patents).
Any trade name used in this document is information given for the convenience of users and does not
constitute an endorsement.
For an explanation of the voluntary nature of standards, the meaning of ISO specific terms and
expressions related to conformity assessment, as well as information about ISO's adherence to the
World Trade Organization (WTO) principles in the Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT), see www .iso
.org/iso/foreword .html.
This document was prepared by Technical CommitteeISO/TC 44, Welding and allied processes,
Subcommittee SC 5, Testing and inspection of welds.
This second edition cancels and replaces the first edition (ISO 10632:2011), which has been technically
revised.
The main changes compared to the previous edition are as follows:
— the hole document was updated to the state of the art.
Any feedback, question or request for official interpretation related to any aspect of this document
should be directed to the Secretariat of ISO/TC 44/SC 5 via your national standards body. A complete
listing of these bodies can be found at www .iso .org/members .html. Official interpretations, where they
exist, are available from this page: https: //committee .iso .org/sites/tc44/home/interpretation .html.
© ISO 2018 – All rights reserved v

---------------------- Page: 7 ----------------------
oSIST prEN ISO 10863:2019

---------------------- Page: 8 ----------------------
oSIST prEN ISO 10863:2019
DRAFT INTERNATIONAL STANDARD ISO/DIS 10863:2018(E)
Non-destructive testing of welds — Ultrasonic testing —
Use of time-of-flight diffraction technique (TOFD)
1 Scope
This International Standard specifies the application of the time-of-flight diffraction (TOFD) technique
to the semi- or fully automated ultrasonic testing of fusion-welded joints in metallic materials of
minimum thickness 6 mm. It applies to full penetration welded joints of simple geometry in plates,
pipes, and vessels, where both the weld and the parent material are low-alloyed carbon steel. Where
specified and appropriate, TOFD can also be used on other types of materials that exhibit low ultrasonic
attenuation (especially that due to scatter).
Where material-dependent ultrasonic parameters are specified in this document, they are based on
steels having a sound velocity of (5 920 ± 50) m/s for longitudinal waves, and (3 255 ± 30) m/s for
transverse waves. It is necessary to take this fact into account when testing materials with a different
velocity.
This document makes reference to the basic standard ISO 16828 and provides guidance on the
specific capabilities and limitations of TOFD for the detection, location, sizing and characterization of
discontinuities in fusion-welded joints. TOFD can be used as a stand-alone method or in combination
with other non-destructive testing (NDT) methods or techniques, for manufacturing inspection, and
for in-service inspection.
This document specifies four testing levels (A, B, C, D) in accordance with ISO 17635 and corresponding
to an increasing level of testing reliability. Guidance on the selection of testing levels is provided.
This document permits assessment of TOFD indications for acceptance purposes. This assessment is
based on the evaluation of transmitted, reflected and diffracted ultrasonic signals within a generated
TOFD image.
This document does not include acceptance levels for discontinuities.
2 Normative references
The following documents are referred to in the text in such a way that some or all of their content
constitutes requirements of this document. For dated references, only the edition cited applies. For
undated references, the latest edition of the referenced document (including any amendments) applies.
ISO 5577, Non-destructive testing — Ultrasonic testing — Vocabulary
ISO 9712, Non-destructive testing — Qualification and certification of NDT personnel
ISO 16828, Non-destructive testing — Ultrasonic testing — Time-of-flight diffraction technique as a
method for detection and sizing of discontinuities
ISO 17635, Non-destructive testing of welds — General rules for metallic materials
ISO 17640, Non-destructive testing of welds — Ultrasonic testing — Techniques, testing levels, and
assessment
EN 12668 (all parts), Non-destructive testing — Characterization and verification of ultrasonic
examination equipment
© ISO 2018 – All rights reserved 1

---------------------- Page: 9 ----------------------
oSIST prEN ISO 10863:2019
ISO/DIS 10863:2018(E)

3 Terms and definitions
For the purposes of this document, the terms and definitions given in ISO 5577 and the following apply.
ISO and IEC maintain terminological databases for use in standardization at the following addresses:
— ISO Online browsing platform: available at http: //www .iso .org/obp
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3.1
time-of-flight diffraction setup
TOFD setup
probe arrangement defined by probe characteristics (e.g. frequency, probe element size, beam angle,
wave mode) and probe centre separation
3.2
probe centre separation
PCS
distance between the index points of the two probes
Note 1 to entry: The PCS for two probes located on a curved surface is the straight-line, geometric separation
between the two probe index points and not the distance measured along the surface.
3.3
beam intersection point
point of intersection of the two main beam axes
3.4
time-of-flight diffraction indication
TOFD indication
pattern or disturbance in the time-of-flight diffraction image which may need further evaluation
3.5
time-of-flight diffraction image
TOFD image
two-dimensional image, constructed by collecting adjacent A-scans while moving the time-of-flight
diffraction setup
Note 1 to entry: The signal amplitude of the A-scans is typically represented by grey-scale values.
3.6
offset scan
scan parallel to the weld axis, where the beam intersection point is not on the centreline of the weld
4 General remarks on the capabilities of the technique
General principles of the TOFD technique are described in ISO 16828. For the testing of fusion-welded
joints, some specific capabilities and limitations of the technique have to be considered.
The TOFD technique is an ultrasonic image-generating technique, which offers the capability of
detection, location, and sizing. To a certain extent, characterization of discontinuities in the weld
material as well as in the adjacent parent material is also possible.
Compared with purely reflection-based techniques, the TOFD technique, which is based upon diffraction
as well as reflection, is less sensitive to the orientation of the discontinuity. Discontinuities oriented
perpendicular to the surface, and at intermediate angles of tilt, are detectable as well as discontinuities
in the weld fusion faces.
In certain circumstances (thickness, weld preparation, scope of testing, etc.) more than one single TOFD
setup is required.
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A typical TOFD image is linear in time (vertical axis) and probe movement (horizontal axis). Because of
the V-configuration of the ultrasound paths, the location of a possible discontinuity is then non-linear.
TOFD testing has to be carried out in a correct and consistent way, such that valid images are generated
which can be evaluated correctly, e.g. coupling losses and data acquisition errors have to be avoided,
see 12.2.
The interpretation of TOFD images requires skilled and experienced operators. Some typical TOFD
images of discontinuities in fusion-welded joints are provided in Annex B.
There is a reduced capability for the detection of discontinuities close to or connected with the scanning
surface or with the opposite surface. This has to be considered especially for crack-sensitive steels or
at in-service inspections. In cases where full coverage of these zones is required, additional measures
shall be taken, e.g. TOFD can be accompanied by other NDT methods or techniques.
Diffracted signals from weld discontinuities can have small amplitude responses. The grain scatter
effect from coarse-grained material can hinder the detection and evaluation of such responses. This
shall be taken into account whenever testing such material.
5 Testing levels
This document specifies four testing levels (A, B, C and D, see Table 1). From testing level A to testing
level C an increasing reliability is achieved.
Table 1 — Testing levels
Reference block for Reference block for
Written
Testing level TOFD setup setup verification sensitivity settings Offset scan
test procedure
(see 8.2) (see 10.1.4)
A As in Table 2 No No No This document
B As in Table 2 No Yes No This document
C As in Table 2 Yes Yes a Yes
As defined by
D Yes Yes a Yes
specification
a
The necessity, number and position of offset scans have to be determined.
If the specified acceptance level requires detection of a certain discontinuity size at both surfaces or
one surface of the weld (see Clause 4), this can necessitate the use of techniques or methods outside the
scope of this document.
For manufacturing inspections (see also ISO 17635), all testing levels are applicable. Level A is only
applicable for wall thicknesses up to 50 mm. For in-service inspections, only testing level D shall be
applied.
6 Information required prior to testing
6.1 Items to be defined by specification
Information on the following items is required:
a) purpose and extent of TOFD testing (see Clauses 5 and 8);
b) testing levels (see Clause 5), e.g.:
1) whether a written test procedure is required,
2) whether reference blocks are required;
c) specification of reference blocks, if required (see 10.3);
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d) manufacturing or operation stage at which the testing is to be carried out;
e) requirements for: temperature, access and surface conditions (see Clause 8);
f) reporting requirements (see Clause 13);
g) acceptance criteria;
h) personnel qualifications (see 7.1).
6.2 Specific information required by the operator before testing
Before any testing of a welded joint can begin, the operator shall have access to all the information as
specified in 6.1 together with the following additional information:
a) written test instruction or procedure (see 6.3), if required;
b) type(s) of parent material and product form (i.e. cast, forged, rolled);
c) joint preparation and dimensions;
d) welding procedure or relevant information on the welding process;
e) time of testing relative to any post-weld heat treatment;
f) result of any parent metal testing carried out prior to and/or after welding;
g) defect type and morphology to be detected.
6.3 Written test instruction or procedure
For testing levels A and B, this document satisfies the need for a written test procedure.
For testing levels C and D, or where the techniques described in this document are not applicable to the
welded joint to be tested, a specific written test procedure shall be used.
When data collection is performed by personnel certified to Level 1 according to ISO 9712, a written test
instruction shall be prepared. The written test instruction shall contain as a minimum the information
listed in Clause 13.
7 Requirements for test personnel and equipment
7.1 Personnel qualifications
In addition to a general knowledge of ultrasonic weld testing, all personnel shall be competent in
the TOFD technique. Documented evidence of their competence (level of training and experience) is
required.
Preparation of written test instructions, final off-line analysis of data, and acceptance of the report shall
be performed by personnel qualified as a minimum to Level 2 in accordance with ISO 9712 or equivalent
in ultrasonic testing in the relevant industrial sector. In accordance with a written instruction and
under the supervision of Level 2 or Level 3 personnel, equipment setup, data acquisition, data storage,
and report preparation can be performed by personnel certified to a minimum of Level 1 in accordance
with ISO 9712 or equivalent in ultrasonic testing in the relevant industrial sector.
For data acquisition, the Level 1 personnel may be supported by an assistant technician.
In cases where the above minimum qualifications are not considered adequate, job-specific training
shall be carried out.
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7.2 Test equipment
7.2.1 Ultrasonic instruments and display. The ultrasonic instrument used for the TOFD technique
shall, where applicable, comply with the requirements of EN 12668-1.
The TOFD software shall not mask any problems such as loss of coupling, missing scan lines,
synchronization errors or electronic noise.
In addition, the requirements of ISO 16828 shall apply, taking into account the following:
a) the instrument shall be able to select an appropriate portion of the time base within which A-scans
are digitized;
b) it is recommended that a sampling rate of the A-scan of at least 6 times the nominal probe frequency
be used.
7.2.2 Ultrasonic probes. Probes used for the TOFD technique on welds shall comply with ISO 12668-2
and ISO 16828.
Adaptation of probes to curved scanning surfaces shall comply with ISO 17640.
A recommendation for the selection of probes is given in Table 2.
7.2.3 Scanning mechanisms. The requirements of ISO 16828 shall apply. To achieve consistency of
the images (collected data), guiding mechanisms may be used.
8 Preparation for testing
8.1 Volume to be tested
Testing shall be performed in accordance with ISO 16828. The purpose of the testing shall be defined by
specification. Based on this, the volume to be tested shall be determined.
The volume to be tested is located between the probes. For testing levels A and B, the probes shall be
placed symmetrically about the weld centreline. For testing levels C and D, additional offset scans may
be required.
For manufacturing inspection, the examination volume is defined as the zone which includes weld
and parent material for at least 10 mm on each side of the weld or the width of the heat-affected zone,
whichever is greater. In all cases the whole examination volume shall be covered.
Normally these tests are performed in accordance with recognized standards applying acceptance
levels for quality assurance. If fitness-for-purpose methods are applied, then corresponding acceptance
criteria shall be
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