This International Standard specifies techniques for the manual ultrasonic testing of fusion-welded joints in metallic materials of thickness greater than or equal to 8 mm which exhibit low ultrasonic attenuation (especially that due to scatter) at object temperatures from 0 °C to 60 °C. It is primarily intended for use on full penetration welded joints where both the welded and parent material are ferritic.

Where material-dependent ultrasonic values are specified in this International Standard, they are based on steels having an ultrasonic sound velocity of (5 920 ± 50) m/s for longitudinal waves and (3 255 ± 30) m/s for transverse waves.

This International Standard specifies four testing levels, each corresponding to a different probability of detection of imperfections. Guidance on the selection of testing levels A, B, and C is given in Annex A.

This International Standard specifies that the requirements of testing level D, which is intended for special applications, be in accordance with general requirements. Testing level D can only be used when defined by specification. This includes tests of metals other than ferritic steel, tests on partial penetration welds, tests with automated equipment, and tests at object temperatures outside the range 0 °C to 60 °C.

This International Standard can be used for the assessment of indications, for acceptance purposes, by either of the following techniques:

The techniques used shall be specified.