Non-Destructive Component Testing: Inline 100% Quality Assurance

Column: Can You Do That With Plastic, Too? Component Testing—Is a Non-Destructive Approach Possible?

2026-08-04 A guest post by Luis Wachter, Team Leader, Non-Destructive Testing, SKZ | Translated by AI 3 min Reading Time

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SKZ - Testing GmbH

A component may appear visually flawless—but are there hidden voids or fiber defects inside? Traditional spot checks quickly reach their limits when production rates are high and there is a shortage of skilled workers. Modern inline methods—ranging from terahertz to thermography—pave the way for fully automated 100-percent inspection directly within the production process.

Non-destructive and process-compatible monitoring of polymer foams, shown here in the laboratory.(Bild: Luca Hoffmannbeck, SKZ) — Non-destructive and process-compatible monitoring of polymer foams, shown here in the laboratory.
(Bild: Luca Hoffmannbeck, SKZ)

At first glance, your component looks perfect. But does it actually live up to its promises? Non-destructive testing (NDT) techniques have been an established part of modern quality assurance for decades. Traditionally deeply rooted in the metalworking industry, they have also found many applications in the plastics industry for years. For example, ultrasonics can be used to detect voids or air pockets in components, and computed tomography (CT) can be used to characterize the length and orientation of fibers. Other testing methods, such as measuring basis weight using X-rays or visual inspection, are also recognized as reliable quality assurance methods in certain processing steps.

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