W. CONSHOHOCKEN, PA--A new ASTM International standard provides the necessary background and describes the step-by-step process for analyzing nondestructive testing hit/miss data resulting from a probability of detection (POD) examination, including minimum requirements for validating the resulting POD curve.

The new standard, ASTM E2862, Practice for Probability of Detection Analysis for Hit/Miss Data, has been developed by Subcommittee E07.10 on Specialized NDT Methods, part of ASTM International Committee E07 on Nondestructive Testing.

"A probability of detection demonstration test and analysis is the best available method for quantifying the detection capability of a nondestructive testing system," says Jennifer R. Brown, senior statistician, Pratt & Whitney Rocketdyne, and a member of E07.10. "However, a POD demonstration test and analysis can be a pointless exercise without a basic understanding of the NDT system, as well as a general understanding of the underlying statistical method on which the POD analysis is based."

Brown notes that ASTM E2862 will provide this understanding and will be useful to anyone who is responsible for performing a probability of detection analysis on hit/miss data resulting from a POD examination, as well as those who are recipients of, and base decisions on, the results of such an analysis. The National Aeronautics and Space Administration requires probability of detection demonstration tests on nondestructive testing systems that are used evaluate fracture critical hardware.