Important information
To enrol on a PCN Level 3 Main Method course, candidates must already hold a PCN Level 3 Basic certificate. Those who do not currently hold this qualification must successfully complete the PCN Level 3 Basic examination before registering for any Level 3 Main Method.
Candidates should also hold PCN Level 2 certification in the relevant method/sector and have gained the appropriate practical experience prior to attempting a Level 3 sector examination (e.g. Welds, Castings, or Wrought Products). Training duration varies depending on individual experience. Minimum requirements are detailed in the latest edition of PCN24/GEN.
These courses prepare candidates for the PCN Level 3 Practitioner examination, covering both general and method-specific theory.
Upgraded knowledge of the following:
- Eddy Current History
- Electrical properties
- Principles of magnetism
- Principles of electromagnetism
- Eddy Current Calculations
- Alternative/Advanced uses of Eddy Current
- Eddy Current inspection equipment
- Equipment calibration
- Defect detection and evaluation
- Eddy Current techniques
- Procedure Writing
- Relevant standards
- PCN documentation.
Validated by BINDT and recognised by PCN
An individual certified to Eddy Current Testing Level 3 has demonstrated competence to perform and direct Eddy Current Testing operators for which he is certified. Eddy Current Testing Level 3 personnel have demonstrated:
- The competence to evaluate and interpret results in terms of existing standards, codes, and specifications
- Sufficient practical knowledge of applicable materials, fabrication, process, and product technology to select Eddy Current Testing methods, establish Eddy Current Testing techniques and assist in establishing acceptance criteria where non are otherwise available
- A general familiarity with other NDT methods
Within the scope of the competence defined on the certificate, Eddy Current Testing Level 3 personnel may be authorised to:
- Assume full responsibility for the test facility or examination centre and staff
- Establish, review for editorial and technical correctness and validate Eddy Current Testing instructions and procedures
- Interpret codes, standards, specifications and procedures
- Designate the particular Eddy Current test methods, techniques and procedures to be used
- Within the scope and limitations of any certification held, carry out all tasks at all levels
- Provide guidance for Eddy Current Testing personnel at all levels
Level 3 certified personnel may be authorised to carry out, manage and supervise PCN qualification examinations on behalf of the British Institute of NDT (BINDT).
Where Level 3 duties require the individual to apply routine NDT by a method or methods within a particular product or industry sector, BINDT strongly recommends that the industry demand that this person should hold and maintain Level 2 certification in the applicable method(s) and sector(s).
The range and scope of PCN certification available at each level is defined in the relevant appendix to these general requirements.
Certification under the PCN scheme is awarded once candidates have completed the required training, gained the necessary industry experience, and passed the relevant examinations.
For Level 3 certification, candidates must meet the minimum experience requirements before attempting any main method examination. As training duration and experience thresholds depend on prior qualifications, candidates should refer to PCN24/GEN for full and up-to-date criteria.
For Eddy Current Testing (ET) Level 3 certification, the minimum industrial experience requirements are:
| Route | Experience |
| Higher education (degree in non-destructive testing) with Level 2 | 270 days |
| PCN Level 2 holders | 450 days |
| Direct access, with higher education (degree in non-destructive testing) | 540 days |
