Radiographic Testing Level 2 Practice Questions & Exam Prep

About This Exam

The ASNT Radiographic Testing (RT) Level 2 certification exam assesses comprehensive knowledge of radiographic inspection principles, equipment operation, technique selection, and radiograph interpretation. The exam contains 150 multiple-choice questions with a 70% passing requirement (105 questions) and a 4-hour time limit. It is open-book, allowing reference to ASME Section V, ASTM E94, and other applicable standards. Eligibility requires completion of Level 1 training and 1,000 hours of RT experience or approved training substitutions per SNT-TC-1A.

Key Topics Covered

Radiation Sources and Equipment

RT uses either X-ray or gamma radiation to create radiographic images. Understanding X-ray generation in tube equipment, gamma decay in isotope sources, source characteristics, and equipment limitations is essential. You must know energy levels, radiation quality, source-to-film distance effects, and equipment maintenance requirements.

Exposure Parameters and Technique Selection

Selecting proper exposure parameters (mA, kVp, time, distance, filtration) directly impacts image quality and inspection effectiveness. This includes understanding the inverse square law, half-value layer, penetrameter selection, and how parameters affect contrast, sensitivity, and exposure time.

Film and Imaging Systems

Modern RT uses both traditional radiographic film and digital detector systems. Knowledge includes film types, speed ratings, sensitivity, contrast characteristics, screen use, and digital detector advantages. Understanding image quality indicators, film storage, and handling procedures ensures reliable results.

Radiograph Quality and Image Interpretation

A quality radiograph requires proper exposure (correct density), good contrast, minimal distortion, and clear visualization of relevant details. Interpretation requires understanding defect morphology—how different discontinuities appear on radiographs—and distinguishing meaningful indications from artifacts.

Defect Detection and Classification

RT can detect internal voids, inclusions, segregation, and lack of fusion. Understanding how different defects appear, their severity assessment, and acceptance criteria per applicable codes is critical. You must recognize both linear and volumetric discontinuities.

Safety and Protection

Radiation safety is paramount in RT. Understanding exposure limits, shielding requirements, distance and time principles, monitoring procedures, and regulatory compliance ensures both personal safety and program integrity.

Practice Questions (Sample)

1. The inverse square law in radiography states that radiation intensity is inversely proportional to the square of the distance from source.
This fundamental relationship is critical for exposure time selection and image quality consistency.

Additional 24 questions follow with full answers and detailed explanations covering X-ray operation, film speed, density, contrast, geometric unsharpness, penetrameters, and safety principles.

Study Tips & Exam Strategy

1. Understand the Physics Foundation: RT is heavily physics-based. Master inverse square law, penetration, scattering effects.

2. Master Defect Recognition Patterns: Study how different defects appear on radiographs.

3. Know Your Standards: ASTM E94 and ASME Section V Article 2 are referenced extensively.

4. Practice Exposure Calculations: Many Level 2 questions involve numerical problem-solving.

5. Study Equipment Operating Characteristics: Know X-ray tube operation, isotope decay, and digital detector technology.

Recommended Study Resources

Standards: ASTM E94, E747, E1444; ASME Section V Article 2; SNT-TC-1A

References: "Radiographic Testing" by ASNT; "Nondestructive Testing Handbook" Volume 3