How should the penetrameter be placed when the radiograph represents less than the outer edge being shot?

• A. IQI wires shall be perpendicular to the joint with the smallest wire on the outer edge
• B. The wires shall be parallel to the joint with the largest on outer edge
• C. All IQIs must be perpendicular to the film surface
• D. IQIs are not used when radiograph is less than outer edge

Answer: (A)

Penetrameter placement is about ensuring a valid reference for radiographic penetration even when the edge of the weld or feature isn’t fully within the film. When the radiograph represents less than the outer edge being shot, orient the IQI so its wires are perpendicular to the joint and place the smallest wire at the outer edge. The smallest wire is the most sensitive indicator of penetration quality, so having it at the boundary gives a reliable cue about exposure near the edge and helps you assess whether the radiograph meets the required penetration even though part of the edge isn’t imaged. Placing the wires parallel to the joint or requiring all IQIs perpendicular to the film would not position the reference at the critical boundary, and stating that IQIs aren’t used contradicts standard QA practice.