KUNSAN AIR BASE, Republic of Korea --
The 8th Maintenance Squadron non-destructive inspection (NDI) shop’s primary mission is to conduct preventive maintenance for aircraft and identify abnormal wear before critical maintenance is necessary.
NDI provides timely results with the analysis of oil and processing of magnetic chip detectors.
“If there is a small crack in the area we inspect, we would be able to find that small crack and makes sure it gets the repair it needs before it turns into a big crack and a big problem,” said Staff Sgt. John Stevens, 8th MXS NDI shift supervisor.
Without NDI inspecting oil from aircraft engines, failing components might not be detected and could possibly result in the loss of an aircraft.
“During our inspections, we check for the safety of flight parts, and check for extra stress on parts like the landing gear,” Stevens said. “We inspect areas to make sure that the critical components are not likely to break when pilots need them most.”
The preventative maintenance tests ensure aircraft remain safe and reliable.
“Our inspections are scheduled in accordance with intervals that engineers have dictated,” Stevens said. “When someone does a visual inspection and they aren’t confident on the part’s current status, they call us to back them up due to the fact that visual inspections aren’t as accurate as using NDI equipment.”
NDI allows inspectors to catch cracks or abnormalities that the eye can’t see and would have otherwise gone unnoticed.
“I enjoy my job because of the position I’m put in and the roles the Air Force allows me to perform, being a first-line supervisor to many great Airmen,” Stevens said. “We’re a family here; we’re a small section and an even smaller career field. Everyone gets along well and looks out for each other.”
It’s that comradery and dedication that allows the Wolf Pack NDI shop to keep going day after day and accomplish the mission.
“Without NDI, planes wouldn’t fly,” Stevens said. "Our inspections are key, and our crew works 24/7 to ensure the safety of our aircraft and aircrew."