NDT Contributors

Eddie C. Pompa, ASNT #107661 My career in NDT spans 30+ years as an NDT Level III across the Aerospace, Oil & Gas, and Education sectors. I currently work at the Johnson Space Center in Houston Texas as the Safety & Mission Assurance NDT Level III and continue teaching NDT classes at night at the local Lone Star College. My career highlights include working on the Space Shuttle Endeavour, Alpha Magnetic Spectrometer, Columbia Accident investigation, Orion, Pressure vessels, Blow Out Preventers, and sharing these experiences with the next generation of NDT professionals.

As an NDT advocate, I volunteer my time with the local High School where NDT is taught as a career path. The opportunities provided via Experience Events create meaningful experience opportunities for this generation of NDT professionals that prepare them for their careers in NDT and beyond. My passion for NDT has led to his NDT Hero creations that incorporate each NDT method into unique Superheroes that work to protect and make our world safer by preventing disaster by implementing sound inspection and quality assurance processes across all sectors. This art can be seen on LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook where he aims to Promote, Inspire, and Educate the world about NDT.

Mohammed Abufour is an internationally recognized expert and visionary leader in the field of Nondestructive Testing (NDT), with a distinguished career spanning more than four decades. His impact extends across the oil, gas, and energy sectors, where he has pioneered inspection methodologies, introduced advanced technologies, and played a key role in shaping global standards for asset integrity, reliability, and safety.

He holds a degree in Nondestructive Testing (NDT) from the University of Northampton (UK) and possesses a broad range of international certifications, including ASNT Level III in Ultrasonic Testing (UT), Magnetic Particle Testing (MT), and Visual Testing (VT). He also holds multiple qualification certificates and NDT Level II certifications from accredited institutes and major NDT developers. As a Lifetime Member of the American Society for Nondestructive Testing (ASNT), Mohammed has earned global recognition for his technical excellence, strategic insight, and long-standing contributions to the profession.

Mohammed’s expertise spans more than fifteen advanced NDT technologies, including Phased Array Ultrasonic Testing (PAUT), Time-of-Flight Diffraction (TOFD), and specialized advanced ultrasonic testing for the inspection of pipelines and sour gas piping systems. His innovative development of field applications has addressed the detection of complex damage mechanisms such as Stress Corrosion Cracking (SCC), Hydrogen-Induced Cracking (HIC), hydrogen blisters, and Stepwise Cracking (SWC), helping to safeguard critical infrastructure, ensure safe operation, and extend equipment life cycles.

A key thought leader in the era of digital transformation, Mohammed has been instrumental in driving the integration of smart inspection technologies, online monitoring systems, and AI-powered diagnostics. His work supports the deployment of continuous, real-time surveillance programs for pipelines, pressure systems, and rotating equipment—empowering operators to detect anomalies early, optimize maintenance, and avoid catastrophic failures.

At the heart of his vision is NDT 4.0—a data-driven evolution that unites conventional inspection science with advanced analytics, machine learning, and Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) platforms. Mohammed actively promotes the adoption of intelligent ecosystems that deliver actionable insights, support condition-based maintenance, and enhance operational decision-making across the oil and gas value chain.

In recognition of his leadership and innovation, Mohammed has been honored with six prestigious international awards from respected institutions in Europe and the United States. These accolades reflect his enduring impact on global inspection practices, safety culture, and the advancement of NDT technology across industries.

Throughout his career, Mohammed has held influential roles within ASNT, including serving on the Board of Directors from 2015 to 2018 and contributing for over a decade to the Certification Management Committee (CMC). He continues to guide the profession as an ASNT Ambassador, a member of the ASNT Industry Sector Qualification (ISQ) Committee, and Chairman of the ASNT Saudi Arabian Section, shaping certification systems and promoting international collaboration.

An advocate of lifelong learning and knowledge sharing, Mohammed is a frequent contributor to conferences, technical forums, and strategic roundtables at regional and global levels. He is known for translating complex inspection challenges into practical, forward-thinking strategies and for fostering dialogue on the future of integrity management, smart inspection systems, and sustainable operations.

Today, Mohammed Abufour remains a trusted advisor, global consultant, and industry pioneer—dedicated to building the next generation of inspection leaders and advancing digital intelligence in asset integrity management. His legacy is one of innovation, mentorship, and unwavering commitment to safer, smarter, and more resilient industrial systems.

My academic journey started with a Master's Degree in Theoretical Physics, specializing in "Molecular Spectroscopy and Nonlinear Physics" from the University of Dijon, France, in 1995. Building on this foundation, I earned a Ph.D. in Engineering Science in 1998, with a focus on understanding the relationship between low-frequency noise and nonlinearity in synchronized systems. After completing my academic pursuits, I delved into research at the FEMTO Institute (LPMO-CNRS), Besançon, France. Here, my investigations centred on unravelling the origins of low-frequency fluctuations in ultrastable oscillators. Subsequently, I joined the Ultrasonic Group "GIP Ultrasons" in Tours, France, working alongside Professor Léandre Pourcelot. During this period, I made contributions to the development of new applications in medical and Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) through the utilization of Nonlinear Acoustics for Ultrasound Imaging.

Since 1998, I've held the position of Associate Professor, Hab. Dir. Rech. at INSA Centre Val de Loire, Blois, France. Currently, I serve as the Project Manager for "Industry 4.0," leading the charge in overseeing the Digital Transformation within the INSA Group since 2019. My research interests at Inserm U1253 revolve around nonlinear acoustics for NDT, ageing, and structural integrity applications. With 230 references and an H-index of 14 (as of 2023), I've co-authored 55 works, including a book, two book chapters, 22 reviewed contributions, and have actively participated in 164 international conferences (30 as an invited speaker) and 45 seminars or lectures. In recognition of my contributions to the field of Non-Destructive Testing, I was honoured by Academia NDT International as a Full Member in 2010 at ECNDT, Moscow.

Currently, I have held the position of Vice-President since 2021 and am in charge of the "Signal and Data Processing Chapter." As an active member of the IEEE, I attained the status of Senior Member in 2016. Since May 2020, I've been a part of the NDE4.0 Global Ambassadors Panel. My commitment to advancing knowledge in the field is further evident through my involvement in serving on the Organization or Scientific Committee (TPC) of various international conferences and workshops.

I have been working at Milangaz for the last 7 years. I have worked as LPG Operations Engineer for 5 years and LPG Terminal Manager for 2 years.

With a wealth of over 20 years of hands-on experience in the fields of non-destructive testing, asset integrity engineering, and advanced technology design, I play a pivotal role in offering operational and technical guidance across diverse industries. My expertise extends to sectors such as oil & gas, aerospace, Department of Defense (DoD), renewable energy, and subsea operations. My responsibilities encompass a broad spectrum, from developing and deploying ad hoc technologies to crafting technical procedures and work instructions. I actively engage in administering training and examinations for technicians, drive blue-chip business development initiatives, and assess and allocate resources to meet client requirements while effectively resolving key issues.

At the core of my skill set lies extensive proficiency in automated robotic inspection solutions, subsea inspection techniques, welding, and various non-destructive testing (NDT) and non-destructive evaluation (NDE) methods. My credentials include ASNT NDT Level III certifications in six methods, along with company NDT Level III certifications in ten methods. I hold a Bachelor of Science degree in Engineering and NDT, and I am recognized as a Chartered Engineer through the Engineering Council. Additionally, I possess multiple inspection certifications such as AWS CWI, API, NACE, and Pipeline Integrity.

Driven by a passion for delivering top-notch solutions, my focus revolves around enhancing the safety, reliability, and overall performance of our client's assets and infrastructure. My commitment to excellence is deeply rooted in ensuring that the solutions provided meet the highest standards, contributing to the longevity and efficiency of the systems and structures I work with.

Results-driven Asset Integrity and Inspection Specialist with over 20 years of progressive experience in managing large-scale inspection projects, contract review, budget control, and leading cross-functional teams. Proven track record in MFL, Tube Inspection, PEC. , LRUT, UT, VT, MT, RT, PT inspections, with a strong leadership background as Delegated General Manager at EMC. Adept at strategic planning, process improvement, and delivering high-quality outcomes.

Core Competencies:

1. Asset Integrity Management
2. Non-Destructive Testing (UT, VT, MT, RT, PT)
3. Tube Inspection Technologies (Olympus (MS5800) & Eddyfi( Ectane 2 & Ectane 3)
4. Pulsed Eddy Current & Pulsed Eddy Current Array.
5. MFL Tank Inspection.
6. Long Range Ultrasonic. Certificates VT Inspection Level II
7. PT Inspection Level II
8. UT Inspection Level II
9. MT Inspection Level II
10. RT Inspection Level II
11. Eddy Current Level II
12. MFL Operator Training (Testex ,Floor MapX& Silverwing)
13. Eddy Current Operator Training (Olympus MS5800& Eddyfi Ectane 2 & 3)
14. PEC./PECA Operator Training (Eddyfi)
15. Long Range Ultrasonic (TELETEST & Sonyks)

Harsh Zala is a Materials and Corrosion Engineer at Wood PLC India, supporting Houston-based operations and global oil and gas clients. He holds dual degrees in Metallurgy and Materials Engineering and Data Science, and he regularly integrates AI and machine-learning tools into mechanical integrity workflows to improve corrosion monitoring and inspection planning while reducing downtime for major operators. With more than three years of hands-on experience across manufacturing, consulting, and research laboratories, Harsh has supported oil and gas assets in both India and the United States.

His work includes asset protection strategy, equipment lifecycle planning, corrosion monitoring and inspection programs, root-cause failure analysis, and implementation of IDMS software, all aligned with ASTM, API, and AMPP standards. He specializes in risk-based inspection and mechanical integrity with a strong focus on research and development.

Anoop Rayavarapu, Founder & Managing Director of Atlantis Engineering Consultants LLC., has over a decade of Managerial experience and has played a pivotal role in advancing NDT practices across the Oil & Gas, Petrochemical, Maritime, and Energy sectors. His expertise has been instrumental in enabling NDT inspection service providers across India, Russia, Kuwait, Bahrain, Singapore, and the United States to achieve industry-leading standards.

Anoop holds a degree in Mechanical Engineering and ASNT NDT Level III (RT, UT, MT, PT & VT) and has further refined his business acumen with a master's in business management from Golden Gate University, San Francisco, USA. His technical expertise and strategic leadership have allowed him to excel in a range of executive roles in NDT. Some of his works which gained attention included Digital twins, VR/AR integration of NDT data. Throughout his career, Anoop has been at the forefront of driving innovation in NDT methodologies and quality assurance. His ability to build high-performing teams, train & mentoring personnel, and implement cutting-edge strategies has helped organizations to scale exponentially and achieve greater cost efficiency.

Read his full professional journey and industry perspectives in our exclusive NDT Expert Interview with Anoop Rayavarapu.

Muthulakshmi Kanagaraj is a highly accomplished NDT (Non-Destructive Testing) professional, entrepreneur, and industry leader with extensive expertise across inspection, quality assurance, and advanced testing methodologies in the oil & gas and engineering sectors. She currently serves as the Founder of Muthulakshmi Certification Pvt. Ltd., where she is committed to advancing quality standards, training, and certification in NDT and inspection services. With a strong academic foundation in Materials Engineering from Anna University, Muthulakshmi has built over a decade of hands-on experience in welding inspection, corrosion, coating, and NDT practices.

Her professional journey includes key roles such as Quality Specialist at Sigma Oilfield Solution LLC in Abu Dhabi and Office Head at IXAR (Industrial X-Ray & Allied Radiographers), where she progressed from NDT Engineer to Senior Quality Engineer. She holds an impressive portfolio of global certifications, including ASNT Level III in multiple NDT methods (UT, RT, PT, MT, VT, ET, LT, and more), ISO 9712 Level III, and API certifications such as API 510, 570, 577, 653, and 936. Her qualifications are further strengthened by credentials in API Q1/Q2, ASME, and PMP, reflecting her multidisciplinary expertise in inspection, quality systems, and project management.

Deeply inspired by her father’s 30+ years of experience as an Ultrasonic Testing Technician, Muthulakshmi’s career is rooted in a passion for safety, precision, and engineering excellence. She is a strong advocate for diversity in technical fields and actively works to inspire women to pursue careers in NDT and engineering disciplines. Driven by a legacy of knowledge and mentorship, Muthulakshmi is dedicated to upholding the highest standards of safety and reliability while contributing to the growth of the global NDT community.

At Bureau Veritas Group, their commitment to ensuring the integrity of materials is paramount, with a focus on non-destructive testing and lifting gear inspection. A Master's in Industrial Chemistry from the University of Buea bolsters our analytical prowess, ensuring adherence to exacting quality standards. Their expertise in Ultrasonic and Magnetic Particle Inspection, combined with Lean Six Sigma methodologies, drives their pursuit of excellence and compliance. Their team at BINDE NDT Cameroon thrives on process refinement and accuracy in inspections, essential for upholding industry regulations. With certifications in cutting-edge inspection techniques, they continuously elevate their operational efficiency. The culture of continuous improvement and knowledge-sharing reinforces their dedication to regulatory alignment, echoing my drive for precision and a proactive approach to quality control. I am familiar with the following standards: ISO, ASME, ASNT, API, AWS, ASTM

Ashok Kumar is a highly skilled Welding Specialist with over 20 years of experience in the welding industries (Oil & Gas). Currently serving as a Welding Specialist in the Welding Department of Welspun Tubular LLC Little Rock Arkansas (USA). Expert in various welding techaniques, including GMAW, GTAW, SAW , FCAW and SMAW with a strong focus on safety , quality and efficiency. Proven track record in leading complex welding projects, training junior welders/team, and ensuring compliance with industry standards. With a background in Bachelor of Techanology from Kurukshetra University Kurukshetra Haryana, and is a Certified Senior Welding Inspector (CSWIP 3.2) from TWI UK and International Welding Techanologist from IIW- India. he excels in quality control, safety and team leadership. An AWS / API member, Ashok Kumar published articles on advanced welding techaniques. Recognized with the Welding Excellence awards, he continues to contribute significantly to the field.

I am a Civil Engineer with over 20 years of experience in metallurgical and materials engineering, with a strong focus on inspection, structural integrity, and statistical analysis.

For 13 years I have worked as a researcher at the Laboratory of Non-Destructive Testing, Corrosion, and Welding (LNDC) at the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro. My research focused on advanced non-destructive testing (NDT) techniques applied to innovative materials and critical industrial challenges, particularly in quantifying inspection reliability and conducting computational simulations.

In May, 2025 I accepted a new challenge as Research, Development and Innovation Manager at Cladtek - the world’s leading supplier offering solutions for Corrosion Resistant Alloy (CRA) Mechanically Lined Pipe (MLP) and weld overlay cladding.

I am an active contributor to the NDT community, regularly presenting at international conferences such as the Annual Review of Progress in Quantitative Nondestructive Evaluation (QNDE), where I share work on flaw sizing accuracy and advanced ultrasonic techniques like FMC/TFM.

In addition to my technical and academic background, I am an active member of the National Inspection Commission (COMINSP) and the Regional Inspection Group (GRINSP) of the Brazilian Institute of Oil, Gas and Biofuels (IBP). I also serve as a member of the IBP Additive Manufacturing Committee, contributing to the development and application of AM technologies in the energy sector.