Which of the following is not typically considered a type of non-destructive testing?

Destructive testing is fundamentally different from non-destructive testing methods. While non-destructive testing (NDT) techniques are designed to assess the properties and integrity of materials, components, or assemblies without causing damage, destructive testing involves subjecting materials to conditions that will ultimately lead to their failure. This may include breaking, cutting, or altering the physical structure of the test specimen to analyze its performance under specific conditions.

The other methods listed—radiographic testing, ultrasonic testing, and visual testing—are all recognized forms of non-destructive testing. These techniques allow for the detection of flaws, measurement of material properties, or assessment of structural integrity while leaving the sample intact and usable after the assessment. This fundamental distinction highlights why destructive testing cannot be classified alongside these non-destructive methods.