When it comes to manufacturing complex shapes, casting often provides a simpler and more economical solution than other methods that require welding or joining multiple pieces together to build the required component. Castings are inspected during manufacturing to detect any anomalies that may have occurred during the process so that corrective action can be taken to remove the flaw in remaining parts. Finished product examinations are required to ensure that the casting meets customer specifications. Inspection continues with in-service cast products or components to help ensure continued fitness for service.

While visual inspection provides some quality assurance, other non-destructive testing techniques are needed to assess the presence of both surface defects and internal flaws that could potentially affect performance.