Take A Free ASNT NDT AE Level 2 Exam Practice Test – Quiz Course

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Here you can take free ASNT NDT AE Level 2 Exam Practice Test with Latest Acoustic Emission Testing Method Questions and Answers

1.

2. High amplitude events during the examination of fiberglass-reinforced pressure (FRP) vessels usually indicates:

 
 
 
 

2.

When an elastic material is stretched elastically, the stress is:

 
 
 
 

3.

1. According to Table T-1121 of ASME Section V, Article 11 (below), how much time must a pressure vessel, normally operated at 414 kPa (60 psig), be operated at 207 kPa (30 psig) before acoustic emission examination?
Table-T-1121.png

 
 
 
 

4.

Which of the following terms means a material’s ability to resist crack growth?

 
 
 
 

5.

A particular accelerometer has a resonant frequency of 30 kHz. When used to detect acoustic emission, it “rings” at this resonant frequency. The time between successive peaks (period) is:

 
 
 
 

6.

Detection of an acoustic emission signal depends on:

 
 
 
 

7.

A limitation of the acoustic emission applied to metals is that it:

 
 
 
 

8.

A major benefit of the acoustic emission method is that it:

 
 
 
 

9.

MARSE is:

 
 
 
 

10.

The concept that all, or nearly all, materials are capable of generating acoustic emission was first set forth in 1950 by:

 
 
 
 

11.

A typical source mechanism of acoustic emission is:

 
 
 
 

12.

The Felicity ratio is a quantitative measure best used to evaluate:

 
 
 
 

13.

When selecting the best sensor frequency for a particular acoustic emission test, it is important to consider all of the following  except:

 
 
 
 

14.

After an initial proof test, a defect grows during a year in service. Acoustic emission can often detect this defect during a second proof test. Dunegan’s reasoning for this phenomena is that  the:

 
 
 
 

15.

The positioning of sensors for acoustic emission testing of metal pressure vessels is commonly based on:

 
 
 
 

16.

Of the following components, which one is not considered to be part of a typical acoustic emission sensor?

 
 
 
 

17.

When performing source location, which of the following most directly affects the accuracy of computed location?

 
 
 
 

18.

In acoustic emission testing of fiberglass-reinforced pressure (FRP) tanks and pressure vessels, significant activity on low-frequency sensors and very little activity on high-frequency sensors normally indicate:

 
 
 
 

19.

In acoustic emission testing of fiberglass-reinforced pressure (FRP) tanks and pressure vessels, low-frequency sensors are used for:

 
 
 
 

20.

Which of the following factors tend to increase the amplitude of the acoustic emission response?

 
 
 
 

21.

If a crack is detected by AE during a pressure test, how can its existence be verified using AE?

 
 
 
 

22.

If rain starts falling on an uninsulated vessel during an AE test and produces significant background noise, the AE test operator should:

 
 
 
 

23.

AE generated during proof testing when the load is between the service load and the maximum proof load, is indicative of the damage experienced during the preceding working period. This is the basic idea put forth through:

 
 
 
 

24.

Attenuation in metals is due primarily to:

 
 
 
 

25.

AE produced by a liquid leaking through a valve is due primarily to:

 
 
 
 

26.

An additional source of background noise that is sometimes detected during AE testing of in-service metal storage tanks is:

 
 
 
 

27.

What is the main difference in testing spheres as compared to bullets and drums?

 
 
 
 

28.

AE testing of in-service vessels is aimed primarily at detecting service-related cracking. This cracking may be a result of:

 
 
 
 

29.

The size, shape, and orientation of defects detected by AE testing, are usually determined by:

 
 
 
 

30.

When testing in-service pressure vessels, the maximum test load is commonly based on the maximum operating pressure experienced:

 
 
 
 

31.

Why is it wise to start an AE test for an in-service pressure vessel at a load lower than required?

 
 
 
 

32.

During continuous monitoring of pressure boundaries, AE sources are stimulated by:

 
 
 
 

33.

During continuous monitoring of pressure boundaries per ASTM E 1139, AE system operation and data interpretation should be verified by a qualified AE specialist:

 
 
 
 

34.

During continuous monitoring of pressure boundaries per ASTM E 1139, a 0.3 mm, 2H pencil lead break at a distance of 300 mm (12 in.) should produce a signal-to-noise ratio of

 
 
 
 

35.

During continuous monitoring of pressure boundaries, signal detection sensitivity should be evaluated during normal operation:

 
 
 
 

36.

During continuous monitoring of pressure boundaries, the distance at which an AE source can be detected is maximized by using a recommended low monitoring frequency of:

 
 
 
 

37.

During continuous monitoring of pressure boundaries, an AE system can perform leak detection if:

 
 
 
 

38.

For continuous monitoring of pressure boundaries, source location can be performed using:

 
 
 
 

39.

During continuous monitoring of pressure boundaries, leaks are indicated by

 
 
 
 

40.

What characteristic of a part best determines whether a test piece should be considered a large part or a small part for AE testing purposes?

 
 
 
 

41.

Of the following situations, which is the most appropriate for using only a single AE sensor?

 
 
 
 

42.

For checking zonal location sensitivity, what is the minimum number of AE sensors that shall detect a simulated source at any given position on the structure?

 
 
 
 

43.

When monitoring a source of AE, the acoustic activity (as measured by event count or emission count) does not increase with increasing stimuli. Which of the following classifications apply to this source?

 
 
 
 

44.

When monitoring a source of AE, the acoustic activity (as measured by event count or emission count) increases with increasing stimuli. Which of the following classifications apply to this source? Note: for this question, the rate of acoustic activity is not increasing with increasing stimuli.

 
 
 
 

45.

When monitoring a source of AE, the rate of acoustic activity (as measured by event count or emission count) increases with increasing stimuli. Which of the following classifications apply to this source?

 
 
 
 

46.

46. When monitoring a source of AE, both of the following are found to be true: the acoustic activity (as measured by event count or emission count) increases with increasing stimuli; the intensity (as measured by average energy per event or average emission count per event or average amplitude per event) exceeds the average intensity by a fixed level.
Which of the following classifications should be used to describe this source?

 
 
 
 

47.

While there are no set criteria for acceptable limits on sensor degradation, what levels of discrepancy warrant further action?

 
 
 
 

48.

High amplitude events during the examination of fiberglass-reinforced pressure (FRP) vessels usually indicate:

 
 
 
 

49.

When an elastic material is stretched elastically, the stress is:

 
 
 
 

50.

A limitation of the acoustic emission method applied to metals is that it:

 
 
 
 

51.

Which of the following terms means a material’s ability to resist crack growth?

 
 
 
 

52.

A limitation of the acoustic emission method applied to metals is that it:

 
 
 
 

53.

A major benefit of the acoustic emission method is that it:

 
 
 
 

54.

MARSE is:

 
 
 
 

55.

The concept that all, or nearly all, materials are capable of generating acoustic emission was first set forth in 1950 by:

 
 
 
 

56.

A typical source mechanism of acoustic emission is:

 
 
 
 

57.

The felicity ratio is a quantitative measure best used to evaluate:

 
 
 
 

58.

When selecting the best sensor frequency for a particular acoustic emission test, it is important to consider all of the following except:

 
 
 
 

59.

After an initial proof test, a defect grows during a year in service. Acoustic emission can often detect this defect during a second proof test. Dunegan’s reasoning for this phenomena is that the:

 
 
 
 

60.

The positioning of sensors for acoustic emission testing of metal pressure vessels is commonly based on:

 
 
 
 

61.

Of the following components, which one is A not considered to be part of a typical acoustic emission sensor?

 
 
 
 

62.

When performing source location, which of the following most directly affects the accuracy of computed location?

 
 
 
 

63.

In acoustic emission testing of fiberglass-reinforced pressure (FRP) tanks and pressure vessels. significant activity on low-frequency sensors and very little activity on high frequency sensors normally indicate:

 
 
 
 

64.

In acoustic emission testing of fiberglass-reinforced pressure (FRP) tanks and pressure vessels, low-frequency sensors are used for:

 
 
 
 

65.

Which of the following factors tends to increase the amplitude of the acoustic emission response?

 
 
 
 

66.

One of the two major differences in the acoustic emission method from other forms of NOT is that:

 
 
 
 

67.

One advantage of using acoustic emission over other forms of NOT is that acoustic emission can:

 
 
 
 

68.

Which of the following facilitates the transmission of acoustic waves into a typical sensor

 
 
 
 

69.

When should a system performance evaluation* be performed?
A performance evaluation in this case is a simulated AE, such as a pencil lead break, in the test structure to verify that the AE system registers the appropriate level of AE.

 
 
 
 

Question 1 of 69

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Take A Free ASNT NDT AE Level 2 Exam Practice Test – Quiz Course

 

Free ASNT NDT AE Level 2 Exam Practice Test – Latest Acoustic Emission Testing Questions and Answers

Take a Free ASNT NDT AE Level 2 Exam Practice Test online with Acoustic Emission Testing (AE) questions and answers. Improve your understanding of AE testing principles, equipment, signal analysis, inspection procedures, and practical applications with UpWeld’s free NDT practice quiz.

Are you preparing for an ASNT AE Level II qualification examination or looking to improve your knowledge of Acoustic Emission Testing?

You have come to the right place!

At UpWeld, we provide a free online ASNT NDT AE Level 2 Practice Test designed for NDT technicians, inspectors, engineering students, and professionals preparing for Level II Acoustic Emission Testing assessments.

Our multiple-choice practice questions cover fundamental AE concepts and practical testing situations to help you identify knowledge gaps and prepare more effectively.

Start your Free ASNT AE Level 2 Practice Test using the quiz on this page!

What Is Acoustic Emission Testing (AE)?

Acoustic Emission Testing (AE) is an advanced Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) method used to monitor materials and structures by detecting transient elastic waves generated by the rapid release of energy within a material.

Unlike Ultrasonic Testing (UT), which introduces sound waves into a material, Acoustic Emission Testing primarily detects signals produced by the material itself during loading, deformation, crack growth, or other active processes.

Specialized sensors detect these signals, while AE instrumentation records and analyzes their characteristics.

Acoustic Emission Testing is commonly used for:

  • Monitoring pressure vessels and industrial storage tanks.

  • Detecting active crack growth and structural damage.

  • Examining fiberglass-reinforced plastic (FRP) vessels.

  • Monitoring pipelines and industrial equipment.

  • Investigating leakage-related acoustic activity.

  • Evaluating composite materials and structural components.

  • Monitoring bridges and other infrastructure.

  • Supporting condition assessment and preventive maintenance.

AE testing is particularly useful for identifying active damage during controlled loading or operating conditions. However, additional NDT methods may be required to determine the precise size, shape, or nature of a discontinuity.

Why Take Our Free ASNT AE Level 2 Practice Test?

Preparing for an Acoustic Emission Testing Level II examination requires both theoretical knowledge and practical understanding.

Our free online quiz helps you strengthen important concepts through multiple-choice practice.

Benefits of the Free AE Level II Quiz Course

1. Free Online Practice Questions

Access Acoustic Emission Testing multiple-choice questions without purchasing a paid study package.

2. Learn Important AE Testing Concepts

Practice questions involving sensors, instrumentation, acoustic wave propagation, signal characteristics, and inspection techniques.

3. Improve Your Technical Knowledge

Understand the principles behind common AE applications, testing procedures, and inspection decisions.

4. Test Your Knowledge Before an Examination

Use the practice quiz to identify topics that require additional study.

5. Practice at Your Own Pace

Complete the online quiz and repeat your practice sessions as needed.

6. Review Your Performance

After completing the quiz, use the available results and answer review to assess your understanding.

7. Prepare for Practical Testing Situations

Develop familiarity with questions involving equipment selection, AE data interpretation, noise identification, and field applications.

ASNT NDT AE Level 2 Practice Test – Topics Covered

Our Acoustic Emission Testing practice questions focus on essential knowledge areas relevant to Level II NDT personnel.

1. Fundamentals of Acoustic Emission Testing

Understanding the basic principles of Acoustic Emission Testing is essential before moving to advanced inspection techniques.

Important topics include:

  • Introduction to Acoustic Emission Testing.

  • AE terminology and fundamental principles.

  • Elastic wave generation and propagation.

  • Stress, strain, deformation, and fracture.

  • Sources and mechanisms of acoustic emission.

  • The Kaiser Effect and Felicity Effect.

  • AE activity in metals and composite materials.

  • Advantages and limitations of the AE method.

2. Acoustic Emission Sensors and Transducers

AE sensors are essential components used to detect elastic waves generated within a test object.

Practice topics include:

  • Principles of piezoelectric AE sensors.

  • Sensor construction and operating characteristics.

  • Resonant and broadband sensors.

  • Sensor frequency selection.

  • Sensor sensitivity and response.

  • Sensor positioning and spacing.

  • Couplants and mounting techniques.

  • Waveguides and associated applications.

  • Sensor checks and performance verification.

3. AE Instrumentation and Measurement Systems

An AE testing system converts sensor signals into measurable data that can be processed and analyzed.

Important topics include:

  • AE measurement system components.

  • Preamplifiers and signal amplification.

  • Filters and signal conditioning.

  • Signal detection thresholds.

  • Data acquisition systems.

  • Analog and digital signal processing.

  • System setup and functional checks.

  • Calibration and performance verification.

  • Sources of measurement error.

4. Acoustic Emission Signal Processing and Analysis

The interpretation of acoustic emission signals is an important Level II knowledge area.

Topics include:

  • AE signal amplitude.

  • Signal rise time and duration.

  • Ringdown counts and hit counts.

  • Signal energy and MARSE.

  • Root Mean Square (RMS) measurements.

  • Frequency analysis.

  • Wave attenuation and propagation.

  • Signal-to-noise ratio.

  • Background noise identification.

  • AE activity and intensity.

  • Source location using time-of-arrival measurements.

Understanding these parameters helps technicians distinguish relevant acoustic activity from environmental and mechanical interference.

5. Practical Acoustic Emission Testing Procedures

Practical AE testing requires correct equipment configuration, sensor installation, monitoring, and data collection.

Key topics include:

  • Inspection preparation and test planning.

  • Selection of appropriate AE equipment.

  • Sensor installation and coupling.

  • Equipment verification before testing.

  • Pencil lead break testing for system performance checks.

  • Controlled loading procedures.

  • Monitoring during pressure testing.

  • Data collection and recording.

  • Evaluating environmental noise.

  • AE source location techniques.

  • Recording and reporting inspection results.

6. AE Testing Applications and Field Inspection

Acoustic Emission Testing is used across multiple industries to evaluate structural integrity and detect active damage mechanisms.

Study topics include:

  • Acoustic emission testing of pressure vessels.

  • Monitoring metallic storage tanks.

  • Inspection of FRP tanks and vessels.

  • Pipeline monitoring applications.

  • Acoustic emission from fatigue crack growth.

  • Stress corrosion cracking considerations.

  • Leak monitoring applications.

  • Acoustic emission testing of composite materials.

  • Structural integrity monitoring.

  • Interpretation of practical inspection results.

7. NDT Safety, Codes, Standards, and Quality Control

Safe inspection practices and familiarity with applicable technical requirements are essential for Level II technicians.

Topics include:

  • Occupational health and safety in NDT.

  • Pressure testing hazards and precautions.

  • Electrical safety during equipment operation.

  • Safe sensor installation practices.

  • Inspection quality assurance.

  • Documentation and traceability.

  • Applicable ASTM and ASME requirements.

  • ASNT personnel qualification guidance.

  • Inspection reporting and recordkeeping.

ASNT AE Level II Certification and Examination Information – 2026

Acoustic Emission Testing Level II qualifications are commonly associated with employer-based NDT certification programs.

The applicable qualification and certification requirements depend on the employer’s written practice, the relevant standards, and contractual or industry requirements.

The following ASNT publications are particularly relevant:

ASNT Recommended Practice No. SNT-TC-1A

Provides recommendations for the training, qualification, examination, and certification of NDT personnel under employer-based programs.

ANSI/ASNT CP-189

Establishes requirements for the qualification and certification of NDT personnel when adopted by the applicable organization or contract.

ANSI/ASNT CP-105

Provides NDT personnel training outlines, including Acoustic Emission Testing knowledge areas.

For 2026 preparation, candidates should review the applicable 2024 editions and amendments of these ASNT documents, where relevant to their certification program.

Important certification clarification: ASNT currently offers its directly administered Acoustic Emission method examination at Level III, but AE is not listed among the methods in the current direct ASNT NDT Level II certification program. Candidates pursuing AE Level II qualifications should confirm their specific employer-based certification requirements.

You can find current information on the official ASNT website.

How to Prepare for the AE Level 2 Examination

A structured study plan can make Acoustic Emission Testing easier to understand and help you perform confidently during assessments.

Step 1: Understand AE Fundamentals

Start with acoustic wave propagation, AE source mechanisms, stress and strain, material behavior, and common AE terminology.

Step 2: Study Sensors and Equipment

Learn how acoustic emission sensors operate, how they are installed, and how testing systems process acquired signals.

Step 3: Learn Important AE Signal Parameters

Focus on amplitude, energy, counts, duration, rise time, thresholds, attenuation, and source location.

Step 4: Understand Practical Inspection Procedures

Study equipment setup, performance checks, loading procedures, noise control, and data interpretation.

Step 5: Take the Free ASNT AE Level 2 Practice Test

Complete the UpWeld quiz and review your results carefully.

Step 6: Focus on Weak Topics

Identify incorrectly answered questions and revise the related technical concepts.

Step 7: Practice Again

Repeat the quiz and supplement your preparation with approved training materials, applicable standards, and practical experience.

Remember that examination preparation should include practical skills and technical understanding rather than memorizing answers alone.

Start Your Free ASNT AE Level 2 Exam Practice Test

Ready to check your knowledge of Acoustic Emission Testing?

Take the Free ASNT NDT AE Level II Practice Test today!

Complete the multiple-choice quiz available on this page and evaluate your understanding of AE testing principles, equipment, signal processing, and field applications.

This free practice test is suitable for:

  • NDT Level I technicians preparing for Level II responsibilities.

  • Acoustic Emission Testing trainees.

  • NDT inspectors and technicians.

  • Mechanical and materials engineering students.

  • Quality control and inspection professionals.

  • Individuals preparing for relevant employer-based AE Level II examinations.

After completing the practice test, share your score in the comments section below.

Tell us which Acoustic Emission Testing topics you found most challenging.

Your feedback helps us understand which subjects require additional study resources.

Additional NDT Practice Tests Available on UpWeld

Improve your NDT knowledge with other free online practice quizzes:

Buy ASNT AE Level III Self-Study Question Bank

For professionals pursuing more advanced Acoustic Emission Testing knowledge, UpWeld also offers a separate AE Level III self-study question bank.

AE Level III Study Material

  • Advertised question bank: 1,000+ practice questions.

  • Topics: Theory, equipment, technical applications, and numerical problems.

  • Price: USD $25.

For availability, formats, and purchase details, contact UpWeld.

Email: upweld.org@gmail.com

WhatsApp: Contact UpWeld on WhatsApp

Please note: This optional Level III material is separate from the free AE Level II quiz on this page. Study resources do not guarantee examination success.

Conclusion

The Free ASNT NDT AE Level 2 Exam Practice Test on UpWeld is a useful learning resource for technicians and students who want to strengthen their knowledge of Acoustic Emission Testing.

From fundamental AE principles and sensor operation to signal analysis, source location, and practical inspection techniques, understanding these subjects is important for developing Level II technical competence.

Regular practice, appropriate training, and practical experience can help you prepare more effectively for applicable Acoustic Emission Testing assessments.

Take the Free ASNT AE Level 2 Practice Test today, check your knowledge, and continue improving your NDT skills with UpWeld.

Visit UpWeld.org for additional free NDT practice tests, technical learning materials, and examination preparation resources.

Frequently Asked Questions – ASNT AE Level 2 Practice Test
1. Is the ASNT AE Level 2 Practice Test free?

Yes. UpWeld provides a free online Acoustic Emission Testing Level II practice quiz to help learners assess their technical knowledge.

2. What is Acoustic Emission Testing Level II?

AE Level II is a personnel qualification level associated with performing and evaluating Acoustic Emission Testing work within the scope of approved procedures and an applicable certification program.
Qualified Level II technicians may be responsible for equipment setup, inspection performance, data evaluation, and reporting, depending on their authorization and employer’s written practice.

3. What subjects should I study for an AE Level II examination?

Important subjects include AE fundamentals, sensors, instrumentation, signal processing, wave propagation, source location, testing procedures, noise control, field applications, and inspection safety.
Always consult the syllabus and requirements applicable to your certification program.

4. Can I prepare for AE Level II using online practice questions?

Yes. Practice questions help reinforce theoretical concepts and improve familiarity with technical terminology and inspection scenarios.
However, online quizzes should be used alongside formal training, applicable reference materials, and practical experience.

5. Does completing this quiz provide ASNT certification?

No. Completing the UpWeld practice test does not provide ASNT certification or an employer-issued Level II qualification.
Official certification or qualification requires satisfying the requirements of the applicable certification program.

6. What is the difference between Acoustic Emission Testing and Ultrasonic Testing?

Acoustic Emission Testing generally detects elastic waves produced by active processes within a material or structure.
Ultrasonic Testing typically introduces ultrasonic energy into a test object and analyzes the returning or transmitted signals to evaluate its condition.
Both are valuable NDT methods but serve different inspection purposes.

7. Can Acoustic Emission Testing determine the exact size of a crack?

Not usually by itself. Acoustic Emission Testing is primarily used to detect and locate active sources of acoustic activity.
Follow-up NDT techniques may be needed to characterize or size a discontinuity.

8. Are the practice questions the same as the official certification examination?

No. These are educational practice questions intended to support preparation. They should not be treated as actual, confidential, or officially endorsed examination questions.

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