Overview
ISO 18436-6:2021 - "Condition monitoring and diagnostics of machines - Requirements for certification of personnel - Part 6: Acoustic emission" defines requirements for the qualification, training and assessment of personnel who perform acoustic emission measurements and analysis for machinery condition monitoring and machine diagnostics. The standard establishes a three-category certification scheme (Category I, II, III) to recognise competence in acoustic emission testing, data acquisition, interpretation and programme development. A certificate or declaration of conformity provides formal recognition of an individual’s competence for acoustic emission-based predictive maintenance work.
Key topics and requirements
- Three-category classification:
- Category I: Perform standardized acoustic emission measurements, basic setup, data integrity checks, basic analysis and reporting.
- Category II: Select techniques, specify hardware/software (portable and permanent systems), perform diagnosis, verify calibration, prepare reports and supervise Category I personnel.
- Category III: Advanced theory and techniques, non‑standard methods, programme establishment, prognostics, standards interpretation and leadership.
- Eligibility: Combination of education, training and experience; recommended minimum educational background for higher categories and basic mathematical/computer skills for Category II/III.
- Training and assessment:
- Minimum cumulative training hours: 40 (Cat I), 80 (Cat II), 120 (Cat III).
- Training syllabus and practical skills requirements are given in normative Annexes (A and B) and include practical exercises, demonstrations and examinations.
- Examination and certification process: Content and conduct of examinations specified; assessment bodies should follow ISO 18436-1 and ISO 18436-3 for certification body and training process requirements.
- Scope limits: May not apply to highly specialized equipment or unique situations; includes normative references to acoustic emission and CM standards.
Applications and practical value
- Supports robust predictive maintenance and condition monitoring programmes by ensuring qualified personnel carry out acoustic emission testing.
- Applicable to industries using non‑intrusive diagnostics - rotating machinery, pressure vessels, structural monitoring, and manufacturing equipment.
- Helps organisations reduce downtime and maintenance costs by improving the reliability of acoustic emission measurements, analysis and reporting.
- Useful for training providers, certification bodies, asset managers, maintenance engineers and NDT/CM practitioners implementing acoustic emission programmes.
Related standards
Keywords: ISO 18436-6:2021, acoustic emission, condition monitoring, machine diagnostics, certification of personnel, predictive maintenance, training hours, Category I II III.
Open preview (PDF)Condition monitoring and diagnostics of machines — Requirements for certification of personnel — Part 6: Acoustic emission
