What nondestructive method is used to check swaging of terminals on aircraft control cables?

Using a terminal gauge is the most effective nondestructive method for checking the swaging of terminals on aircraft control cables. This method involves using a specifically designed gauge that measures the dimensions and characteristics of the swage to ensure it meets the required specifications. The terminal gauge can provide visual confirmation of the swage's integrity without damaging the cable or terminal itself, which is crucial in maintenance and safety checks for aircraft systems.

Visual inspection, while useful for detecting obvious defects, may not reliably assess the quality of the swaging, as it may not reveal subtle inconsistencies or weaknesses. Ultrasonic testing and magnetic particle inspection are more complex methods typically used for different applications, such as detecting internal flaws in solid materials rather than evaluating the swaging process on cables. Therefore, the precision and reliability of a terminal gauge make it the proper choice for this specific application.