Magnetic Particle testing is a versatile inspection method used for field and shop applications. Magnetic particle testing works by magnetizing a ferromagnetic specimen using a magnet or special magnetizing equipment. If the specimen has a discontinuity, the magnetic field flowing through the specimen is interrupted, and a leakage field occurs. Finely milled iron particles coated with a dye pigment are applied to the specimen. These are attracted to leakage fields and clusters to form an indication directly over the discontinuity.
Magnetic Particle Inspection Advantages :
- Can detect both surface and near subsurface indications.
- Can inspect parts with irregular shapes easily.
- Pre-cleaning is not as critical as for some other inspection methods.
- Fast method of inspection and indications are visible directly on the specimen surface.
- Considered low cost compared to other NDT techniques.
- Very portable inspection, especially when used with battery-powered equipment
