PT Free Quiz
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Applications of liquid Penetrant Testing (PT)
PT works by capillary action and is a widely applied and low-cost inspection method used to check surface-breaking defects in all non-porous materials (metals, plastics, or ceramics).
ADVANTAGES OF PT
- The method has high sensitivity to small surface discontinuities.
- The method has few material limitations, i.e. metallic and non-metallic, magnetic and nonmagnetic, and conductive and nonconductive materials may be inspected.
- Large areas and large volumes of parts/materials can be inspected rapidly and at low cost.
- Parts with complex geometric shapes are routinely inspected.
- Indications are produced directly on the surface of the part and constitute a visual representation of the
- Aerosol spray cans make penetrant materials very portable.
- Penetrant materials and associated equipment are relatively inexpensive.
LIMITATIONS OF PT
- Only surface breaking defects can be detected.
- Only materials with a relatively nonporous surface can be inspected.
- Pre-cleaning is critical since contaminants can mask defects.
- Metal smearing from machining, grinding, and grit or vapor blasting must be removed prior to LPI.
- The inspector must have direct access to the surface being inspected.
- Surface finish and roughness can affect inspection sensitivity
- Multiple process operations must be performed and controlled.
- Post cleaning of acceptable parts or materials is required.
- Chemical handling and proper disposal is required.