Properties of Magnetic Particle Testing
Magnetic particle testing (MT) is a non-destructive testing method used to detect surface and subsurface defects in ferromagnetic materials. The basic principle of MT is to apply a magnetic field to the material being tested and then introduce ferromagnetic particles, such as iron oxide, onto the surface. The particles will be attracted to areas of the material where there are defects, revealing their presence through the buildup of the particles at the defect site.
Some properties of Magnetic Particle Testing include:
- It can be used to detect surface-breaking and subsurface defects
- It is most effective on ferromagnetic materials, such as iron and steel
- It can be performed using either dry or wet particles
- It can be done using either visible or fluorescent particles
- The sensitivity of the test can be adjusted by changing the strength of the magnetic field and the size of the particles
- The test can be conducted in a magnetic or electromagnetic field
- The test can be performed in the field, shop or lab environments
- The test is relatively low cost and fast.
- It can be used to detect a wide range of defects, including cracks, laps, seams, inclusions, porosity, and other surface and subsurface discontinuities.
- It is commonly used in the aerospace, automotive, power generation, and oil and gas industries.
- It can be performed on both ferromagnetic and non-ferromagnetic materials when used in conjunction with a magnetic field inducing yoke or prods.
- The test can be done in both dry and wet conditions, with wet conditions providing better sensitivity and larger indications.
- The test can be done in both visible and fluorescent conditions. Visible particles are easier to see in bright light, while fluorescent particles are more sensitive and require a UV light source to be seen.
- The test can be done in both AC and DC magnetic fields. AC fields are used to detect surface defects, while DC fields are used to detect subsurface defects.
- It can be used to inspect both large and small components with the use of different yokes or prods for different size parts.
- The test can be used to test both new and in-service parts.
- It is a relatively simple and fast test that can be performed by trained technicians with minimal equipment.