Penetrant Testing (PT)
Penetrant Testing (PT) is a powerful method for detecting surface-breaking discontinuities and through-thickness leak paths in nonporous materials and is one of the basic NDT methods with numerous applications in the industry. Test indication visibility is governed by contrast against its surroundings, so inspections must be performed under proper lighting conditions Indications of flaws can be found regardless of the size, configuration, internal structure, or chemical composition of work piece being tested and regardless of flaw orientation.
Penetrant Testing method usually consists of six stages:
- Surface cleaning
- Application of penetrant fluid
- Removal of excess penetrant
- Application of developer
- Inspection of test surface
- Post-inspection cleaning
The main advantages that Penetrant Testing has to offer over other NDT methods are:
- It is a quite simple technique that can easily be applied on industrial sites, provided that essential regulations and instructions are followed.
- This technique requires relatively low-cost and not complex equipment.
- It is applicable to a wide variety of materials
Course Content
- Principles of Penetrant Inspection
- Equipment and Materials
- Methods of Assessing Sensitivity and Control Testing
- Preparation for Testing
- Testing Technique
- Post Test Procedures
- Safety Precautions
- Testing Procedures
- Detectability of Defects
- Interpretation and Reporting
- Post Test Procedures
- Basic Production - Crude and Finished Products
- Basic Casting Production Methods -Finished Products
- Wrought Products Forming Processes
- Basic Welding Processes
- In service defects
- Stress relieving/normalizing/annealing
- Extensive practical element
Responsibilities of a Liquid Penetrant Testing Level 2 NDT professional:Select the
- Penetrant technique for the test method to be used
- Define the limitations of application of the testing method
- Translate NDT codes, standards, specifications and procedures into NDT instructions adapted to the actual working conditions
- Set up and verify equipment settings
- Perform and supervise tests
- Interpret and evaluate results according to applicable standards, codes, specifications or procedures
- Prepare Penetrant written instructions
- Carry out and supervise all tasks at or below level 2
- Provide guidance for personnel at or below level 2, and
- Report the results of Penetrant tests
