Nondestructive testing technicians work in a vast array of different industries. Depending on the client, an NDT technician could be working with airplanes one day, medical imaging technology the next day, and wind turbines the next!
Because of these diverse industries supported by NDT, it is crucial that technicians have NDT certification in a variety of methods specific to each job. One of the most commonly used nondestructive testing methods is liquid penetrant testing or LPT. This precise NDT method is perfect for detecting flaws in components under inspection.
Liquid or Dye penetrant testing is an NDT method used when discontinuities are indetectable to the naked eye. In cases like these, visual testing is not enough to detect a flaw and more extensive measures must be taken.
To conduct liquid penetrant testing, the NDT technician uses the property of capillary action in an effort to “find surface-breaking discontinuities in a variety of materials. Penetrant testing uses a low viscosity liquid (penetrant) that is applied to the surface of a test piece.”
This capillary action means that the liquid penetrant will enter any flaws or cracks and will expose the flaw once excess penetrant is removed. Liquid penetrant testing is a multifaceted approach and involves a number of different techniques, depending on the specific inspection being conducted.
There are a number of different circumstances in which liquid penetrant testing is the best choice.
If you are working on a part or component with complicated part geometry or irregular shape, liquid penetrant testing is the best choice. This method offers great ease of use, it can be used on a variety of different material types (as opposed to some methods that require the component to be ferromagnetic) and it is highly portable for jobs in cramped or complicated locations.
It should be mentioned, however, that liquid penetrant testing should not be used for flaws deep below the surface or in circumstances in which the part cannot be fully cleaned before and after the inspection.
To identify a flaw quickly and efficiently, an NDT technician must be skilled and experienced. A great technician starts with a great school. Regardless of what method is used, all forms of nondestructive testing are useless in the hands of an unskilled or inexperienced technician.
Since the requirements of an NDT technician can change from job to job, the expert instructors at TXNDT ensure that all prospective technicians are qualified to take on whatever their next job throws at them.
From introductory NDT courses to NDT level 3 certification, we take an active approach to educating all of our students and encourage all prospective technicians to take an active role in their own learning.
If you or your staff are looking for ways to expand your skills and broaden your career opportunities through nondestructive testing courses, consider NDT certification.
Don’t trust just any NDT school. If you’re looking for a top-tier experience, give us a call today at 281-231-0001 or check out our website for more information.
