As every experienced NDT technician knows, being a jack-of-all-trades is crucial for performing nondestructive testing.
Since the requirements for each component can be different from job to job and among different industries, technicians should be well-versed in a wide range of testing techniques.
Magnetic Particle Testing is a time-honored practice that has been used by NDT technicians for a number of years, but with all of the developing technologies and variety of methods available, is it still necessary?
Here’s what you need to know.
As is the case with most methods of nondestructive testing, the purpose of magnetic particle testing (MP) is to detect flaws in the component being inspected.
This method of testing employs magnetic fields to test ferromagnetic materials such as steel. Yokes, prods, coils, or central conductors are used to apply the magnetic field directly or indirectly.
In this process, a fine, pigmented powder is used which, when applied to the surface of the part, draws into a magnetic leakage field. If this is shown, the discontinuity is revealed through a visible indication.
If you're wondering whether or not magnetic particle testing is the method you should employ, there are a few considerations you should make.
If you’re looking for a method that is fairly easy and low-cost, magnetic particle testing is a great choice. It is also a highly portable method and can be used to inspect assets with irregular shapes with ease.
This may not be the most effective method for all components, however. For magnetic particle testing to work, the component under evaluation must be ferromagnetic and in some circumstances, must be demagnetized for the testing process.
One other factor to consider is that magnetic particle testing will only reveal surface defects. It is possible for inspection through magnetic particle testing to show that a component lacks flaws, even though there are discontinuities deep below the surface.
Ultimately, the decision of which method is best should be carefully considered by each NDT technician when they approach a new job and devise the first steps for an inspection. This is precisely why proper NDT training is necessary to prepare technicians for the NDT field.
At TXNDT, we make sure that each technician we train is fully prepared to head into the workforce. That training includes all necessary training, from magnetic particle testing, to liquid penetrant testing, and everything in between.
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.
But 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.
