Penetrant Testing (PT)
Penetrant testing (PT) is a non-destructive surface testing method and is used for the visual detection of open material separations (such as cracks and pores) and on non-magnetizable materials.
Various procedures
Penetrant testing is a special method of non-destructive testing (NDT) for surfaces of metallic and non-metallic materials. A basic distinction is made between red-white and fluorescent penetrant testing. Both methods are based on capillary action and are independent of the size of the component to be tested. With this method, the material does not have to be magnetizable. Due to the better luminosity of the penetrant, the fluorescent method shows clear advantages over the red-white test by detecting fine defects on the surface.
Applications:
- Process independent of the material and size of the component
- Localization of defects on surfaces for the determination of crack courses and pores
- Fields of application: Welded joints, castings etc.
- At Qualitech or at the customer’s site
Application limitations:
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Exclusively for open defects on the surface
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Possible false indications due to rough surfaces or impurities
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Fluorescent method only possible in dark environment under UV light