Liquid Penetrant Test

Non-destructive Examination (NDE) refers to those inspection methods, that allow materials to be examined without changing or destroying their usefulness. NDE is a very important part of the quality assurance program. Different NDE methods are employed to ensure that the weld meets design specifications and does not contain defects. The liquid Penetrant test is capable of detecting surface - connecting discontinuities in ferrous and nonferrous alloys. Liquid penetrant tests are used to examine the weld joint surfaces, intermediate checks of individual weld passes and completed welds. PT is commonly employed on stainless steels where magnetic particle examination is not possible. The examiner should recognize that many specifications limit contaminants in the penetrant materials which could adversely affect the weld or parent materials. Most penetrant manufacturers will provide material certifications on the amounts of contaminants such as chlorine, sulfur, and halogens. A limitation of PT is that standard penetrant systems are limited to a maximum of 125°F (52°C) so the weld must be cool which significantly slows down the welding operation. High-temperature penetrant systems can be qualified to extend the temperature envelope. During PT, the test surface is cleaned and coated with a penetrating liquid that seeks surface-connected discontinuities. After the excess surface liquid penetrant is removed, a solvent-based powder suspension (developer) is normally applied by spraying. The liquid in any

discontinuity bleeds out to stain the powder coating. An indication of depth is possible if the Inspector observes and compares the indication bleed out to the opening size visible at the surface. The two general penetrant techniques approved for use include the colour contrast penetrant technique (normally red in colour to contrast with a white background) and the fluorescent penetrant technique, which uses a dye that is visible to ultraviolet light. For sensitivity, fluorescent penetrant techniques may be used to detect fine linear type indications. The examination is performed in a darkened area using a filtered blacklight. Three different penetrant systems are available for use with both of the techniques, they include a. Solvent removable. b. Water washable. c. Post emulsifiable. Compatibility with base metals, welds, and process material should be considered before penetrants are used since they can be difficult to remove completely. Some requirements listed in article6 0f ASME include:

a. Inspection is to be performed in accordance with a procedure (as specified by the referencing code section).

b. Type of penetrant materials to be used.

c. Details for pre-examination cleaning which includes minimum drying time.

d. Dwell time for the penetrant.

e. Details for removing excess penetrant, applying the developer, and time before interpretation.

f. Evaluation of indications in terms of the accepted standards of the referencing code.

g. Post examination cleaning requirements.

h. Minimum surface illumination (visible or blacklight) of the part under examination.