As a nondestructive testing technician, you know that it is crucial to master a number of different testing methods to be prepared for each different job. Liquid Penetrant Testing, or LPT, is a common method used by many technicians to determine whether or not flaws and fissures are present in a component.
However, all methods are not created equal. Different methods are appropriate for different circumstances and can yield vastly different results depending on part geometry, the material of the component under inspection, depth of the flaw, etc.
Liquid penetrant testing may not be appropriate for every job. If you are making this decision before a job or are wondering what results may come from hiring NDT services, here is what you need to know about flaws found using liquid penetrant testing.
How Liquid Penetrant Testing Works and its Challenges
What is Liquid Penetrant Testing
Liquid Penetrant Testing is a tried and true method of NDT that dates back as far as the early 19th century. While the specifics of the method have evolved over time, liquid penetrant testing remains a reliable and simple method of nondestructive testing.
To perform this method, capillary action is used to find what are known as “surface-breaking discontinuities” in the components under inspection. During this process, a low-viscosity liquid is applied to the surface of the component, at which point the property of capillary action allows the liquid to enter the fissures and flaws open to the surface. A period of time known as dwelling time passes, following which the excess penetrant can be removed. Any remaining liquid will flow back out and expose the component’s flaws.
What Can LPT Find
For the most part, liquid penetrant testing is a sufficient method for exposing surface indications. This can be an issue, however, if there are flaws deep below the surface.
Liquid penetrant testing can find flaws in a variety of materials, as long as the surface is non-porous. While liquid penetrant testing is not a sufficient method for identifying deep indications, it can still reveal small flaws that may be missed by visual testing or some other methods.
Contact TXNDT Today!
For businesses looking to hire nondestructive testing services, it doesn’t matter what methods a technician chooses if they haven’t been properly trained.
At TXNDT, our training methods are a cut above the rest. We make sure that each technician we train is fully prepared to enter the workforce, with mastery of all of the most important NDT methods.
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.
Source: What Flaws Can Typically Be Found Using Liquid Penetrant… | TXNDT
