How Magnetic Particle Inspection Works

Overview

Magnetic particle inspection works by inducing a magnetic field in a ferromagnetic component. Where the material is sound, the field flows uninterrupted; where a crack exists, the field leaks out at the surface.

Fine iron particles applied to the surface are attracted to this leakage field, clustering at the crack and making it clearly visible.

The Process

• Magnetise the component
• Apply iron particles (wet or dry)
• Particles gather at flux leakage
• Interpret indications and document