What is necessary for the magnetic particle testing process to be reliable?
Adequate maintenance, monitoring, and control of equipment
The process can be broken down into various system variables that must be evaluated separately.
List the variables of the magnetic particle testing system.
Each variable must be evaluated to ensure the reliability of the testing process.
All equipment checks and calibrations must be conducted in accordance with ASTM E 1444 / E 1444 M or as specified in what?
Contract or purchase order
Regular evaluation of data from magnetic particle testing checks is essential to observe trends.
What must all calibrations be traceable to?
National Institute of Standards and Technology
Certification of calibration must be available for review.
What are the nationally recognized calibration specifications mentioned?
These specifications guide the calibration process.
What does the electrical system and controls consist of?
These checks ensure the proper functioning of the electrical system.
How is the maximum output of the unit’s electrical system checked?
By placing a copper or aluminum bar between the contacts with the current control set at maximum output
The ammeter should show the maximum amperes capable of being produced by the unit.
True or false: The maximum output test should be performed daily.
TRUE
Results should be compared to the certified/calibrated output of the unit.
What indicates a shorted electrical system during the short test?
Any movement of the ammeter pointer
This test should also be performed daily.
What should the ammeter readings be within during the ammeter check?
±10 percent or other contractually specified values
This ensures that readings are accurate.
How often should the shunt/ammeter and unit ammeter be calibrated?
At least every six months or as otherwise specified
Both readings must be recorded.
What is the purpose of the quick break test?
To determine if the quick break circuit on the coil is functioning properly
This test should be conducted at least once every six months.
How often should the Shot Timer Check be performed?
At least once every six months
The timer must be calibrated at least every six months with a device measuring to at least ±0.1 s accuracy.
What is the minimum duration of current flow for each magnetizing shot?
At least 0.5 s
The maximum duration is 1 s to prevent parts from burning.
What test is used to show that the system is functioning properly and has sufficient sensitivity?
Ketos ring test
This test was first required by MIL-I-6868 in 1972.
What diameter range must the nonferromagnetic central conductor be for the Ketos ring test?
Between 25.4 mm (1 in.) and 31.75 mm (1.25 in.)
The conductor is placed through the center hole of the demagnetized Ketos ring.
What type of steel is used in the Ketos ring test?
Ketos tool steel
It is heat treated to a Rockwell B-90 to B-95 hardness as specified in AS 5282.
What should be done with accumulations of particles on the machine?
They should be cleaned off
Other components should also be checked for proper operation.
What type of oils should be used as the carrier vehicle for magnetic particles?
AMS 2641, Type I
Type II materials may be used but are not recommended.
What is the difference between Type I and Type II oils?
Flashpoint
Type II has a lower flashpoint.
What tests are required by ASTM E 1444 / E 1444 M when charging or replacing the suspension?
A sample of the new suspension must be saved
This is for later comparison during suspension tests.
What are the advantages of using water as a carrier instead of oil?
Water also requires a pH check and water break test.
What is the required concentration range for fluorescent particles in the suspension?
Between 0.1 mL and 0.4 mL/100 mL
For nonfluorescent particles, the range is between 1.2 mL and 2.4 mL/100 mL.
What is the first step in testing the concentration of particles in a suspension bath?
Agitate the solution for a minimum of 30 min
This is followed by taking a sample and demagnetizing the solution.