Liquid Penetrant Testing (PT)

Liquid penetrant testing is a simple and low-cost method for detecting surface flaws. These flaws include laps, porosity, cracks, pits, and other indications.

Liquid penetrant testing detects these flaws when they appear on the surface. Penetrant testing is one degree up from visual inspection, and is rapid, can cover a large area, and is inexpensive.

Testing involves a six-stage process. Cleaning, application, removal, application of developer, inspection, and final cleaning with anti-corrosion solutions. During the inspection stage, the developer will have drawn out penetrants in cracks and other discontinuity areas which produce surface indications.