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Overview
Dye penetrant inspection (DPI) is a convenient form of detecting surface breaking defects and has the advantage that it can be used on virtually all materials — ferrous, non-ferrous, metallic, and even many non-metallic surfaces.
Our PT Techniques
We offer various techniques from simple, but effective, red dye penetrants to more sophisticated high sensitivity fluorescent penetrants for use with ultraviolet light. The method chosen depends on the sensitivity required and the nature of the component being inspected.
The PT Process
- Surface cleaning to remove contaminants
- Penetrant application and dwell time to allow capillary action
- Removal of excess penetrant from the surface
- Developer application to draw penetrant out of defects
- Inspection under white light (dye) or UV light (fluorescent)
- Post-inspection cleaning and documentation
Applications
- Weld inspection for surface-breaking defects
- Casting and forging surface quality assessment
- In-service inspection for fatigue cracks
- Non-ferrous materials where MT is not applicable
- Ceramic and composite components
- Complex geometries and intricate components
Advantages
- Applicable to almost any material type
- Large areas can be inspected rapidly and cost-effectively
- Highly sensitive fluorescent option available for critical components
- Results are clear, unambiguous, and easy to document
- Suitable for field use with portable kits
