Magnetic Particle Testing Method, Level II

69. Which of the following induces a longitudinal 74. As a magnet, the Earth is surrounded by
magnetic field? magnetic lines of force. These lines of force
make up what is sometimes called Earth field
a. prod and they can cause problems in both magnetizing
b. yoke and demagnetizing. However Earth field is weak
c. head shot in the order of:
d. internal conductor
Ref: C.l56 a. 0.3 gauss
b. 0.03 gauss
c. 0.003 gauss
70. At the curie point, steel is temporarily d. 3.0 gauss
transformed from: Ref: C.13

a. paramagnetic to diamagnetic.
b. ferromagnetic to diamagnetic. 75. A hysteresis curve describes the relation
c. paramagnetic to ferromagnetic. between:
d. ferromagnetic to paramagnetic.
Ref: C.30 a. magnetizing force and flux density.
b. magnetizing force and applied current.
c. strength of magnetism and alignment of
71. Magnetic field strength is measured in: domains within material.
d. magnetic flux density and current generated.
a. tesla. Ref: A.24
b. gauss.
c. oersted.
d. webers/mZ. 76. Demagnetization would be required if:
Ref: C.302
a. the material has low retentivity.
b. the object is to be electric arc welded.
72. The following types of discontinuities can be c. the material has low reluctance.
found in an object's subsurface except: d. heat treatment is to be carried out after testing.
Ref: C.30
a. pipe.
b. hot tears.
c. cold shut. 77. One of the disadvantages of half-wave
d. segregation. magnetization is, when demagnetizing:
Ref: C.77
a. the current has skin effect.
b. the current does not reverse.
73. Which one of following materials has c. the current passes very deep.
permeability much greater than that of air? d. the current passes only on the surface.
Ref: C.27-28
a. permeability material
b. diamagnetic material
c. paramagnetic material 78. One disadvantage of using a single-phase
d. ferromagnetic material magnetic particle unit at current input values
Ref: C.13 over 600 A, in comparison with a three-phase
unit is, the single-phase unit will:

a. detect only surface discontinuities.

b. not detect subsurface discontinuities.
c. require 1.73 times more input current.
d. require 1. 73 times less input current.
Ref: C.28

21
Magnetic Particle Testing Method, Level II

79. In longitudinal magnetization of a round bar,

residual magnetism will be:

a. greatest at the center of bar.

b. greatest at the ends of the bar.
c. the same all over on the bar.
d. the minimum at the ends.
Ref: C.293

80. Magnetic particles of varying size are used for

dry powder and wet methods. Typically, particle
sizes for wet method testing range from:

a. 1 to 5 micrometer.
b. 1 to 25 micrometer.
c. 100 to 500 micrometer.
d. 100 to 1000 micrometer.
Ref: C.35

81. Yokes of solid steel have been used for many

years to indicate transverse cracks. Alternating
current yokes are assembled from laminated
transformer sheet to reduce:

a. the size of the yoke.

b. production costs.
c. the weight of the yoke.
d. eddy current losses.
Ref: C.l62

22
 Magnetic Particle Testing Method, Level II

Level II Answers
Magnetic Particle Testing Method
1. a 28. a 55. d
2. d 29. c 56. a
3. d 30. a 57. d
4. d 31. d 58. a
5. d 32. c 59. c
6. a 33. d 60. d
7. a 34. d 61. b
8. a 35. d 62. c
9. c 36. c 63. c
10. c 37. b 64. d
11. c 38. d 65. a
12. b 39. d 66. a
13. c 40. b 67. d
14. b 41. c 68. c
15. c 42. d 69. b
16. a 43. d 70. d
17. a 44. a 71. c
18. b 45. d 72. b
19. d 46. b 73. d
20. c 47. b 74. a
21. d 48. a 75. a
22. a 49. d 76. b
23. a 50. c 77. b
24. b 51. b 78. c
25. d 52. b 79. b
26. d 53. b 80. b
27. b 54. a 81. d

23
Magnetic Particle Testing Method, Level II

24
 Level ill Questions
Magnetic Particle Testing Method

I. The magnetic domains in a permanent magnet
are aligned in:
a. fixed positions with directions that cancel out.
b. fixed positions, predominantly in one
direction.
c. the same direction as the metal's grain
structure.
d. a random position and may become aligned to
attract a magnetic material.
Ref: C.l2
2. For which of the following would the wet
fluorescent technique be preferred over the dry
technique?
a. When the parts are large and bulky.
b. When increased speed and sensitivity are
desired.
c. When the parts being inspected are to be field
welded.
d. When it is desired to use the fluorescent
lighting provided in many plants.
Ref: A.345
3. Gas, hot tears, cold shuts, shrinkage cracks and
sand inclusions are examples of defects resulting
from which of the following processes?
4. Which of the following statements is not a valid
reason for demagnetizing a part after completing
a magnetic particle test?
a. Residual magnetism can disturb the welding
arc path on parts to be welded.
b. Residual magnetism may attract chips or small
particles in-service, causing galling or
mechanical wear.
c. Residual magnetism could interfere with the
operation or accuracy of instruments placed on
or near the part during service.
d. lf the part is to be radiographed after magnetic
particle inspection, residual magnetism may
interfere with the electromagnetic radiation
spectrum.
Ref: C.30, 292-293
5. Subjecting a part to a magnetic field that is
constantly reversing in polarity and gradually
diminishing in strength accomplishes which of
the following?
a. Magnetizes the part.
b. Demagnetizes the part.
c. Helps to locate deep-lying defects.
d. Increases the strength of the retained magnetic
field.
Ref: C.31

a. forging
b. grinding 6. The concentration of the solid content of a
c. casting suspension of magnetic particles is measured by:
d. heat treatment
Ref: A.88 a. weighing the suspension.
b. soaking the solids in benzol.
c. measuring the pull on a magnet.
d. permitting the solids to settle out of
suspension.
Ref: A.261-263

25
Magnetic Particle Testing Method, Level III

7. An important factor that must be considered 12. Which of the following will reduce a magnetic
when selecting a method of magnetization is the: field?

a. part's curie point. a. Move the direct current coil closer to the part.
b. the location of the inspection station. b. Reduce the current in only one direction.
c. location of the inspection unit. c. Move the alternating current coil further away
d. alloy, shape and condition of the part from the part.
Ref: A.229-243, C.l54-157 d. Move the part toward the inner surface of the
coil
Ref: C.297-299
8. An important factor that must be considered
when selecting a method of magnetization is the:
13. When an external magnetizing force is removed,
a. material's curie point. some of the magnetic domains remain
b. type of magnetizing current. preferentially oriented. The additional force
c. color of the fluorescent particles. required to return them to their original random
d. availability of handling equipment. orientation is commonly referred to as:
Ref: A.229-243, C.l54-157
a. coercive force.
b. applied field force.
9. When a magnetic material reaches its curie c. residual field force.
temperature the material becomes: d. direct current electric force.
Ref: C.24
a. magnetic.
b. radioactive.
c. diamagnetic. 14. When a cylinder is magnetized by a central
d. paramagnetic. conductor, the field is most intense:
Ref: C.293
a. at the ends of the cylinder.
b. at the outer surface of the cylinder.
10. Magnetic particle inspection methods on c. at the inside surface of the cylinder.
ferromagnetic materials are recognized as d. halfway through the thickness of the cylinder
superior to liquid penetrant techniques when: wall.
Ref: C.l9, 152
a. the surface is plated.
b. the parts are painted.
c. the surface is anodized. 15. When is the magnetic field strongest in an object
d. dry particles are used for fine surface cracks. being inspected by the magnetic particle method?
Ref: C.389
a. While the magnetizing current is applied.
b. Just after the magnetizing current is shut off.
11. A paramagnetic material: c. When the magnetic particle powder is applied.
d. Just prior to current reversal when using
a. is highly magnetic. alternating current.
b. is slightly magnetic. Ref: C.24, 152
c. has no magnetic properties at all.
d. has a demonstrated lack of electron mobility.
Ref: C.l3 16. Which of the demagnetization methods listed
below is most effective?

a. full-wave rectified
b. half-wave rectified alternating current
c. direct current with reversing and step-down
control
d. variable voltage alternating current with
step-down control
Ref: C.300

26
 Magnetic Particle Testing Method, Level III

17. When using the longitudinal magnetization 21. If the same amperage is passed through a 25 mm
method to inspect a bar 152 mm (6 in.) long and (1 in.) diameter bar and a 51 mm (2 in.) diameter
51 mm (2 in.) in diameter with a 5-tum coil, bar of the same length and material, the strength
which of the following amperage values should of the magnetic field at the center of:
be used?
a. both bars will be 0.
a. 1200A b. the 25 mm (1 in.) bar will be one-half that of
b. 3000A the 51 mm (2 in.) bar.
c. 12 OOOA c. the 51 mm (2 in.) bar will be one-half that of
d. 2000 amp-turns the 25 mm (1 in.) bar.
Ref: A.181-182 d. the 25 mm (1 in.) bar will be approximately
one-fourth that of the 51 mm (2 in.) bar.
Ref: A.186-187
18. To examine a part 127 mm (5 in.) long and 51
mm (2 in.) in diameter using a 5-tum coil and
head stock magnetic particle machine, what 22. When a magnetic field is induced in a part with
amperage should be used for longitudinal prods spaced 152 mm (6 in.) apart, the field is a:
magnetization?
a. circular field.
a. 3000A b. residual field.
b. 3600A c. solenoid field.
c. 4500A d. longitudinal field.
d. 10 000 ampere-turns Ref: C.22-23, 150-151
Ref: C.181-182

23. When circular magnetization is used to detect

19. To examine a bar 381 mm (15 in.) long and subsurface discontinuities, direct current is used
51 mm (2 in). in diameter using a 7-turn coil and instead of alternating current because:
head-stock magnetic particle machine, what
amperage should be used for circular a. particle mobility is no longer a factor.
magnetization? b. there is no logical reason to use direct current
instead of alternating current.
a. 750A c. direct current saturates the magnetic particles
b. 1800A better than alternating current.
c. 1800 ampere-turns d. the skin effect of alternating current reduces
d. 49 000 ampere-turns the maximum depth at which discontinuities
Ref:A.208 can be found.
Ref: C.27, 154-157

20. If the same amperage is passed through a 25 mm

and 51 mm (1 in. and a 2 in.) diameter bar of the 24. An inspection method in which an initial
same length and material, the strength of the magnetizing force is applied to a part and then
magnetic field at the surface: reduced to a lower continuous value is called:

a. will be the same for both bars. a. the surge method.

b. of the 25 mm (1 in.) bar will be one-half that b. the residual method.
of the 51 mm (2 in.) bar. c. the multivector method.
c. of the 25 mm (1 in.) bar will be approximately d. the continuous method.
twice that of the 51 mm (2 in.) bar. Ref: A.155-156
d. of the 51 mm (2 in.) bar will be approximately
four times that of the 25 mm (1 in.) bar.
Ref: A.186

27
Magnetic Particle Testing Method, Level III

25. When deciding to inspect a part by the residual 28. Which of the following, when used as the last
method of applying the particles, what factor magnetizing method, will best render a part
affects the residual magnetic field strength of the suitable for relatively easy measurement of the
part? external magnetic field using a field indicator?

a. the retentivity of the part a. probe magnetization

b. the part's magnetic field saturation point b. circular magnetization
c. the direction of the magnetic field in the part c. longitudinal magnetization
d. the type of field indicator used to measure the d. central bar conductor magnetization
residual field Ref: C.32-33
Ref: A.237-240, C.37-38

29. When using direct current an indication is

26. Factors that must be considered when detected. What is the next logical step to
interpreting an indication are: determine if the indication results from a surface
or subsurface condition?
a. the direction of the magnetic field and location
of the magnetic particle unit. a. Reinspect using alternating current.
b. the location of the magnetic particle unit and b. Reinspect at higher amperage.
the nondestructive testing level of the c. Demagnetize and apply powder.
inspector. d. Reinspect using the residual method.
c. the orientation and shape of the indication and Ref: A.397
the direction of the magnetic field.
d. the strength of the leakage field at the
indication and the type of demagnetization 30. Which of the statements below is most
method. appropriate concerning materials I and II
Ref: A.379, C.233-235 represented by the hysteresis curves shown in
Figure 1?
27. A 7-turn coil at 1000 A is used to inspect a round a. Material I is not a good subject for magnetic
solid part 381 mm (15 in.) long and 64 mm particle inspection.
(2.5 in.) in diameter. The length-to-diameter ratio b. Material I could be used for dry powder
is: magnetic particles.
c. Material II could be used for dry powder
a. 2.14. magnetic particles.
b. 6.0. d. Material II is paramagnetic.
c. 7000 amp-turns.
Ref: A.217
d. 45 000 amp-turns.
Ref: Al81-182

Figure 1

Material I B+ (Flux Density) Material II

~--B

--------~-++----------H+
(+ Magnetizing
Force)

E
B- (Flux Density of Opposite
Polarity to B+)

28
 Magnetic Particle Testing Method, Level III

31. Considering the curves shown in Figure 1, 36. Which of the following discontinuities occur as a
material IT in comparison to material I indicates result of the rolling process?
that the material:
a. fissures
a. has a high retentivity. b. laminations
b. has a high permeability. c. lack of penetration
c. has a high coercive force. d. blowholes and pipe
d. would make an excellent permanent magnet. Ref: C.5
Ref: A.217

37. Which of the following discontinuities occur as a

32. Point B on the hysteresis curve for material I result of the forging process?
shown in Figure 1:
a. pipe
a. is the limit of coercive force. b. laps
b. is the material's magnetic saturation point. c. laminations
c. represents the mid-point of the rectified d. lack of penetration.
alternating current applied. Ref: C.7
d. represents the point at which the residual
magnetic value will remain when the
magnetizing current is removed. 38. If an indication is formed when using the
Ref: A.116-117 residual method as well as the continuous
method, it is most likely:

33. Which point on the hysteresis curve shown in a. very deep and tight
Figure 1 represents the residual field value? b. a relevant indication.
c. a nonrelevant indication.
a. A d. very shallow and open to the surface.
b.B Ref: A.397
c. c
d. E
Ref: A.116-1117 39. Plated parts can be reliably tested for fine surface
cracks using the magnetic particle method if the
plating is less than:
34. When withdrawing a part from the field around a
coil and without changing the direction of a. 0.762 mm (0.03 in.) thick.
current, which of the following has the least b. 1.016 mm (0.04 in.) thick.
effect on demagnetizing the part? c. 0.127 mm (0.005 in.) thick.
d. 0.2032 mm (0.008 in.) thick.
a. direct current Ref:A.247
b. alternating current
c. full-wave rectified current
d. half-wave rectified alternating current 40. The magnetic lines of flux or flux in a permanent
Ref: C.297-299 magnet:

a. in all cases produce a longitudinal field.

35. The important factor below that should not be b. enter the south pole and leave the north pole.
considered when selecting a method of c. flow from the north pole through the magnet
magnetization to detect subsurface discontinuities to the south pole.
is: d. change direction 60 times a second with the
magnetizing current.
a. available equipment. Ref: C.l2
b. configuration of the part.
c. skill of the operator of the equipment.
d. type of material the part is made from.
Ref: C.233

29
Magnetic Particle Testing Method, Level III

41. Which of the following magnetization techniques 46. When a magnetized ferromagnetic object is
is I!.Q1 recommended for magnetic particle exposed to a subsequent heating operation above
testing? the curie point:

a. vector magnetization a. the marten site structure will occur.

b. parallel magnetization b. the magnetic domains become random.
c. circular magnetization c. there is no change from its previous state.
d. longitudinal magnetization d. the magnetic domains are reversed from their
Ref: A.139, C.l59 previous state
Ref: C.30

42. When attempting to demagnetize a part

containing a circular residual field: 47. A discontinuity caused by a welding operation is:

a. use a swinging cyclic field. a. creep crack.

b. consideration of the material's hysteresis is b. segregation.
most important. c. machining tear.
c. establish a longitudinal field and then proceed d. lameral tearing.
with demagnetization. Ref: C.86
d. using half-wave current with a head shot setup
and step-down magnetization will ensure
complete removal of the residual field. 48. The most effective current to be used with dry
Ref: C.33, 294 magnetic particle is:

a. direct current.
43. Small parts requiring demagnetization should be: b. half-wave rectified alternating current.
c. full-wave rectified alternating current with
a. loaded in baskets and passed through an three-phase bridge circuitry.
alternating current coil. d. full-wave rectified alternating current with
b. loaded in a steel basket for better field single-phase bridge circuitry.
distribution. Ref; C.155
c. processed through a demagnetization cycle
one at a time.
d. demagnetized after assembly to ensure 49. The following properties should be considered in
complete demagnetization of the entire choosing a vehicle for the wet method, except:
assembly.
Ref: A.314 a. capillarity.
b. corrosivity.
c. wetting ability.
44. The best shape for magnetic particles used in the d. foaming ability.
dry powder method is: Ref: C.208

a. globular.
b. elongated. 50. The amount of light reflected by one surface
c. long and slender. compared to that reflected by another adjacent
d. a mixture of elongated and globular. surface is:
Ref: C.36
a. length-to-diameter ratio.
b. B/H ratio.
45. The best method for testing ball bearings is: c. color contrast.
d. brightness contrast.
a. along one axis using a coil. Ref.C.229
b. two head shots along the X and Y axis.
c. two shots using a coil at the X and Y axis.
d. induced current shots along X, Y, and Z axis,
rotating 360 degrees during each shot.
Ref: A.349-350

30
 Magnetic Particle Testing Method, Level III

51. Given a certain continuous magnetization current 56. One of most important facts that must be
in a material, which type of current would give remembered while establishing magnetic particle
the deepest penetration? procedure.

a. direct current a. The magnetic field follows the path of greatest

b. alternating current reluctance.
c. direct current surge b. Coil shot, wet method provides only surface
d. half-wave direct current discontinuities.
Ref: C.l57 c. The head shot wet method is better for
detecting subsurface discontinuities.
d. In most cases the continuous method is more
52. Given a certain continuous magnetization current sensitive than is the residual method.
in a material, which type of current would give Ref: C.37
the shallowest penetration?

a. direct current 57. Which one of the following magnetic particle

b. alternating current testing techniques is logically acceptable for
c. direct current surge testing a large flat area?
d. half-wave direct current
Ref: C.l57 a. prod
b. rod shot
c. coil shot
53. Which type of radiation can most damage human d. head shot
tissue? Ref: C.l58

a. UV-A
b. UV-B 58. Permeability of a material can be numerically
c. white light written as:
d. visible light
Ref: C.322 a. RIB.
b. BIH.
c. HciHb.
54. Compared with magnetic particle testing, liquid d. ampere turns/number of turns.
penetrant testing is not reliable after paint Ref: C.26
removal from weld because:

a. liquid penetrant testing can be applied only to 59. One disadvantage for using undyed wet magnetic
small parts. particles is:
b. liquid penetrant testing can be applied only in
field conditions. a. it is more costly.
c. magnetic particle testing will detect subsurface b. it is suitable for the fluorescent method only.
discontinuities. c. it is suitable for surface discontinuity detection
d. partial smearing of weld surface metal across only.
the discontinuity opening can occur. d. the lack of contrasting color makes them
Ref: C.389 difficult to see.
Ref: C.35

55. Prod spacing less than 76.2 mm (3 in.) is usually

not practical because:

a. the possibility of sparking will increase.

b. more time will be consumed for inspection.
c. it requires more media than a 152 mm (6 in.)
prod distance.
d. particles tend to bend around the prod making
interpretation difficult.
Ref: C.151

31
Magnetic Particle Testing Method, Level III

60. One of most desirable characteristics of the

media for magnetic particle testing is:

a. the ability to show clearly against any

background.
b. the insensitiveness to concentration in water as
vehicle.
c. no need for agitation when used with liquid
vehicle.
d. the highest possible permeability and lowest
retentivity.
Ref: C.34

32
 Magnetic Particle Testing Method, Level Ill

Level m Answers
Magnetic Particle Testing Method

1. b 21. a 41. b
2. b 22. a 42. c
3. c 23. d 43. c
4. d 24. a 44. d
5. b 25. a 45. d
6. d 26. c 46. b
7. d 27. b 47. d
8. b 28. c 48. b
9. d 29. a 49. a
10. b 30. c 50. d
11. b 31. b 51. d
12. c 32. b 52. b
13. a 33. c 53. b
14. c 34. a 54. d
15. a 35. c 55. d
16. c 36. b 56. d
17. b 37. b 57. a
18. b 38. b 58. b
19. b 39. c 59. d
20. c 40. b 60. d

33
Magnetic Particle Testing Method, Level Ill

34
 Sample Specification
Wet Magnetic Particle Testing Method
1.0 Scope
1.1 Magnetic particle testing is a
nondestructive testing method used to
detect surface and near surface
discontinuities in ferromagnetic materials.
2.0 General
2.1 The Magnetic Particle Testing Method
consists of magnetizing the area to be
inspected, and then applying magnetic
particles to the surface of the test area.
Magnetic field leakages caused by cracks
and other discontinuities will attract the
magnetic particles, and the resulting
pattern will be characteristic of the type of
discontinuity present. Sensitivity of the
Magnetic Particle Testing Method is
greatest at the surface and diminishes
rapidly with increasing depth.
2.2 Drawings and purchase orders should
specify the extent of magnetic particle
inspection required for each item and the
acceptance standards to be met.
2.3 Documents referenced, as modified
herein, shall be considered part of this
standard procedure.
2.4 All persons performing magnetic particle
inspection shall have received training
and be certified in accordance with a
written program developed per
recommended guidelines of SNT-TC-JA
(1980 Edition).
2.4.1 A Level I certified technician shall
perform work under the direction
of a Level II, except that final
interpretation shall be performed by
a Level II or Level ill. All reports
and technique sheets shall be
prepared by a Level II, and the
technique sheet approved by a
Level ill.
2.5 A minimum of two separate examinations
shall be conducted on each area inspected,
with the lines of flux of one examination
approximately perpendicular to the lines
of flux of the other. A different method of
magnetization may be used for the second
examination (i.e., longitudinal magnetic
field technique and circular magnetic field
technique).
35
2.6 An ammeter shall be used on the magnetic
particle inspection unit to ensure that the
proper amperage is being applied.
2.7 In the absence of requirements to the
contrary, magnetizing currents shall be
determined by experiment, and recorded
on a magnetic particle technique sheet and
approved by a Level m.
2. 7.1 The behavior of the magnetic
particles on the surface of a test
part while it is being magnetized is
an excellent indication of the
amount of magnetizing current
being used, or the strength of the
magnetic field. Complete lack of
particle activity indicates that the
field is too weak; excessive particle
accumulation with lack of particle
mobility indicates that the field is
too strong. Some slight indication
of pattern around ends, edges, and
protuberances indicates sufficient
field strength. A special carbon
steel/copper plate field indicator
may be used to determine
comparative field strength. If
clearly defined lines of particles
appear on the copper side of the
field indicator, the magnetic field is
of sufficient strength.
2.7.2 When particle activity indicates
either insufficient or excessive field
strength, even though all test
parameters have been met, a
change in current value shall be
recorded on the magnetic particle
technique sheet.
2.8 Continuous exposure to the wet particle
bath can cause subcutaneous fats and oils
of the skin to be dissolved. The resultant
drying and cracking encourages secondary
infection. Persons suffering rashes and
skin irritation from exposure to the wet
particle bath should report this condition
to the supervisor.
2.8.1 Good working habits which prevent
the unnecessary wetting of hands
and clothing should be developed.
2.8.2 The use of a hand protective
preparation is recommended when
Sample Specification
working for extended periods with
the wet particle bath.
2.8.3 A polyvinyl apron shall be worn.
2.8.4 After working with the wet particle
bath, hands and arms should be
washed with warm water and mild
soap.
2.9 Care and maintenance of magnetic
particle test equipment shall be performed
in accordance with instructions provided
in procedure M-2.
3.0 Referenced Documents
3.1 ASME Section V Nondestructive
examination ASTM E-125 Reference
photographs for magnetic particle
inspection
ASTM E-138 Wet magnetic particle
inspection ASTM E-269 Terms relating to
magnetic inspection
PROC. M-1 Calibration of magnetic
particle test method equipment
PROC. M-2 Care and maintenance of
equipment
PROC. M-4 Mixing and checking
magnetic particle bath
3.1.1 All documents referenced in this
section shall be maintained to the
latest revision, and work requests,
technique sheets, and test reports
will cite the proper revision for the
work performed.
4.0 Identification
4.1 Identification methods shall be established
which will enable the test report, the
component, and the area tested to be
identified with respect to each other at any
time.
4.2 A suitable method shall be used to ensure
correct part identification. Where
identification is removed or obliterated, an
identity tag shall be used until the
identification can be reapplied. If positive
identification cannot be determined, then
a nonconformance report shall be issued.
5.0 Surface Condition
5.1 With most magnetic particle test methods,
satisfactory results may generally be
obtained when the surface to be inspected
is in the as-welded, as-rolled, as-cast, or
as-forged condition. However, in some
cases, surface conditioning may be
required to prevent the masking of
defects.
5.1.1 Surfaces to be inspected shall be
clean and free from oil, grease,
36
sand, loose rust or scale, which
may interfere with satisfactory
inspection.
5 .1.1.1 Surfaces to be inspected
shall be cleaned prior to
submission to NDT. When
the surface condition is not
suitable for inspection, the
part shall be returned to
production untested, or
NDT will condition the
surface, whichever is
mutually agreeable.
5.1.2 Small openings and holes which
lead to areas from which it would
be difficult to remove magnetic
substances shall be plugged before
the part is inspected.
5.2 Unless otherwise specified in the drawing,
final magnetic particle inspection shall be
performed on any part in the finished
surface condition, and final heat treated
condition.
6.0 Equipment
6.1 The wet magnetic particle inspection unit
is a horizontal stationary unit
manufactured by Company,
Model No. , 2000 DC amps,
equipped with head-tail stocks and a
S-turn coil.
6.2 The demagnetizing unit is a 60-cycle,
single phase AC, coil-type with timer,
manufactured by Company, Model No.
6.3 The field indicator is a dial readout,
pocket size magnetometer used to
measure comparative magnetic field
strength.
7.0 Examination Medium
7.1 The examination medium shall consist of
finely divided ferromagnetic particles
which have high permeability and low
retentivity characteristics.! They shall be
of suitable size and shape to readily
produce magnetic particle indications.
7.1.1 Fluorescent magnetic particles shall
be used.
8.0 Methods of Examination
8.1 The methods of "wet" magnetic particle
examination used shall consist of the
longitudinal magnetic field technique and
the circular magnetic field technique.
8.2 Using the longitudinal magnetic field
technique, magnetization is accomplished
1 Suspended in base oil "C" as described in Proc. No. MT-4.
2 The part to be inspected is placed within the coil assembly or flexible
leads are coiled through large complex parts.

by passing current through a multi-tum
coil.2
This technique produces a longitudinal
magnetic field parallel to the axis of the
coil.
8.2.1 Direct or rectified AC shall be
used. The magnetizing current is
determined by dividing 45 000 by
the length-over-diameter ratio of
the part to be inspected, and then
dividing this value by the number
of turns in the coil.
8.3
45 000
Ampere-turns=---
LID
Amperes= Ampere-turns
No. coil turns
Using the circular magnetic field
technique, magnetization is accomplished
by passing current through the part to be
inspected. This technique produces a
circular magnetic field throughout the part
perpendicular to the current flow.
8.3.1 Direct or rectified AC shall be
used. The magnetizing current is
determined by multiplying the part
diameter by an amperage-per-inch
diameter value.
8.3.2 The magnetizing current shall be as
shown in the table.
Part Diameter
0-250 mm (0-10 in.)
Over 250 mm (10 in.)
Amperes per Inch of Part Diameter
500-800A
9.0 Examination
9.1 A pre-inspection visual examination shall
be made of the test part to determine
surface condition, equipment
requirements, and also that all test
parameters can be met.
9.1.1 When any material or part cannot
be fully inspected as required by
drawing, due to design, test facility
restrictions, or other reasons, a
nonconformance report shall be
issued. The nonconformance report
shall state the reasons why the part
cannot be fully inspected, and
recommended appropriate action.
The magnetic particle test report
shall state the test limitations.
37
Sample Specification
9.2 Unless otherwise specified by drawing,
magnetic particle inspection shall be
performed by the continuous method. This
is accomplished by keeping the
magnetizing current on while the
examination medium is being applied (by
flowing it over the part).
9.3 The sequence of "shots" shall be
determined by ascending order of current.
That is, the "shot" requiring the lowest
amperage shall be first, and the "shot"
requiring the greatest amperage value
shall be the product of the amperage
multiplied by the number of turns in the
coil.
9.3.1 When exceptions to 9.3 are
necessary, this shall be indicated by
the order of listing for each shot on
the technique sketch.
9.4 Examinations shall be performed with
sufficient overlap to ensure 100%
coverage of the area or part under
inspection at the established field strength.
9.4.1 When using the longitudinal
magnetic field technique, no length
greater than 229 mm (9 in.) of test
part extending from each side of
the coil shall be inspected with
each "shot." Therefore, if a part is
longer than 460 mm (18 in.), two
or more "shots" along its length
will be necessary.
9.4.2 When using the circular magnetic
field technique, no length greater
than 310 mm (12 in.) shall be
viewed during any one "shot."
Therefore, if a part is longer than
310 mm (12 in.), two or more shots
will be necessary.
9.5 Repaired areas on the test part shall be
reinspected in accordance with the
original test procedures.
10.0 Evalnation of Indications
10.1 Evaluation of indications shall be to
acceptance standards shown on drawings
or purchase orders.
10.2 The inspection area shall be provided with
adequate lighting to facilitate examination
of the test part for indications.
10.2.1 The examination shall be conducted
in a darkened area under ultraviolet
light illumination.
10.2.2 The ultraviolet light shall emit
near-ultraviolet radiation in the
330-390 nm (3300-3900 A)
wavelength range.
Sample Specification
10.2.3 The ultraviolet light shall have, as a
minimum, an intensity of
800 jlW/cm2 at the inspection
surface, as measured by XYZ
Company light meter (or equal),
with a lOX multiplier disk.
10.3 The ultraviolet light shall have a
minimum warm-up time of 5 minutes
prior to its use in examination.
10.4 Relevant indications are indications that
result from discontinuities within the test
part.
10.5 Nonrelevant indications are indications
that result from excessive magnetizing
current, structural design, or permeability
variances within the test part. They have
no bearing on the suitability of the test
part for service.
10.5.1 Any indication believed to be
nonrelevant shall be regarded as
relevant and shall be reexamined to
determine whether an actual defect
exists. Surface conditioning may
precede the reexamination.
10.5.2 If test part quality cannot be
ensured by magnetic particle
inspection upon re-examination,
then other methods of
nondestructive testing may be used.
Decisions concerning nonrelevancy
require Level III approval.
10.6 Linear indications shall be considered as
those having a length more than three
times the width.
10.7 Rounded indications shall be considered
as those having a length less than three
times the width.
10.8 Aligned indications shall be considered as
a group of three or more indications
which touch an imaginary straight line
connecting any two of the group.
11.0 Demagnetization
11.1 Demagnetization shall be required
following final magnetic particle
inspection, where residual magnetism will
interfere with subsequent processes or
usage.
11.2 Only the demagnetizing unit shall be used
for demagnetization. Do not use the coil
on the wet magnetic particle inspection
unit for demagnetization.
11.3 Energize the demagnetizing coil by
operating the timer switch. This timer
limits the operating periods from a few
seconds to one minute, as selected. The
red light will glow and a strong pull will
be felt on a piece of ferromagnetic
material held near the coil.
38
11.3.1 CAUTION: Due to high currents,
operation should be intermittent.
That is, each operating period
should be followed by an equal
period of rest, to allow for cooling.
The maximum "on" period should
seldom be longer than 30 seconds.
11.4 To demagnetize a part, turn on the current
and pass the part completely through the
demagnetizer. The part shall be placed
inside the coil and then slowly withdrawn
from the magnetic field in a straight line,
a distance of at least 1.2 m (4ft).
11.4.1 CAUTION: Do not allow the
current to turn off while the part is
in the magnetic field, as incomplete
demagnetization may result. Repeat
the demagnetization process if this
occurs.
11.4.2 Small parts, much smaller in
cross-section than the demagnetizer
coil cross-section, should be passed
through the coil close to one wall
or corner and not through the
center of the coil.
11.5 For parts too large to pass through the
demagnetizer coil, satisfactory
demagnetization can often be
accomplished by bringing the part as close
as possible to the coil, turning it to bring
all sides into the field, and then
withdrawing it slowly before the current
turns off.
11.6 Striking the part with a mallet while the
part is in the magnetic field and being
withdrawn will often improve results on
parts difficult to demagnetize.
11.7 Demagnetization may often be improved
by the ''Transient Current Method." The
part to be demagnetized is placed in the
demagnetizer coil, the current turned on
and off several times, and then while the
current is on, the part is withdrawn from
the magnetic field as described in 11.4.
11.8 The demagnetizer should be positioned so
that an imaginary line drawn through the
center of the coil runs in the east-west
direction.
11.9 A field indicator shall be used to
determine the amount of residual
magnetism remaining in the part.
11.10 Cleaning should occur prior to complete
drying of residual bath.
11.10.1 The test part shall be cleaned by
wiping it with a cloth soaked in
base oil "C." After the test part
has dried, a light coat of mineral
oil shall be applied as a rust
preventative.
 Sample Specification

12.0 Records
12.1 A magnetic particle inspection technique
sheet shall be submitted with the final
inspection records.
12.2 A magnetic particle inspection report shall
be submitted with the final inspection
records.
12.3 A maintenance/calibration record shall be
kept (current) on the wet magnetic particle
inspection unit.
12.4 A wet magnetic particle inspection use
record shall be kept (current) on the wet
magnetic particle test unit.
12.5 All records of inspection, original, repair,
and final, shall be retained for a minimum
period of seven (7) years.

39
Sample Specification

40
 Sample Specification Questions

Sample Specification Questions

Wet Magnetic Particle Testing Method

Using the sample specification located on pages 35- 5. Part position is varied in the coil when the part
39, answer the remaining questions. (References listed is:
pertain to paragraphs in the sample specification.)
a. over 46 em (18 in.) in length
b. over 31 em (12 in.) in length
l. The magnetic particles suspended in the bath c. square
shall have: d. round
Para. 9.4.1
a. high red iron oxide content
b. low retentivity and low permeability
c. low retentivity and high permeability 6. Inspected parts requiring repair must be:
d. high permeability and low coerciveness
Para. 7.1 a. reinspected using a sampling plan
b. reinspected following repair
c. inspected with another NDT method
2. The ammeter is used to: d. made to follow the original fabrication plan
after defect removal is checked and reworked
a. determine the polarity of magnetization Para. 9.5
b. determine the amperage being used
c. ensure that the part has been demagnetized
d. measure amp-turns 7. Ultraviolet light intensity requirements specify:
Para. 2.6
a. a minimum of five minute warm-up
b. that a darkened room be used
3. The field meter is used to determine: c. a minimum of 800 JlW/cm2 at the inspection
surface
a. magnetic polarity and amperage d. all of the above
b. the comparative strength of field and if Para. 10.2
demagnetization is effective
c. retentivity and magnetic permeability
d. both a and b 8. The ammeter shall be checked against a
Para. 6.3; 11.9 calibration shunt meter:

a. prior to each use

4. Demagnetization is required: b. at the start of the shift
c. per Procedure M-1
a. as soon as the part has been cleaned d. per Procedure M-4
b. prior to magnetic particle inspection Para. 3.1
c. for all parts which are inspected
d. where residual magnetism will interfere with
subsequent processes or usage
Para. 11.1

41
Sample Specification Questions

9. Parts will be demagnetized by: 14. Unless otherwise specified, magnetic particle
inspection shall be performed by:
a. banging with a hammer
b. placing within a demagnetizing coil for 30 a. the residual method
seconds b. the continuous method
c. holding within the demagnetizing coil while c. both a and b
the stepdown transformer moves through its d. none of the above
descending order of amperage shots Para. 9.2
d. setting the demagnetizing current at an
amperage higher than the original magnetizing
current and slowly passing the part through 15. Unless otherwise specified, the final magnetic
the coil particle inspection shall be performed on parts:
Para. 11.4
a. prior to final machining but after final heat
treatment
10. When magnetizing a part, 31 em (12 in.) long by b. after final machining but before final heat
64 mm (2.5 in.) diameter, by placing it within treatment
the head stocks and passing an electric current c. after final machining and heat treatment
through it, the ammeter should be set at: d. any time prior to final heat treatment
Para. 5.2
a. 900A
b. 1750A
c. 1875 A 16. The extent of magnetic particle inspection should
d. 2200A be specified:
Para. 8.3.2
a. in the procedure
b. in the drawings and in the purchase order
11. For demagnetization, the maximum "on" period c. in the acceptance standard
should seldom be more than: d. by normal shop practice
Para. 2.2
a. 5 seconds
b. 30 seconds
c. 120 seconds 17. The technique sheet shall be approved by:
d. 240 seconds
Para. 11.3.1 a. a Level II
b. a Level III
c. no one; techniques used do not need to be
12. If a part cannot be fully inspected as required by approved
the drawing: d. a Level II and the client
Para. 2.7
a. a drawing revision must be issued
b. the part must be scrapped
c. a nonconformance report must be issued 18. If the magnetizing current is not specified, the
d. the part must be marked with red paint magnetizing current should be determined by:
pending disposition
Para. 9.1.1 a. experimentation and then recorded on the
technique sheet
b. the cognizant engineer
13. The sequence of "shots" shall be determined by: c. the client
d. the technician's experience
a. accessibility of areas Para. 2.7
b. descending order of current
c. ascending order of current
d. this is not an important consideration
Para. 9.3

42
 Sample Specification Questions

19. Nonrelevant indications: 24. The part shall be post-cleaned:

a. have no bearing on the suitability of the part a. by rinsing it with acetone

for service b. by wiping it with a dry cloth
b. shall be reexamined to determine whether an c. by wiping it with a cloth soaked in base oil
actual defect exists "C"
c. must be completely removed d. this is not a provision of the procedure
d. both a and b must be considered Para. 11.10.11
Para. 10.5, 10.5.1

25. Demagnetization may often be improved by the

20. The intensity of the ultraviolet light shall be use of:
measured using a:
a. the DC surge technique
a. light meter with a 1OX multiplier disc b. insulated paramagnetic rails
b. light meter with an amber field filter c. the "Transient Current Method"
c. light meter set at 343 nm (3425 A) d. a booster-type demagnetizer
d. light meter with an M2 rating Para. 11.7
Para. 10.2.8

21. A part being demagnetized should be slowly

removed from the magnetic field in a straight
line for a distance of:

a. 31 em (1 ft)
b. 61 em (2ft)
c. 122 em (4ft)
d. the distance is not important
Para. 11.4

22. Records of inspection shall be maintained:

a. for the life of the part

b. for 40 years
c. for 7 years
d. until the client accepts the part
Para. 12.5

23. A field indicator shall be used to determine the:

a. amount of residual magnetism remaining in a

part
b. orientation of the magnetic field
c. overall vector component of the magnetic field
d. outer limit of magnetic field
Para. 11.9

43
Sample Specification Questions

Sample Specification Answers

Wet Magnetic Particle Testing Method

1. c
2. b
3. b
4. d
5. a
6. b
7. c
8. c
9. d
10. d
11. b
12. c
13. c
14. b
15. c
16. b
17. b
18. a
19. d
20. a
21. c
22. c
23. a
24. c
25. c

44
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