Magnetic particle inspection is specifically applicable to which type of metals?

Magnetic particle inspection is specifically applicable to ferrous metals, which are those that contain iron. This non-destructive testing method relies on the magnetic properties of ferrous materials to detect surface and near-surface flaws. When a magnetic field is applied to a ferromagnetic material, any flaws present will disrupt the magnetic field and create a leakage field that can be visually identified using magnetic particles.

Ferrous metals, such as steel and iron, exhibit strong magnetic properties and are therefore ideal candidates for this inspection method. Nonferrous metals, which do not contain iron, do not possess the necessary magnetic characteristics to be effectively inspected using this technique. This limitation also applies to precious metals and any other nonferrous materials, as they will not respond to magnetic fields in the same way. Thus, the exclusive applicability of magnetic particle inspection to ferrous metals highlights the importance of understanding material properties in relation to inspection techniques.