Which two types of mediums are used for magnetic particle inspection?

Magnetic particle inspection is a non-destructive testing method used to detect surface and near-surface imperfections in ferromagnetic materials. This method involves the use of iron particles, either in a liquid suspension or as a dry powder, to highlight flaws.

Wet magnetic particle inspection employs a liquid medium that suspends the ferromagnetic particles. This allows the particles to be easily applied to the surface of the test object, where they can gather at defect sites due to magnetic fields and provide a visible indication of cracks or other discontinuities.

On the other hand, dry magnetic particle inspection utilizes a powder form of the magnetic particles, which is applied directly to the surface of the component being inspected. This method is often used when environmental conditions are challenging or when the surface has certain coatings or contaminants that might react poorly with a liquid medium.

Using both wet and dry particle mediums allows for greater flexibility and effectiveness in different inspection scenarios, catering to various materials and surface conditions. This dual approach enhances the accuracy and reliability of the inspection process.