1. Planning and suitability
We begin by reviewing the material, component geometry, access conditions and purpose of the test. Because the method works only on ferromagnetic materials, we first confirm that it is suitable for the component.
post@tt-ndt.com
Contact us
SERVICES
Wet Fluorescent Magnetic Particle Testing
Sensitive inspection of ferromagnetic parts and welds under UV light
Wet fluorescent magnetic particle testing is a sensitive NDT method for detecting surface and near-surface discontinuities in ferromagnetic materials. Typical applications include welds, steel components, shafts, castings, forgings and pressure equipment.
The method uses magnetic fields and a liquid suspension of fluorescent magnetic particles. These particles form high-contrast indications around discontinuities such as cracks, laps and seams, which the inspector examines under UV light.
TT-NDT provides inspection support for industrial, offshore and difficult-access environments, with clear documentation of the inspected areas and any relevant indications.
What is wet fluorescent magnetic particle testing?
Wet fluorescent magnetic particle testing is a non-destructive method for ferromagnetic materials such as carbon steel and certain steel alloys. During the inspection, the component is magnetized and a liquid suspension containing fluorescent magnetic particles is applied to its surface.
Where a surface or near-surface discontinuity disturbs the magnetic field, particles collect to form an indication. The inspector examines these indications under UV light, where their fluorescence provides strong contrast.
This form of fluorescent magnetic particle inspection is useful for locating fine discontinuities on components with suitable material, surface and access conditions.
Magnetization
Fluorescent particles
UV inspection
Near-surface defects
Why use wet fluorescent magnetic particle testing?
Early detection
Steel components may operate under cyclic loads, pressure, vibration, offshore exposure or other demanding conditions. A properly conducted inspection can reveal fine surface and near-surface indications, supporting maintenance planning and decisions about further assessment.
Less uncertainty
Documented results help technical teams assess relevant indications before repair, commissioning, shutdown completion or continued operation. The findings can support decisions about repair, monitoring or additional testing.
Combined with other methods
Magnetic particle inspection may be used alongside visual or ultrasonic testing when the inspection scope calls for complementary information about the asset.
How we conduct the inspection
2. Surface preparation and inspection
The inspection area is prepared, the component is magnetized and the fluorescent particle suspension is applied. Under UV light, the inspector examines the surface and records relevant indications.
3. Report and next step
After testing, the client receives an inspection report covering the tested areas, detected indications, photographs where required and recommendations for repair, monitoring or further NDT.
Typical applications
Assets and components
The method is used to check ferromagnetic welds, pressure vessels, pipelines, lifting equipment, offshore structures, cranes, shafts, machined parts, castings and forgings for fine surface and near-surface defects.
Stages of work
Inspection may be carried out during manufacturing, maintenance, shutdowns, repair verification, acceptance control and failure investigation, provided the material, surface and access conditions are suitable.
What you receive
The inspection result shows whether relevant surface or near-surface indications were found in the inspected area. The report provides practical information to support maintenance, repair and further inspection decisions.
Your team can use the documented findings to plan repairs or decide whether additional NDT is needed.
- 01Inspection scope
- 02Tested areas
- 03Equipment or method used
- 04Detected indications
- 05Photographs where required
- 06Inspector comments
- 07Recommendations for the next step
Why choose TT-NDT?
Reliable results depend on suitable materials, correct technique, controlled lighting and experienced interpretation. TT-NDT inspectors consider how surface condition, access, geometry and site limitations may affect inspection quality.
We support one-time inspections, shutdown projects, offshore maintenance, acceptance control and broader NDT programmes that combine magnetic particle inspection with visual or ultrasonic testing.
Questions
UV light makes the fluorescent particle indications stand out with high contrast, helping the inspector locate and assess surface and near-surface discontinuities.
It is suitable when a component is ferromagnetic and must be checked for fine surface or near-surface discontinuities. Typical applications include welds, steel structures, shafts, castings, forgings and pressure equipment.
No. This method is mainly used for surface and near-surface indications. If internal defects or wall thickness loss must be assessed, ultrasonic testing or another volumetric NDT method may be recommended.
The report records the inspection scope and tested areas, the method or equipment used, detected indications, photographs where required, inspector comments and recommendations for the next step.
