Magnetic Particle Crack Detection Cracks in cast iron or steel components, which can be magnetised, can be found using magnetic particle inspection. The component in question is temporarily magnetised using a permanent or electro magnet znd then small iron oxide particles in dry ‘powder form or ina solution in water or kerosene are then sprayed or brushed on. Prior to this the component must be thoroughiy cleaned and fie fiom ol grease and dint ‘Any crack in the component disrupts the magnetic field and attracts the iron particles wihich shows up the crack. To assist with the detection the particles may be dyed in tright colours or the component painted with a white paint However the most sensitive mnethod is to use partickes treated with a fluorescent dye and then view the results using an ultra violet ‘amp uader lov light conditions It may be necessary to rotate the magnetic field through 90° to allow the crack to show up. This is because the lines of magnetic force must cross the erack at an angle for it to show up. ‘Afterwards the component should be demagnetised especialy tis « bearing jounal or trust colar This is because of the danger cof wear particles being attracted to the surface after the inspection. Components that are to undergo weld repair after a crack is detected (eg. cylinder head) must also be demagnetsed a residual magnetic elds can interfere with welding reps. ‘Cracks Showing Under Ultra Violet light (CRACKS IN A THRUST COLLAR Dye Penetrant Crack Detection This is the most common method used to detect cracks in components on board ship. The penetrant, which is the same as a penetrating oil used to unseize a rusted mut and bolt except it contains a dye will find is way into the smallest of cracks, even those invisible to the naked eye. Some penctrants use a fuoresceat dye which is then used in conjunction with an ultraviolet Hh which makes the cracks glow green when ordinary listing is reduced. others use 2 developer which makes the dye stand out as a red fine. This type usually comes in three aerosols. The frst isa cleaner which is spraved on. After the component is allowed to dry the penetrating dye is sprayed on and after 5 mimes the excess coating the surface is wiped off. The developer is sprayed on which ‘highlight any crack present| Ultrasonic Crack Detection | | | The disadvantage of magnetic particle and dye penctrant crac detection is that they wil onbyceveal face cracks, Uasonic | testing can also be used to find intemal flaws. A transducer generates high frequency uitrasonic energy at up to 25MHz that passes | | through the component under test. If there isa crack, some ofthe sound s reflected back to the transducer whic is is tansformed | Jato an electrical sional by a pulser receiver and displayed on a screea,