Non-Destructive Testing at Loos & Company
In the world of manufacturing, with high stakes and low margins for error, utilizing techniques like Fluorescent Penetrant Inspection (FPI) and Nondestructive Testing (NDT) is not just beneficial—it’s essential.
At Loos and Company, we ensure the quality, durability and effectiveness of our manufactured materials with robust non-destructive testing methods.
Nondestructive Testing (NDT) is a group of quality control examination processes used in various mission-critical industries. From Aerospace to Medical, evaluating materials without compromising the structural integrity, before they go into end-use, is vital. These tests can find potential defects that are impossible to notice with the naked eye. See below our various methods of Non-Destructive Testing, and an in-depth look at Fluorescent Penetrant Testing (FPI).
Our Non-Destructive Testing Methods
- Ultrasonic Testing
- Radiographic Testing
- Magnetic Particle Testing
- Fluorescent Penetrant Inspection (sometimes called Liquid Penetrant Testing)
- Eddy-Current Testing
- Visual Testing
What is Fluorescent Penetrant Inspection (FPI)?
FPI testing is a method of nondestructive testing used on non-porous materials like metals and plastics to discover defects such as leaks and cracks. The testing process involves a fluorescent chemical being applied to a product’s surface, before an ultraviolet (UV) light is shone on the product. The solution creates a contrast between the smooth surface of the product and any imperfections. The steps to conducting FPI testing are as follows:
- Initial Cleaning (clean the material or surface being inspected)
- Penetrant Application (apply the penetrant by dipping, spraying, or brushing and allow “dwell time” of about 30 minutes for the penetrant to wet the surface of the material)
- Excess Penetrant Removal (remove any excess penetrant before testing)
- Developer Application (A developer is applied to pull the penetrant back out of a defect to the surface, for the defect to be seen by an inspector)
- Inspection (inspect the material under UV light to look for any cracks or irregularities)
- Final Cleaning (clean the material and document results of testing)
During the rigorous grinding and machining procedures, imperfections can sometimes sneak in. However, no need to fear! FPI tests are here to uncover any flaws, be it pesky cracks, irregularities, cosmetic issues or even the subtlest surface roughness.
