At City Machine Technologies, Inc., we aim to educate our customers in the process of repairing or manufacturing their industrial equipment. Our goal is to establish our credibility and trust that will serve both parties as the business relationship grows. In this series of posts, we will be talking about some of our most important inspections and analyses related to NDT or non-destructive testing.
Non-destructive testing (NDT) is commonly used in engineering and industry to evaluate materials, components and systems without causing damage. NDT helps engineers troubleshoot. Non-destructive testing relies upon sound waves, electromagnetic radiation and the property of materials to analyze. There are many types of NDT available, and we will be discussing 9 types in three blog posts.
Ultrasonic testing
Short ultrasonic waves are directed into materials to detect internal flaws or to characterize materials. Ultrasonic testing is performed on steel and other metals and alloys. An ultrasonic transducer is connected to a diagnostic machine. Sound waves are passed over the object being inspected. Ultrasonic inspections can be used to proof test new materials prior to machining, acceptance testing of manufactured goods and diagnostic testing of used or reusable components.
Fluorescent dye penetrant inspection
Fluorescent dye is applied to the surface of a non-porous material to identify defects that can compromise the quality of the part or a weld. It is most effective on non-ferrous materials, such as aluminum and brass. A bright yellow glow, which is caused by the reaction of ultraviolet radiation, shows the defects. Fluorescent dye penetrant inspections are good for metals that have small, tight pores and smooth surfaces. Once the surface is free of contaminants, the fluorescent dye is applied and given time to seep into the flaws. Ultraviolet radiation is used to see the glow emitted by the penetrant in the defected areas.
Magnetic particle inspection and gear train magnetic partial analysis
Magnetic particle inspection detects surface and subsurface flaws in ferrous materials, such as iron, nickel, cobalt and their alloys. Magnetic particle inspection is used on material handling needs, such as crane hooks, mobile equipment forks, hot metal ladles and lifting beams. The inspection process puts a magnetic field into the part from an outside source. If there is a surface or subsurface flaw in the material being tested, the magnetic flux will leak. Ferrous iron particles are applied to the part. If there is leakage, the particles will be attracted to this area. The particles build up at the area of leakage and form what is called an indication, which is then evaluated for correction.
Magnetic particle inspection is used when looking at gear trains. In addition to the magnetic particle inspection on a gear train, a thorough evaluation of gearbox components, including tooth analysis, shaft analysis and case inspections are routine procedures.
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