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DRAFT CAAP 42V-3(0)

Civil Aviation Magnetic Particle Inspection


Advisory Publication
August 2006
- Use and Implementation of
ASTM-E-1444
This publication is advisory
and provides information and The relevant regulations and other references
guidance to the aviation
industry in support of Regulation 2A of the Civil Aviation Regulations (CAR) 1988
particular Civil Aviation Regulation 42V of the Civil Aviation Regulations (CAR) 1988
Regulations 1988 (CAR 1988).
AS 3669-05: Non-destructive testing Qualification and
Always read this advice in registration of personnel - Aerospace
conjunction with the American Society for Testing Materials ASTM-E-1444:
appropriate regulations. Standard Practice for Magnetic Particle Inspection (MPI)
Note: This CAAP should also
American Society for Testing Materials ASTM-E-709: Standard
be read in conjunction with
Guide for Magnetic Particle Examination
ASTM-E-1444 and ASTM-E
Civil Aviation Order (CAO) Part 108.8: Process Control
709.
Magnetic Particle Inspection
Contents
Preamble 3 Who this CAAP applies to
1. Personnel Qualifications
All persons associated with the maintenance of aircraft or aircraft
and Authorisations 3
components.
2. Documentation 4

3. Magnetic Particle Why this CAAP was written


Inspections (MPI) 5

4. MPI Bench Fixed Line This CAAP applies to the actions required for completion of
Facility 8 Magnetic Particle Inspection tasks for:

5. MPI Portable Hand-held Component Maintenance; and


Yokes 9
On Aircraft Maintenance.
6. Quality Control
Equipment Magnetic
Particle 10
Status of this CAAP

7. Use of the Procedures This is the first CAAP written on this subject.
attached to this CAAP 10

Appendix A Procedure for For further information


Magnetic Particle Inspection
Utilising a Fixed Line Bench 12
Telephone the CASA Office closest to you on 131757.
Appendix B Procedure for
Magnetic Particle Inspection
Utilising a Portable Magnetic
Yoke 15

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2 CAAP 42V-3(0): Magnetic Particle Inspection

Abbreviations AC Alternating Current

AS Australian Standard

ASTM American Society for Testing Materials

AVTUR Aviation Turbine Fuel

CAAP Civil Aviation Advisory Publication

CAO Civil Aviation Orders

CAR Civil Aviation Regulations

DC Direct Current

DoD Department of Defence

IAW In Accordance With

LAME Licensed Aircraft Maintenance Engineer

MPI Magnetic Particle Inspection

MPT Magnetic Particle Technician

NANDTB National Aerospace Non-destructive Testing


Board

NDI Non-destructive Inspection

NDT Non-destructive Testing

OEM Original Equipment Manufacturer

RMS Root Mean Square

W Watt

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CAAP 42V-3(0): Magnetic Particle Inspection 3

Preamble
e Standard practice documents produced by the American Society
for Testing Materials (ASTMs) are replacing Military Standards
(Mil-Std). ASTM-E-709 and ASTM-E-1444 have now become the
accepted American Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM)
published standards for Magnetic Particle Inspections (MPI).
ASTM-E-709 and ASTM-E-1444 standard practice details are the
minimum requirements for conducting Magnetic Particle
Inspections and replace and supersede the use of Australian CAO
108.8.

The ASTM Standards were not specifically drafted for the


aerospace industry. Indeed, the Standard requires clarification
where aspects conflict with current Regulations. This CAAP
documents the requirements for the use of the ASTM-E-709 and
ASTM-E-1444 and where necessary harmonises the Standard with
the CARs and best practices.

1. Personnel 1.1 NON-DESTRUCTIVE TESTING (NDT)


Qualifications and QUALIFICATIONS
Authorisations Personnel carrying out Magnetic Particle Inspections must be
qualified to a minimum of NDT Level 1 in accordance with AS
3669. In addition, personnel must posses a current CASA NDT
Airworthiness Authority for Magnetic Particle Inspection or an
authorisation under CAR 42ZC(6).
Note: Possession of a current CASA Airworthiness Authority in
Magnetic Particle Technician (MPT) and Licensed Aircraft
Mechanical Engineer (LAME) privilege of the licence do not
necessarily assure compliance to AS 3669.
Airworthiness Authorities issued by CASA for MPT do not
reference NDT Technician Levels.

1.2 HARMONISATION OF CASA-ISSUED


AIRWORTHINESS AUTHORITIES WITH AS 3669, NAS 410 &
EN 4179
For the purpose of this CAAP, a person holding a MPT
Airworthiness Authority for more than two years which has "nil
restrictions" annotated against the MPT entry is deemed
equivalent to a Level 2 NDT Technician.
It is a requirement for all CAR 30 organisations employing
personnel responsible for carrying out MPT tasks to ensure a
system of compliance to AS 3669 is in place and operational by
30 September 2007. This system will operate independently of the
Airworthiness Authorities issued by CASA until the
implementation of the CASA regulations.

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4 CAAP 42V-3(0): Magnetic Particle Inspection

1.3 VISUAL ACUITY


The vision examination for all levels shall assure that the
applicants near vision and colour perception meet the
requirements of Table 1. Near vision tests shall be administered
annually and colour perception tests shall be administered prior to
approval or re-approval. These tests shall be administered by
personnel designated by the responsible Level 3, National
Aerospace Non-destructive Testing Board (NANDTB), or the
outside agency utilised for the qualification examination of
personnel. Any limitations in colour perception shall be evaluated
by the responsible Level 3 prior to approval and this shall be
documented.

TABLE 1
VISION REQUIREMENTS
Near Vision Jaeger No 1 or equivalent, at a distance of not
less than 30 cm in at least one eye natural or
corrected or near vision acuity shall permit
reading, a minimum of Times Roman N4.5 or
equivalent letters (Times Roman of 4.5 points
vertical height where 1 point = 1/72" or
0.3528 mm) at not less than 30 cm with one or
both eyes, either corrected or uncorrected.
Colour Personnel shall be capable of adequately
perception distinguishing and differentiating colours
used in the process involved.
Note: It is the responsibility of the employer to ensure currency and
documentation of colour perception and near vision acuity tests.

2. Documentation 2.1 PRECEDENCE OF DOCUMENTATION


The precedence order of data is:
Approved under Regulation 2A of the Civil Aviation
Regulations 1988;
Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM)
Civil Aviation Advisory Publication (CAAP);
American Society for Testing Materials (ASTM)

2.2 PROCEDURE NOT STATED BY OEM


Where the OEM states "carry out a magnetic particle/magnaflux
liquid inspection" (or something similar) and does not refer to a
written practice or procedure, ASTM-E-1444 must be used as the
default inspection procedure. Where a generic European Standard
or the Department of Defence (DoD) is referred to in the approved
data, ASTM-E-1444 is deemed an equivalent standard and is to be
utilised in conjunction with this CAAP.

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CAAP 42V-3(0): Magnetic Particle Inspection 5

3. Magnetic Particle 3.1 MECHANICAL CLEANING OF COMPONENTS PRIOR


Inspections TO A MAGNETIC PARTICLE INSPECTION (MPI)

Cleaning of components in some circumstances requires the use of


blasting media ranging from glass bead, aluminium oxide or
plastic media. Generally, blasting media that do not cause plastic
deformation (profiling) of the part surface are suitable for pre-
cleaning. Aluminium oxide 120 grit has been found to be suitable.
Ensure hard chromed surfaces are not cleaned utilising abrasive
blasting (plastic media is the exception).
Note: Garnet grit is highly likely to cause plastic deformation of a
part's surface, and therefore, is not suitable for cleaning aircraft
quality steel.

3.2 VAPOUR DEGREASING

Increasingly, the use of the chemicals suitable for use in vapour


degreasers is being phased out for environmental reasons.
Ardrox 6333 is an aqueous-based approved alternate to vapour
degreasing. Generally this chemical is suitable for use in
mechanical washers.
CAUTION: Serviced industrial mechanical cleaners may contain highly
caustic compounds which may be detrimental to aluminium
and magnesium parts.

3.3 SELECTION OF A MAGNETIC PARTICLE


INSPECTION METHOD

When selecting a magnetic particle inspection method, the


following guide should be used:

FIXED MAGNETIC PARTICLE BENCH


Forged, cast or machined magnetic components irregular
or regular in shape with defect orientation unknown and
with a geometry that allows the use of a MPI bench:
o Fluorescent wet continuous method utilizing AC or DC
current, magnetised in two directions circular and
longitudinal.
Magnetic tensile or shear bolts and pins:
o Fluorescent wet continuous method utilising AC or DC
current magnetised with longitudinal magnetism (coil).
Magnetic brake stators and rotors:
o Fluorescent wet continuous method utilising AC or DC
current on a central conductor (in direct contact circular
magnetism) or longitudinal (coil) AC or DC utilising two
shots 90o apart.

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HAND HELD MAGNETIC YOKES


Magnetic tubular structures such as engine, fuselage or
helicopter frames weld or tube inspections either fitted or
removed from the aircraft:
o Fluorescent wet continuous method utilising AC or DC
current with two shots per inspection area 90o apart.

Demagnetisation of aircraft after lightning strike or similar:
o AC current applied at the part surface and withdrawn to a
distance of 900 mm.
Note: Portable magnetising yokes are not designed as an alternative to
a magnetic particle bench. Extreme heat build up can occur in
small parts repeatedly magnetised with a yoke.

3.4 USE OF PRODS ON AIRCRAFT

Prods are not to be used on aircraft or aircraft components due to


the high risk of arcing.

3.5 DRY POWDER MAGNETIC PARTICLES

Dry powder magnetic particles should not be used on aircraft due


to the inability to retrieve the particles from the aircraft.

3.6 PAINTED/PLATED SURFACES

Provided that paint and plating is in good condition, there is no


requirement to remove it prior to an MPI. An exception being: a
part that requires direct contact (circular) magnetisation must
have the paint removed in the contact areas, otherwise arcing will
result.

3.7 NICKEL PLATED COMPONENTS

Although it is not necessary to remove nickel plating from an


inspection surface prior to inspection, operators should be aware
that nickel is magnetic and may present misleading indications.

3.8 BLACK INK MAGNETIC PARTICLES

It is permissible to use black magnetic ink for spot inspections


with a hand held yoke where the background provides adequate
contrast. An example being: defect verification on a steel
undercarriage that is painted white.

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CAAP 42V-3(0): Magnetic Particle Inspection 7

3.9 BLACK LIGHT INTENSITIES AND VERIFICATION


PERIOD
Black lights used for the inspection stage of a MPI are required to
have their black light intensity output checked at no longer than
the maximum intervals as listed below.
The following light intensity verification plan may be used:
Black light intensity @ 15" CAAP Requirement
Above 2,500W/cm2 3 Monthly
2,000 to 2,500W/cm2 Monthly
1,500 to 2,000W/cm2 Weekly
2
1,000 to 1,500W/cm Daily or before use
Note: The justification for the deviation from ASTM-E-1444 is based
upon a conservative approach from black light intensities
recorded over the past ten years from a number of large
organisations.

3.10 BLACK LIGHT AND WHITE LIGHT INTENSITY


METER CALIBRATION
Black light and white light intensity meters should have the
calibration interval of six months. This may be increased to:
As recommended by the meter manufacturer; or
One year, where the meter has a low usage (less than once a
week).

3.11 USE OF THE TOOL STEEL (KETOS) RING FOR


SYSTEM PERFORMANCE TEST
ASTM-E-1444 Appendix XI details the use of the Ketos ring as a
means of a system performance test. Tables X 1.1 and X 1.2 detail
the current types and amperages to be used. The result should be
a number of holes detected according to the tables. Unfortunately,
the standard does not stipulate whether the current measurements
are Peak or RMS values. In Australia there are a large number of
MPI benches, some reading RMS value and others peak value. It is
common for MPI benches not to perform as per the requirements
of ASTM-E-1444 Appendix XI.
A suitable use for the Ketos ring would be to determine the
amperages required for a hole or holes to become visible on a
particular MPI bench and use this information as a trend
monitoring tool.
It is noted in the ASTM-E-1444 that the use of the tool steel (Ketos)
rings is not mandatory.

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3.12 USE OF FLEXIBLE LAMINATED STRIPS (CASTROL


TYPE II OR EQUIVALENT)
For the purpose of this CAAP, the Castrol Type 2 Strips (or
equivalent) should be used to determine field direction and
strength for all inspections. The formulas for determining the
current required as stated in ASTM-E-709 should only be used as a
guide to obtain a ballpark amperage prior to using the laminated
strips.

3.13 CURRENT TYPE


This CAAP applies to aircraft and aircraft components that have
been released by the manufacturer. The majority of defects
encountered in-service initiate at the parts surface. Given this,
Technicians should consider that the AC wet continuous method
is most suited for locating small surface defects.

4. Magnetic Particle 4.1 PRE CLEANING


Inspection (MPI) Vapour degreasing is the preferred method; however,
Bench Fixed Line environmental factors are rapidly causing the demise of the
Facility Facility
chemicals used in this type of equipment. An environmentally
friendlier option is a water-based cleaner such as Ardrox 6333
(approved as an alternate to vapour degreasing for MPI) or the
approved solvent cleaner for the penetrant system (usually
dispensed via an aerosol can) should be used.

4.2 MAGNETIC PARTICLE BENCH


A MPI bench is generally a self-contained unit capable of
magnetising ferrous components. The bench can be divided into
the following components:
Heads: The heads provide a means of circularly magnetising a
component via copper contact pads located on each head. The left
hand head is usually fixed which contains an air ram (or similar)
used to clamp the part between the heads. The right hand head is
usually moveable to accommodate various lengths of the test
parts. This head slides on a bed and can be locked into position. It
is important that the condition of the contact pads is monitored
regularly (usually daily or before use). If they become frayed the
risk of arcing to the test part increases.
Note: Ensure the part is firmly clamped between the heads prior to
engaging the current.
Central Conductors: Central conductors (also known as threader
bars) are used between the heads. They provide an indirect means
of producing circular magnetism. The central conductors should
be covered with electrical heat shrink to reduce the likelihood of
arcing. The heat shrink should be terminated approximately 5 mm
from each end of the central conductor.

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CAAP 42V-3(0): Magnetic Particle Inspection 9

Coil: The coil provides a means of longitudinally magnetising a


component. The coil is generally a four or five turn coil. Some new
generation coils contain numerous turns of smaller diameter lower
current carrying coils and are rated as an effective four or five turn
coil.
Control Panel: The control panel generally contains:
An ammeter for displaying the applied magnetising
current.
Current selector for dialling the required amperage
AC/DC selector switch (optional)
Head/coil selector switch
Demagnetisation button (optional)
Magnetisation button
Sump: The sump contains the magnetic particle fluid. Sumps will
vary in size from 20 litres (newer generation) to 200 litres for the
older style of benches. The sump contains a pump and applicator
nozzle.
Note: The use of AVTUR as a magnetic particle carrier fluid is not
permitted due to the high risk of fire.
Black light: The black light is usually mounted on the bench via
an arm to allow hands-free operation of the bench.
Note: Black light should not be operated with cracked, chipped or
missing filters. Failure to comply may result in injury.

4.3 POST CLEANING


Usually a solvent bath is provided near the MPI bench for rinsing
of the part to remove residual magnetic particles. After the rinse,
the parts are cleaned and inhibited (if required) in a similar
manner to the pre-cleaning process.

5. Magnetic Particle 5.1 EQUIPMENT REQUIREMENTS


Inspection (MPI) To carry out MPI on an aircraft in-situ, the following equipment is
Portable Hand-held required:
Yokes
Black light (capable of 1000W/cm2 @ 15 inches);
Light protective cloak approx 1 metre square;
Approved marking media, mirror and rule;
Lint free cloth and cleaning solvent;
Hand held AC/DC magnetic yoke;
Castrol Type II strips (or equivalent);
Ardrox 8561 MPI fluid in aerosol can (or equivalent); and
Field indicator or gauss meter.

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6. Quality Control 6.1 THE FOLLOWING IS A LIST OF EQUIPMENT


Equipment REQUIRED:
Magnetic Particle
Black and white light meter;
100 ml pear-shaped centrifuge;
Tool steel ring (Ketos ring) is optional
Flexible laminated strips (Castrol strips);
Field indicator;
Shunt meter for bench verification;
Dead weight 4.5 kg for permanent and AC yokes; and
Dead weight 13.5 kg for DC yokes.

7. Use of the 7.1 APPROVED DATA


Procedures
attached to this Attached as Appendixes to this CAAP are two Magnetic Particle
CAAP Procedures. These procedures have CAR 2A (4) approval and
should be used in the absence of approved OEM data or where
approved data refers an inspection to be carried out in accordance
with ASTM-E-1444 (or a European equivalent).

7.2 QUALIFICATIONS

A Level 2 MPI Technician should select the most suitable MPI


Method Procedure based on the information contained at
paragraph 3.3 of this CAAP. If a Level 1 MPI Technician is to
perform the inspection, a person qualified to Level 2 or 3 MPI is to
nominate which procedure is appropriate.

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CAAP 42V-3(0): Magnetic Particle Inspection 11

APPENDIX A TO CAAP 42V-3(0)

CASA/MPI/1 ISSUE 1

PROCEDURE FOR MAGNETIC PARTICLE INSPECTION UTILISING

A FIXED LINE BENCH

INTRODUCTION
1 ASTM-E-1444 establishes a requirement to use a dedicated procedure for the inspection of
parts. In the absence of an approved procedure, this procedure has CAR 2A (4) approval and is an
acceptable means of compliance for the completion of Magnetic Particle Inspections utilising a fixed
line magnetic particle bench as detailed in CAAP 42V-3.
Note: This procedure does not supersede or replace procedures supplied by an Original
Equipment Manufacturer (OEM).

PROCEDURE NOMINATION
2 This procedure must be accepted by a Level 2 or 3 MPI Technician prior to use on a particular
component.

OPERATOR LEVEL
3 Personnel carrying out this procedure must posses a current CASA NDT Airworthiness
Authority or an authorisation under CAR 42ZC (6). In addition, personnel must be qualified to a
minimum of AS 3669 NDT Level 1.
Note: When approved data (usually the OEM) requires a Technician to be qualified to Level 2
MPI to carry out an inspection in accordance with ASTM-E-1444, this takes precedence
over the Operator Level stated in this procedure.
APPLICABILITY
4 This procedure must be used in conjunction with CAAP 42V-3 and is applicable to all
component types as listed at Selection of a Magnetic Particle Inspection Method in
CAAP 42V-3(0).

LIMITATIONS
5 This procedure should detect surface breaking defects of 2 mm (0.080") in length or greater
and may detect some near surface defects (less than 3 mm into the parent material) of 5 mm in
length. This procedure may detect smaller defects than stated and technicians should not ignore
these indications if located.

PRE-INSPECTION REQUIREMENTS
6 Ensure the parts are removed from the aircraft, disassembled and cleaned utilising an
appropriate cleaning method or methods.
Note: Paint in good condition does not have to be removed unless the risk of arcing exists.

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12 CAAP 42V-3(0): Magnetic Particle Inspection

EQUIPMENT REQUIREMENTS
7 The equipment applicable to this procedure is:
a Fixed wet Magnetic Particle Inspection Bench;
WARNING: DO NOT USE BLACK LIGHTS WITH CRACKED OR MISSING FILTERS.
HARMFUL ULTRA VIOLET RADIATION EMITTED CAN DAMAGE EYES.
b Black light with a minimum intensity of 1,000W/cm2 @ 40 cm (15");
c Castrol flux indicator strips (or equivalent);
d Permanent marking pen and field indicator;
e Lint free cloth and approved cleaning solvent.

INSPECTION PROCEDURE
8 After a minimum of one minute dark adaptation, carry out the inspection as follows:

Circular Magnetism (when required)


a Place the part between the heads, preferably on a central conductor (geometry
permitting) to reduce the risk of arcing.
b Utilising a Type II Castrol Strip (or equivalent) in accordance with the manufacturers
instructions, magnetise the part utilising 800-1,000 amps per 25 mm of cross-section utilising
AC or DC wet continuous method. Ensure correct flux density is evident on the Castrol
strip. Adjust the magnetising current if necessary. Three distinct lines should be evident on
the flux indicator strip.
Note: Calculate and obtain the correct current requirements for the thinner sections first,
working to the larger diameters (higher amperages) as the inspection progresses,
utilising the Castrol strips each time there is a significant change in part geometry.
c Once adequate flux density has been obtained, carry out the wet continuous method
utilising AC or DC. Inspect the part for defect indications. Defect indications will appear as
sharp, well-defined lines. Conversely, non-relevant indications will generally appear broad
and fuzzy and generally follow part geometry.
d Mark any suspect defect indications for further visual/optical evaluation.

Longitudinal Magnetism
e Place the part in the coil. Effective magnetising length is approximately 150 mm either
side of the coil, hence several shots may be required on longer parts such as crankshafts, etc.
f Establish the approximate current requirement utilising the following formula:
I = K (constant 45,000)
L x N
D
Where: L is the length-to-diameter ratio
D
and N refers to the number of effective number of turns in the coil.
Note: The formula stated provides a guide and is based on the part cross-section being less
than 10% of the coil opening and having a length to diameter ratio of less than 15.

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CAAP 42V-3(0): Magnetic Particle Inspection 13

g Utilising a Type II Castrol Strip (or equivalent) in accordance with the manufacturer's
instructions, magnetise the part utilising the resultant amperage derived from sub-
paragraph f. utilising AC or DC wet continuous method. Ensure correct flux density is
evident on the Castrol strip. Adjust magnetising current if necessary. Three distinct lines
should be evident on the flux indicator strip.
h Once adequate flux density has been established, carry out the wet continuous method
utilising AC or DC. For the required number of shots, inspect the part for defect indications
between each shot. Defect indications will appear as sharp, well-defined lines. Conversely,
non-relevant indications will generally appear broad and fuzzy and generally follow part
geometry.
i Mark any suspect defect indications for further visual/optical evaluation.
j Demagnetise the part to where the residual magnetism shown on a field indicator does
not exceed three divisions either side of zero.

ACCEPTANCE/REJECTION CRITERIA
9 Any confirmed defect indication is cause for part rejection.

BACKUP PROCEDURE
10 Perform a visual inspection utilising a binocular microscope or other suitable magnifying
device.

POST-INSPECTION REQUIREMENTS
11 Ensure the parts are cleaned with a suitable cleaning method to remove all traces of MPI
particles.

RECORDING PROCEDURE
12 Procedure compliance is to be recorded in the relevant worksheet, NDI Report or aircraft
maintenance log.
13 An example of a typical worksheet entry for a Sensitivity Level 3 Inspection is:
"MPI carried out IAW CASA/MPT/1 Method A, Sensitivity Level 3, in conjunction with ASTM-E-1444.
Nil cracking evident."
"Mr B.A.Bethany A522148 15 May 06"

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14 CAAP 42V-3(0): Magnetic Particle Inspection

INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK

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CAAP 42V-3(0): Magnetic Particle Inspection 15

APPENDIX B TO CAAP 42V-3(0)

CASA/MPI/2 ISSUE 1

PROCEDURE FOR MAGNETIC PARTICLE INSPECTION UTILISING A


PORTABLE MAGNETIC YOKE

INTRODUCTION
1 ASTM-E-1444 establishes a requirement to use a dedicated procedure for the inspection of
parts. In the absence of an approved procedure, this procedure has CAR 2A (4) approval and is an
acceptable means of compliance for the completion of Magnetic Particle Inspections utilising a
portable magnetic yoke as detailed in CAAP 42V-3.
Note: This procedure does not supersede or replace procedures supplied by an OEM.

PROCEDURE NOMINATION
2 This procedure must be accepted by a Level 2 or 3 MPI Technician prior to use on a particular
component.

OPERATOR LEVEL
3 Personnel carrying out this procedure must posses a current CASA NDT Airworthiness
Authority or an authorisation under CAR 42ZC (6). In addition, personnel must be qualified to a
minimum of AS 3669 NDT Level I.
Note: When approved data (usually the OEM) requires a Technician to be qualified to Level 2 MPT to
carry out an inspection in accordance with ASTM-E-1444, this takes precedence over the
Operator Level stated in this procedure.

APPLICABILITY
4 This procedure must be used in conjunction with CAAP 42V-3 and is applicable to all
component types as listed at Selection of a Magnetic Particle Inspection Method in CAAP 42V-3.

LIMITATIONS
5 This procedure should detect surface breaking defects of 2 mm (0.080") in length or greater and
may detect some near surface defects (less than 3 mm into the parent material) of 5 mm in length.
This procedure may detect smaller defects than stated and technicians should not ignore these
indications if located.

PRE-INSPECTION REQUIREMENTS
6 Ensure the parts to be inspected are clean and free from loose or flaking paint.
Note: Paint in good condition does not have to be removed unless required by the relevant
maintenance data.

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16 CAAP 42V-3(0): Magnetic Particle Inspection

EQUIPMENT REQUIREMENTS
7 The equipment applicable to this procedure is:
a Portable magnetic yoke which complies to the requirements of ASTM-E-1444;
b Light exclusion hood/sheet;

WARNING: DO NOT USE BLACK LIGHTS WITH CRACKED OR MISSING FILTERS.


HARMFUL ULTRAVOILET RADIATION EMITED CAN DAMAGE EYES
c Black light with a minimum intensity of 1,000W/cm2 @ 40cm (15");
d Ardrox 8561 Fluorescent MPI fluid in a spray can (or equivalent);
e Castrol flux indicator strips (or equivalent);
f Permanent marking pen and field indicator;
g Lint free cloth and approved cleaning solvent.

INSPECTION PROCEDURE
8 After a minimum of one minute dark adaptation; carry out the inspection as follows:
a Place the yoke legs on the inspection area with the yoke legs spaced approximately
100 mm apart.
b Test the inspection area for adequate flux density utilising a Type II Castrol Strip (or
equivalent) in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions. It is important that the
magnetising current is applied whilst simultaneously spraying the MPI fluid onto the flux
indicator strip. A minimum of three second magnetising is recommended. Three distinct
lines should be evident on the flux indicator strip.
Note: If difficulty is experienced in gaining an adequate flux density, reduce the yoke leg
spacing and maximize the yoke contact area to the test part. In extreme cases, pole
pieces contoured to the part surface may be required.
c Once adequate flux density has been obtained carry out the wet continuous method
utilising the yoke with either AC or DC current. Inspect the part for defect indications.
Defect indications will appear as sharp, well-defined lines. Conversely, non-relevant
indications will generally appear broad and fuzzy and generally follow part geometry.
d Mark any suspect defect indications for further visual/optical evaluation.
e Where defect orientation is unknown, rotate the yoke through 90o and repeat sub-
paragraph c and d.
Note: In-service bolts and shear pins only require magnetising through the longitudinal axis
of the bolt. Do not repeatedly magnetise a bolt or similar item in rapid succession as
the part may become excessively heated.
f When the inspection is complete, ensure the residual magnetism in the part does not
exceed three divisions either side of zero on a field indicator.

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CAAP 42V-3(0): Magnetic Particle Inspection 17

ACCEPTANCE/REJECTION CRITERIA
9 Any confirmed defect indication is cause for part rejection.

BACKUP PROCEDURE
10 Perform a visual inspection utilising a binocular microscope or other suitable magnifying
device.

POST-INSPECTION REQUIREMENTS
11 Ensure the parts are cleaned with a suitable cleaning method to remove all traces of MPI
particles.

RECORDING PROCEDURE
12 Procedure compliance is to be recorded in the relevant worksheet, NDI Report or aircraft
maintenance log.
13 An example of a typical worksheet entry for a Sensitivity Level 3 Inspection is:
"MPI carried out IAW CASA/MPT/1 Method A, Sensitivity Level 3, in conjunction with ASTM-E-1444.
Nil cracking evident."
"Mr B.A.Bethany A522148 15 May 06"

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