API 577 

: MAGNETIC PARTICLE EXAMINATION (MT)

MAGNETIC PARTICLE EXAMINATION (MT)

 Magnetic particle examination is effective in locating surface or near surface

discontinuities of ferromagnetic materials
 it is most commonly used to evaluate weld joint surfaces
 intermediate checks of weld layers and backgouged surfaces of the completed welds
 Typical types of discontinuities that can be detected include cracks, laminations, laps,
and seams.
 In this process, the weld (and heat-affected zone) is locally magnetized, creating a
magnetic field in the material
 A defect open to the surface---Ferromagnetic particles are drawn to the break in the
flux field (Les particules ferromagnétiques sont attirées vers la coupure dans le champ de flux)
 The pattern of the particles is very sharp and distinct (Le motif des particules est très net et
distinct)
 L'indication observée ne serait pas aussi clairement défini, comme le ferait un défaut
ouvert à la surface
 The pattern formed by the particles represents the shape and size of any existing
discontinuities
 The particles used during the exam can be either dry or wet
 If the examination is performed in normal lighting the color of the particles should
provide adequate contrast with the exam surface.
 The best results are achieved when the lines of flux are perpendicular to the
discontinuity
 Typically, two inspections are performed, one parallel to the weld and one across the
weld to provide the maximum coverage
 When a magnetic force is applied to the material, a magnetic flux field is created around
and through the material- Discontinuities that are perpendicular to the lines of flux
attract the magnetic particles causing an indication
API 577 : MAGNETIC PARTICLE EXAMINATION (MT)

 The yoke is placed parallel on the weld to detect discontinuities transverse to the weld

 the yoke is placed across the weld to detect discontinuities parallel to the weld
API 577 : MAGNETIC PARTICLE EXAMINATION (MT)

 For added sensitivity, wet fluorescent magnetic particle (WFMT) techniques may be
used----- With this technique, a filtered blacklight is used to observe the particles,
which requires the area of testing be darkened

ASME B31.3 :

 Requirements for magnetic particle examination

API 577 : MAGNETIC PARTICLE EXAMINATION (MT)
a) examination procedure information;
b) use of a continuous method;
c) use of one of five magnetization techniques;
d) required calibration of equipment;
e) two examinations perpendicular to each other;
f) maximum surface temperature for examination;
g) magnetization currents;
h) evaluation of indications in terms of the acceptance standards of the
referencing code;
i) demagnetization;
j) minimum required surface illumination (visible or blacklight) of the part under
examination.

 The direction of the magnetic flux direction can be confirmed by the use of several
indicators- the most popular indicators is the pie gauge : It consists of eight low-
carbon steel segments, brazed together to form an octagonal plate that is copper plated
on one side to hide the joint lines

The plate is placed on the test

specimen, adjacent to the
weld, during magnetization with
the copper side up. The particles are applied to the copper face and outline the
orientation of the resultant field

 When the residual magnetism in the part could interfere with subsequent processing or
usage, demagnetization techniques should be used to reduce the residual magnetic field
to within acceptable limits.

 Care should be taken when performing MT examination of a weld during the welding
process. If a residual field is left in a partially completed weld, this field may deflect the
weld arc and make it difficult to control the weld deposit.