Dye Penetrant Inspection is a method of Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) that is used for detecting surface breaking indications in welds, castings, and forgings, it is predominately used on non-magnetic, non-permeable materials such as stainless steel and aluminium.

After cleaning of the test piece has been carried out, a red dye is applied to the surface of the test piece and left to ‘soak’ for a period of time (as determined by the inspection procedure). If there are any surface breaking flaws present, then the dye is pulled into these flaws by the process of capillary action. Once the soak period has passed, the dye is carefully removed from the surface of the material using a solvent cleaner and a developing agent is then applied. After a ’dwell’ period has passed (as determined by the inspection procedure) any red dye that is present within the surface breaking flaws is drawn back up to surface by the developing agent, creating a red indication. The indication is then inspected by the specialist technician to ascertain if it meets the definition of a defect as laid out in the inspection procedure.

Dye Penetrant Testing has a number of benefits:

• Fully portable – can be carried out at ground level or at height.
• Low set up time due to the equipment required.
• Can be carried out in a workshop or on site.
• Cost efficient.

Once the inspection has been completed a comprehensive report will be written, this will contain the results of the inspection and will detail the location, size, length and orientation of any relevant defects found as well as recommending any remedial work that may be required.

All Aspect3Sixty technicians are qualified to PCN level 2 and all inspection is carried out using company procedures and adhering to BS EN ISO 3452-1:2013.