Magnetic Particle Inspection (MPI) is a Non-destructive Testing process for indicating surface breaking defects in ferromagnetic materials such as iron and carbon steel. This method is predominantly used to test for the presence of defects in welds, castings, and forgings.

The most common form of MPI is undertaken using a portable magnet, the magnet is placed on the surface of the test piece and a black ink containing iron fillings is applied to the test piece between the two magnetic poles of the magnet. If any surface breaking flaws are present, this will cause flux leakage, this flux leakage attracts the irons fillings and a black line is formed against a white contrast background (which has previously been applied). The black line (indication) is then inspected by the specialist NDT technician to ascertain if it meets the definition of a defect as laid out in the Aspect3Sixty MPI procedure.

There are a number of benefits of MPI:

• Provides instant results.
• Cost effective when compared to other specialist techniques.
• Fully portable – can be carried out at ground level or at height.
• This method can be carried out in either a workshop or on site.
• A variety of different sized components can be tested.

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 to BS EN 17638 and Acceptance Standard BS EN 23278.