Visible / Color-Contrast Penetrants

The dye penetrant method of inspection is a nondestructive test for defects open to the surface. It may be used on such materials as aluminum, magnesium, brass, copper, cast iron, steel, stainless steel, carbides, stellite, certain plastics and ceramics. The essentials of the method are:

  • Penetration of the defect by the dye penetrant
  • Removal of the excess penetrant from the surface
  • Development of the indication
  • Inspection. A deep red indication will mark the defect.