ASTM E1417
Full Name
ASTM E1417 – Standard Practice for Liquid Penetrant Testing
Scope
ASTM E1417 outlines the standard practice for conducting liquid penetrant testing, a non-destructive testing (NDT) method used to detect surface-breaking discontinuities in solid materials. This practice applies to various materials, including metals, plastics, ceramics, and glass, regardless of their size or shape, as long as the surface is not porous or excessively rough.
The core principle of liquid penetrant testing, as detailed in ASTM E1417, revolves around the application of a penetrant liquid to the cleaned surface of the test object. The penetrant, chosen based on the material and expected discontinuity characteristics, is allowed to dwell for a specific time, seeping into any surface openings via capillary action.
After the dwell period, excess penetrant is removed from the surface, and a developer is applied. The developer draws the trapped penetrant back to the surface, creating a visible indication of the discontinuity. This indication’s size, shape, and location provide valuable information about the nature and extent of the defect.
ASTM E1417 outlines various aspects of liquid penetrant testing, including:
- Types of penetrants and developers: the standard defines different penetrant types (e.g., fluorescent, visible dye) and developers (e.g., dry powder, solvent-based) based on their characteristics and suitability for specific applications.
- Pre-cleaning techniques: the importance of proper surface preparation is emphasized, and the standard describes suitable cleaning methods to ensure accurate testing.
- Penetrant application and dwell times: specific guidelines are provided for applying the penetrant, controlling dwell times, and removing excess penetrant to optimize discontinuity detection.
- Developer application and inspection: the standard details appropriate developer application methods and optimal viewing conditions for interpreting the test results.
- Interpretation and evaluation of indications: ASTM E1417 offers guidance on interpreting the indications produced by the penetrant, differentiating between relevant discontinuities and false indications.
ASTM E1417 Accredited Inspection Agency and Laboratory
Applied Testing & Geosciences, LLC is accredited for performing inspections and tests using the ASTM E1417 standard.
Contact us today to discuss your liquid penetrant testing requirements and let our expertise ensure the integrity of your materials and components.
Resources
Keywords
penetrant testing; liquid penetrant; nondestructive testing; surface discontinuities; flaws; cracks; indications; penetrant materials; inspection; cleaning; developers; dwell time; excess penetrant removal; ultraviolet light; visible light