ASTM E165
Full Name
ASTM E165 – Standard Practice for Liquid Penetrant Testing for General Industry
Scope
ASTM E165 is a widely recognized standard practice outlining the procedures for liquid penetrant testing, a crucial method for detecting surface-breaking discontinuities in solid materials. This non-destructive testing (NDT) technique is applicable to a wide range of materials, including metals, plastics, ceramics, and composites, making it invaluable across various industries.
The standard details the steps involved in liquid penetrant testing, which essentially involves:
- Pre-cleaning: the surface to be inspected is thoroughly cleaned and dried to ensure proper penetrant application.
- Penetrant application: a liquid penetrant with high surface wetting characteristics is applied, allowing it to seep into surface discontinuities via capillary action.
- Excess penetrant removal: excess penetrant is removed from the surface, leaving only the penetrant residing within the discontinuities.
- Developer application: a developer is applied, drawing the trapped penetrant out of the discontinuities and spreading it on the surface. This creates a visible indication of the flaw.
- Inspection: the developed surface is visually inspected under appropriate lighting conditions to identify and evaluate the indications.
ASTM E165 provides guidelines on:
- Types of penetrant systems: this includes fluorescent, visible dye, and dual sensitivity systems.
- Methods of penetrant application and removal: the standard covers dipping, spraying, brushing, and other methods.
- Developer types and application: various developer forms like dry powder, water-suspendable, and non-aqueous are discussed.
- Inspection techniques and lighting conditions: appropriate techniques and lighting requirements for accurate flaw detection are outlined.
- Evaluation and documentation of indications: the standard provides guidance on interpreting results and documenting findings.
By adhering to ASTM E165, industries can ensure reliable and consistent liquid penetrant testing procedures, enabling the detection of critical surface defects that might otherwise compromise the integrity of components and structures.
ASTM E165 Accredited Inspection Agency and Laboratory
Applied Testing & Geosciences, LLC is accredited for performing inspections and tests using the ASTM E165 standard.
Contact us today to learn more about our testing capabilities and how we can support your business.
Resources
Keywords
penetrant; indications; surfaces; discontinuities; inspection; cleaning; developer; penetrant materials; dwell time; excess penetrant; ultraviolet light; visible light; contamination; examination; evaluation