Magnetic particle testing can reveal which types of discontinuities?

Magnetic particle testing is highly effective in identifying surface and near-surface discontinuities, which are imperfections located just beneath the surface of the material being inspected. The process involves magnetizing the test object and applying ferromagnetic particles, which cluster at areas of leakage flux such as cracks, voids, or other discontinuities. This ability to detect surface and subsurface flaws makes this method particularly valuable, as many significant defects that could affect the integrity of a component often occur near the surface. The resolution of the magnetic fields generated during testing allows for the identification of even relatively small surface defects.

While internal discontinuities may be detected through other non-destructive testing methods, magnetic particle inspection is primarily tailored to reveal those defects that are close to the surface. This specificity is crucial for applications in many industries where surface integrity is vital for performance and safety.