What is the minimum particle size recommended for effective Magnetic Particle Inspection?

The minimum particle size recommended for effective Magnetic Particle Inspection is in the range of 10 to 50 micrometers. This size range is crucial because it allows for the particles to adequately adhere to the surface and the discontinuities that may be present in the material being inspected. Particles that are too small might not have sufficient mass to be drawn into the magnetic fields and could result in an incomplete or ineffective inspection, as they may fail to gather at the defect sites.

Additionally, particles within this size range can penetrate surface features and are easily manageable during the examination process. Being sufficiently fine, they are also less likely to cause blockage or clumping, which can affect the reading and the overall efficacy of the inspection procedure. Proper particle size is essential to ensure sensitivity and reliability in detecting various types of flaws, including cracks and voids, thereby making the 10 to 50 micrometer range the most suitable for achieving effective results during Magnetic Particle Inspection.