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INTRODUCTION

Liquid penetrant testing is one of the more extensively used NDT methods. It is used to find surface and is fairly rapid and inexpensive even for large parts. It is often called "dye penetrant" or just "penetrant" testing. "Liquid penetrant" is used here to distinguish it from tests where "gas penetrants" either as a tracer for a gas analyzer or as a radioactive gas for radiation detection.

This chapter presents the fundamental principles and guidelines associated with liquid penetrant testing. It includes the basic theory of operation, the equipment and materials used, the advantages and disadvantages of the method, various applications and standards, and guides for specific disciplines. Chapter 1 contains general NDT information that should be studied along with this chapter for a more complete understanding of penetrant testing and its comparison with other methods.