Ardrox NDT penetrants and magnetic suspensions for liquid penetrant and magnetic particle inspection

Technical specifications

Specifications are taken from the manufacturer’s technical documentation. Updated 11/10/2026.

Description

The penetrant method is used on non-porous materials, that is, on metals, ceramics and some non-metals. The penetrant enters open defects, and after the excess is removed and developer applied, the defect shows up as a color indication or one that fluoresces under ultraviolet. The magnetic particle method works on ferromagnetic materials. When the part is magnetized, suspension particles gather where the magnetic flux leaks over a defect. Both methods are used in the manufacture and repair of engine parts, landing gear, fasteners and airframe elements. UV lamps, magnetic field indicators and certified reference blocks are supplied separately, and the manufacturer's laboratory carries out testing and training. According to the manufacturer, the materials are developed with aviation, military and industrial standards in mind, but numbers are not given. Production falls within the AS9100 and EN 9100:2018 certification scope.

How to choose

The method is determined by the part material. For non-ferromagnetic metals, ceramics and non-metals penetrants are needed, for steel and other ferromagnetic parts magnetic suspensions are taken, which additionally find subsurface defects. A fluorescent penetrant is inspected under ultraviolet, so a UV lamp is needed for it. Sensitivity levels and specifications are not given on the site and are clarified in the technical data sheet (TDS).