What can be a consequence of using contaminated surfaces in Magnetic Particle Testing?

Using contaminated surfaces during Magnetic Particle Testing can lead to false negatives and reduced testing sensitivity. Contamination on the surface, such as dirt, oil, grease, or other foreign substances, can hinder the magnetic flux lines that are essential for the detection of defects. When the magnetic particles are applied, they may not be able to adequately cover or migrate to areas where defects exist due to this interference, leading to undetected flaws. This results in false negatives, where a defect is present but not identified due to the contamination obstructing the testing process. Consequently, the overall sensitivity of the test is compromised, reducing the reliability of the inspection results.

This understanding highlights the importance of surface preparation in Magnetic Particle Testing, emphasizing that clean surfaces are crucial for effective defect detection.